Field Sparrow
This Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla) actually flew directly towards me and my dog to perch on this white pine branch this morning. It looked us over for a minute and then went back to snacking. It is another great example of a lovely bird that we can still find even in the..uh, cold days of November? It is November, and apart from the low sun angle and early sunset it felt like it could have been late August out there today. This will undoubtedly keep birds with us a little longer with easier to survive temperatures, poor migratory conditions because of the southerly flow, and prolonged...
Read MoreDeer Overbrowsing
I may not be an expert on vegetation, especially ornamental, but something seems…not right…here. You have probably seen similar sights in the last couple of months now that the ice and snow have fully cleared as White-tailed Deer did a number on anything they could eat in the Northeast. Everything just above their head is bright and green, and parts below are bare and brown. Our overpopulation of deer wipes the forest floors clean to the point where they must pick at what we could call scraps like these in our neighborhoods. Some people may object to wolves in their backyards,...
Read MoreSwamp Sparrow
Have you found your first of spring Swamp Sparrow yet? They may be found even if those swamps still have ice and snow in them…but any coastal or wet area will also do for now.
Read MoreGoodbye March Sky
As we say goodbye to March and its cold, dark and dreary skies we turn a hopeful eye to April when perhaps – after more chilly weather and possibly snow – we will see a return to normal climate conditions and much more life outdoors. March came in like a lion and and is leaving like a lion, but the sun will win. It always does. Warmth and growth are coming. Perhaps a lamb, too! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreSnowy Owls Still Here
There are still Snowy Owls here with us, and there will be more to keep an eye out for as others are on the move back to the north. This bird was apparently spending some time on the shore after reading up – that sign discusses shellfishing, and it decided instead to do some duck hunting while wearing the perfect sort of winter camouflage. It is out of season…but this is one hunter I will not report. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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