Wildflowers are abundant in the summer in Alaska. When I came upon this stand of wild iris flowers just outside of anchorage in Alaska, I knew they were worth a stop.
What I didn't anticipate was the density of the mosquitos, reputed to be Alaska's state bird. With mild temperatures, regular precipitation, and many marshlands, lakes, and rivers, the environment is well-suited for these pesky insects. I was able to come away with several images before I gave it up and left before I needed a blood transfusion. Photo © copyright by Dr. Edward Mikol.