Thistles are very beneficial for wildlife and pollinators and there are a couple of varieties of thistles that I know are common at Chassahowitzka WMA.
Bristle Thistle’s have sharp needle like leaves so be careful not to get too close to the leaves while taking any macro shots. These bloom throughout Spring, Summer and Fall. Once you see them in the pre-blooming stage you can make plans to come back in a week or two (depending on the bloom stage) to photograph pollinators and other insects!
Once they are in bloom you can pretty much stay for awhile photographing butterflies, bees, beetles and even spiders. So bring a chair because the bees and butterflies are pretty much occupied gathering nectar.
Bristol Thistle | Photographed on August 1 | Another week or two these will be in bloom
Insects to photograph:
- Butterflies
- Moths
- Spiders
- Bees
- Beetles
Links
Categories: Chassahowitzka WMA, Native Wildflowers
Florida Nature 