April showers bring May flowers, and those bluebonnets are already blooming! The Texas state flower grows thick in pastures, fields, and medians along the highway, and they are a popular attraction for Texans and visitors alike.
While thick bluebonnets provide the perfect backdrop for an Instagram worthy photo, these photoshoots could come at a price. We want you and your family to embrace the beauty of our state flower, but we also want you to be safe. Here are some bluebonnet safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Watch for Snakes and Other Critters!
Part of what makes bluebonnets so beautiful is their thickness! Once bluebonnets are in full bloom, they grow so thick in the fields that you can barely see a blade of grass – just a sea of blue and white sprouts blending into the horizon.
Beyond their beauty, though, this thick brush provides the perfect environment for snakes, fire ants, and other critters to find a cool spot shaded from the sun. Be aware of your surroundings and always pay careful attention to the ground. If you happen to see a snake or other wildlife, stay calm and slowly back away from the animal.
2. Wear Proper Clothing and Shoes.
Many families have family photoshoots in bluebonnet fields. While you may be tempted to dress your family in their Sunday best, consider avoiding dresses, sandals, and flip flops. Aside from the critters that live in these fields, poison ivy also tends to thrive in the thick brush of bluebonnets. Long pants and closed-toe shoes can protect you from bug bites, poison ivy, and sharp sticks.
It might seem less glamorous, but safety should be your biggest concern. Taking proper precautions in your wardrobe allows you to focus on capturing precious moments with your loved ones, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of bluebonnets, all while staying safe and comfortable.
3. Follow Road Laws!
When you’re out looking for that perfect bluebonnet picture, many spots are off busy public roadways. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding the perfect field of bluebonnets, but before barreling into the shoulder and throwing your car in park, make sure you are following all road laws.
It’s important to park your car safely and completely off the road in a legal spot – your photo op isn’t worth causing congestion of other traffic. Don’t stop on highways or other main roads unless you know it’s safe, and avoid running across the road or making sudden, unexpected stops.
4. Do NOT Trespass.
One of the most important things before entering a bluebonnet field is to recognize whether or not you are on private property. Private property is often alongside highways where bluebonnets flourish, but this is not an invitation for travelers to trespass.
You should always respect “No Trespassing” signs and seek permission if you wish to enter private property. Not only is trespassing disrespectful and illegal, but it could be dangerous since some properties have hazards that aren’t directly exposed. If you are planning to visit bluebonnet fields, do your research. There are plenty of luscious fields that are open and free to the public.
Bluebonnet season offers a breathtaking opportunity to connect with Texas’s natural beauty. By being mindful of safety guidelines and respecting the environment and local laws, you can have a wonderful experience for yourself and contribute to the preservation of these stunning landscapes. Enjoy your time with the bluebonnets, creating lasting memories while staying safe.
