Great Black-backed Gull
Here is a Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) that was relaxing on this balmy February day – chatting? Yelling? Calling? Laughing? Not that, we know what Laughing Gulls look like! It was actually yawning, and you can even get a good look at that tongue dangling down. It must be bored with this easy and comfortable winter weather…or maybe tired of staring at me who is itching to see more wildlife. I love snow but oh boy, these days make me ready for spring. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MorePileated Woodpecker Holes
These are some extra fresh Pileated Woodpecker holes! That wood looks like it has been cut very recently, and it certainly looks like a professional job. Whenever you see a dead or dying tree in your yard please try to leave it there if possible – if it is not infected with something such as Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, or a particularly dangerous falling hazard to people. It will end up serving a host of species that depend on these decaying plants for food, shelter and nesting. Cutting even these trees down solely for aesthetic purposes is robbing the environment of a vital component....
Read MorePileated Woodpecker Signs
Here is another telltale bird sign that you can find rather easily in the winter. Any guesses as to what species made these massive marks on this tree? The Pileated Woodpecker is a large, crow-size bird and as such it creates astonishingly huge holes with its big bill. Even though they are conspicuous birds when seen they can be tough to find in the first place because they have such large territories. If you cannot see them flashing by through mature woodlands try listening for their laughing call or finding these reminders of their presence.
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