Sweetgum tree’s gorgeous real estate
If the birds who constructed this home had done so on this Sweetgum tree during the autumn season the price for their “land” would have skyrocketed thanks to the gorgeous surroundings. Checking out trees, shrubs and other woody vegetation after the leaves fall is a good idea if you want to learn about where bird nests are built and the most favorable locations to seek out breeders next spring and summer. Sometimes you may find some previously used nests that were right under your nose, unbeknownst to you thanks to the secretive parents and a job well done.
Read MoreVenomous shrew slaughtered by cat
The following is a photo of the head and upper body of what appears to be a Northern Short-tailed Shrew (Blarina brevicauda). Where did I find this deceased and otherwise tough to spot and secretive mammal? In its natural habitat, of course – the floor of a closed garage! The half of the body you cannot see has been devoured by a cat who does not leave a locked garage and the connected basement and is never permitted to even see an open door, let alone venture outside it. It would seem this shrew decided to come inside…looking for a snack? After taking a wrong turn with its poor...
Read MoreBlack-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus)
They’re often like ghosts but I was able to enjoy superb if brief views of a couple Black-billed Cuckoos yesterday. They move so silently and blend in so well.
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