Tree Swallows Pairing Up
I hope you have your nest boxes ready because the Tree Swallows have arrived. They are getting right to business with the recent warmth, pairing up and having territorial squabbles over real estate. The birds on the bars in these photos were at the top of a Purple Martin gourd tree, hoping to find a gourd for themselves. Sometimes this happens and both species can still be successful in nesting. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreGoodbye March Sky
As we say goodbye to March and its cold, dark and dreary skies we turn a hopeful eye to April when perhaps – after more chilly weather and possibly snow – we will see a return to normal climate conditions and much more life outdoors. March came in like a lion and and is leaving like a lion, but the sun will win. It always does. Warmth and growth are coming. Perhaps a lamb, too! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican Woodcock in March Snow
I was delighted to find this American Woodcock (Scolopax minor) feeding in the exposed leaf litter and mud thanks to the warm, flowing spring and expansive wetlands in my yard today after about six more inches of snow fell yesterday and early this morning. Note the muddy end of this shorebird’s bill showing it had been busy foraging throughout the day in this video… …and the photos below: This well-known spring species dances on the ground while foraging and in the sky while courting every March, though this year the displays may be a little later than usual. The sun is so...
Read MoreTree Swallows Returning
Now is the time to keep your eyes to the skies for one of the most delightful sights, the returning Tree Swallows! Their vibrant blues shine wonderfully in the rising sun letting us know that the very first winged insects are hatching and filling our air. I have already seen a variety of flying bugs, their prey, and I had my first of year Tree Swallow yesterday – how about you? It’s too early for pretty green photos like these, but we will get there…I promise! Eventually… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican Kestrel Female
This female American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) perched on the wire just long enough for me to take a shot while we looked each other in the eye. She is a March migrant, one of many raptors on the move to the north every day now. She will be hunting slowly melting grasslands and fields under the soon to be spring sun. Do you have any American Kestrel nest boxes erected on your large open property or farm? Now is the time to get them up or cleaned. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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