Winter is ending.

Well, winter is ending as the fungi in the Jarrah forest are disappearing. I am normally on the lookout for animals, but you just can't ignore the wildflower show that is just starting. I did work in the state herbarium for about six months after finishing my biology degree, mainly in the plant indentification unit, so I do like my plants as well. I love getting to know plant-animal interactions.

At this time of year a lot of the native peas start to flower. I'm always interested to know what native insects must pollinate them at this time, as it's still quite cold and wet. I believe native bees (as well as introduced honey bees) are the main pollinators, but whatever insects they are, they must have some resistance to the colder temperatures of early spring.