Go OUtside...be amazed
Educational posts to learn about our local flora and fauna.
Columbia Spotted Frog (Rana luteiventris)
The Columbia Spotted Frog is currently a candidate for the Endangered Species List, vulnerable to both direct and indirect effects of habitat alteration and loss, and land and noise disturbance. These frogs are a good indicator of the health of our natural wetlands, mountainous and foothill regions as they are quite sensitive to their environment. The wetland ecosystems that they live in must be maintained and protected in order to prevent the decline in their numbers and to avoid developmental deformities brought on by air and soil contamination introduced into their environment.
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Prairie Crocus (Pulsatilla nuttalliana)
Commonly known as the Pasque flower, surfacing late March through April close to Easter, this early native perennial herb is a forb species. This plant is poisonous to both plants and animals in its’ ‘raw’ or fresh state, and should neither be touched nor eaten! However dried or cooked leaves have traditionally been used by First Nations as well as in modern medicine in anti-inflammation preparations. Remember it is always best to admire nature where it lies undisturbed, to help sustain naturally biodiverse ecosystems.
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