Munching on the helicopter seeds!

Visiting Mill Race Park in Bartholomew County, Indiana, during springtime offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature's unique phenomena, such as watching and even munching on helicopter seeds, also known as samaras. These winged seeds are fascinating not just because of their shape but also because of their natural dispersal mechanism—they spin like little helicopters as they fall, helping the tree spread its offspring over a wider area. During my last visit, I brought along a Sony a7r IV paired with a Sony FE 200-600mm lens and a 2x teleconverter, which proved incredible for capturing close-up shots of these seeds in flight and at rest. The detailed images show the elegant design of the seeds and the way they twirl to gently land on the ground or water. Beyond photography, interacting with helicopter seeds brought a playful aspect to the walk. Picking up these seeds and observing their structure up close, even tasting one (since they are safe and have a mild, nutty flavor), adds an intimate connection to nature's cycles. Mill Race Park is not just a natural haven for photography but also an educational spot where families and nature lovers can learn about native trees and their propagation. If you plan to visit, the best time is late spring when many trees release their seeds. This lets you experience the full cycle alongside the park’s lush greenery and spring blooms. Exploring with a keen eye, you might also spot various wildlife attracted to these trees and the fresh spring environment. So next time you're at Mill Race Park, take your time to notice the small wonders—like the helicopter seeds—that show how nature innovates to survive and thrive.