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As I gaze across the vast expanse of the Florida prairie I notice distinct patches of red contrasting with the green wiregrass and sedges common to the prairie. It's been a good year for the sundews, with a typically wet summer, the low-lying areas of the prairie will remain saturated with water for the rest of the year. Insects are abundant and with plenty of water these carnivorous plants will thrive. Sundews, comprise one of the largest genera of carnivorous plants, with at least 194 species. The plants lure, capture, and digest insects using stalked mucilaginous (a thick sticky substance) glands covering their leaf surfaces. The insects are used to supplement the poor mineral nutrition of the soil in which they grow. Small prey, mainly consisting of insects, are attracted by the sweet secretions of the peduncular glands. Upon touching these, the prey become entrapped by sticky mucilage which prevents their escape. Eventually, the prey either succumb to death through exhaustion or...

Chris was born in southern Delaware in 1960. As a teenager he began studying maps of Florida and dreamed of exploring the state and it’s natural treasures. In the early 1980’s he moved to Central Florida. During his travels throughout the state he discovered the beauty of it’s swamps, prairies, springs, rivers and lakes. This led to an interest in photography and it’s ability to document his adventures. He also developed an interest in astronomy. He studied the work of Ansel Adams and his “zone” system as well as the works of the his colleges in the “f 64 club” of art photographers. It became apparent that researching the accomplishments of painters would also be beneficial. Chris began to establish his own style, a fusion of art and...