Nootka Rose Hips

The Wild Rose fruits of Rosa nutkana is a sign of autumn in the Pacific Northwest.  These were growing along the dike at Wiley Slough in the Skagit River delta.  The hips linger on the canes long after the leaves have dropped, providing a food source for lucky wildlife.  They are a favorite of Douglas Squirrels, but too bad for them, I have never seen any of those critters out there.