Highlights of My Hope Springs Getaway

May 15, 2017

Hope Springs Meadow in May

Have you heard of Hope Springs Institute in Adams County? It’s a wonderful retreat center that offers all type of programs. I’ve been going to the Women’s Winter Retreat, which is in early December, semi-regularly for the past 7 or 8 years. It’s a lovely place to be in December—the land is beautiful if a bit barren. But that’s early winter in Ohio!

I was fortunate enough to attend a program in early May this year. I’d only been to Hope Springs once before at this time of year, and what a difference! Green everywhere, birds singings, butterflies and moths flitting around, flowers blooming…basically a small piece of heaven less than 2 hours away from home!

Although I didn’t have much free time, I did take a walk in the meadow one afternoon. It was cold for May and there’s wasn’t a lot of pollinator activity but it was still gorgeous.

Following are some highlights of what I saw.

Eight-spotted Forester Moth

This moth was new to me. I tried identifying it on my own but was not successful. So, I emailed the picture to my friend Kelly (of Red and the Peanut) and she knew what it was right away.

Yes…I know it. The fuzzy orange legs give it a way. It’s a day-flying moth….you can tell that by the fuzzy tips of the antenna. It’s an Eight-spotted Forester (Alypia octomaculata).

Karner Blue Butterfly

I’m relatively sure I identified this one correctly. What a pretty, petite butterfly!

Butterweed or Golden Ragwort or Butterweed?

I thought I identified this correctly as Butterweed, then I decided it’s Golden Ragwort, and went back to Butterweed. But…the more I study it, and other pictures I took, the less I’m sure. What do you think?

Fleabane

Philadelphia Fleabane

Philadelphia Fleabane may be a common wildflower but it’s so pretty. Notice the tiny pollinator coming in for a landing?

Want to Learn More?

The Eight-spotted Forester moth is often mistaken for a butterfly. Now I know to look for the puffy orange knees, too.
The Karner blue has an interesting history in Ohio. Unfortunately, it’s also on the endangered list.
Finally, learn more about Hope Springs.