Had the opportunity to lead several hikes at & near Roan Mountain last weekend - at their annual Fall Naturalist Rally. Of course, could not take many photos while leading the hikes (need to pay attention to hike participants, not scenery...), but got up to the Mt early to snap a few sunrise shots.
Roan Mountain is a gorgeous location at any time of day and in any season. Typical weather is cloudy and damp. But this early AM we were above most of the clouds. Here's one cloud covering the top of nearby Hump Mountain...
And here is some low-country fog, lit by the dawn and viewed from up at Round Bald on Roan Mt.
When we turned our backs to the sunrise, we were pleased to be able to enjoy another fog-filled, dawn-lit view...
And then the rising sun began to light up the tops of the clouds...
Had to hurry back down the mountain to get back in time for the guided hikes! We noticed a very unusual Coral Fungus on one of the hikes. Have often seen white and yellow coral fungus, and occasionally seen pale pinkish ones. But have never before seen a deep lilac/purple one!
And, just for fun, here are a couple of Damselfly shots. First a few views of a female American Rubyspot - one of our more distinctive (easier to identify!) and later-season species...
And two pairs of another damselfly species busy with egg-laying. Very typical of many damselfly species, the male holds the female as she lays eggs - partly to assist her, partly to keep other males away. But notice the unusual pose of the male on the right. They sometimes hold onto plant stems while assisting the female, but holding onto another male??
Hope you enjoyed both the landscapes and the details. Thanks in advance for sharing your comments & critique!
Post #1 by mole
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