Things are finally greening up. Some of our beautiful native blooms have emerged, and more are on their way. To celebrate, here are five flower portraits from past editions of our Photo Contest.

Bloodroot, 2010 Photo Contest Entry © Greg Pronevitz

Marsh Marigold, 2013 Photo Contest Entry © Jennifer Garrett

Round-lobed Hepatica, 2010 Photo Contest Entry © Chris Buelow

Dutchman’s Breeches, 2013 Photo Contest Entry © Dorrie Holmes

Red Trillium (Stinking Benjamin), 2012 Photo Contest Entry © Tom Walsh

Have a great shot of your own? Enter our 2015 Picture This: Your Great Outdoors photo contest!

Blue jays are renowned for their loud cries, raucous behavior, and intelligence. Less well-known is their role in spreading oak forests due to their preference for acorns, which they store underground—effectively planting them.

Here are five great portraits of jays from past editions of our Photo Contest. Have a great shot of your own? Enter our 2015 Picture This: Your Great Outdoors photo contest!

2013 Photo Contest Entry © Paula Orlando

Virginia Opossum, 2014 Photo Contest Entry © Stella del Rosario Chin

2014 Photo Contest Entry © Davey Walters

Blue jay basking in the sun, 2013 Photo Contest Entry © Dorene Austin

2013 Photo Contest Entry © Sarah Keates

Learn more about blue jays with our new quick guide.