likin' some Lichens

 

 

(click on photos for close-up details)

Lichens bring to mind the tundra and browsing caribou, but these favor a dry prairie pasture instead. Out taking wildflower pictures yesterday, these wild ones were brightening up the landscape, too. 

The top photo is a rock the size of a softball, yet it is hosting 4 different kinds of lichens. The bottom photo is a little rock about the size and shape of a Wheat Thins cracker. I was intrigued at how the lichen is covering the edges on all 4 sides and seems to be working in toward the center.

The foundation rocks both appear to be Black Hills granite and quite colorful all on their own.. Cool.