Happy Spring!

I have been taking in the sights of all the blooms in the valley – what a display! The cherry blossoms were unbelievable this year, as if the trees were making up for last year’s lack of blooms caused by the unexpected cold snap. It is wonderful to see the cherry orchards doing so well again. I wish our growers a very fruitful season.

The yellow blossoms of Oregon grapes and the purples of lilacs and magnolias are also spectacular. I have been enjoying the fragrance of the Oregon grapes and lilacs during my walks. The Saskatoons and chokecherries are in bloom, adding their whites to the tapestry of blossoms. The wild roses have not bloomed yet but I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of their pink flowers and sweet smells.

The honeybees and early-season mining bees are up and about; collecting pollen and nectar, and providing essential pollinating services to the early plant bloomers. I observed some accidental collisions between a beautiful Milbert’s Tortoiseshell butterfly and several mining bees as they all searched for the best nectar among chokecherry blossoms. Too much traffic on the chokecherry blossom lanes! :).

A first-time sighting of a Spotted Thyris Moth was the highlight of my week. These small, day-flying moths are elusive, and seeing one felt like a gift for the bug lady. :).

Spring in the Okanagan is beautiful – birds singing, bees buzzing, blossoms galore, fragrant air, sparkling lake views, sunshine, and happy people.

Enjoy the photos, and Happy Spring!