While area families are hunkering down for a coronavirus hibernation, outside spring has sprung as evidenced by the blooming poppies seen in vacant lots around Turlock. The poppies in this picture make for a colorful visual display for those traveling north on Golden State Boulevard near Fulkerth Road.

California poppy, the state flower of California, is native to the Pacific slope of North America from Western Oregon to Baja California. The flowers of California poppy close each night and on cloudy days. According to the U.S. Forest Service, locals should enjoy the flowers where they grow. If you pick California poppies for a wildflower bouquet, you will be disappointed when the petals almost immediately fall off.