Dead Mouse
This looks like a White-footed Mouse, and it also looks like a cat kill. My dog Zach located it for us, immediately picking up the scent from probably over 50 feet away. A dead rodent with puncture wounds to the body that is left in the snow seems like a cat’s play toy to me. Other mammals or birds would have scooped it up for a meal and made sure to go back for it, even if they had to drop it. This occurs many, many times…millions upon millions…to small birds and mammals each day because of cats. They kill billions each year for no reason whatsoever apart from their own instincts....
Read MoreWinter Cardinal
Could this be the scene we see this weekend? With snow in the forecast it certainly could be! This weekend will be perfect for staying indoors and enjoying a wonderful art exhibit at RTPI. From Field to Frame by the talented Mike DiGiorgio is now on display for all to see. So come on in, warm up and take a peek at these wonderful pieces!
Read MorePeterson Field Guides
Throwback Thursday to the original! It was now over 80 years ago that Roger Tory Peterson’s A Field Guide to the Birds was first released – April 27, 1934. It was and still is a catalyst that sparks a passion for bird watching in millions of people. It is a powerful tool in the conservation movement to support environmental awareness, understanding and stewardship. Keep the momentum going by venturing out into the chilly air with your favorite Peterson’s guide for a walk in the woods or even by staying cozy indoors and enjoying “your” birds at home through the...
Read MoreVenomous shrew slaughtered by cat
The following is a photo of the head and upper body of what appears to be a Northern Short-tailed Shrew (Blarina brevicauda). Where did I find this deceased and otherwise tough to spot and secretive mammal? In its natural habitat, of course – the floor of a closed garage! The half of the body you cannot see has been devoured by a cat who does not leave a locked garage and the connected basement and is never permitted to even see an open door, let alone venture outside it. It would seem this shrew decided to come inside…looking for a snack? After taking a wrong turn with its poor...
Read MoreBirds and small mammals can’t read
I have spotted wayyy too many cats outdoors today with a lot of small passerine targets and even a dead chipmunk that was likely the work of a furry family member. See this sign? Birds and other small mammals can’t read. You can. Bring them indoors permanently, please, so these are the only cats we see outside.
Read More
