Springtime in the forests of the northeast denotes the return of a beautiful array of wildflowers, including the unmistakable trillium. The name “trillium” comes from the Latin tri, meaning “three,” referring to the three petals of the solitary flower and the three leaves arranged in a single whorl below the flower.

There are several species of trillium, all members of the lily family, including painted trillium and red trillium. Despite being quite attractive to the eye, red trillium is also known as “Stinking Benjamin,” thanks to its unpleasant odor.

In addition to some great Photo Contest entries, the first of these five images was taken by one of our staff just last week at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood Overnight Camp! Enjoy these cheerful harbingers of spring. And get ready: the Photo Contest launches June 1!

Painted Trillium at Wildwood © Mimi Palmore

Red Trillium © Kathleen Johnson, 2012 Photo Contest Entry

Red Trillium © Dorrie Holmes, 2014 Photo Contest Entry

Painted Trillium

Red Trillium © Tom Walsh, 2012 Photo Contest Entry

Today we’re honoring painted turtles, named for the unique red and yellow stripes along their heads, necks, and tails. Late May through the end of June is prime time for female turtles to search for nest sites to lay their eggs, so be on the lookout for turtles crossing roads and laying eggs in your yard!

If a small turtle is in danger of being hit by cars, it can be carefully moved in the direction it was headed, to the other side of the road, but snapping turtles should NEVER be handled because they are dangerous (and much faster than you’d expect). Read more about what to do if you encounter a turtle, and learn a bit about all the turtles species in Massachusetts.

Enjoy these five lovely photos of painted turtles from our annual Photo Contest!

2012 Photo Contest Entry © Mary Anne Doyle

2014 Photo Contest Entry © Dick Hatfield

2012 Photo Contest Entry © Katie Giroux

2012 Photo Contest Entry © Ed Schmitt

2012 Photo Contest Entry © Dennis Durette