First wildflowers of the season

The last few days have been sunny and warm, nearly perfect spring weather. The first warblers have shown up soon to be followed by waves of their fellows. The leaves are not yet out on the trees letting full sunlight onto the forest floor. The early wildflowers are taking advantage of their moment in the sun so to speak.

I was walking behind the kennel this morning and came across this clump of early Purple Trillium also known as Stinking Benjamin for their less than aromatic smell. Interesting to note that a clump behind the house has not even appeared as shoots yet. There are a few of the other early flowers beginning to show, most of them will be in full bloom in the next couple of weeks. Then they will be back to living in the shade for the rest of the summer.