Colchicum Water Lilly Flowers Appear Eaten Even As They Come Out Of The Bulb

Question From: M. Weber - Columbus, Michigan, United States
Q: My Colchicum water Lilly flowers appear eaten even as they come out of the bulb. As the flower stalk emerges from the ground, it looks tight and well formed only to open with the flower petals undeveloped or eaten. Any thoughts?
(Click Images To View Larger Versions)

A: My best guess is a wood chuck. A very ripe cantelope or musk melon in a trap is the your best bet. Good Luck, Nancy