Merlin Meal
I barely missed my first Snowy Owl of the season earlier today, but my consolation prize was this Merlin finishing up a meal. I am not positive on the identification of the prey, but I did observe the raptor eating the entire leg and foot. Snowy Owls seem to be spreading out all over the region with new sightings coming every day! Have you spotted any yet? I am looking forward to seeing and sharing images of one soon… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreEndless Green
As the days get colder and we enter the season of giving thanks, I know I am thankful that we get to keep some green all winter long… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MorePurple Sandpiper
We had a couple of special visitors stop by Stratford Point last week. The first was Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History President Twan Leenders who happened to spot the second, a Purple Sandpiper sitting on the rocks taking in the waves. We always feel like we should see more of the species at the site, but they tend to be found more often on the rocks offshore on the breakwater or jetties at nearby beaches. After taking a couple of direct hits from waves it flew off to the breakwater. We appreciated them both stopping by! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach...
Read MoreAutumn Trail
What is the first thing you hear in your mind when walking into the woods? The rustling of the leaves? Insects calling? Your feet on the ground? Birds singing? Whatever the answer may be even thinking about this for a moment was no doubt relaxing… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican Tree Sparrow
Here’s a look at a little bit of lingering green, thanks to some holly trees, with a lovely American Tree Sparrow (Spizelloides arborea). This cute bird is one of many on the move to the south right now. We are far enough into the season that these winter residents, along with species like the White-throated Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco, are beginning to fill up our yards. Be careful not to confuse their rufous caps with the similar Chipping Sparrow. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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