the donkey in the (orchid) stable

Since today was a break in the wet weather, I took the opportunity to take photos around Moulton Wetland. One of the first exciting things I found was this orchid (Diuris magnifica), known around Perth as the Pansy Orchid. The orchids in the genus Diuris are commonly called donkey orchids.

Have a look at those gorgeous shades of yellow, brown, green and purple-pink! In this photo, the orchid at the rear is facing away, and you can see how different are the patterns on the back of the petals.

I'm really pleased to see how these orchids have survived in this bush remnant. Last year there was a tiny group of plants. This year, I found many more flowers, and it seems there are more plants than last year. Long may they live in our local nature reserves.