Documenting Ophrys lutea in excellent condition in the Girona counties

This Sunday, April 26th, we conducted field investigations in the Garrotxa and La Selva counties. The primary objective of this day was to document the presence of specimens of Ophrys lutea, the Yellow Bee-Orchid, which we were pleased to find in excellent flowering condition.

The observed individuals displayed the typical morphological characteristics of this terrestrial geophyte orchid, belonging to the Orchidaceae family. Its distinctive labellum, the most prominent feature, showcased its characteristic dark central macula of purplish-brown hues, clearly encircled by a wide marginal stripe of intense yellow (between 3 and 6 mm), as described for the species. The basal leaves, ovate or ovate-lanceolate in shape, were also clearly visible and healthy.

This species, which flowers primarily between February and June, was found in an environment consistent with its preferred habitat: areas of dry pastures and clearings in scrubland or forests, likely on basic clay or marl-type soils that favor its development. This observation enriches the local flora record and underscores the importance of preserving these ecosystems for the region's orchid biodiversity. According to the IUCN, Ophrys lutea is classified as Least Concern (LC), which is positive, but documenting healthy populations remains vital.