Butterfly Weed Party
Below is a photo of an absurd scene that became normal this August on any Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) that I could find – look at all those butterflies! The fiery orange flower is a native milkweed and extremely attractive to a wide variety of species looking for some nectar. We have an Orange Sulphur, Crescents, and the iconic and wonderfully matched Monarchs all feeding here. Just how many Crescents can we fit on one bloom? Take a look at this Monarch as it is showing some signs of wear and tear. This individual likely took a long journey to us and now it will mate, lay eggs,...
Read MoreYoung Gray Catbird
The last of our fledglings are finding their way out of the nest now as September nears. This Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) will have to start forging a path in the world shortly, deciding how far south it has to fly in order to survive. It is a difficult choice – migration is the most dangerous part of a bird’s life, and minimizing it is optimal. However, you may end up facing a much harsher winter with frigid temperatures, snowfall, and less food than a more distant tropical climate. Decisions…
Read MoreCabbage White Butterfly
I think this Cabbage White must have just gone through the laundry – that is very white! Enjoy those coneflowers while you can, little friend…autumn is coming for them.
Read MoreRadar Migration August 29, 2016
Today’s cold front cleared the Northeast region, and tonight’s light north winds are predictably pushing migrant birds to the south. Wake up early to spot some songbirds, head to the beach to sight the shorebirds, or pop out midday to see some raptors moving south on the diurnal winds. Good birding to you, autumn lovers!
Read MoreYellow-bellied Flycatcher (Empidonax flaviventris)
I have recorded several first-of-year birds for me this week that I missed during spring migration. Today’s haul included three more highlighted by this uncommon Yellow-bellied Flycatcher (Empidonax flaviventris) that actually let me photograph it while perched in the shade. For the species…I’ll take it! It is only August and so far the autumn migration has been a blast to see but difficult to shoot. I am still not over raising my camera, focusing, pressing the shutter and missing a Mourning Warbler on a branch in the open eight feet from me by a split second. My thanks...
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