Orchid Field Trip: From Gironès to Ripollès

An early June field day allowed for an orchidological exploration across two distinct geographical areas of Catalonia. The expedition commenced in the morning in the Gironès region, where the primary objective was the localization of various Epipactis species from the Gironès in two previously identified locations. This initial part of the day proved productive, with the confirmation of the sought-after species before midday.

To make the most of the remaining daylight, the route continued with a shift towards the Ripollès region. In this second stage, the ascent led participants to an altitude of approximately 1700 meters. The objective in the high-mountain area was the observation of Neottia cordata, a species that represented a new sighting for personal documentation, and Corallorhiza trifida, which was observed for the first time this current season. Beyond these specific findings, the visit to Ripollès offered an opportunity to observe the progression of the orchid season at higher elevations, marked by the emergence of the first Dactylorhiza species.