Santa Rosa Naturalists

Recent Field Notes

  • Colorado Blue Columbine

    Colorado Blue Columbine

    Designated Colorado’s state flower in 1899, the beautiful Blue Columbine (π΄π‘žπ‘’π‘–π‘™π‘’π‘”π‘–π‘Ž π‘π‘œπ‘’π‘Ÿπ‘’π‘™π‘’π‘Ž) features animal-inspired Latin names: Columbine (doves), π΄π‘žπ‘’π‘–π‘™π‘’π‘”π‘–π‘Ž (eagle talons), π‘π‘œπ‘’π‘Ÿπ‘’π‘™π‘’π‘Ž (sky blue), and family Ranunculaceae (little frog habitat). It is currently in a fierce citizen science race on iNaturalist to reclaim its crown as the No. 1 observed plant in Colorado. Read Field Notes Β»

  • Morrison’s Bumble Bee

    Morrison’s Bumble Bee

    The imperiled Morrison’s Bumble Bee was foraging in the front garden. This large, vibrant golden-yellow female bumble bee is a species under review for endangered status, currently designated as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Colorado. Read Field Notes Β»

  • Rosy Paintbrush

    Rosy Paintbrush

    The colorful parts of Rosy Paintbrush found growing on the Grand Mesa are often mistaken for flower petals but are actually bracts. Read Field Notes Β»

  • Prairie Smoke

    Prairie Smoke

    Prairie Smoke has buzz pollination in which a bumble bee grabs a flower and rapidly vibrates its flight muscles to shake pollen loose from tightly sealed anthers. Read Field Notes Β»