I've just returned from an enjoyable hike with members of the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association, The Madison Audubon Society, and The Prairie Enthusiasts. Our destination today was Scuppernong Prairie in Waukesha County just west of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The photos above are of Turk's cap lilies (one of which was conveniently twisted on its stem to display the spectacularly mottled petals) and a distinctly uncommon milkweed variety. The Prairie Milkweed (Sullivant's milkweed, Smooth milkweed) has glaucous (hairless) leaves and is a locally threatened species.
Those who wish to visit Scuppernong Prairie (directions at the link) should be aware that this is a State Natural Area. There are no groomed hiking trails - no trails of any sort, in fact. One walks through knee-high to waist-high vegetation; only those with leather-skinned legs would want to venture out in shorts. And the ground surface is markedly uneven, with old farm furrows, hummocks, and various invisible obstacles. A walking stick and skilled cerebellar function will make the adventure much easier. With those caveats, this is a marvelous natural resource area that would reward visits in each of the seasons.
(The pix enlarge with a click).
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