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With the discovery of current resources, both novices and seasoned nature lovers can embark on a fascinating journey to discover the vibrant world of wildflowers, butterflies, and insects that grace the trails and roadsides of Marquette. My aim is to ignite a sense of wonder and foster a deeper appreciation for the remarkable specimens found in our very own backyard.
"ROADSIDE PLANTS AND FLOWER: A Travelers Guide to the Midwest and Great Lakes Area with a Few Familiar Off-Road Wildflowers" by Marian S. Edsall (581.9 ED)
This field guide is an absolute gem in the PWPL collection. Once you open this book, prepare to stop your vehicle and turn on those flashy hazard lights. One of the most accessible ways to identify flowers is by the highway systems across the UP. The enchanting yellow stalk-like Evening Primrose struts its stuff alongside the joyful Coreopsis, making those infamous Oxeye Daisies blush with envy on HWY 41 westbound to Houghton. The most notable wildflower is the Orange Hawkweed, not to be confused with the Butterfly weed. This fiery red-orange beauty boasts a plethora of fringed ray flowers, all elegantly attached to a single stem. Back in my childhood, we innocently called these darlings Indian Paintbrushes. Now is the most ideal time to check out this user-friendly field guide with color photos to turn your travels into memorable adventures.
"MICHIGAN WILDFLOWERS IN COLOR" by Harry C. Lund (582.13 LU) Lund introduces readers to a vast array of wildflower species that grace the forests, meadows, wetlands, and dunes of Michigan. Conveniently enough, all the listed ecosystems can be found in the UP. This book is categorized by color, making it easy to compare minute details. More importantly, if the flower is a protected Michigan wildflower, it is clearly indicated. There is even a 'Quiz Section' if you want to test your knowledge. Harry C. Lund has created an interactive wildflower guide that is great for all stages and ages. I would recommend making a copy of the "Observer's List" located in the back of the book prior to checking out. This will help the user keep track of their findings and also remind them of the diverse nature of our humble state of Michigan. Black and white copies are only 15 cents.
"GREAT LAKE COASTAL PLANTS" by Ellen Elliott Weatherbee (581.977 WE) "Great Lakes Coastal Plants" is a concise and informative guide that explores the unique and diverse plant species found along the coastlines of the Great Lakes. With a focus on the flora of this specific region, Weatherbee provides valuable insights into the habitats, characteristics, and ecological significance of coastal plants. Along with color photos, Weatherbee provides intricate black-and-white line drawings to better assist in the identification process. Additionally, a map is provided to showcase the regionalized wildflowers across the three Great Lakes for the UP. I am excited to witness the beauty of Purple Loosestrife and yellow silverweed as I travel to Cedarville this week. If you are curious about my travels and the wildflowers I have identified, feel free to email me at amarsh@pwpl.info to continue the conversation.
"BUTTERFLIES OF MICHIGAN: Field Guide" by Jaret C. Daniels (595.789 DA) With meticulous attention to detail, Daniels presents a wealth of information about the diverse species that grace the state's meadows, forests, wetlands, and gardens. This field guide is designed to assist both beginners and experienced butterfly enthusiasts in identifying, understanding, and appreciating the vibrant butterflies that call Michigan home. Complete with vivid photographs, species descriptions, range maps, and natural history tidbits, this guide is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to explore the captivating world of Michigan's butterflies. My favorite part is that some butterflies and moths have multiple photos for reference, showcasing their dorsal, ventral, and larval stages. Additionally, there is a linear calendar highlighting when each specific Lepidoptera is active. I recently spotted my first Buckeye but after scrutinizing over the range map provided for each variety, I am second guessing that maybe I saw a very colorful North Pearly-Eye or a Common Wood-Nymph.
By Andrea Marsh
Communications Coordinator