09/08/2026
Isabella Sferra, a graduate research assistant at UMaine, has been sharing beautiful photos of Hirundo with us for the past year, documenting the changing seasons and the myriad species both plant and animal that make HRW their home.
Last week Isabella captured some photos of goldenrod, which bloom from late August into early September at Hirundo and throughout Maine. Lighting up the landscape with their vibrant yellow blooms, these native wildflowers are part of the Solidago genus and play a vital role in supporting local pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other insects rely on goldenrods as a crucial nectar source during this transitional season.
Despite common confusion, goldenrod is not a major cause of seasonal allergies—its pollen is too heavy to be airborne, unlike ragweed, which blooms around the same time.
Bonus images of the Pushaw Stream, some avian visitors, and a fruiting tree follow. Thanks, Isabella, for your fantastic photos!