Lesser Maple Spanworm
I had literally one shot of this moth, and here it is! I suppose the camera and the flash at dusk was enough for it to think about finding a better spot as it flew off to another bush. It looks to be a Lesser Maple Spanworm (Speranza pustularia), a common species with its name as a host plant, among several other abundant trees. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreEastern Grass-veneer (Crambus laqueatellus)
This looks to be an Eastern Grass-veneer (Crambus laqueatellus) moth, one of those diurnal pick-ups that is only really possible thanks to following their flight once you flush them…unless you have a few hours each day to crawl around in the grass and stare at things! That actually sounds like a lot of fun, and what most of us did as children. We should probably do that as adults, too. Give it a go this weekend!
Read MoreBlue-gray Gnatcatcher
This Blue-gray Gnatcatcher was actively feeding at a migratory stopover site, enjoying a bounty of April insects on its way to the north. These little gals and guys are so flashy for such a tiny creature, showing that bright white eye ring and the white edges of their tail to help get that food moving into their target range. I have always had an affection for the species and their wheezing ways, with their call sounding so nasal and almost asthmatic, an affliction I share in the spring. Watch for them at any time at this part of the year – literally – as the unique species is at...
Read MoreDiurnal Barred Owl
Recently I heard a Barred Owl calling during the mid-afternoon on a warm, beautiful day. It did not take but a few minutes for an even closer bird to start asking, “Who cooks for you?” in response. They were relatively close to me but out of sight in neighboring yards. This photo is from a past sighting of a diurnal Barred Owl during the early spring when the leaves were already popping. Keep an ear open for these nocturnal neighbors all day and night! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreRuby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula)
There has been an enormous southward movement of Ruby-crowned Kinglets (like this one photographed tonight), Golden-crowned Kinglets, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Hermit Thrushes, Song Sparrows and many other sparrow species this weekend. With a cold front passing through the Northeast tonight we will be set up for a sizable push of more migrants tomorrow, especially diurnal. Get outside and find some songbirds in the morning and raptors in the afternoon!
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