Eastern Milk Snake
Here we have an Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum). These snakes are harmless, beneficial constrictors that help control rodent populations in your backyard. In spite of their considerable size (reaching almost 3 ft) and beautiful coloration, they are rarely seen. When cornered, a milk snake may hiss, vibrate its tail tip (imitating a rattlesnake), and even strike at you. However, its bite is harmless. Give them some space and any snake will slither away – likely never to be seen again. The common name ‘Milk Snake’ comes from an old, mistaken belief that the snakes drink milk from...
Read MoreVolunteers Beautify RTPI
In late July, a large group of volunteers from the Cummins Inc., Jamestown Engine Plant came to RTPI to make improvements to our building and grounds. This enthusiastic and hardworking group tended our flowerbeds, cleaned up our porch and patio, trimmed back the vegetation along our hiking trails, and weeded our walkways and parking areas. We’d like to express our gratitude for the efforts of this dedicated crew – they certainly left the place looking lovely just in time for our big summer events!
Read MoreLaurel Sphinx Moth Caterpillar
This Laurel Sphinx Moth (sphinx kalmiae) caterpillar – photographed by Twan Leenders in Jamestown, NY – definitely deserves to be in the limelight – it actually appears to emanate lime light! Roger Tory Peterson’s fascination with backyard nature began with the moths and birds that he discovered in what is now our own backyard! What amazing creatures await your acquaintance?
Read MoreBeautiful Wood Nymph
Roger Tory Peterson was fascinated by the moths he found in Jamestown as a young boy. In fact, he even approached the police department to ask for special permission to stay out past the city curfew to catch them! This bizarre and lovely moth was perched on the front door at RTPI yesterday morning. Using a Peterson Field Guide to Moths, it was identified as a Beautiful Wood Nymph (Eudryas grata). When was the last time you embarked on an exploration of the hidden lives of the moths that live in your own backyard? Summertime is the perfect time to follow in Peterson’s footsteps! Learn...
Read MoreWild America Nature Festival July 29th & 30th
The Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History (RTPI) and Panama Rocks Scenic Park will co-host the first annual Wild America Nature Festival at Panama Rocks on July 29th & 30th. The festival will feature nationally-renowned speakers; a juried fine nature art and craft show and competition; a local food cook-off competition and farmer’s market; live music; live animals, and classes, workshops, and fun activities for all ages! Art lovers will not want to miss the festival’s Wild America Fine Nature Art and Craft Show & Competition, which will feature 40 local,...
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