Meleagris gallopavo
With the arrival of the holiday season, many folks will enjoy celebratory feasts with family and friends. The centerpiece for many merry meals will undoubtedly be a turkey; indeed, Americans will consume nearly 50 million turkeys on Thanksgiving and about half as many on Christmas. Given that the average American consumes over 15 pounds of turkey each year, I thought it would be interesting to explore the natural history of this ubiquitous bird. The domestic turkey that you buy in the grocery store is the same species as the wild turkeys that you might see strutting through a local field or...
Read MoreEndless Green
As the days get colder and we enter the season of giving thanks, I know I am thankful that we get to keep some green all winter long… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAutumn Trail
What is the first thing you hear in your mind when walking into the woods? The rustling of the leaves? Insects calling? Your feet on the ground? Birds singing? Whatever the answer may be even thinking about this for a moment was no doubt relaxing… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican Tree Sparrow
Here’s a look at a little bit of lingering green, thanks to some holly trees, with a lovely American Tree Sparrow (Spizelloides arborea). This cute bird is one of many on the move to the south right now. We are far enough into the season that these winter residents, along with species like the White-throated Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco, are beginning to fill up our yards. Be careful not to confuse their rufous caps with the similar Chipping Sparrow. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreFinishing up the Foliage
What outdoor adventures will you be pursuing this weekend? The air may be chilly, but the experiences are worth bundling up for – go find the last of our foliage!
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