Observing Ophrys scolopax subsp. picta in Baix Empordà

After lunch, we made our way to a familiar location in the Baix Empordà for another session of field observation. Our goal was to document the local flora, and we had the opportunity to identify a specimen of Ophrys scolopax subsp. picta, a distinct subspecies of the well-known Woodcock Bee-orchid. This observation proved particularly interesting due to its unique characteristics.

This subspecies is notable for presenting a flower that is significantly smaller compared to the typical size of Ophrys scolopax flowers, whose labellum usually measures between 13 and 18 mm. Despite its reduced dimensions, it retained the essential features of the species, including its trilobed, velvety labellum of dark brown or purple hues, complete with the characteristic central *speculum* mark. Ophrys scolopax, strongly associated with the Mediterranean region, primarily blooms in spring. Finding this variant in the Baix Empordà is a testament to the rich orchid biodiversity of the area.