Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History!
Read MoreTowhee Snack
This male Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) is about to scarf down a centipede snack on a recent early morning. I did not expect it to come up with that in its bill! I saw it working the ground rather hard, scratching away and pulling at the soil before revealing its prey. No, thank you, I will pass on sharing this meal. It’s all yours little guy… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican Kestrel
The month of October is always a great time to find plenty of American Kestrels passing through, with this male sporting some shades of Halloween. They are often rather shy but sometimes, if you let them fly to you after chasing some prey, you will be able to get a decent look even if only for a minute. These predators will go after birds but can usually be found foraging on abundant insects like grasshoppers or even the praying mantis here in the fall.
Read MoreMale Monarch
This male Monarch butterfly certainly looked like it was in bad shape while it fed on this goldenrod a few days ago with a sizable portion of its wing missing. Despite its tattered and worn appearance it was still flying well, though I do not think this will be one of the individuals that makes it to Mexico. If you are passing through the Northeast in mid-October you are already late, and this sort of condition will not make the long trip any easier or faster. Nevertheless, good luck little guy. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreCrab Breakfast
Did you have crab for breakfast today? I know someone who did…Harley the Harlequin Duck certainly knows fine dining. He also enjoys mussels that are easier to hold on to in that bill. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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