Introduction 



9 



these regions. For example, fields of Winecups, Firewheels and 

 Coreopsis were shoulder tall, and the thick growth was so matted 

 together that a man could make his way through fields with the 

 greatest difficulties. Bright-colored annuals appeared in most 

 unusual places and were found in large numbers on tops of lime- 

 stone hills, competing with the regular residents of these 

 localities. 



The colors of the flowers were noticeably deeper and richer. 

 The explanation of this is a matter of considerable interest. It 

 has been observed that plants with rich soil and plenty of water 

 have leaves of deeper colors and these factors must affect the 

 colors of flowers as well. In all probability there is also less 

 fading and bleaching in cloudy weather by reason of the re- 

 duction of light, for under such conditions moths and butterflies 

 also retain their richer hues. 



Annuals bloomed much earlier. The blossoming period for 

 fully one hundred plants usually maturing in April and May 

 was extended into July. The fruiting season was correspond- 

 ingly prolonged. 



Animal life also luxuriated in this abundance of moisture. 

 Insects were unusually numerous due probably to the long breed- 

 ing season and the abundance of food. This unusual season was 

 further marked by the increase of snakes, rodents and birds. 

 Rattle snakes were so numerous that many of our keenest hunters 

 gave up the sport on account of the danger. 



In the early spring of 1919, there were practically no wood 

 rats and few rabbits in the adjoining county, Atascosa, due to the 

 droughts of 1916 and 1917. In the spring of 1920, these animals 

 were so abundant that brush piles, clumps of prickly pear, and 

 bunches of grass were honey-combed with their trails and nests. 

 This close relationship between flora and fauna and rainfall was 

 further shown in the increased number of eggs in the clutches of 

 our wild birds. 



DISTRIBUTION OF PLANTS OVER THE AREA STUDIED 

 As San Antonio is the meeting ground of the Edwards 



