Baltimore Oriole
They may be gone from our yards for the winter but I thought that as we near Halloween it was very appropriate to post this male Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula). I enjoyed watching it feeding in an oak tree this past spring on a cool, cloudy and windy day. Do you ever have any luck getting them to come down to eye level at your feeders? I certainly do not, and this bird hopping down to the lower branches of the tree for a minute was a real treat. I hear them every day all summer long but rarely get the chance to see a glow like this one up close. RTPI’s work around the world helps...
Read MoreOrange Blaze
Honestly, if the fall foliage could go on nonstop without end, it seems most of us would like it…
Read MoreBaltimore Oriole
Those Baltimore Orioles (Icterus galbula) do love to stay high in the canopy of trees, and often enough all you can do is catch a quick glance of orange and black zipping by. If you know their call you probably end up hearing them far more than seeing them. This adult male did give me a minute to snap his shot as he came down to the mid-levels. He and his mate were busy feeding, and I presume they have a nest and eggs already on the way. If you have a pair in your neighborhood and would like an even better viewing opportunity then I suggest putting out half of an orange or two in your yard....
Read MoreAmerican Lady Butterfly
Spring is slowly coming to Stratford Point with birds like the American Kestrel and Palm Warbler showing up in the last couple of days. Here’s an American Lady butterfly seen earlier today. We cannot wait until our gardens are full of birds, butterflies and more! It will be an exciting year.
Read MoreGreat Spangled Fritillary
Here is an old photo of a Great Spangled Fritillary (Speyeria cybele) that I never posted from the gardens of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History. Spring is coming, and I am anxious for the extra life in the air and green on the ground, plus all those delicious colors for beautiful creatures like this to nectar on. Have you started getting your garden ready yet? Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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