Cypripedium acaule (Pink lady's-slipper orchid) complete with a Kudzu bug

I couldn't wait for the weekend to make another trip up the road to my favorite Pink lady's-slipper orchid location.

They were in perfect form. There were a few that were still just opening, and I thought that might just make an interesting shot.

The color range, this year, was quite variable -- some were fairly light while others were quite dark. I am thankful that we live so close to this wonderful Heritage Preserve...