TEMPLE, Texas — It's about that time in Central Texas when Texans are seeing bluebonnets on the side of the road or around nature.
Bluebonnets are mainly found in the southwestern United States and are collectively the State Flower of Texas.
During the Spring, these wildflowers sprout all across Central Texas. Some people have the tendency to pull off on the side of the road to snap a quick picture with family or friends. This may sound innocent enough, but many dangers can come with it.
Jake Smith, spokesperson for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)-Waco District, told 6 News the first risk is being involved in a crash.
"We encourage people to pull off a roadway safely, whether this is a protected parking lot, rest area or truck stop," Smith explained. "Definitely do not encourage parking on the shoulder or on the wildflowers themselves."
Smith went on to add how parking directly on wildflowers prevents them from growing or blooming.
Shawn Kelley, safety director at Texas A&M-Central Texas, explained another danger when visiting bluebonnet flower fields is being mindful of the animals living within them.
"The Texas Hill Country is not just known for its bluebonnets, but also its rattlesnakes, copperheads, scorpions, fire ants and honeybees," Kelley explained.
For those who want to take a photo in the flowers, Kelley recommends people stomp their feet in the area where the animals might be lurking to get them to move on before they sit anyone down in the field.
It is not illegal to pick bluebonnets, but it is illegal to trespass into an area to view them. Making sure you are authorized to be in a location where these wildflowers are growing to avoid any legal consequences is very important.
Lastly, it is recommended to leave bluebonnets alone to grow, flourish and enjoy from afar.
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