Reader’s Wildlife Photos
Today I share another set of photos (with permission) from Australian biologist and talented photographer Scott Ritchie. His Facebook page features many remarkable images. This collection showcases a variety of flowers, including several stunning orchids.
Spring Flowers of the Stirling Range
The Stirling Range hosts some of the most beautiful spring blooms. Among them are rare and unique orchids endemic to the region, which are particularly notable.
Orchid and Wasp Interaction
One common yet fascinating interaction captured is between a wasp and an orchid. The upper right dark part of the flower mimics a female wasp. Attempting to mate, the wasp triggers a part of the flower just to the left, which then moves down under its weight and attaches a pollen packet to the wasp's back.
Scott’s captions and identifications accompany the photos and can be enlarged by clicking on them.
I hope the flower names I have provided are accurate, based on my recent visit.
Author’s summary: Scott Ritchie's photos reveal the unique spring flora of the Stirling Range, highlighting rare orchids and their intricate pollination methods involving wasps.