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Berberis (Mahonia) repens (aquifalium) Barberry Family Habitat: low to mid-elevation dry forests

Pseudoroegneria (Agropyron) spicata Grass Family Habitat: dry mountain slopes with sagebruch, oak

Rhizocarpon geographicum Habitat: Exposed rocks at high elevations

Tragopogon dubius Aster Family Habitat: roadsides, dry fields, to near tree line

Hieracium aurantiacum Aster Family Habitat: trailsides, roadsides

Erythronium grandiflorum Lily Family Habitat: High-elevation meadows, aspen groves, sagebrush slopes, often near melting snow

Heracleum lanatum (sphondylium) Carrot family Habitat: mountain streamsides, moist, thickets

"Stoneseed" "Gromwell" Lithospermum incisum Habitat: Open plains, foothills

Juniperus (Sabina) scopulorum Cypress Family Habitat: steppes, invasive where fire has been excluded

Grand Teton National Park is world-renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. If you're planning a trip to this stunning park, here are a few tips to help make the most of your wildlife viewing experience.1. Be prepared: Be sure to bring along binoculars or a telephoto lens for your camera to get a closer look at the animals. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Also, bring along extra water, snacks, and sunscreen.2. Seek out the best viewing spots: Wildlife is plentiful throughout the park, but some areas are better than others for spotting different types of animals. For example, be sure to visit Jenny Lake, Willow Flats, Oxbow Bend, and String Lake for the best chance of seeing moose, bears, elk, and bison.3. Observe from a safe distance: While it may be tempting to get as close as possible to the animals, it's important to remember that they are wild creatures and should be respected. Always maintain a safe distance, especially when viewing bears and other large predators.4. Be patient: Wildlife viewing in Grand Teton is all about patience. Sometimes you may spend hours waiting for a glimpse of an elusive animal, and other times you may stumble upon a group of bison or elk within minutes of arriving at a viewing area. Remember to take your time and enjoy the scenery while you wait.5. Respect park regulations: It's important to adhere to the rules and regulations of the park, which are in place to protect both the animals and visitors. Never approach or feed the wildlife and always stay on designated trails and roads.With these tips in mind, you're sure to have an unforgettable wildlife viewing experience in Grand Teton National Park.

Grand Teton National Park is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. With its stunning mountains and crystal-clear lakes, it's no wonder that the park is a popular destination for hikers of all levels. If you're planning a trip to the park soon, be sure to check out these top 5 hikes:1. Cascade Canyon Trail: This 9-mile hike takes you through stunning alpine terrain, including breathtaking views of Jenny Lake and the Tetons. You'll also get to see impressive waterfalls and a variety of wildlife, including moose and bears.2. Taggart Lake Trail: This 3.4-mile loop is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. It takes you to a tranquil lake, surrounded by towering mountains. You'll likely see plenty of wildlife along the way, including elk and beavers.3. Amphitheater Lake Trail: This 10.5-mile hike is a bit more strenuous, but the views are worth the effort. You'll pass through dense forests and over boulder fields before reaching the stunning Amphitheater Lake, surrounded by towering peaks.4. Paintbrush Canyon Trail: This 12.2-mile hike takes you through stunning Alpine landscapes, including wildflower meadows and glaciated valleys. The highlight of the hike is the stunning views of Paintbrush Divide and Mount Owen.5. Jenny Lake Loop: This easy 7.4-mile hike takes you around one of the most iconic lakes in the park. You'll get to enjoy stunning views of the Tetons, as well as a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and ospreys.No matter which hike you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water and a camera, as the scenery in Grand Teton National Park is sure to take your breath away.

Xanthoria elegans Habitat: Exposed rocks at all elevationsMoss is a plant that is often found growing in damp and shaded areas, such as forests, bogs, and alongside streams. This simple plant may seem unremarkable, but it is actually quite fascinating. Moss is one of the earliest plants to evolve on Earth, and it is still found in some of the most remote and primitive ecosystems.One of the most interesting things about moss is its ability to absorb and hold onto water. Mosses have no roots, and instead absorb water and nutrients through their leaves. This makes them incredibly important to the ecosystems where they grow, as they help to retain moisture in the soil and prevent erosion.Another interesting fact about moss is that it is very tolerant of pollution. This makes it an important indicator species in urban areas, where levels of pollution can be high. By monitoring the growth and health of moss, scientists can gain insights into the impact of pollution on the environment.In addition to its ecological importance, moss is also valued for its aesthetic qualities. Many gardeners and landscapers use moss to create beautiful living walls and moss gardens. Moss is also used in the florist trade, as it is a popular filler material for floral arrangements.Overall, moss is a fascinating and versatile plant that is worth taking the time to appreciate. Whether you encounter it on a hike through the forest or in a carefully crafted moss garden, there is no denying the beauty and importance of this is a humble plant.