Wild Blue Lupine

Remember - you can click on the photo above to see it on a larger scale...

Last weekend, my son Alex and I went camping with his Cub Scout troop. When we got up (VERY bright and early!) the next morning, I asked him if he would like to go out to the lovely local nature preserve just down the street. He and I grabbed our cameras, and headed out. It was a nice morning - a little overcast - so it was perfect for photographing wildflowers. And here's what we found ... about 17 acres of wild lupine!

Most of the property is “savanna” habitat – an open, prairie-like field with scattered trees. The field of blue lupine is more than just a scenic amenity, though. The lupine creates crucial habitat for one of Michigan's rarest native animal species: the Karner blue butterfly.

I only saw a couple butterflies, but want to check the area again next week to see if the butterflies are still out and about. They only come out for a brief period in May and in July, so hunting for them is quite a challenge. Especially since they are no larger than your thumbnail!

Happy Spring!