You Can't Always Get What You Want

Today is a beautiful day in Southern Manitoba. Sunny, light wind, and a high of 21c!!! I decided to not take a lengthy hike today, but rather take in one of Manitoba's interesting attractions.

I visited the Narcisse Snake Dens in Narcisse (go figure). I've been there many times before to see the snakes during their fall migration, but have never seen their summer mating season, which I hear is something "you have to see!". The park was full of people, lots of families, many people with cameras, and everyone enjoying the weather. The trail through the dens is relatively short (just under 4 kms). At each of the 4 dens, there is a platform for viewing and fencing to prevent people from getting a closer look.

I figured that given the time of year, and the very warm weather, the snakes would be out in full fury. But I was left disappointed with nary a serpent soul to be found. I would love to take my nephew here when the snakes are out. It really is something else!!

I was not completely disappointed on this trip. I found a patch of rare white prairie-crocus (these flowers are typically a deep "easter egg" purple), which was a surprising find and made my day. Prairie-crocuses are very pretty to look at, but not something you would like to pick and bring home to mom. The sap is caustic, which means these flowers are nice to look at, and better left alone.

Although it was a rather uneventful outing (save for the crocuses), it was still a lovely walk on an unusually warm April day in Manitoba. I did see the usual unusual things along the way, though:

• the wild turkey that struts around Clandeboye challenging vehicles that drive by
• the dangerous aardvarks just east of Teulon (I don't think there really are aardvarks there, but the sign does warn one to beware of them...)
• the blasted Historical Site that is well advertised, but I still cannot prove its existence

I hope to have a more exciting post next time. Until next time, even pretty things are sometimes better left alone.