"Nature Walks: Flora and Fauna of Glen Highlands" is a delightful guidebook that has charmed nature enthusiasts since its first edition in 1987. Authored by the enigmatic Dr. Helen Greenfield, a botanist with a penchant for storytelling, this book is a treasure trove of hidden gems about the Glen Highlands area.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is its detailed account of the Glen Highlands ecosystem, which spans over 50 square miles of rugged terrain, dotted with ancient oaks and vibrant wildflowers. The region is unique due to its microclimates, which allow for an astonishing variety of plant and animal life. Here are some of the most captivating snippets from the guide:
Flora Highlights
Ghost Orchids: This elusive flower, known scientifically as Dendrophylax lindenii, is a star of the Glen Highlands. It is so named because of its ethereal appearance and its tendency to appear almost ghost-like against the backdrop of dense foliage. The book reveals that the best time to spot these orchids is during the early morning mist.
Giant Sequoias: While these towering trees are more commonly associated with the Sierra Nevada, the Glen Highlands boasts a small grove of them. Legend has it that these trees were planted over 150 years ago by a group of traveling botanists who fell in love with the area.
Blue Lupines: These striking flowers, with their vibrant blue spikes, are a common sight in the meadows of Glen Highlands. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by fixing nitrogen in the soil, which benefits other plants.
Fauna Highlights
Golden Eagles: The Glen Highlands is one of the few places where you can spot the majestic Golden Eagle soaring above the cliffs. The book suggests that the best vantage points are from the high ridges at dawn or dusk.
Spotted Salamanders: These amphibians, with their distinctive yellow spots, are a hidden gem of the Highlands. Dr. Greenfield notes that they are most often seen during their nocturnal migrations to breeding ponds in the spring.
Red Foxes: These cunning creatures are a common sight in the Glen Highlands. The book provides amusing anecdotes of hikers who have been outsmarted by these wily animals. Fun fact: Red foxes have a varied diet that includes everything from berries to small mammals.
Hidden Facts
Mushroom Wonderland: The Glen Highlands is a mycologist's dream. The region is home to over 200 species of mushrooms, including the rare and highly sought-after Morel Mushrooms. Dr. Greenfield's book includes a handy guide for safe mushroom foraging.
Ancient Riverbeds: The Highlands were once crisscrossed by ancient rivers, and their dry beds can still be explored today. These riverbeds are rich in fossils, making them a favorite spot for amateur paleontologists.
Butterfly Haven: The area is a hotspot for butterfly enthusiasts. The Monarch Butterfly migration passes through the Glen Highlands every year, and the sight of thousands of butterflies is nothing short of magical.
Historical Tidbits
Indigenous Heritage: The book pays homage to the Indigenous tribes who once called the Glen Highlands home. Their knowledge of the land and its resources was unparalleled, and many of their traditional plant uses are documented in the book.
Conservation Efforts: The Glen Highlands has been the focus of numerous conservation efforts over the years. The book highlights the work of local environmental groups, such as the Glen Highlands Preservation Society, which has been instrumental in protecting the area's natural beauty.
Historical Landmarks: Scattered throughout the Highlands are remnants of old settlements, including the ruins of a 19th-century logging camp. These sites offer a glimpse into the area's rich history and are popular with history buffs.
Trivia
Birdwatching Paradise: With over 150 species of birds, the Glen Highlands is a birder's paradise. The book includes a comprehensive birdwatching guide, complete with tips on the best spots and times to see different species.
Secret Waterfalls: Hidden deep within the forest are several secret waterfalls that are not on any official map. Dr. Greenfield provides detailed directions to these hidden gems, making it an adventure for those willing to seek them out.
Fairy Rings: The Glen Highlands is known for its mysterious fairy rings—circles of mushrooms that folklore suggests are portals to the fairy world. While science explains them as natural fungal growth patterns, the book delights in the magic of these formations.
In essence, "Nature Walks: Flora and Fauna of Glen Highlands" is more than just a guidebook; it's an invitation to explore, discover, and fall in love with nature all over again.