Regardless of the very warm forecast, 9 enthusiastic ANGAIR members took on the challenge of locating the two orchid species which can often be seen in this remnant gravel pit site during the months of October, November and December.

Both the Flying Duck Orchid Caleana major and the Small Duck Orchid Paracaleana minor were successfully located, providing an opportunity to discuss the intricate pollination technique involving the pollinating male sawfly, whose presence on the hinged labellum or ‘ducks head’ triggers the labellum to close, pinning the sawfly against the column containing the orchid reproductive parts. Cross pollination being the aim of this deceptive practice.

Flying Duck Orchid

Small Duck Orchid (photo by Margaret MacDonald)

As well as these orchids we observed some other very interesting plant species which are included in this report.

A keen level of interest being shown

Magnifying lenses and cameras are essential examination tools

A member of the Sedge family, Curly Wig Caustis flexuosa can be found in sandy and gravelly sites around Anglesea, its twisted growth making it an easy plant to remember

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Victorian Smoke-bush Comesperma mitchellii was an eye catching find

We were so fortunate to locate generous colonies of flowering Tiny Sundew Drosera pygmaea

Gail Slykhuis