Nature 10+1 - 1.177 "Protective Grouse"

We went out for a drive today and ended up at the tip of the Tobermory Peninsula.  It was an overcast and drizzly morning when we left Barrie; when we reached the visitor's centre at 2pm the skies were blue and cloudless.  

We were about 10 minutes into our hike, enjoying the many wildflowers when we ran into a Rattler!!  Well, we didn't exactly see it but we certainly heard it loud and clear.  There were a few ladies standing around hoping to catch another glimpse of it but not me.  You see, I am 100% terrified of snakes. Needless to say, I made my way back to the car pretty darn quick.  Nate is not scared of snakes perse, but he is not fond of them either so he was right behind me. :)

While driving around the area looking for orchids and other wildflowers we came across today's nature shot. After spotting the grouse along the side of a road I stopped the car, pulled out the camera and took only a few shots before the bird began to perform an elaborate display of movement and sound.  At one point I thought the bird was going to come right at me.  We would later figure out this display was a diversion technique designed to draw our attention away from its young which were directly across the street from us. Once we realized it was our presence that was stressing both parent and child we left immediately.  

Unfortunately we missed the peak of orchid season this year and only got to see the Yellow and Showy Lady's Slipper and even then it was difficult to find one in good shape.  We did see lots of wild roses, Columbine, Wood Lilies, Pitcher Plants, Ragwort, Indian Paintbrush and a few I haven't ID'd yet.  Oh yeah, and there was a ton of horse flies...everywhere!!  Arghhhh!!

What a beautiful day, hope you all enjoyed it!! :)