Parking At Pimelia Mycumbene....

Parking at Pimelia Mycumbene one of the secluded picnic areas in Beelu National Park I once again set off to explore a new area. The tall jarrah and marri trees provide a leafy canopy for the wonderland of the understory. There was a firebreak yet no obvious walking paths here so after a walk to take in the stunning scenery along the firebreak I crossed the road and headed off on yet another path I had never taken.

Many of the delicate yellow orchids where spotted and on the way back to the car I noticed one striking purple orchid. The wind was really gusty and attempts to get a clear photo was a bit of a challenge. The area has seen a fire rage through it not too long ago, the blackened trunks of the trees giving a stark contrast in some parts to the forest. 

There were tiny black butterflies in one part of the bush they fluttered about as I walked past them. They were very focused on the heady scent of the flowers though and soon settled but to feed.

I also spotted a Earth Ball fungus which was beginning to break down. These puffballs are known also as dog poo fungus/horse dung fungus/dead man's foot. They can grow up to 20 cm in diameter and height. As they age they become powdery, just like the one I found.  The local Noongar tribe apparently only ate them if food was scarce. They were used as a wound healer as the spores when applied to wounds would promote healing and prevent infection. 

Along this track I discovered more new flowers, once again highlighting the diversity of the bushlands. As the weather slowly warms more flowers are budding, those already in bloom though are simply fabulous. The grasstrees/balga trees are also sending up their tall spear like spikes that in the coming weeks will be covered with tiny white flowers. When soaked these flowers make a very sweet drink. 

Towards the end of my walk the track passes between two residential properties which is not a common sight on my bushland meanders. The lush green field enticing a mated pair of australian wood ducks to feed. And a few rather large wooly sheep were grazing nearby. 

I left the bush feeling sated after being surrounded by the healing energy of the earth and grateful for seeing some new plant species. Although so many birds were heard, none were seen. A Quenda did scurry across the track in front of me at one point, too swiftly for a photo. But sometimes the moment is too precious to share.........