Feb 23
Quack, quack! Can you see how the flying duck orchid (Caleana major) got its name? This unique plant, which can be found in the open woodlands of Australia, grows up to 15.8 in (40 cm) tall. When it blooms, its flower bears an uncanny resemblance to a duck in flight. A long red labellum, or tongue-like petal, at the top of the orchid attracts pollinating insects. When curious pollinators land, the labellum snaps shut, trapping them inside. The insects are then coated in pollen before being released—and will hopefully pollinate the next orchid they visit.
Photo: archie_bourke, CC BY-NC 4.0, iNaturalist
