bring you to a spot above the patch of Blazing Stars.
which butterflies like this Northern Checkerspot feed upon.
Return to Top.
To see more Blazing Stars, visit: Rancho San Vicente.
Cait Hutnik, Photographer |
||||
|
Blazing Stars
April 2011 |
|
|
| In spring, early summer wildflowers flourish in sunny areas along Hicks. | |
|
|
| In one narrow canyon, a large patch of Blazing Stars bloom. | |
|
|
| Driving by on the road below, you probably wouldn't notice them. | |
|
|
| Lindley's Blazing Star is one of California's most spectacular wildflowers. | |
|
|
| This is an uncommon wildflower not often seen as it tends to grow on steep, rocky slopes. | |
|
|
| The patch along Hicks Road is in typical habitat. | |
|
|
| But it is a difficult environment for taking photos. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| If you decide to visit the spot where the Blazing Stars bloom. | |
|
|
| Be very careful. You will be in a steep area high above the road. | |
|
|
| The red shale soil is slippery and can give way beneath your feet. | |
|
|
| It is best to hike a short ways in laterally which will bring you to a spot above the patch of Blazing Stars. |
|
|
|
| There are narrow "squirrel trails" into the area, but not really wide enough for safe foot-holds. | |
|
|
| The entrance to the arroyo is a great place to see and photograph butterflies. | |
|
|
| There's lots of non-native Smooth Hawk's Beard, which butterflies like this Northern Checkerspot feed upon. |
|
|
|
| A Field Crescent sips nectar from an Italian Thistle, another invasive plant species. | |
|
|
| A Common Ringlet rests briefly on a California Poppy blossom. | |
|
|
| The Chalcedon Checkerspot is another frequent visitor to this narrow arroyo. | |
Return to Top. |
To see more Blazing Stars, visit: Rancho San Vicente. |