a.

waxy white sentinels

urge the leaf-litter

bowed and tremendous

b.

turkey tail splaying for the world to see

gill-bearers make life from death

the deep wet black of rot

c.

jack-in-the-pulpit lobed rubies

frogs in the rain-filled tracks

under-story going to sleep

Muskego Park Hardwoods is an old-growth southern dry-mesic forest in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. Some past grazing has brought in new species of wildflowers, and a healthy blend of different hardwoods stand strong. Thanks to Waukesha County for preserving this old-growth community!