Sunlight on an autumn Tulip Tree
This Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) certainly looks beautifully imposing surrounded by yellow and orange shades while bathed in golden autumn sunlight. The towering tree is magnificent against the slowly sinking sun as our days get shorter…winter will be knocking on the door soon in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region.
Read MoreExplosive fall foliage continues
The explosive fall foliage continues throughout the Northeast! I took this photo several hours ago on a warm, sunny and gorgeous October afternoon. I have been all over New York and Connecticut in the past month and it seems to me we are having a protracted season of autumn colors without an all-encompassing week. There are plenty of bare trees, some still green, and many showing off sparkling fall shades. We will be sure to show you more of these seasonal sights this week along with some Halloween fun in the mix, too. Walking out the door on days like this makes me happy! Scott Kruitbosch...
Read MoreMonarch Migration Report from the Finger Lakes
Last week my husband and I took a trip to the Finger Lakes for a fun adventure to a new area we hadn’t explored much before. While we were there, we happily came across lots of different wildlife species, including several butterflies. While hiking into the fields (hills I should say!) owned by the bed and breakfast we were staying at, we came across about a half dozen or so monarch butterflies nectaring and resting. We also saw a few here and there flying through Watkins Glen State Park and near the International speedway as well, catching updrafts from winds blowing through the gorge...
Read MoreAmerican Lady (Vanessa virginiensis)
Monarchs are not the only butterflies to see as we enter late October. I photographed this American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) this week while it was soaking up some sun and staying low on a breezy day. The tiny white spots in the middle of the seasonal orange on the postmedian parts of the forewing help to identify it as American instead of Painted. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreMonarch on goldenrod
This Monarch was feeding on goldenrod right on the edge of the coastal bluff, being whipped back and forth by the steady breeze and occasionally strong gusts of wind. It is impressive to see how well they can hang on, keeping a low profile and closed wings to prevent being literally blown away. Those beautiful black and orange sails are useful but could be potentially dangerous if not managed correctly!
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