Showing posts with label Bee Balm. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bee Balm. Show all posts

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Insects and Hummingbirds

Garden of the Gods RV Resort/Outdoor Destinations
Colorado Springs, CO
July 20, 2014


Starsmore Discovery Center serves as an introduction to North Cheyenne Canon (pronounced Canyon...the first "n" in Canon has a squiggley line over it) Park...a 1,600 acre city park. This beautiful stone building built in 1922 was originally the home of the Starsmore family. As a cherished local landmark, it was purchased by the city of Co Springs and moved to its present location in 1992. The gardens that surround the center are beautiful...butterflies and hummingbirds were fluttering and zooming all around. In 1995, an effort was begun to add perennials favored by hummingbirds. Upkeep and care of the garden is carried out by the Friends of Cheyenne Canon(FOCC) who volunteer their time.

A few insects...








...and hummingbirds.



Broad-tailed Hummingbird





The pretty red flower that shows up in a lot of the garden pictures at the center is bee balm. It is a member of the mint family and comes in pink, red and white. Its a big draw for hummingbirds and butterflies.

 
I had a hard time leaving the Discovery Center and the beautiful flowers, butterflies and hummingbirds. But the center is also the trailhead for the Lower Columbine Trail...our real destination for the day!
 
There is something a little strange in this picture...
 A sneak preview until next time...
 
happy trails!