Cattail Typha latifolia

Cattails are a common sight in marshes and streams all over the U.S.- in fact, they are one plant which virtually defines its habitat. Almost every part of the plant is edible at some point in its life, and muskrats and many marsh birds depend heavily upon it for thei existence. Red-Winged Blackbirds, particularly, are almost always found living near cattails, and they make nests like little sacks which hang from the plant. This photograph shows the plant's flower, the "cat tail" itself after it has gone to seed. The fluffy fibers aid in seed dispersal as they float on the breeze, and are used as nest material by birds and animals.