Exploring Nature in NC

Feeding Behavior - The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

2012-02-12T14:17:00.000-05:00

The Good - When you can get along with others, everyone eats

The Bad - The standoff and no one eats (amazingly the Downy won this round)

The Ugly - The bully and only he eats (or she)

Winter Lives

2012-02-11T18:31:00.000-05:00

Winter just could not pass without reminding us it is still winter. Temperatures have been dropping like a rock all afternoon as a cold front moves in from the NW. Winds are gusting making it that much colder. I believe I heard that we are going to drop down to about 23 tonight. Too cold. Fortunately this is only suppose to last about 4 days then back up to mid to high 50's.

I still cannot be up much on my foot without it starting to swell so I have spent a fairly sedate Saturday looking out the window and wishing I was outside. I did manage to go to the reception for the art and photography contest I had entered. Extrememly pleased I took first place in the park category and best in show overall.

Back to birding. Watching the birds today it is like they knew a cold front was coming in. Activity at the feeders was high and alot of fussing amongst the birds. The suet feeder was occupied all day and at times, possessiveness caused some intense conflict.

A small Japanese maple that is in the area of the suet feeder was a resting place for those not wishing to jump into the fray of the fight. It is right in front of the window where I was sitting so provided some good shots.

Lots of Yellow-Rumped Warblers today. More than I have seen the entire winter so I am not sure where they flooded in from. I forgot how obnoxious they can be. They were constantly doing fly-by's on the other birds and giving them a little goose. A couple in particular thought the suet feeder belonged to them.

I see the male Pine Warbler quite often but today he brought his lady friend with him. When I first saw her I had to stop and really take a look to figure out what she was. Today, she stayed most of the day while he sat in a nearby tree.

Decoy Progress

2012-02-10T17:23:00.000-05:00

Off of my feet two days running now. I broke two toes yesterday morning early and by noon, almost my entire foot was swollen. When I attempted to put on shoes this morning....no way. Wouldn't even fit. So I have spent the day with my foot up and rotating cold packs. I have a photograph in an exhibit tomorrow and hope to be able to attend, in shoes at that.

Since I couldn't get out to bird, I figured this would be a good time for an update on my decoy progress. I am still going very slow. If I made a major mistake now I think I would cry. Week 5 I starting roughing out a more refined head shape but still a lot left to do. Week 6 work was on starting to refine the back end. I didn't get as much done on Monday night as I had hoped but I was a bit under the weather and tired.

Adrift

2012-02-10T07:17:00.000-05:00

Alone, adrift on the pond at the mercy of the currents and wind;
to what will be its final end.

Combined with many, strength, protection, given to flight;
alone on the pond it loses its might.

A slow drift by, then gone from sight;

a lone feather, no longer to soar inthe freedom of flight.

Goose feather, adrift on the pond;

complex simplicity.

Ummm Umm - Snake is good eating

2012-02-03T17:19:00.000-05:00

When I arrived home this afternoon, I went through my usual routine of a little rough play with the dog then walk out on the deck and look around the yard.

I noticed a Brown Thrasher giving something the once over. Back inside to get the camera and back out. I figured it would be gone but it was still there and giving something heck. As I eased closer my first thought was it was an earthworm on steroids. The thrasher would peck at it on the ground for a bit then pick it up and sling it from side to side.

I was finally able to get close enough to see that indeed it was a young Red-Bellied Brown Snake. The thrasher kept eyeing me like I was going to take it's prize and finally grabbed it up and flew off a bit.

I walked over to check out the area and indeed there was another young snake out also but today unlike it's sibling, had a lucky day for it as it was free to move on.

What Will The Groundhog Predict?

2012-02-01T17:42:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the big day when groundshogs predict whether we have six more weeks of winter or if spring is on the way. The tradition originated in the Old Word with an ancient celebration of the midpoint between the winter solstice and spring equinox.

Punxsutawney Phil may be the most well known but locally our groundhog predictor is "Sir Walter Wallie" (a take off on Sir Walter Raleigh) for whom Raleigh is named. With overcast skies predicted for most of the day tomorrow, bets are he will not see his shadow.

So despite whatever the outcome, mother nature is already showing signs of spring. The daffodils have begun opening in the yard, azaleas are starting to show tale-tale signs of future blooms and trees in protected sunny locations are showing signs of coming to life.

Duck, Duck Duck, Goose

2012-01-30T06:19:00.001-05:00

Female Merganser stretching after mating

Merganser couple looking pleased with themselves

Mr. Bufflehead and the Mrs. below

Red-Shouldered Hawks & Eagle Cam Info

2012-01-29T14:44:00.000-05:00

Lazy start this morning as temps dipped to about 29 last night. It has warmed up fairly nicely this afternoon but temps are about 12 deg cooler than yesterday but still a beautiful day for the end of January. I was getting things together to go out for a bit this morning when I heard the hawks calling, Following was the alarm honking of the geese on the pond and the fussing of birds and squirrels.

I stepped out to see if I could spot the hawks. They have been visiting the yard frequently and I believe checking out potential nesting sites. It has been three years since they nested in a tree by the side of the house where I had opportunity to closely observe them.

One was sitting in one tree and the second flying from tree to tree checking them out. Not sure if they were hunting on scoping out territory. Photos of one are a little iffy because it was still fairly shady. The last tree where the one below flew was about the area where the nest was several years ago.

I went on to the park after these shots where I had an outstanding birding morning. Nothing really out of the ordinary but lots of activity and some pretty decent duck shots. There were Buffleheads, Mergansers, Grebes, Ringed- Necks, Mallards and the always Canada Geese out this morning.

I have been having such a major flair up of carpal tunnel that I am limiting mouse use and keyboarding time until the inflammation chills out a bit so going through photos is a slow process right now.

And lastly, I found the link for the "EagleCam" at Jordan Lake which is in the next county over. They had one last year in a little different format which I liked better. It was fun to watch the young eagle chicks grow until they fledged. The camera is active daylight hours eastern time. There are two chicks in the nest now.

"This Bald Eagle Nest Camera is located on Jordan Lake near Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC. It was set up last year as a joint project b/w NC State, the US Army Corps of Engineers, Maxim Intergrated Products, and Lineberger Tree Service."Lake Jordan Eagle Cam

Nature's Engineers

2012-01-28T18:14:00.000-05:00

Back in October, the beavers began increasing the size of a small dam they had across a creek. Steadily since then, the dam has increased in length as water routed around and they attempt to stop the flow. By November, you could begin seeing a significant impact on the marsh area. Previously dry areas were now flooded and more waterfowl were beginning to use the area.

I didn't visit the area much in December as I was travelling to other places. Today was such a beautiful day I decided to go see how things had changed. I took the small point and shoot to get a wide landscape shot but I think my card has gone bad as nothing was on it when I returned home.

I went back and looked at shots from Oct, Nov and compared to today. Almost the entire back marsh is now flooded and work continues on the dam. The difference was quite amazing to see. The damming is changing the entire ecology of what was a marsh area. The destructive nature of beavers is beginning to show with the loss of trees. The small ones were the first to go but they have moved on to more impressive tree sizes. I saw this one and had to wonder did the beaver just decide to call it quits on this tree? Many more trees are being girded which I am sure will lead to their demise.

There were probably 10 mallards and a dozen Canada Geese that had taken up residence in the now flooded marsh. Far back I could also see the Great Blue Heron wading.

Decoy Update

2012-01-24T18:53:00.000-05:00

Update on progress of merganser decoy. Going very slowly but I am trying to be careful. One thing for sure, you can easily take wood off, you can't put it back on. Months to go...unknown. These are the photos from after class #3 and 4.

Monday night I started working on the head a bit. Getting a little more duckish looking after each class.

Sunday at Home

2012-01-22T16:43:00.000-05:00

It has been another dreary day with a chill that cuts through to the bone. My only journey out was to pick up a couple of ingredients to make some suet cakes and a new thistle sock. The finches swarmed in early and finished off what was left of one and I felt very bad as they would fly to the empty searching.

The last suet cakes I made I chopped some cranberries and blueberries very fine and mixed with some applesauce that I added to the mixture. They all definitely like it. Visitors on the suet feeder today have been Carolina Wrens, Bluebirds, Cardinals, Chickadees, Titmice, Downy WPs, B. Thrasher, WT Sparrows, Juncos, finches (both gold and house), 1 male Purple Finch, 1 Brown Header and a Red-Bellied Woodpecker. It has definitely been a hotspot of activity.
(and 1 Pine Warbler who has sat in a nearby tree and trilled away all day)

Within about five minutes of hanging up the new thistle sock the finches arrived. Funny how you don't see them until you put out the food. Most were willing to share a space on the sock with others but there was one that wanted to bully and fuss with any arriving finch. This one stayed to the top and guarded his space.

Sorry for the poor quality. Dark day out and these were taken through the window so flash was not possible.

Gray Day

2012-01-21T15:38:00.001-05:00

The weekend has arrived, it should be time to play,
but the gray, gloomy clouds won't go away.

A gray bird on a gray day,
sun come out so I can go play.

Will La Niña Influence Spring Migration?

2012-01-17T20:04:00.001-05:00

The roller coaster weather continues. Today, almost 70, tomorrow only a high of 49 is expected. The weather effects of La Niña are expected to continue through March. The milder winter has had a noticeable affect on the number of migratory warterfowl and songbirds that normally winter over.

By this time last year, we had already received a couple of rounds of snow (granted not that much in our area) and January was a miserably cold month. This year, two weeks before the end of January, I still have petunias blooming out on the deck.

There has been a noticeable decrease in the number of Yellow-Rumped Warblers, Juncos, Kinglets and even White-Throated Sparrows which are generally everywhere in winter. Last year it was not unusual to look out at the suet feeder and see 5 of 6 YR Warblers clinging to the feeder at one time. This year I feel lucky to see one or two in a week.

I have to wonder how or if this will influence the arrival and departure times during spring migration. Will those that arrive early be even earlier? Time will tell.

Timelines for March Arrivals

Arrive Depart Bird (approximate dates)

--------       20-Feb      Lapland Longspur
8-Mar       ---------      Chipping Sparrow
--------      15-Mar      Fox Sparrow
18-Mar      3-May      Henslow's Sparrow
26-Mar     --------      Yellow-throated Warbler
27-Mar    --------       Black-and-white Warbler
27-Mar     --------       Black-throated Green Warbler
30-Mar     --------       Common Yellowthroat
31-Mar     --------       Louisiana Waterthrush
31-Mar     --------       Palm Warbler

Timelines for April Arrivals

Arrive      Depart     Bird
---------      4-Apr        Song Sparrow
8-Apr        ---------      Northern Parula
---------      12-Apr      Dark-eyed Junco
12-Apr    ---------      American Redstart
13-Apr     ---------       Yellow Warbler
14-Apr     ---------       Ovenbird
14-Apr     ---------      White-crowned Sparrow
15-Apr     ---------       Prairie Warbler
18-Apr     ---------       Hooded Warbler
18-Apr     ---------       Prothonotary Warbler
19-Apr     ---------       Grasshopper Sparrow
21-Apr    28-Apr        Le Conte's Sparrow
23-Apr     ---------     Yellow-breasted Chat
24-Apr     ----------     NorthernWaterthrush
24-Apr     ----------     Worm-eating Warbler
27-Apr     19-May     Black-throated Blue Warbler
28-Apr      ---------     Chestnut-sided Warbler

Hermit Thrush

2012-01-16T13:04:00.000-05:00

Long ago I gave up on growing grass in the highly shaded back yard and keep it natural. No grass to cut but leaf mulching is required. I usually wait until closer to spring when the sight of a copperhead sends me running for the mower but with the warmer winter, went ahead and mulched early.

A good thing that has resulted from an early mulching is there always seem to be birds out scratching finding something to eat. Today it has been a fiesta for the Robins, Towhees and sparrows. As I would pass the window I noticed a bird that looked different from the usual visitors.

Out with the camera to get a shot. Very glad to see the Hermit Thrush in the yard and it has spent the majority of the day here.

Signs of Spring in a Winter's Chill

2012-01-14T07:25:00.000-05:00

A cold front that moved through Thursday night brought howling winds and cold temperatures. Early in the morning I was awakened by the sound of a crash on the roof. Fortunately, no real damage from the rather large limb.

Early yesterday morning the wind cut through you and made it seems much colder. By late afternoon the winds moderated somewhat. Having gone to work very early, I left shortly after 1400 and was able to spend a few minutes outside when I arrived home.

As the last rays of sunshine for the day flooded into the yard, 20-30 robins arrived giving the yard a once over. They took turns splashing in the various bird baths then finding a sunny spot to warm and dry. When I see the robins start to flock in, a case of spring fever always follows. Seeing the daffodils starting to peek through the leaves only adds to the desire for spring to arrive.

After the robins finally left, a dove that had been huddled close by watching all the commotion and antics of the robins settled in on the bird bath for a drink of water and to catch the last of the sunshine.

This morning it is a hard cold out. I just walked out to take the crate off the bird feeder in the backyard (raccoon protection) and the leaves on the Acuba shrubs were curled and frozen. Early birding this morning....probably not. Fortunately, this cold snap will be short lived and temperatures will moderate during the upcoming week.

Merganser Decoy in the Making

2012-01-10T18:48:00.000-05:00

After three weeks off, then back to work for two weeks straight including weekend, the adjustment has been....to put it nicely, difficult. This past Saturday was beautiful and it killed my soul to not be out.

A bit of sanity has been the decoy carving class I started on 2 January. It has been very neat to see a flat pattern go on a big chunk of wood, rough cut out the shape, and after last night's class, beginning to see a "duckish" shape emerge.

The teacher has many taxidermied ducks of various North American species to serve as models and I have enjoyed getting detailed up close looks at the various species. It makes me appreciate their fine patterns and coloration.

I thought that the beginning duck was going to be a Lesser Scaup however with a small class, we could choose our duck. I was torn between several but decided on one that I knew I would have the opportunity to observe while I was working on it. My choice, a drake Merganser.

Next came pose selection. The instructor stated that most do the alert duck with crest high but I chose to do one in a resting position which allowed me to cut out head and body out of one piece. I meant to take a picture of the very first cutout and forgot before I made changes last night. So from here on, I will document after every class so at the end I can look back.....maybe 4 or 5 months down the road?

It doesn't look like much now yet however from the first cut to now, I am beginning to see the duck that was hidden in the wood. While a great many folks dread Monday's as it is the start of a new work week, I now look forward to them.

Mid-Week Stuff

2012-01-04T20:47:00.000-05:00

Cold weather arrived with a front that moved through Monday. It has been hard to take after above average warmth up until then. Cold temps finally killed the summer annuals that had flourished up until now.

The cold has brought a flurry of birds to the feeders. Around Christmas I made a large batch of suet cakes chopping up some cranberries and blueberries and adding to the mixture. The birds are loving it.

Just before dark tonight, I looked out the kitchen window and could see the deer wandering behind the fence. They have been arriving before dark since the cold. I took a large bag of acorns out of the freezer in addition to the scoop of corn/deer chow mix I spread out.

Usually the doe's come up first however tonight, the buck came up first and made a pig of himself. I finally tapped on the window which sent him moving on and then the doe's came in.

All the creatures were looking for food tonight. Several raccoons scurried about trying to get to the deer chow and then the fox came by. I am always amazed when I see the deer, raccoon, and fox all together at the same time, same place, and manage to get along with each other.

Last Day of Freedom - Back to Work

2012-01-02T14:15:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow it is back to work after three weeks of vacation. The time has gone by in the blink of an eye. If only time working went that quickly. While I am extremely thankful for a job, it is with much dread that I have to go back to the office we have knicknamed "The Tomb". It could be a primer on poor design for every architectual and design student on what NOT to do. No natural light (then battleship gray furniture to boot), pitifully poor layout, loud and absolutely no privacy what so ever.  All combine to create an extremely poor work environment. From about 0530 to 0730 is your only opportunity to get any productive work done. Yes, the thought of returning brings a nervousness rolling back in like a thunder storm.

So enough of that and on with the good. I begin my decoy carving class tonight and am very much looking forward to it. The duck we will begin with will be the Lesser Scaup drake. I guess for beginner carvers this is suppose to be one of the easier ducks.

I spent some time this morning doing searches on photo sharing sites looking at photos and downloaded quite a few to create my storyboard to help in the anatomical study of the duck. I think it is great that so many are willing to share their pics and allow them to be downloaded.   I am sure it will be a couple of weeks before we start carving. I believe you start at the very beginning of squaring up the lumber, gluing up, rough cutting out then finally start carving.

And finally to birding. Early this morning when I first pulled up the blinds, one of my favorite birds, a Northern Yellow Shafted Flicker (male) was paying a visit and giving the yard a once over looking for insects. I like the subtle coloration of their head that conflicts with the intricate patterns on their remaining body.   Unfortunately this time of year, a huge magnolia in my neighbors yard blocks most sunlight until after mid-day so early hour, low light and high ISO do not good pictures make.

Red Headed Woodpecker

2012-01-01T07:31:00.000-05:00

Beauty in classic colors of white, black and red;

you capture the eye and turn the head.

Inquisitive yet shy, a true beauty to spy;

what a delight of color and pattern as you flew by.

A Look Back at 2011

2011-12-31T09:35:00.002-05:00

Overall this has been a very good year in my life and I have been extremely blessed considering the madness that goes on in the world. There have been far too many losses of family and friends but unfortunately, that is the cycle life.

Communing with nature is one of my great joys; it calms the spirit and soothes the soul. Looking back through photos from 2011, I considered which were most personnally memorable. Maybe not the best shots, but which had the most meaning either by interaction with or was such a thrill to see.

#1 had to be the Northern Bobwhite. On two separate occasions, I spent an hour with this bird. Mimicking the birds call, I was able to get it to come within 6-8 feet of where I was standing or sitting. It showed no fear, was curious and spent at least 20 minutes responding back to my whistles.

#2 - Yellow Breasted Chat. Alone at the park one morning, I heard the bird "chatting" and began imitating it's calls back. Before long, it approached and stayed very close probably 10 minutes. Very cool experience to get it to chat back with you.

#3 - Common Yellowthroat feeding Cowbird chick. For 30 minutes, I watched the Yellowthroat working hard to feed the chick. The memorable part was just being witness to one of nature's flukes and marveling at the dedication of one species to another.

#4 - Scissor Tailed Flycatcher - First, this is not a bird common to this area. For two weeks, I would catch a glimpse of this bird but was never able to pull off and try to figure out what it was. Finally one weekend morning, there it was, no traffic and I was able to confirm what it was. This was a first for me so I was thrilled.

#5 - Eagle mating ritual. What more can you say. Our national bird, beautiful, majestic and powerful.

#6 - Doe nursing fawn. Not that this is so special but it touched me. I was able to watch her for about 10 minutes as the fawn nursed and then the doe did a cleaning check on the fawn. It was such a sweet natural moment that I enjoyed.

#7 - Painted Bunting - They come to the southern coastal area during summer. Their beauty speaks for itself. Another first for me.

#8 - Green Heron - Again, nothing so unusal but the enounter was memorable. One of those rare alone times in the park where for 20 minutes, the GH strolled along the edge hunting. They are usually so shy and wary that it was memorable from the standpoint of being able to closely observe one for an extended period.

#9 - Dickcissel pair - Again, these are not normal birds to the area and was a first for me. This pair took up here this year and subsequently nested. Hopefully they will return this year.

#10 - Otter - Late October, a pair of otters stayed at the park for a couple of weeks. On the day of this photo, I had the thrill of watching them from a hide as they went about doing what otters do. For 20 minutes, I tracked them down the edge of the creek watching their playful behavior and hunting methods.

So these are my top 10 memorable nature moments for 2011. I look forward to the new year to see what Mother Nature will have in store. Blessings to all for a wonderful new year and may birding be grand!

Bluebirds

2011-12-30T17:37:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful day. Mostly sunny and high around 63 deg. Unfortunately, I was not able to do much birding. Heat died on me Wednesday night and I had to lay the unit to rest. With the age of the unit and estimated repair cost, I just had to go ahead and bite the bullet and get a new system....ouch! Fortunately they were able to get installed today so heat tonight will feel good.

I spent most of the day doing some much needed winter chores in the yard. As I was out working, I noticed that the bluebirds kept flying to the houses and checking them out. I usually clean the houses out around Thanksgiving but let it slip past me this year.

Off to get a bucket of water with mild bleach solution. I cleared out remnants of the past nesting season, scrubbed the interior and propped open to air and dry well.

Usually in February, they really start their scouting for potential nesting areas. I think the warm weather has their timeline skewed. With some luck, they will now return to a nice clean house.

Southern Flying Squirrel

2011-12-29T11:11:00.000-05:00

Glaucomy's Volans
Class: Mammalia Order: Rodentia Family: Sciurdae

Length including tail from 8/1/2 to 9 7/8 inches. Weight 2-3 oz. for an adult.

Range: Found throughout NC in urban areas and in hardwood and mixed pine forests. They prefer tree cavities with openings 11/2 to 2 inches in diameter. They also favor bluebird boxes and atics (which is where this one was captured).

Food: Omnivorous
Breeding: twice a year - January/February then June/July
Average litter is 1-6

Cute Factor: 10+

Curious Birds

2011-12-23T17:31:00.000-05:00

A flying squirrel that was live trapped in the atic was taken outside and set free this morning. I selected a tree that had several holes to provide a living space. When the cage door opened, up the tree it went to the highest hole.

Off and on today, I went out with hopes of spotting the Brown Creeper again (which I did) and noticed there was a great deal of interest in the tree with the Flying Squirrel from a large variety of birds. Bluebirds, Pine Warbler, Titmice, Chickadees, Finches and a Red Bellied Woodpecker were a few of the curious.

Over and over the curious birds checked out the hole then the remainder of the holes in the tree. Some were braver than others and peered directly in, while others sat nearby and fussed. It was quite amazing to watch the behavior of the various birds. By the end of the day, I actually felt very sorry for the little squirrel.

Winter....not yet anyway

2011-12-22T15:44:00.001-05:00

Mother Nature snubbed her nose at Old Man Winter today and said no, no, no. The birds were taking advantage of the warm weather and increased insect activity. A couple of hours of sunshine this morning but heavy cloud cover has now moved in.

Late this afternoon I walked out in the yard when I saw bits of green poking through the leaves. All the warm weather has the daffodils confused and they are already coming up. If / when the cold hits, I guess this will be a spring without them. An Eastern Towhee was doing some serious jumping and scratching on the ground.

As I was walking in the yard, I noticed a pair of little birds really working an oak tree. When I realized they were Brown Creepers, I dashed inside for the camera. They had moved on up the tree a bit unfortunately. From what I can recall, this is my first time seeing them in the yard. Hopefully they will stick around for a while for another photo opportunity on a day with better lighting.

Immature Red-Tailed Hawk

2011-12-19T14:41:00.000-05:00

Despite being on vacation, I had to go by work for about 30 minutes this morning. The sun was out and beginning to erase the chill of the night so I grabbed my camera before leaving home. There is an eco research area near where I work that is part of the Museum of Natural Science and I often see several hawks flying over the fields looking for food.

This morning I had the opportunity for close observation of form and flight. On several previous visits and again today, when I walk the hawk flies overhead watching. Little field mice scurried through the grasses as I walked by. I kept expecting the hawk to swoop down and eventually it did. Mouse for breakfast.

Vacation Day 3 - Thursday - MacKay NWR

2011-12-17T17:57:00.001-05:00

I left Mattamuskeet about 1400 on Wednesday. I was debating at this point whether to pack it in or continue on to my next planned destination of MacKays NWR on Knotts Island in the far NE part of the State. When I reached the turn off road which was the point of decision I decided to go for it. I spent the night in Elizabeth City which was about the closest place to find accomodations.

I did not leave the motel too early the next morning. The first ferry over to Knotts Island was at 0630 and priority was to school buses and residents "priority" folks. Being in unfamiliar territory and knowing I was in an area of high density deer populations, I planned for catching the 0900 ferry.

I arrived at the Currituck crossing and had some time to kill so I pulled out the laptop and looked at the previous days pictures. I noticed a school bus sitting and waiting off to the side and was curious. When the ferry arrived, a large group of jr high and high school age children walked off the ferry. It struck me that kids that fuss about having to walk up the street to catch a bus don't have a clue. Morning and after school, these kids have a 30 minute ferry ride each way. Definitely a different lifestyle.

Loading began around 0845 for the trip across. It was a fairly short drive to the refuge once I disembarked. Unfortunately, most of the areas were blocked off to protect and provide quiet for the migratory waterfowl. I was very disappointed. A couple of hawks, juvenile White-faced Ibis, Great Blue's and Egrets were around. Plenty of Coots and Grebes but not much else. I did get a couple of good shots of an Egret that had just caught a fish.

I stopped and spoke with another couple in the refuge that lived on the Virgina side. I asked was this it? There was one other area with an observation deck so I headed there. NOTHING! Unfortunately, the best areas that had high density ducks were in the cannals along the road and there simply was no where to pull over. Drivers were flying down the road so you could not even slow down to look. So, this is one place I will not be going back. Next ferry was leaving at 1200 and I headed back to catch it.

On the way home, I stopped in Edenton, NC for a bite to eat. I had heard the riverfront area was quite charming so I decided to go the extra couple of blocks since I was there. If you can't enjoy the journey, why go? Some beautiful old homes fixed up nicely and well cared for. I wished I had more time to look around longer. A mixture of colonial and victorian styles. Down along the riverfront at the park, I noticed a building sitting on movers. When comparing early built structures and modern buildings, there is without a doubt a charm that exists in the earlier buildings that is sorely lacking in the stip mall (lack of) architecture of today. There is just something very comforting, warm and inviting about a grand old victorian home with gingerbread fretwork versus the cookie cutter developments that are springing up everywhere today.

I walked over to a couple sitting in the park and started talking with them about the building. This is the Roanoke River Lighthouse. Constructed in 1886 by the US Lighthouse Service, it served as a navigational beacon on the Albemarle Sound. It marked the entrance to the Roanoke River that was the main commercial passageway to the upstream towns of Plymouth and Williamston. The lighthouse remained in service until 1941 when it was decommissioned by the Coast Guard. In 1955, it was purchased by Mr. Emmett Wiggins and moved to Edenton. The Edenton Historical Commission later purchased and has done an outstanding restoration of the building. Of more that 20 lighthouses that marked the rivers and sounds of the Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds, it is the last example of a square sided, screw-piled lighthouse. More info here Edenton Historical Commission

When I asked why it was still up on the movers....government red tape on allowing it to be placed in the new location. It seems like permits have hopefully been approved but with the government, who knows. A private group of folks preserve a piece of history, then the government wants to step in.

Moving on, I thought with MacKay checked off the list, I had visited all of the NWR's in the NE portion of the State. Dang, the lighthouse triggered the memory of another then I rode by it on the way home. That is the Roanoke River NWR. The best way to see this is in a canoe so I will have to find a canoing partner for a spring visit. From the FWS brochure " At least 219 birdsincluding 88 breeding species have been identified on or near the Refuge. TheRoanoke River floodplain is believed to support the highest density of nestingbirds, especially songbirds, anywhere in North Carolina."

More From Day 2 - Mattamuskeet

2011-12-16T18:34:00.000-05:00

I got an early start in the morning heading to Mattamuskeet. When I departed the outer banks, none of the fast food chain places were open for breakfast. I finally passed a little gas station/grill combo place and since the parking lot was filled with trucks and most pulling boats, I figured if the local's come, it is okay. I was very aware of eyes watching as a stranger had arrived, female to boot. I found a table, ordered and pulled out my road map. Before long, one gentleman asked where I was headed. That broke the ice. I replied to the refuge but was deciding on the next leg of of my trip.

We were soon discussing the lack of waterfowl this year. Consensus is that with all the warm weather, there simply has not been the cold weather up north to drive the birds further south. If you are looking for good intel on what is where, the locals and hunters in particular are an excellent source. By day 3....I should have listened to them. Lesson learned.

When I first arrived at the refuge, the deer had just come out of the marsh. I don't think they knew whether to go back in or run along the grass. I pulled the car over, cut it off and watched. Within just a few minutes they went back to grazing on the grass paying no attention to me.

The doe started coming closer and closer to the car. I tried to be very still not to spook her. As she was getting fairly close, one of the little deer did the foot stomp and snort warning. It was so cute I just had to laugh. I guess finally the doe had sufficiently checked me out and she turned and walked on.

The chatter of the Kingfisher's could be heard everywhere as they went about diving, eating and returning to watching for the next tasty treat.

I saw a group of Widgeon's and using the brush as cover attempted to ease up enough to try and get a decent shot. I failed miserably on my first trip. They are very spooky ducks. I was able to get one semi-decent shot as they swam away. I guess I need a little more practice on my stealth techniques.

Still only a few Northern Pintails. One of the most curious things I watched was a Northern Harrier that kept flying over the lake. It would swoop down into the marsh grasses and sometimes glide over the water. Where ever it was, there were always either crows or Red-Winged Blackbirds, not sure which, chasing it.

The Cormorants were numerous. Almost every tree out in the lake had one or more sitting in or around the bottom knees.

One of the things that tickled me the most was a Loon that came up while I was in the photo blind. It stayed and stayed. I stepped out a couple of times and it never showed any fear and would look me right in the eye. If only everything were that cooperative.

Vacation Day 2 - Wednesday - Those Rowdy Eagle Youngsters

2011-12-16T06:53:00.000-05:00

Eagle #1 peacefully watching surroundings.

After a non-restful night, I awoke early and decided I would go home with a stop by Mattamuskeet. I took a scenic back route which I must go back down sometime during full daylight. The peaceful scenic drive lifted my spirits and I will definitely revisit that route in the spring.

1st eagle turns to face incoming eagle

This post will primarily be on the young eagles. I still have hundreds of photos to sort through and will post those on a separate post.

Being a weekday morning, there were very few visitors on the refuge when I arrived. I headed back to the area where there is a photo blind by the water. I had not pulled far down the road when I saw one of the young eagles fly in. I cut the car off and sat and watched. Was I in for a show. A game of "King of the Tree" followed. The first one flew in and landed in a tree just checking out the surroundings.

This play attack behavior went on for about 10 minutes. Both eventually settled down in the same tree and sat for some time.

2nd eagle assumes attack posture.

Fake out play attack.

2nd eagle flies off, circles and repeats incoming attack

Outer Banks Crawl Day 1 - Tuesday

2011-12-15T19:36:00.003-05:00

Day 1 of vacation did not go as hoped. I guess that saying of "Best laid plans..." was in full effect. The clouds hung around longer than expected so the morning was non-eventful. My first stop was at the Alligator River NWR. Where are all the ducks, swans and snow geese? Oh well.

The saving grace was watching a Northern Harrier working the field. What a shame the lighting was not better. I can say though they are truely magnificent fliers. This one particular bird was very adept at riding the wind currents. It had that hang time maneuver down pat. There were more N. Harriers around in the area than I think I have ever seen there.

On to Pea Island NWR. Major disappointment this year. When I arrived, I was so surprised that the area covered with water last year was now dry. I went into the visitor center to talk with them to see what was going on. The volunteer there was new at that location and all she could say was water had been pumped out. I am very surprised as this time of year it is a major roosting area for the migrating Tundra Swan and Snow Geese. It is considered an environmentally sensitive area so I was totally shocked. Had I known, I would not have wasted my time or gas. I know that back in the summer when Hurrican Irene hit, the ocean washed out Hwy 12 and cut through to the sound side. Possibly water was being pumped out so excess sand could be remove? I just don't know.

On my way back to Nags Head, I decided to pull through the Bodie Island Lighthouse. Last year it was still undergoing renovation and had scaffolding still around the lighthouse. It looks very nice now. I had watched a program on PBS showing all the required repairs on the lighthouse and it was a major undertaking. One thing for sure, we love our lighthouses here in NC!

Feeling disheartened by the lack of waterfowl, the high winds and cool temps, I attempted to make the best of the remaining part of the day. Since I had not visited the somewhat new Wright Brothers Memorial that opened a couple of years ago, now seemed like a good time.

Tired and a bit frustrated, I went on to the motel. Late in the afternoon, several guys came by kite surfing. Looked like fun and they were moving pretty quickly but I would say definitely a summer sport. They all had on wet suits but I feel sure they were still cold. Time for a good nights rest and hopes for a better 2nd day. A revision of plans for day two shows promise.

I have so many photo's to go through tonight / tomorrow for day two that proved to be outstanding. Tonight however I am extremely tired and the dog is demanding some "love me" time.

Day two, I get down to some serious birding time. WIll post more tomorrow.

Trailcam Pics

2011-12-07T18:40:00.001-05:00

I have had not had any time last week or this week for time out. When Friday rolls around, it will be 12 days straight and 130 hours of work. Feeling out of touch with what is going on around me, I have been putting out the trail camera the last couple of nights. It keeps me connected with what is going on in the natural world right in my own yard.

Up until the weather front that is coming through right now, nights this week have been fairly warm. I would sit out on the screened porch and hear the mystery noises rustling the leaves and wonder what it / they were. So here is what has been out.

The deer have been active over the last two weeks. With most of the green foliage now gone, they are searching for food. They have found the big pile of acrons I have been dumping in one spot and are hitting it regularly.

Their activity has aroused the interest of other woods creatures. The raccoons I battle with that want to rob the bird feeders wandered into the camera view. The fox also walked through on it's nightly rounds.

The most curious shot is an unknown feline. Unfortunately, the head shot is blurry but a couple of body shots. I find the markings very interesting and they make me think this is not a domestic feline. I have placed the camera back out tonight hoping for another visit to get some better views of the head.

Love Among the Eagles

2011-11-28T17:17:00.009-05:00

PRIVATE MOMENT!

AND SO ENDED A QUIET MOMENT

Saturday Trip to Mattamuskeet Part 1

2011-11-27T06:10:00.001-05:00

My trip started earlier than expected as I awoke around 0230 and dared not go back to sleep for another hour. I finished loading the car and headed out around 0315. I suspected the deer would be everywhere (and they were) and wanted to drive carefully and unhurried. Also driving almost due east, I wanted to for the most part beat sunrise so I was not driving looking into the sun.

I stopped for breakfast around 0530, relaxed a bit from the constant on guard for darting deer and hit the road. I arrived in time to see the sunrise which was beautiful. The lake came alive with motion and sound. Huge V's of Tundra Swan were flying in from their evening roost in nearby fields. The sound of thousands of swan is something to behold. Wings slapping against the water as they squabbled with each other and relocating to another position carried far across the water.

Lake Mattamustkeet is in the heart of the east coast flyway. There is a constant coming and going of various birds so you never know what is in. Most of the snow geese had not arrived. They may however have been further on the outerbanks toward Pea Island NWR. I only saw a few. With the exception of a few pairs, most of the Pintails and Northern Shovlers had not arrived. They both tend to arrive mid-December. I did spot a few. The American Wigeon's were beautiful but not of my shots are up to par.

What was amazing were the number of Coots. Their numbers were unbelievable. I kept seeing these long streaks of dark birds far out on the lake that would come together to form huge dark spots. As they were so far out, my camera would not make that reach so I pulled out the spotting scope and took a shot through it. Apologies for the quality. This was one of my reasons to go was to start getting some practice on digiscoping.

The eagles were quite amazing and put on a good show most of the day. I did learn a valuable lesson....when you get out of the car....ALWAYS take your camera with you. I missed an unbelievable opportunity of two juvenile eagles fighting with each other over a fish. I had only taken the scope out to set up for practice shots. This shot is taken with a Canon 100-400 lens. The distance from the shore line to the line of trees where the eagles like to hang out is right at the outer limits of the lens. Hence, will follow in the next post after I have time to go through the photos some of the digiscoping attempts.

It is a new P&S camera I got to use with the scope and absolutely I still have a lot to learn about how the camera interacts with the scope and figure the best settings. Most of the purpose of this trip was to do just that so when I go back later in December or first part of January, I will hopefully be prepared.

Giving Back

2011-11-22T16:42:00.002-05:00

I am on vacation this week and had made a commitment to give back some work time to the park I regularly visit. It is a county park with a limited budget so some things go by the wayside. I figured I could do some simple things like weeding flower beds, clipping back wayward briars that creep into the trails, picking up litter, etc. For every hour that I spend birding or walking in the park, I will give back an hour of volunteer work time.

Probably most of what I am doing will never be noticed by the general park visitor. They are subtle but things that needed to be done. My one pet project area however is beginning to show signs of improvement. I think what ticks me off the most are the people who litter. There are trash and recycling cans located in various locations yet folks will throw trash down versus holding on to it for a bit until it can be properly disposed of.

This morning started out very foggy so I worked first then birded once the clouds began lifting. The back marsh was very quiet at first until a group of around seven Bluebirds arrived. A flurry of activity followed. From out of nowhere, multiple species were present and joining in on the frantic behavior of the Bluebirds.

The original Bluebird who found some remaining poke berries was eating them as fast as possible. Then another flew in which did not please the first bird, then still more. They were so busy chasing each other away until the resident Mockingbird flew in to take the prize and chased all of them away.

On the pond I felt really sorry for one of the female Buffleheads. Out of the group, four males and two females. They couldn't catch a break from the constant advances of the males. This one female finally flew away from the group of males. I guess she needed some alone time.

Bath Time

2011-11-21T16:34:00.001-05:00

The unseasonably warm weather has continued and nature seems a bit confused. I went out for a bit this morning but not much out. Six Buffleheads have now arrived at the pond in additional to around a dozen mallards, one pair of Grebe and one pair of Wood Ducks. Otherwise, very slow.

I took advantage of the warm weather today to redo two beds of iris. They did not bloom well last year so hopefully a fresh infusion of soil, dividing and giving some room will have positve results when spring arrives.

The birds at home took advantage of the warm weather and indulged in quite a bit of bathing today. I had come inside to fix a glass of water and the birds flocked to the fountain. I grabbed the camera and took a shot through the window so it is not the best as the window has a slight tint. For about 10 minutes, it was a constant rotation of birds enjoying the bath.

My plans to go to Lake Mattamuskeet have kept being postponed for various reasons. My thoughts this morning were to go tomorrow but weather now looks to be an issue so I am aiming for later in the week or possibly the weekend. As that area has also been having unseasonably warm weather, I am curious on whether the seasonal influx of Tundra Swan and Snow Geese has been delayed.

Super Easy Slouchy Rice Bag Camera Support

2011-11-15T17:30:00.004-05:00

More and more I was finding I needed a good support for shooting out the car window. I have experimented with a couple of designs but for ease of sewing and flexibility to adjust size, it is a pretty decent design. Very minimal sewing skills required and there is no right or wrong. It is just whatever you need.

I began with sitting in the car and going through a range of motion to determine what size I needed. I folded an 11x17 piece of paper in half, drew out the basic design and cut while folded to ensure both sides were the same. After sewing however, I think a little additional in the arch would have been better. From testing several designs, curves no sharper than the outside radius of a CD will ensure easy sewing.

Pin the pattern on fabric and cut two. These are your sides. Next determine how wide of a support you need. Your call for your needs. Remember to figure in your seem allowance. If you sew with 1/2 inch seams, add an inch to what you want your final width to be. Cut a strip of fabric the width you want making sure you have enough to go all around. If you can find a wide rip-stop fabric, all the better. It is tough and will take abuse yet easy to sew. Denim would also be good but not really a heavy canvas.

Double and sew about 2 1/2 to 3 inches at the beginning of your strip. Sew a couple of reinforcing seems. This is where one piece of velcro will go. Don't run your velcro full length into what will be the seams. Pin to one side...right side's of fabric together. Straight stitch around, remove pins and sew a reinforcing zig-zag directly over the stitch line or another straight stitch just a little apart.

Once you have a general idea of where the strip will end, you can cut leaving enough to double at the end and reinforce for your second part of the velcro attachment. These two will overlap. Turn right side out, sew on your velcro.

Turn wrong side out, pin your second side. Sew, turn right side out through the velcro opening. As I don't like to put rice directly against the fabric, I like the very thin large plastic bags you find at the produce section. They are quiet, flexible and will protect the rice from moisture. Slip the bag in, fill with rice, tie a knot and you are done. From start to finish, less than an hour.

Another advantage to this method is if the cover needs washing, empty the rice, remove the bag, wash and refill.

I am working on a little more well defined design but the "slouchy" design is super easy and works very well with minimal sewing skills.

Golden Crowned Kinglets

2011-11-14T11:46:00.003-05:00

I went out a bit this morning enjoying the streak of beautiful weather we are having. Mid 70's and it is mid-November...who could ask for better.

The Golden Crowned Kinglets have arrived. I refer to them as speed demons in the trees. They never sit still for more than a couple of seconds at a time and make for a challenging photo session.

Their preferred locations of hunting amidst the vines, scrub or trees adds to the challenge since the areas always seem to be in the shade.

This morning there were a group of four working an area hard for insects. Two of the females tangled with each other several times always ending up on the ground. The male with his bright orange crown stayed high in the trees. He was the one I was hoping to get a good shot. Oh well, another day. He was in such deep shade the shot is not very good. Ocassionally, if he squabble between the two females that were bickering became loud enough, he would fly down as if breaking up the fight.

I forgot how much fun and a challenge they are to photograph and look forward to their remaining time in the area. Depending on the weather, they usually depart in early March.

Junco's Have Arrived

2011-11-13T16:47:00.003-05:00

In all the time I spent outside yesterday, I never saw a single Junco. Generally around the 15th of November you begin seeing them. Almost magically overnight they seemed to have arrived. What caught my attention first was an unfamiliar chirp. After months without them around, it is like learning a new bird by sound all over again.

The big boy's were out hunting early this morning. This Red-Tailed Hawk situated himself into the Kestrel's territory. The Kestrel was not happy with the hawk invading it's space and swooped repeatedly at the hawk.

The hawk seemed merely annoyed at the distraction and eventually it had enough and flew off to another area.

Saturday Shots

2011-11-12T17:06:00.001-05:00

A chilly start this morning but temperatures quickly rose to around 65. A light southwest breeze ushered in warm air to replace that of a cold front that came through Thursday night. With the change in daylight savings time, I was able to get an early start. My intent was to try and scope the Kestrel this morning but that quickly changed when a group of crows harrassed the poor bird out of the area. I was quite concerned for a while as there were so many crows that ganged up. I got one quick unprepared shot as it flew to a nearby tree trying to escape. The aerial acrobatics that followed were quite amazing to watch.

Lots of Eastern Blue Birds, Pine Warblers, White-Throated Sparrows and Song Sparrows about. I started watching a Red-Bellied Woodpecker that was flying from tree to tree. I could see it was carrying something and it finally came close enough to see. It must have thought it had a grand prize. After a couple of more trees, it finally found one where it stashed the pecan and moved on.

On to the park. I was taking my time on the main bridge over the pond searching for the pair a pair of Wood Ducks that have come in. All of a sudden a group of mallards scattered. As I searched for what spooked them, I could see the water moving. The otter was having a great time stirring everything up.

I continued down the trail beside the creek hoping to get them where I suspect their den is. The creek splits so I think they took the branch that did not run beside the trail.

As I was standing overlooking the marsh, a Brown Thrasher flew in right beside me. It seemed very curious as to what I kept looking at. If only all birds were so unafraid and willing to come so close.

Kestrels

2011-11-12T05:13:00.001-05:00

Out for a bit yesterday morning but it was a terrible birding day. Winds were gusting and with the cool temps it was not fun to be out. Arrival of fall has brought some of the Kestrels back to the area so I headed to see if they were out hunting.

The first one I encountered had a kill and was eating when I first arrived. I tried to ease out of the car but of course it flew but not too far. This is a very large Kestrel. I have watched it several times and
have noted each time it appears larger than many I have seen.

Moving on up the road to see what was out, I happened to notice a bird sitting on a tree sliver. This was probably 55-60 feet out and an electric fence would not allow me to get any closer. The coloration was quite gray but the behavior of flying off, circling and coming back was that of a Ketrel so I stopped and set up the camera. Yes, it was a Kestrel and probably a young bird. It was a bit small and did not have the classic Kestrel coloration patterns.

Once I arrived home and uploaded the days shots, I noticed that this smaller Kestrel had a leg band on. I spent a little time looking last night trying to track down banded Ketrels in NC. I am always curious when I encounter a banded bird on who, when and where.

Hopefully today the wind will subside. I plan to take the scope out this morning and try some digiscoping to see if I can get some good shots.

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T05:39:00.001-05:00

For many, Veteran's Day is looked upon as just a day off work. The significance of the day gets easily lost in the fast pace of life yet it is those very people that have made it possible for us in this country to go about our daily lives with relative freedom and security.

Depsite almost 30 years of military service, I too have been quilty of losing track of what this day truely means. It particularly hits home when you have personnel losses within your organization whether you closely knew the person or not. It is truely a brotherhood that exists between Soldiers and all feel the loss. Shared experiences create lasting bonds that many will never understand.

On this day, I thnk about those families who have lost loved ones. About the Soldiers, Marines, Airmen and Sailors who have given so much to serve. The time away from their family and for many, the physical and/or emotional scars they will carry with them the remainder of their lives. And yes, the general BS that all military personnel have to put up with.

We have yet another generation of young men and women who have experienced the effects of war. It is a very sad statement on mankind that as long as prejudice and greed (whether for money, power or contol) exists we seem destined to have conflicts.

So as I wait for sunrise to go birding this morning, I will enjoy my freedom to be secure that I can walk about freely. I will put out the flag to show my appreciation and respect to veterans past and current. Mid-morning I will head down to Ft. Bragg for a special exhibit that runs through today.

"For those who fought for it, freedom has a taste the protected will never know."

"All gave some, some gave all"

An Otterly Outstanding Morning

2011-10-30T18:37:00.004-04:00

As miserable as the weather was Saturday morning it was equally as grand this morning. A first frost in open areas, a nip in the air and plenty of sunshine and blue skies. The end of October and the first true cool snap seems to have been the trigger for rut to begin. The deer were out in large numbers and being rather bold.

One of my first avian encounters were a pair of Loggerhead Shrike fussing with each other. I think this is the first time I have ever heard them being so vocal.

My second encounter is what I believe is a Yellow Palm Warbler. Shadows were pretty bad and just as I had moved into position to get a better shot, a truck came flying down the dirt road almost out of control and everything flew.

Onward to another place, the Yellow Rumped Warblers seemed to dominate and were everywhere. Their numbers seem very large this year. The seeds on the poison vine are favorites of all birds so it seems and there was much chasing away going on this morning.

A trail in the park that had been closed since a tornado in spring had reopened last week. It runs beside a creek where the beavers have been doing quite a bit of teraforming creating some prime flooded areas the ducks seem to like. A large group of some type kept circling around so I went to investigate hoping it was the Wood Ducks returning.

Ever so quitely I eased down the trail. Up went a Great Blue and the ducks. I could see movement in the water so I sat down the tripod and looked in the direction figuring on ducks.

No ducks but much movement and splashing about. It was a pair of otters creating havoc. Unfortunate that I was shooting into the direction of the sun. They continued down the creek coming up on the bank then sliding back into the water. For at least 20 minutes, I had the great pleasure of watching them. I hope they are here to stay for a while. When I finally lost sight of them, I watched as they disappeared in to what seemed like a den.

Just in Time for Halloween

2011-10-27T18:45:00.004-04:00

Turkey Vultures to the left and Turkey Vultures to the right and one flying over keeping me in sight.

You know, it was a bit unnerving. I was walking and actually stopped and turned around. Just sort of a creepy feeling to be surrounded and out numbered. The movie "The Birds" just kept flashing through my mind.

And though I have several feeders at the house and have fed the birds for years, considering the diet of these, I have have no desire to feed!

Happy Halloween.

Night Visitor - Return of the Owl

2011-10-22T05:32:00.007-04:00

When I first moved to my current home more years ago than I care to remember, it was very common to hear and see owls several times a month. Several years ago when a housing development was built further down, the owls disappeared.

During the past week, on three mornings when I departed for work I noticed a large form in one of the trees. As it is alway early (and now dark) when I leave, I sort of figured it was a hawk sleeping for the night.

Yesterday morning as I was backing out of the drive I once again noticed the form so pulled back up and cut the car off. I had my camera in the car and thought what the heck, it was worth a try. I put the ISO up to about 2400, rolled down the car window and attempted to focus. Insufficient light for the camera to focus so I switched to manual focus which was a pure shot in the dark so to speak.

My intent was not a high quality photo but to confirm what was in the tree. I suspected an owl based on the size and the movement of the head. I am extremely thrilled that one has returned and a little surprised at the location of what seems to be a favored spot. It is a fairly small dogwood tree and the preferred limb is no more than five feet off the ground.

Directly across from the tree, I have one of those octagonal shaped bird houses on a post. I went out late yesterday afternoon and strapped the trailcam to the birdhouse. I set it to put the date and time stamp on each photo to gather information on times and frequency of visits. If I leave out about two weeks, that should give me a good idea on how often it visits.

Song Sparrow?

2011-10-21T17:57:00.007-04:00

During the last week where I work, an unusual bird appeared. A couple of us who are serious birders have spent break times walking outside trying to spot the bird.

This morning, I decided to take my camera and go out during lunch to try to get some shots.

It always seems to stay in the shadows of structures, bushes or trees and is very timid so these are about the best photos I could get.

I have not heard the bird make any sounds except a chirps. I have not seen or heard it sing the distinctive song sparrow song. The chirp seems to be of a tone that is unfamiliar which is what first caught my attention and then...I spotted the bird. It's highly visible white head stands out conspicuously.

There is a lack of the central dark spot on the chest at least on the photos I have been able to get. The pattern on the wing however looks very much like a song sparrow. I have seen many young song sparrows but never one with so much white on the head.

Is this a genetic mistep or a possible cross with another bird?

Going Nuts! (Acorns that is)

2011-10-17T19:38:00.003-04:00

Unfortunately I was not able to do much birding this weekend which is ashame because the weather was beautiful and it is prime birding season. A sick pup however took priority over all. I was able to get out just a bit today while she was at the vet. They wanted to keep her a couple of hours so the park I visit was fairly close by so I killed some time there.

Lots of warblers of all descriptions were out. The Yellow-Rumped Warblers have flocked in for the remainder of the year until early spring. Everytime I would spot something move it seemed to be a YRW.

A huge flock of Cedar Waxwings came in and generally stirred up all the birds. A couple of quick shots and time to leave.

Back to the vet to pick up my very sedated 67 lb baby. Thankfully slept all the way home and did not want to get out of the car when we arrived. Some coaxing with a treat and she came in and crashed.

Over the last two weeks, the acorns have showered down on the house and it sounds like someone throwing a handful of rocks on the roof. Unfortunately I have two valleys on the house that capture them. With rain coming, I wanted to clear them off the roof. Five pillowcases full of acrons. Is this a sign of a bad winter?

Out of curiosity to see if the deer do like them, I took them to the edge of the woods where the deer come up and dumped all five bags out. The row was six feet long by two feet wide by about 4 inches deep on average. If I had a dollar for every acorn....I could take that birding trip of a lifetime.

Last Day of Mini-Vacation

2011-10-10T17:03:00.005-04:00

It has been four days of intense birding. And yes, I need to go back to work for rest. I have probably averaged at least four miles of walking everyday which includes camera backpack and tripod. My body stiffens up when I stop for long so I have just kept moving. When I finally stop at dark, it has been a very good tired followed by good sleep.

I went out for a short period this morning but back home in a couple of hours to get some work done. I have been waiting for fall to move and divide several beds of iris. One down today and also moved some perenial flowers. I am determine next summer to have a wonderful butterfly garden.

After some time out Saturday morning, my friend and I worked on our birding presentation that we are giving on 15 October. We had been on our final big push over the last couple of days for new species we didn't have. Later in the afternoon I was working in the yard and hit a yellow jacket nest with the weedeater. Angry little givers of pain attacked my hands. Two stings on one hand, three on the other, one on the shoulder and one on the arm. It had been many, many years since I had been stung and forgot how unpleasant it is.

Did not do much Sunday as my hands were big time swollen and very stiff. I went out for about an hour and that was it. The first pair of mallards for the season have taken up residence at the pond and unfotunately a Canada Goose had also arrived which is only a forebearer of the numbers that will come in.

The Eastern Meadowlark have returned or should I say are once again highly visible and singing their hearts out in the morning. The Euonymous americanus (Strawberry Bush / Bursting Hearts) are open and the birds are snatching up the seeds that fall. They really seem to like the seeds. This is on my list to plant in my native plant garden that I am working on.

A Made to Order Autumn Day

2011-10-06T21:16:00.006-04:00

The last two days have been the kind of days you would order up from your weather forecaster if that were possible. Cool in the morning but quickly warming with sunrise to mid 70's with a slight breeze and a crisp, clear blue Carolina sky.

My plans to go birding down east were put on hold. Why travel when it is already such fantastic birding right at my own back door. So this will be a mini-vacation at home which is fine by me.

I went out with purpose this morning to try and photograph the Redstarts that are in. I had taken a couple of decent shots of the female but the male has always seem to elude me. Several butt shots, out of focus shots and mostly hidden but nothing I was pleased with. I had watched them for a couple of days and knew the area they seemed to hang out. The problem is that it is very shaded and the direction of the sunrise seems to always put you shooting into the sun.

They were as bad as Kinglets to try and photograph. Rarely sitting still for more than a couple of seconds at a time and always seeming to get right in the midst of foliage searching for insects. Another adventure in speed photography.

The Cedar Waxwings are flocking in. They were flying from cedar tree to cedar tree being rather noisey and in general stirring up all the other birds. I do like them though with their little high pitch sound and always moving in flocks. I don't ever recall seeing as many juvenile birds as there seem to be this year. Their mask and head crown feathers when erect give them such a quizzical look.

Tomorrow my friend and I are going to Jordan Lake to photograph the eagles and osprey. Hoping for some good shots. Saturday, we are heading to Eno River State Park to see what if anything has come in there. If no birds, at least we can enjoy the hiking.

Fall Weather Arrived

2011-10-03T19:17:00.005-04:00

Fall weather arrived Friday night like flipping a switch. It is the first cool weather we have had. Unfortunately I had to work the weekend so was not able to get out until today for a bit.

Migration has definitely started and I look forward to being able to get out this weekend for some serious birding. It is amazing how just a little bit of cooler weather increases the bird activity. The Pine Warblers have become very vocal and are coming down from the treetops.

I am giving some serious consideration on going to Lake Mattamuskeet for a day trip the next week. Finally taking some vacation time so I am keeping my fingers crossed that the weather holds. I would live to see what is coming through on the east coast flyway. I usually go on over to the outerbanks when I am that way but not sure what is open yet from the alst hurricane damage. Pea Island NWR sustained quite a bit of damage. It will be interesting to see what impact that may have had.

Pileated Woodpecker

2011-09-25T12:30:00.003-04:00

3rd weekend in a row of rain and clouds. Finally next weekend is suppose to be nice weather however of course, that is a work weekend. Never fails. I went out a bit this morning and had about two hours of mostly couldy skies with occasional openings in the clouds for some sunshine. Not a great deal seemed to be out. Still lots of hummingbirds around and they are extremely active but not much else.

I could hear the Pileated Woodpeckers off in the distance and walked toward their direction. There is just something about these birds I like. Their animated call can be heard over a great distance. Their red feather head topper and face stripes seem to give them an animated quizical appearance. It spent quite some time on the tree ducking its head in and out of various holes in the tree.

Passion Flower

2011-09-20T06:13:00.005-04:00

Passiflora - There are about nine species of the vine found throughout most of the US.

Spanish Christian missionaries during the 15th and 16th centuries adopted the physical structures of this plant as symbols of the last days of Jesus and particularly his crucifixion.

The blue and white colors of many flowers represent Heaven and Purity.

The 3 stigmas represent the 3 nails and the 5 anthers below them the 5 wounds. (four by nails and one by lance).

The pointed tips of the leaves represent the Holy Lance.

The tendrils represent the whips used in the flagellation of Christ.

The ten petals and sepals represent the ten faithful apostles (exlcuding St. Peter and Judas)

The radial filaments of the flower vary from flower to flower and can number more than a hundred represent the crown of thorns.

The chalice-shaped ovary with receptacle represents a hammer of the Holy Grail.

A Week of Outstanding Birding

2011-09-17T15:24:00.003-04:00

After 12 days straight the weekend arrives and to put it bluntly, the weather sucks. Almost a 30 degree drop in temperatures from Thursday until today. Hopefully the clouds will lift at least for a little while tomorrow.

Yesterday afternoon I came home in a hurry to get the dog to a scheduled vet appointment for her yearly vaccinations. I was running late and when I walked by the window I noticed a new visitor at the feeder. The Cardinals who usually dominate the feeder were sitting off to the side. One would attempt to come to the feeder but the the female Red-Breasted Grosbeak would have none of that. I lifted the flap on the dog door and got off about two shots before she flew. She came around to the front feeder and after getting her fill at the feeder, she popped down for some water. It seems every time she comes the weather is not conducive to good photo taking. It was a treat to get to watch her for a while.

Thursday on my lunch break, I did a quick hour of birding hoping to spot the female Summer Tanager. Lady luck was on my side and I was able to get some good shots and watch her for a while.

As I was standing watching various birds when a Pine Warbler landed on the tree right in front of me. I have trying for a good shot and once again luck blessed me. So even with today definitely not a good day for outside, I am thankful that I have had such a good week of outstanding birding for the limited time I was able to get out.

Birding Is Getting Good

2011-09-13T18:38:00.003-04:00

Spring and fall when so much birding activity is taking place is so much fun and almost overwhelming at times. Fortunately I have a little flexibility at work and can adjust my hours somewhat to take advantage of the morning feeding frenzy.

The last three days have been simply wonderful to the point of what to photograph first before it flies away. Tomorrow morning I have taken a little leave time to take full advantage of the wonderful birds that are coming in. This is my long work week of 12 days straight so I think a couple of hours out early one morning are deserved. Beautiful weather this past weekend and of course, with the upcoming weekend off, it is suppose to rain.

As I was walking this morning I saw a bright flash and at first thought it was a Cardinal. But then I realized, orange! I saw the female Summer Tanager the morning before and wondered about the male. Well here he was in all his glory. He had a cicada that was just about to get the better of it. I watched for quite some time and he would work on it for a while then lay it on the limb to seemingly rest.

Walking a bit further, a Red-Eyed Vireo. It seemed very shy but curious. It would peer over a leaf then under a leaf but never come fully out in the open. As I walked on, in a moment it flew by, stopped and once again repeated the behavior.

The Red-Headed Woodpeckers were rowdy and loud flying from tree to tree. There were also several young ones around who are just starting to get their distinctive red feathers on the head.

Lots and lots of Pine Warblers and Prairie Warblers but none of my pictures are very good. That is my goal tomorrow.

Appreciation of Our Year Round Birds

2011-09-03T18:29:00.004-04:00

I am very guilty of many times overlooking the beauty of our year round birds over the excitement of migratory species that come in. Today was a prime example of being so busy and intent on getting a shot of the hummingbird with the "ruby-throat" showing that I almost did not observe the Goldfinches that were nearby.

What a loss that would have been. I suppose seeing them almost daily at the thistle sock and scrounging among the dried cone-flower seed heads, they become the norm. But much would be missed by not observing them in nature seeing what they eat in the wild.

I am not really sure what these plants are, most would classify them as just a weed. To the Goldfinches, they appear to be fine dining. Twice today when I visited the area, there were always at least a half dozen birds manuevering for the best position and seed heads. Their lively antics of hanging upside down in many cases and guarding their find made for fun viewing.

Soon they will begin their fall molt and their appearance will drastically change to a far more subdued coloration. Come spring, they will once again molt taking on a brighter more sunny appearance. A sure sign spring has arrived.

Hummingbirds

2011-09-01T14:42:00.005-04:00

So small, so sweet looking

and such an aggressive little personality when their space is invaded by another.

It is always a thrill to spot the first one in the spring and sad when they depart in the fall.

They are still here for now and in greater numbers than have been here all summer.

A Bit O' Birding

2011-08-28T18:43:00.004-04:00

Despite the fact I needed to be home cleaning up the yard, I decided to go out for a bit this morning just to see what was out. I sort of expected it to be a great morning after the storm yesterday and from the number of birding groups out, assume they thought the same. Turned out to be sort of a disappointing morning. A Kestrel and Loggerhead Shrike that hang in the area are back in for the fall and winter seasons. Maybe this is the signal that good things are about to start coming in.

What I have noticed more and more in the last two weeks is that the females are out. During nesting season you rarely saw the females of the migratory birds. Now you tend to see the females as it seems the males have already departed.

There were a group of four birds sort of hanging together fluttering about and hunting insects. I have sort of debated but think they are young Indigo Buntings and all seemed to be female.

Mockingbirds seemed to be everywhere. There must have been a bumper crop this year. Mostly out of boredom and nothing else to shoot I took a shot of one and glad I did. I think this photo will go in an upcoming slide show my friend and I are giving in October.

Waiting for Irene / Good-Bye Irene

2011-08-25T22:38:00.008-04:00

SUNDAY MORNING UPDATE / 28 Aug / 0431: A long day of seemingly endless wind and rain bands that started early and ended late. Lost power on five separate occasions with the last about 1500 Saturday and when I went to bed, still no power.

Around 0330 this morning I head the dog barking and having had way too much sleep, got up with the flashlight to see what caught her attention. Lights and radio talk. Yeah!, the power company. Could not have been better timing as I had just decided about the same time I needed to go crank the generator and let the refrigerator and deep freezer run for a bit. It makes you realize how spoiled a society we are to have power at virtually the flip of a switch. I stepped out to thank the gentleman and wish him a good day. With several hundred thousand power customers out of power just locally, they have a tough and thankless job. I am sure there are those further east who will be out of power for several days.

My thoughts this morning are with the folks along the coast. They are dealing with flooding, destruction and power loss. I am thankful we only had a brush in our area versus what could have been. I remember the one that came up through our area in 1996 that caused major destruction and 10 days of no power.

Today is suppose to be beautiful and I look forward to going out for a bit of birding this morning and then it is back home to pick up limbs. I did a bit of pick up to clear the driveway yesterday but there is still several hours of work left.

SATURDAY MORNING UPDATE / 27 Aug / 0640: Just getting home from work. Locally, bands of rain started coming in late last night. The wind has continued to gradually pick up speed. The power here has blinked several times since I arrived home but is still on for now.

Further east, heavy rains are causing localized flooding, trees have started falling and several ten's of thousands are already without power.

The hurricane has weakend to a CAT 1 which is good news for all. We are still several hours away from the period of greatest impact however it appears right now we are going to make out fairly well.

Power just blinked again so I will sign out for now.

THURSDAY:
It has been a long 18 hour workday and it is back up tomorrow early. I went in to work as normal this morning and about 1430 was told I had to go back in at 1830 tonight until 0730 Friday morning.

Finally with pretty much all set until the hurricane gets closer and weather conditions deteriorate, some of us were cut loose around 2100 tonight. You can only stare at a computer screen just so long. I couldn't quite figure why so many of us were pulled in tonight with the hurricane still several hundred miles away.

The wave of tropical air that precedes the arrival of a hurricane is definitely moving in. The air feels hot and humid tonight. It is now just a wait and see what happens. Despite all the predictions weather forecasters make, a force of nature that size is still largely unpredictable.

I fully expect we will lose power at some time on Saturday but keeping my fingers crossed for a realtively easy and non-destructive storm. The rain will be welcome down east where fires have smoldered since the spring.

Early Migration and Forecasting Winter?

2011-08-21T14:20:00.002-04:00

With temperatures still in the 90+ range, it is hard to think that fall and winter weather are just a few months away. This morning was warm and muggy, very much still feeling like a summer morning. The Cicada chorus was loud and constant. Yet shorter days and some tree leaves beginning to turn a more yellow shade of green tell another story.

There is much speculation among birders in the area that we are in line for an early fall migration this year. There has been a serious lull in birding over the last two weeks.

On Saturday, my friend and I went out and there were still lots of Grosbeaks to be found but today, none. It is almost as if someone gathered them all up and moved them. The male Indigo Buntings have all but disapperared however today I did spot two female I-Buntings. A White-eyed Vireo was hunting deep in some trees so the photo is not very good.

We were surprised however to spot a pair of Dickcissel's that arrived early summer. We speculated then from their behavior then they were nesting and since they are still around, suspect indeed they did and will return next year. There have been an increase in hummingbirds probably coming in from further north. There is usually a short period of time their numbers increase then they depart.

My Dad and I were talking and have both noticed a huge increase in the rate the birds are eating seed at the feeders. Are they stocking up for a bad winter? The berries on the dogwood trees are already turing red which is much earlier than usual. I have watched a squirrel today work on one of the trees here in the yard. The Elderberries have all been eaten with the excpetion of a few that have yet to rippen. Many of the plants that provide natural food sources to the birds have simply not produced this year. I suspect this is going to be a difficult winter for the birds.

Birding Lull

2011-08-13T20:01:00.005-04:00

My friend and I headed to Jordan Lake this morning hoping to see the eagles and osprey. Weather was suppose to be okay until about 1100 but boy were the weather folks wrong. We had just pulled in to the parking lot when seemingly out of no where the clouds rolled in and the bottom fell out. We waited in the car for about 20 minutes as it looked like it would pass by. It did, we got out and started walking and the rain came again. So that was it for the morning.

Back home and frustrated as the weather has been so nice all week and now a free day and rain. Yes, we needed the rain but wish it had done so during the week. After a 12 day work week, I needed the relaxation. More rain so I laid down and took a nap. Woke up a little after 1500 and the sun was out. Grabbed the camera and headed out. Not too much around. A very ratty looking Indigo Bunting that I suspect is a this year fledgling. Heavily molting and preening every minute.

After finally receiving rain over the last two weeks, I was hoping the Jewelweed may have come on out. A few blooms but not like two years ago when the marsh was filled with bight orange flowers and hummingbirds constantly flying from one flower to the next.

I was standing on the bridge over the water taking photos of some wildflowers when I heard a spalsh behind me. Distracted I almost didn't notice until it was past me. At firstI thought was a young beaver but after looking at the tail and face when I got home, definitely a muskrat.

Hoping for a much better day tomorrow.

Waning Days of Summer

2011-08-08T19:58:00.007-04:00

Despite continuing high temperatures, signs of the approaching fall are everywhere. The Goldenrod is blooming which is a sure sign. Already many of the birds of summer are departing for parts unknown. The song of the Indigo Bunting once so prevelant is now rare.

The fevered activity of nesting and fledging have passed and now the birds seem to be eating at a frantic pace knowing what is ahead. The angle of the sun is lower in the sky and slowly but surely daylight shortens.

It has been a very different birding year here. Very good in many respects but the migratory summers birds seem to be departing much earlier. Normally mid-September through mid-October is prime time for fall migration in this area so I will be anxious to see.

The acorns have started falling here at the house. I suspect the extremely dry weather has had a definite impact. The acorns are much smaller than last year so hopefully that will equate to not much snow. Seems when the acorns are large, we have a snowy winter. If we have as cold a winter as we did a hot summer, we are in for it.

Not much out today. I think all the birds had the commom sense to stay in the shade. A Green Heron flew in briefly across the pond but did not stay long. Mostly Mockingbirds, Catbirds and a whole brood of young Carolina Wrens.

The only thing with wings that seem to like the heat were the invertebrates. The pokeberries are turning dark purple and their bright fushia stems seem to call to the birds yet warn away others.

Late Summer Wildflowers

2011-08-02T14:10:00.007-04:00

Went out for about an hour this morning just to walk a bit. I knew I would be stuck at the house waiting for the delivery truck with the new computer. And no, it has not come yet. I could have gone to work after all. Tracking sight still says delivery today.

I had been keeping my eye on several wildflowers waiting for them to bloom. With the lack of rain this summer, I am amazed they have bloomed at all but they seem full and beautiful. I would have loved to been able to get closer but with the exception of the Cranefly Orchid, they were all out in the swampy area where I am sure there are some large no-shoulders that live there.

The Cardinal Flower prefers a wetland habitat. The hummingbirds absolutely love this plant. I have one at the house and watch the hummingbird hit it every morning before coming to the feeder.

The Cranefly Orchid (Tipularia Discolor) is a member of the Orchidaceae family. Unlike many traditional orchids, it is a terrestrial orchid found growing in woodlands over most of the southeastern US.

The Monkeyflower is a member of the snap dragon family. It too preferes wet meadowlands and streambanks. The name is suppose to be because the flower somewhat looks like a monkey's face. I guess if you squint and use your imagination maybe?

And yeah!!! The new computer was just delivered. Now the work begins.

Weekend Happenings

2011-07-31T13:43:00.005-04:00

Not much time this past week for birding and with computer expecting death at any moment, I have spent most of the week backing data up for the arrival of a new computer this coming week. The monitor went last week and the computer is following in it's footsteps. For sure it has been well used.

Finally some rain! Last night and again today. A collective sigh of relief from all living things. The incessant heat has abated at least for today and unfortunately is expected to resume next week. At least a brief reprieve has been good. Truthfully it is really beginning to wear me down.

Okay, so enough about the weather as we can do nothing to change it. I went out for a little while Saturday morning but not too much out except for lots of Mockingbirds and some Common Yellow Throats. What I thought was a male female pair I now believe was a parent child combo. The one I thought was the female spent quite a bit of time doing the wing flutter and squaking to be fed.

On to another location, I spotted a young Meadowlark I have seen in that area several times. It just makes me laugh. Very much like a awkward spastic teenager. I have watched it fall forward twice after losing its balance. It definitely does not have the fine melodic song of an adult down yet. It is a very raspy broken version. By 0930, it had reached 94 deg so I called it a day.

Back out a bit this morning but just where I could be nearby the car as it looked like it could rain at any moment. I decided to go back and try to call out the Bobwhite again. I had not been there long when it came up. It came very close to me on the ground and after a while I lost track. I turned my attention to a young Meadowlark and was walking in its direction when "bob" called back out. I spotted it on top of some round hay bales. I back tracked and took some shots then started back towards the Meadowlark. To my surprise, the Bobwhite kept following me walking over four different hay bales. How could I not stop?

When the bird turned, I could see that it was recovering from an injury. I really felt so sorry for the bird. I know that you cannot place human emotions on animals but I swear the bird seemed so lonely and seemed to enjoy the interaction as much as I did. I could move about freely and the bird never fidgeted or attempted to flee.

I think a nap is in order this afternoon. Thunder is rolling off in the distance and it will be a good afternoon for a little Z-time. It has been a long time since I have napped but feel extremely tired this afternoon.

Northern Bobwhite

2011-07-24T16:27:00.005-04:00

I went out for a while this morning but overcast skies (but no rain) did not make for good photos and not much was out. Not sure if it was several days exposure to heat, hunger or what but it was not long before I needed to go in.

Home to cool, hydrate, and refuel and before long I was going stir crazy ready to go back out. Sun was now shining bright and a good day wasting away. I thought hard about going back out as the temp was 99 deg by that time but I knew where I wanted to go and would be able to be in the shade with a good breeze. Several frozen bottles of water in a cooler and off again.

A couple of stops and blown out photos from not realizing my camera setting got moved so journey on. I arrived at my location and set up to watch the bluebirds. Off in the distance I could hear the bobwhite and since no one was around, decided to answer back it's calls. Within about 10 minutes I could not believe my eyes as it flew close. We continued our calls to each other, sometimes faint, sometimes loud. I saw it fly to a close by brush pile. Soon, movement in the grass caught my eye and to my delight, it was coming straight towards me.

In the county where I live, their numbers have decreased so rapidly of the last 10 years. Going from a largely rural type community to now uncontrolled growth, loss of habitat is a primary cause. An increase in fox, coyote numbers and feral cats have also exacted their toll.

I watched through the camera lens as it would call and I would reply back with the same intensity. It kept coming! My heart was racing and I expected it to freak and fly at any moment. I dared not move yet there was a tall clump of grass in front of where I needed to shoot. Ever so slowly I moved. The bird and I continued out calls to each other for at least 30 minutes. I found I could move slowly and the bird never flinched.

176 shots later, the camera battery getting low and water gone, I backed away. The bobwhite continued to call and then I felt sort of bad about the trickery but it was truely a wonderful experience. I have not seen one close up for many years and was thankful for the opportunity.

The Mockingbird

2011-07-23T12:17:00.006-04:00

Territorial, ill natured, bossy, aggressive, taunting and animated. They will swoop at animals and people alike. I have watched a crow chase a hawk and then a mockingbird will chase them both. There is really nothing outstanding about their appearance, monotone gray and white with the occasional brown patch.

What is stand out about the mockingbird is their song. Not a single song but made up of a melody of other bird songs. A mockingbird can have 250+ songs in their repertoire. Their melodies seem to adjust with the time of year and what other birds are dominant in the area. Back in the spring after the arrival of the Great Crested Flycatcher to the yard who was being very vocal, the yard "mocker" picked up sounds very similar.

Their song may consist of up to 15 songs sung in a continuous string. So despite their dull appearance and less than desirable behavior at times, their song adds a pleasant melody to the yard.

It's Not The Heat, It's the Humidity

2011-07-21T17:15:00.003-04:00

So the saying goes and in many respects very true. The heat wave that has been coming across the US has arrived and all I can say is misery. 70+% humidity makes it like a sauna just to stand outside and that is in the shade. A hot wind and extremely dry conditions are adding to the misery. Where is a good tropical storm (rain only) when you need one?

I went out and changed out what little water was left in the bird baths and filled up. The birds were a'twitter waiting and quickly showed their appreciation. Looking at the forecast, Satuday will be a short morning out. Summer is definitely here and not ready to yield to the approaching fall.

Pokeweed and Bluebirds

2011-07-19T19:16:00.006-04:00

Phytolacca Americanna - Pokeweed, pokebush, polk salad / salat / sallet, pokeberry, call it what you want. This time of year, it is the bane of car owners. Farmers attempt to erradicate it because of the toxic effect it has on livestock if ingested. Birds...they love the berries. They are not affected by the plant toxins because the hard shelled seed inside the berry is passed undigested thus aiding in the spread of the plant.

The history and lore associated with the plant makes for good reading if you like to store away some trivial facts. The cultural significance of Pokeweed in the south is evidenced by a 1969 hit song "Polk Salad Annie" written and performed by Tony Joe White and recorded in Muscle Shoals, AL. And now, I will have the song in my head for the rest of the night.

I stood and watched at least 18 young bluebirds flying in and out of this one patch. Unfortunately, since blocked off by a fence I could not get to the most advantagous lighting position so the shots are just so-so. While it was a steady stream of them flying in and out, there would be the occasion a large group would flock in and dive into the patch. When individual birds would approach, they would do a hover motion as if looking for the best and ripest berries.

Hopefully this weekend I will have the chance to go back although the weather is suppose to be miserably hot. The day I took these was already hot and the heat waves were definitely impacting photo quality.

Vulture Weather Vane

2011-07-17T18:28:00.002-04:00

Seeking that perfect gift for the die hard birder in your life?

Painted Bunting Hunting

2011-07-16T21:53:00.007-04:00

My birding friend and I set out early this morning with determination to see the Painted Buntings today. They come in to the Wilmington /Fort Fisher /Carolina Beach area each summer. We headed out about 0430 this morning and arrived in time to see the sunrise.

We set out through the marsh first. Rivers of bright green marsh grass were blowing in the wind between batches of brown reeds. As we walked swatting and cursing the mosquitoes, I thought about what it must have been like for the men who were stationed there during the Civil War and again during WWII. A bunker remains on the trail that I suppose was used for ammo storage during WWII. In 1941, Cpl. Theodore "Ted" Liwin, 445th AAA Bn said "Hell hole! The biggest joke we had going were "combat mosquitoes" that were at the airport. They pumped 50 gallons of gas in them before they found out it was a mosquito!" Well for sure nothing has changed in that regard. This time of year, almost intolerable. Had a good breeze not been blowing today.....

Not much luck there so we turned around and headed for another location. We stopped and listened to the PB call so we would be sure to recognize it. We had not been walking long after that when to the delight of our ears, the Painted Bunting. We walked ever so slowly checking all the trees and brush. We rounded a curve on the path and there it was! After several shots it flew and we followed. Mosquitoes were just wrapping us up at this point but the quest was on.

We finally lost track and by this time both needed water so headed back to the car. As we walked back by a little pond area we looked over and there was a juvenile Ibis sitting in the tree. A few quick shots before it flew.

Breakfast being long gone by now, we headed toward the ferry for a trip over to Southport. I don't know why but I have always loved to go on ferries. It was a wonderful trip over with gulls and pelicans as constant companions. Arriving at Southport we found a local fish house and stopped to eat. With a nice breeze we decided to opt for a table out on the dock. We watched the boats coming in and out and pelicans diving for fish.

It was an absolutely wonderful day but now time for that two hour drive back home. Much discussion on how nice instant teleportation would be versus the long drive home. Beam me up Scotty!

The Green Heron

2011-07-10T17:38:00.004-04:00

Elusive, shy, and solitary except during mating season. Almost comical in appearance during short flights with head feathers standing high. When I spotted this one I tried to ease up trying for a perfect shot of it standing in a shallow creek. No luck. I stepped up something that snapped and off it flew into the shadows of a tree. So here is the shot, I guess better than nothing at all. The quest continues.

Blue Grosbeak - Female

2011-07-09T17:52:00.005-04:00

I haven't had much time this week for anything except work and with afternoon thunderstorms almost everyday, outside activities were limited once I did get home. We really needed the rain however so I guess you have to take the bad with the good.

A very quick birding outing this morning before heading to work for a while. Skies would go from looking like the bottom was getting ready to fall out to sunshine and back. Not prime photo op's.

My birding friend and I became absorbed in watching a female Blue Grosbeak busy gathering nesting material. She seemed to have more blue than most of the females I have seen. As I know the Grosbeak's in the area have already nested once, we were curious about their nesting habits so I did a little searching this afternoon and was surprised at what I learned.

The Piedmont area of the Carolinas and Georgia have some of the greatest densities of nesting populations in North America. Their nest unfortunately often fall victim to being parasitised by Brown Headed Cowbirds. Guess that is why a pair hanging out in the area were paying close attention to the coming and going of the female Grosbeak today.

They average 3 to 5 eggs per clutch. Incubation period is 11-12 days and the young fledge in 9-10 days. Two nestings per season seem to be common. I will be curious to watch this area and see the outcome.

The Exuberance of Youth

2011-07-03T19:32:00.005-04:00

A young fawn begins the day with a ready made breakfast courtesy of mom deer. With a full belly, a bright warm sunny day, a little bit of a cooling breeze and a field of grass, it was time to let loose. Mom doe and another doe stood by munching while the fawn ran and kicked up it's heels. The fawn made several attempts to enage both of the doe's in playtime but that was a no-go. Very fun to watch.

King of the Tree

2011-07-02T20:53:00.003-04:00

Out in the middle of the marsh, there is a dead tree that seems to be a favorite perching spot. Sometimes it is the hawks and other time the Turkey Vultures. Today, it belonged to the Great Blue Heron's. The top two were content to just sit. The bottom two would only sit for a minute, then chase each other around the tree, then back to sit for another minute. Not sure if they were young or just enjoying a game of chase.

NC Birding Trail Books

2011-06-29T19:51:00.008-04:00

Shortly after the series of books came out, I purchased the book for the Piedmont area as these are generally closer to home and more easily visited without much planning. The dog shortly thereafter shreaded the book, stretching the ring binder and chewing pages. I had never gone back and gotten another.

My Mom gave me money for my birthday to get what I wanted so on my way home from work, I went by the Wildlife Resources Commission and picked them up. Not only the Piedmont area (central part of the State) but also the coastal plain trails and the mountain trails. The State is somewhere around 547 miles at the most distant points. The saying is from Murphy to Manteo (mountains to sea). The highest point in the State is Mt. Mitchell at 6684 feet and the lowest is sea level. The diverse topography provides a variety of birding opportunities and possible encounters in each different area.

Each region is broken in to groups then sub-groups. Each birding hot spot includes a brief description of the habitat, anticipated birds you may encounter each season, general directions to the area and any pertinent information such as if the land is open for hunting, prone to flooding, best time of year to visit, etc. For $10.00 a book, they are nice guides. Despite all the new high tech electronic media toys, there is still something to be said about holding a book in your hands. No batteries required.

I had considered taking off tomorrow and Friday and heading down to the southern coastal area of the State to go Painted Bunting hunting. As it is more fun to have a birding buddy, I called my friend to see if she could go but unfortunately other obligations. With already questioning traveling to that area this close to the July 4th weekend this trip will have to be delayed.

Next weekend would be perfect but unfortunately I have to work then so three weeks is a long delay. I may have to rethink this and go ahead and suck it up and work this weekend so I would have next weekend to go.

Catching Up On Weekend

2011-06-27T11:23:00.007-04:00

My internet has been disrupted for the past couple of days and phone service iffy so I am catching up after several days. It was a truely excellent birding weekend. Hot but the humidity was fairly low so it was tolerable.

After already disturbing a doe nursing her fawn when I arrived (which I felt bad about), I decided to park off a ways and walk in to make best advantage of the quiet. As I was walking along the road, something caught my eye. A doe had put her fawn down and there was a pair of eyes peering over the tall grass. My friend came up about that time and we grabbed a couple of shots and walked on. Shortly after we could hear the doe snort announcing her displeasure with us in the area. When we finally walked back, she had retrieved her fawn.

The big excitement was the arrival of a Dickcissel. None of my weekend shots were really to my liking but I kept a couple hoping for a better. The place where it was spotted is quiet on the weekend but extremely busy right now during the week due to logging to clear downed trees from the tornado a couple of months ago. I decided it would be my second stop and the park my first. Am I glad! I guess because of the logging and noise, the pair had shifted over. I got this shot of the male this morning. I later got one of the female at another location but will have to keep trying. I did however count five that flew back over to the park area.

There were several Orchard Orioles flying about in one area. The young ones are in various molt stages of getting their adult feathers so their coloration was interesting. "Dad" Oriole was scolding the young ones with their raucous behavior.

The Indigo Buntings seemed numberous and were singing to their hearts content. I think I will head down to the southern part of the coast over the coming weekend. Several sightings of the Painted Bunting have been made and I have searched a couple of years for one.

The First Day of Summer

2011-06-21T17:20:00.004-04:00

The longest day of the year and not fit outside for man nor beast. The smoke started rolling in the area around noon today and has now prompted a code red air quality day. The next level up is purple and there are a couple of coastal areas where the wildfires are burning that have those. I went out for about 15 minutes when I got home and eyes and nose were definitely burning and a headache started while I was out. A haze fills the air and you feel like you have a heavy weight on your chest. Not my idea of a perfect summer day.

A wildfire has been buring for over a month in the area of the Alligator National Wildlife Refuge. A little over 45k acres have burned in that area. The last big fire in the same area was in 2008. That is not many years for an area to recover in between major fires.

Looking at the fire service page in the past two days there have been 26 wildfires burning approximately 654 acres. We need rain!

I have to wonder if some of the increase in wildlife usually not seen in this area are from animals fleeing areas close to the fire zones. There was a bear sighting a month ago and I have noticed a definite increase in the number of coyote I have spotted of the last couple of weeks.

Not even the birds or squirrels are stirring about this afternoon. A couple of "big boy" birds came in staying in the shade looking for a drink of water. Neither of the bird visitors are usual visitors so with the heat, humidity and haze, I guess they are looking for a cool spot and a cool drink.

Sunday's Best

2011-06-19T15:33:00.005-04:00

Quite a variety of birds out this morning. I took the scope with me to attempt some digiscoping practice but by 0800, the wind was blowing enough to shake the scope so I gave up on that. I went to a couple of places but by 1030 had a killer headache and decided to call it a day. Best shot of the day was a Great Crested Flycatcher. A pair were working the marsh area and seemed to totally ignore my presence coming close enough for some decent shots. I don't know why but I really like these birds. I always get excited each spring when I first hear them calling.

Project Complete - Folkart Stone Owl

2011-06-18T15:42:00.004-04:00

Pretty much everything had been put on the back burner to complete this project as I wanted to have it finished by Monday. Only thing left to do is get some very fine steel wool and do a light over to cut down the sheen of the clear finish. I thought I had satin but it was gloss so as soon as it has a day to set really well, a light once over should do it.

I was not satisfied with the gray I was originally going with on the chest and back so another coat of black and start over. I have definitely lost some of the knack but I think it came out okay. Should look very nice in the log cabin on the fireplace mantle.

Stone Owl Part 3

2011-06-17T16:56:00.002-04:00

Making progress. I have to add details to the front and back feathers, re-work the eyes and beak then a clear coat of protective spray that will make the colors pop. Hopefully tonight I will make good progress then off for some birding in the morning before the heat becomes too oppressive. I should be able to post a completed photo tomorrow.

Stone Owl - Part 2

2011-06-16T16:57:00.004-04:00

The base coat is completed however there will be touch ups all along once feathers are lined in. The face looks like a big orange pumpkin but it is really golden brown. Not really happy with the beak placement and will have to go back and re-work it. The eyes - I can never, ever get the eyes even. I do just a rough placement but without fail will work them at least three times. They are always the last thing I finish.

I start with the face first. It has been almost two years since I painted one and it has definitely been a struggle getting back into the knack. In part one when I estimated time left to complete - WAY WRONG! I remember now why I quit painting. Extremely time consuming. I am now at the 12-14 hours to finish. When I start adding the feather detail, slow going as I try to get lines very thin and evenly spaced. Front and back depending on what design I decide on will probably take 3 hours each.

It still looks a little rough but once detail starts getting added, things just meld together.

The Stone Owl - Part 1

2011-06-15T20:05:00.004-04:00

The lady I work with is getting ready to deploy and I wanted to do something special for her. We have worked off and on together for many years and her husband helped me out tremendously when I first got in to photography several years ago. In the past I did quite a few owls but life became incredibly busy and something had to give. Last week I went to my favorite stone store and looked through finding an appropriate "owl shaped" rock.

I begin by washing the rock and letting it dry well. The next step is to start filling in the base to create a standing platfrom. This is a trial and error process. It usually takes a couple of days because I have found it is better to build a little at a time versus a lot of thickness at once. I use a pre-mixed concrete patch. After much experimenting with various brands, Ace hardware brand is what I prefer.

Once you have a well balanced rock, I then take very rough grit sandpaper and sand down the cement and entire rock including any imperfections I may have filled in. I don't try for a perfectly smooth surface. It is after all, a rock. Once sanded, I give a base coat of black paint, let dry and do a rough outline of the design. I start with the base colors which will take a couple of coats. I am not too worried about perfection at this time. On the next coat I will start tightening up the lines before I start laying in details.

Before you begin detailing, you have to decide what style you will paint. I prefer what I call a detailed folk art style versus and accurate depiction however I have done both. This is where you have to know the taste of the person who will be receiving.

At this point, I figure there is at least 8-10 hours of work left on this piece. Stay tuned.

Finding a Cool Spot

2011-06-14T18:35:00.005-04:00

Heat, heat and more heat. Day after day of 90+ weather has made the fountain/birdbath/watering rock the place to be. There has been a constant stream of birds perched waiting their turn. The Robin is quite the hog visiting several times a day and often just sits in the water.

A Gray Catbird has started visiting but is very timid. I was sitting on the deck very still trying to get some good shots and it spooked first go round when I moved but was a little more acceptable of my being there a few minutes later.

Among the many finches that were there at one time, this bird that I believe to possibly be a young Oriole of some sort was mixed in with the bunch. I am guessing Oriole from the shape of the beak. I hope it hangs around for a while and brings the parents with it next trip.

Cute and Furry - "The Destructor"

2011-06-13T05:18:00.004-04:00

How can something so cute be so destructive? I spotted the three baby rabbits in the back yard last week. My first reaction was of course delight. The next afternoon when I removed the grill cover, they took off and Ali caught one. Horror! The rabbit was squealing and Ali was walking around with it in her mouth. I just knew that at any moment she was going to shake it like she does her stuffed toy.

I sat down and quietly called her to me trying not excite her any further. She finally came to me and I got the baby rabbit. Frightened but not injured, I took the rabbit to the front yard and placed it under a large bed of azalea bushes to provide cover. Over the next two days I set the live trap and caught the remaining two little ones and also took them out of the back yard.

Late in the afternoon I would see them playing in the grass so I knew all was well. This past Thursday, I had bought some flowers to re-work my flower bed. Three different colors of coneflowers. I like these because the butterflies like the flowers and birds like the dried seed heads. Seems the baby rabbits also found their tender stalks prime pickings. All the flowers lay wasted on the ground. The remainder of Sunday afternoon was spent putting cages around the plants. These were lush, large plants when I bought them. Now reduced to a couple of sprigs.

Early Sunday Outing

2011-06-12T11:24:00.007-04:00

Clouds gathered early last night darkening the skies which soon released welcome rain. The rain and thunder lulled me to sleep early so by 0400 this morning I was well rested and ready to go. Off to a leasurely breakfast killing a little time to let the skies lighten up. Some residual cloud cover remained but was quickly giving way to sunshine.

Driving down a dirt road, Eastern Meadowlarks seem to be adornments on almost every fence post. Their melodious song wafted across the fields announcing a new day. Morning glories growing against the fence also greeted the morning sun.

Heading to a specific location trying to photograph a pair of Summer Tanagers, I passed a group of Goldfinch's enjoying a breakfast of dandelion seeds. Could hear the distinctive call of the Tanagers but never saw them. Getting close to 0800 by now and time for the park to open so I headed that way.

Finally able to get a decent shot of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo. I have heard it for the last couple of weeks but had not been able to see it.

Nature Oddities - Those Insidious Cowbirds

2011-06-11T12:01:00.014-04:00

Back in the early part of spring, my friend and I watched as a pair of Common Yellowthroats were obviously building a nest. We watched them flying in and out of a blackberry patch bringing in nesting material. A week or so later when in the same area, we witnessed a pair of Brown-headed Cowbirds lurking about watching. My friend commented potential trouble.

More truthful words had never been spoken. Today I watched in amazement at the result of what happens when a nest has been parasitized. I stood for at least 45 minutes and watched the spectacle. What caught my attention was the considerable size difference. The fledgling Cowbird is twice the size of the Yellowthroat. What an absolute bizarre sight. A fledging Yellowthroat was also nearby but got no attention.

The adult Yellowthroat was working tirelessly trying to feed this young Cowbird whose appetite seemed endless and stomach bottomless. On a few occasions it would stop short trying to get the fledging Cowbird to move. It however was pefectly content to sit and wait for food to appear. There was the occasional preening to remove molting feathers and a stretch every now and then but would soon settle back down resting on the branch.

During one of the extended hunting trips by the Yellowthroat, the fledgling Cowbird stood up looking about then started makings its little pitty calls and ruffling wings. The term slothenly came to mind. This shot gives a good prespective and how large the young Cowbird is.

As it appeared it would be an all day feeding event, I took my leave. Whether it is imprinting or some other unknown connection of nature, it surprises me that the adult Yellowthroat continued to feed such a large bird leaving its on species off-spring to fend for itself. You would think that something in nature would signal that this is a bird of a different feather. I guess that instinct to feed when a mouth is gapping open is just too great.

Hot, Hazy, Humid Day

2011-06-10T14:39:00.014-04:00

My initial plans this morning was to visit a nature park north of Raleigh. Awaking later than I intended, I changed my plans because I simply did not want to face the horrendous traffic on that part of town, particularly on a Friday when everyone is already in a hurry to get where they are going so they can hurry and get back home.

I went to my usual park and after I got there was very glad on the change. I never saw anyone until I was walking to the car to leave. Love it! The Chat was chatting up a storm this morning and since I was by myself, once again decided to chat back. Five different times I got the bird to come close enough to get some really great shots. I probably spent 30 minutes mimicking the bird and getting it to come close. They are generally very elusive preferring to stay in the shadows and hide yet are very vocal and animated in their calls.

As I was moving to another location, I came across this squirrel on the bridge railing. I stood
looking and thinking something about this squirrel was different. The tail!!! I have never seen such a long tail. At first I thought it was just an illusion but when another squirrel came up beside it, it became obvious that the tail was at least 6 inches longer than the other squirrel's. It also had a very reddish tone to the fur versus the generally predominately gray squirrels we have in the area. What a small variation in genetics can do.

Lots of Swallows out and about chasing insects. Barn, Tree and Rough-winged Brown. They lined the railing of the bridge and would take off all around you when you finally got within about 3 feet of where they were perching. Something about them, they are just very sweet looking birds to me.

Great Morning Out

2011-05-31T14:51:00.005-04:00

Since Monday was a holiday and happened to be my day off, I had today off which made it a nice long weekend. The temperature was already warm and expected to rise to mid 90's today so I had second thoughts as to whether much would be out but decided to go ahead out for about an hour. Not much out over the weekend so I figured today would be the same.

Was I ever wrong. For whatever reason the birds were really out today. I had been chasing a mystery bird for the last couple of weeks. I could not place the call and it would never come out in the open. Yesterday I got a quick shot but extremely poor quality as the lighting was in front of me. A new bird for my list, Yellow-breasted Chat so I was determined to get a good shot.

I heard it before I approached the back bridge and eased out ever so slowly. A couple of shots and it flew to a tree further back. It continued to call and I decided to start mimicking it. Well what do you know. It flew close to me and I stood and chatted with the Chat. I got so tickled that I could not whistle back.

A new Oriole was in today. A couple of not very good shots but until I can determine what and hopefully get a better shot I will hold in reserve.

Several juvenile Blue Grosbeaks were out hunting. As beautiful as they are as adults, while they are in molting stage with their mix of colors, not the best looking birds but fun watch.

The Damselflies are out with their iridescent colors ablaze. Unlike dragonflies, they tend to stay in a shaded area finding a little patch of sunshine.

The Curious Case of Phoebe

2011-05-29T16:41:00.012-04:00

Over the last two years, despite all efforts to discourage nesting, a Phoebe has succeeded in building a nest under the carport on top of the light. She has always chosen one particular side and only varied once on a second nesting when the nest fell down.

This year was no different. I thought I had successfully discouraged her from the light by placing a nesting platform on the side, but no. Back in March while I was gone for a couple of days, she had completed the nest. That being done, I was not going to disturb it.

Phoebe sat on the nest for a couple of weeks then suddenly, gone. As temperatures were still cool at night, I knew any eggs would no longer be viable. After seeing a Brown Headed Cowbird pair hanging around, curiosity got the better of me so I got the ladder and headed up. Not wanting to disturb the nest, I placed a mirror over fully expecting to see a couple of Phoebe eggs and a possible Cowbird egg. Nothing....no sign of anything. I double checked the carport floor but no broken eggs.

I marveled at the finely woven nest. The finest of grasses carefully woven forming an almost perfect circle. The outside of the nest had been carefully covered and hooked to the light with lichens and moss. All I could do was wonder. There is no way a snake could have gotten to the next and no signs of it being disturbed. I considered going ahead and removing the nest so I could paint a replaced piece of plywood that had already been postponed from the previous year double nesting but I just could bring myself to remove what she worked so hard on.

I did not see Phoebe again for a couple of weeks. Eventually, she came back to the yard area perching on her favorite spots then dashing off after an insect. This past Tuesday, I noticed that she was coming and sitting on the opposite light, sitting and just looking at the nest. She did this for a couple of days. On Friday when I came home, Phoebe was in the next and did the peer over at me as I was going in the house.

Today between periods of nest sitting and insect chasing, she would fly to a nearby tree where what I presume is Mr. Phoebe sits. They seem like an old married couple fussing with each other. I am very courious as to whether she has laid eggs or not but will not disturb the nest. I will just track to when I think they would hatch. Outcome to be seen.

Irony

2011-05-24T16:54:00.002-04:00

Arrived at work early this morning hoping to complete a couple of pending projects. Computer system had crashed and burned and it was going to be several hours before we were up and running. Having my camera with me I decided to go walking at the eco station next door to where I work. Took quite a few of the hawk in a tree and flying and once it landed on this post. I knew it was a mini-weather station but had no idea of the writing until I got home.

Tribute to Motherhood - Tufted Titmouse

2011-05-06T19:33:00.010-04:00

Over the last several weeks, I have watched a pair of Tufted Timouse go from building their nest inside a hollowed out limb hole to now, spending much of their time finding food for their young.

I get about two 15 minute periods in the afternoon when the sun shines directly on the opening. I try each afternoon to get that perfect shot.

The female of course seems to be doing most of the work as the male sits lookout over the nest while the female flies in and out. On occasion, he will find an insect nearby to where he is on watch and pass it over to the female. The task of feeding and tending to the nest however seems to fall on the female. Usually between her trips in and out of the nest, she will stop off at the bird feeder for a bite. I try to keep that feeder filled with high quality energy seeds.

I have to say, they are an extremely dedicated pair. This afternoon just after the female departed the nest, a Carolina Wren flew to a dangling limb close to the opening. The male quickly flew into action and promptly dispatched the wren from the area. The Carolina Wren couple is nesting very close and unlike the Titmice pair, both seem to hunt for insects together.

Several days ago when I went out keeping a discreet distance from the nesting tree, all the birds in the area became instantly upset. I began to feel bad thinking I was the cause of the upset but soon, I saw what the true cause. A hawk had flown in and bird chaos erupted. The sound of the warning calls from all the birds in the area was almost overwhelming. In a few minutes, some Robins and Cardinals seem to join forces to chase the hawk away. The female Titmouse who had been in the nest peered out looking all around to make sure the danger had passed.

I figure I may have one more week to watch. I can now see the little ones moving about a bit if I watch carefully when the mother bird first flies in. I hope after the little ones fledge, she will have a nice vaction. Like most mothers, she deserves a break after raising her young.

Green Heron

2011-05-03T19:29:00.003-04:00

Outstanding Ending to the Weekend

2011-05-01T19:17:00.008-04:00

All I can say is the stars and planets must have been in perfect alignment this weekend. For just staying local, this has been a simply outstanding weekend. I won't even bad mouth the clouds that came in this afternoon. I needed the rest and if the sun had been shining, I simply could not have stood to be inside.

The morning started off a bit cool but the crisp air felt good. Glad though I had an extra emergency jacket stashed in the trunk because it was cooler than I thought once I got out. I left about an hour early before the park opens and hit a few places on the way. Once again, despite numerous attempts to photograph my nemesis bird...the Eastern Meadowlark, not a good one among them. It is a running joke with one of my friends.

On my first stop, a pair of Red-tailed Hawks were hunting a field hard. I thoroughly enjoying watching. They are magnificent flyers. The photo is a composite shot of several in the series. On the fence along the dirt road, Blue Grosbeaks seemed to be everywhere. They are just pretty birds and I like this time of year when they come in. Lighting was not optimal but what the heck.

I think the coolness of the morning kept many people from showing up at the park early. For at least an hour I had the park to myself. Lovely! No loud talkers or joggers or fast walkers to scare everything away. As I was going across the main bridge, I noticed something fly in. Although it flew in to the shadows, I recognized the flight silhouette. Green Heron. And then, another. I quickly set up the tripod. For 30 minutes I stood watching them. Definite courtship and scouting for nesting area was going on. If I could have hoped for one thing, better lighting would have been it.

As I walked down the trail to the back bridge, I passed an area of honeysuckle. It's sweet fragrance filled the air as sunbeams were warming it. I just stopped and inhaled deeply. Such a wonderful simple treat. Natures perfume.

Arriving at the back bridge, with the coolness of the morning, the birds were not very active yet. I sat down on the bench and scanned the trees with the bino's. Then I just sat. Enjoying the peace and listening to the sounds of nature. In a few minutes, I saw some deer coming out of the woods. I sat very still and ducked down behind the rail on the bridge. Finally I slowly and quietly moved to the camera. I got quite a few shots off before they spotted me. They all stood at first as if what to do and continued to munch along for a while. This young male finally snorted and stomped and they all took off. What fun!

Ever Had A Really Great Day?!

2011-04-30T20:04:00.006-04:00

Every now and then you have one of those really fantastic days, and today, the mojo was in full force. My digiscoping efforts, while not what I had hoped for were much improved so that is a positive. It is a learning process and at least I am taking leaps forward versus steps back.

My first birding stop was productive and where I spent about an hour practicing. Eastern Meadowlarks, Barn Swallows, a male and female Blue Grosbeak and the Bobolinks.

Left that location and went on to the park. Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, White-Eyed Vireo (note the cool white eye), Common Yellowthroat, Indigo Buntings and a wonderful flyover by some Red-Shouldered Hawks taking food back to the nest. One hawk circled over as if to say look what I have. The photo of the hawks is a series of four shots as it came by, circled and departed. The creature dangling is a frog.

Weather was perfect. After coming home, cut the grass and worked in the yard for a while then took Ali-girl for a long walk. She is sacked out tonight and I am not far behind her. A shower and tick check is a must. I have already pulled five off today.

Fly By

2011-04-29T18:21:00.006-04:00

I took a day of leave today to combine with my Monday off for a four day weekend. Weather is suppose to be wonderful. My intentions were to get up early and head out however, things did not go as planned. I hoped to arrive early and attempt to photograph some Boblinks but arrived too late. I missed more good shots today that I got but saw some nice things.

My intent was to spend some time practicing digiscoping for tomorrow. I have been frustrated with my attempts and finally joined an online group and have been practicing some recommendations received from the group. I must say, there has been a big improvement this week which makes me happy.

My plans tonight are to make sure all lenses are crystal clean, camera battery charged and everything is packed and checked for in the morning. There was so much "fluff" for lack of a better word flying in the air today most of my shots had little specks.

As I was leaving the park crossing the bridge over the pond, a Great Blue Heron flew so close I could not even adjust the camera quickly enough. When one is that close, you realize what huge birds they truely are.

My hopes for tomorrow are the Boblinks, Indigo Buntings, White Eyed Vireo and a Kentucky Warbler I spotted today.

Birding At Home

2011-04-23T19:14:00.004-04:00

The morning started out with a light drizzle and fog and between having a presentation to work on for a bluebird society meeting where I have been invited to present and gas prices sky high, at home it was today.

Late this afternoon the sun came out and it was beautiful. I will splurge tomorrow on a birding outing. I did have another purpose for staying home particularly once the sun came out. For the last couple of days, a Great Crested Flycatcher has been hanging around and as I am typing hear it has come back and is sitting out calling.

As they are only migratory birds in this area, it is exciting when one takes up residence for the summer. After a couple of days of listening to it but never quite being able to get a good look, this afternoon was it. When I finally spotted it, I also happened to notice another unfamiliar bird. I have heard its call the last couple of afternoons also and unfortunately, it flew so quickly I only got tail feathers. Well, just a challenge for another afternoon.

A bluebird that is nesting in a box up the street flew down to hunt insects in the sinking sunlight of the day. The birds hit the trees in front of the house as they catch the last rays.

Catching Up

2011-04-18T15:58:00.004-04:00

The last two weeks have been an absolute blur. High stress work, deep heartache over the loss of a loved one to someone I work with, a severe injury to my Aunt and then to top it all off, a much to close call with a tornado has been just about all I can stand for a while. I have spent the last two afternoons picking up limb after limb. Hail mostly destroyed all the flowers I had put out so I will have to start over on those.

I am thankful though because many people their homes and possessions and not sure of the number now, but quite a few, their lives. Less than two miles from where I live, a swath of trees looks like some hacked them off half way down and many building destroyed.

After finally getting the yard back in some reasonable order, I took the morning to go to the park/refuge. Crying shame. Many large trees down there too but mostly confined to one trail.

As I was leaving, I stopped to watch some Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers and almost did not see what was before my eyes. Delighted to see that the hummingbirds have arrived.

Weekend Wildlife

2011-04-10T12:19:00.005-04:00

I was looking forward to the weekend but Mother Nature had weather plans of her own that put a serious damper on mine. I know we needed the rain, but enough! If April showers bring May flowers, it will be a bumper crops. Several bad storms over the last couple of days have taken a toll. I have a tree down in the yard that did some damage and took my phone line down for a couple of days.

I was able to get out a little while yesterday morning before more rain came back in. I was the first car through the gate at the refuge I visit and drove very slowly down the drive. Off in the field beside the drive I spotted movement and stopped the car. A fox was chasing and pouncing on something. I never could see what it was after but I suppose a mouse.

This morning I hoped for a little nicer weather but it was still overcast and cloudy. Makes birding difficult and with leaves now coming on the trees, even more so. As I was watching a heron fly off, I noticed movement in the water. The beaver was making an appearance. It would swim over to a patch of water lillys then dive down. Not sure if it was just chewing the stems off of completely pulling or digging them up. With prize in tow, it would then go to shallow water to have a nice bit of morning breakfast. After several trips, it finally came on shore and waddled off to the back side of the little island.

American Goldfinches

2011-04-04T14:53:00.009-04:00

Gone are the muted colors of winter for the male GF's. There is not much of a change in the female coloration. The tree was filled with finches going from branch to branch. Not sure if they were looking for insects attracted to the sap of the budding leaves or eating seeds from the buds.

I had hoped to get a little digiscoping practice in today however the wind gusts were simply too great. The birds were not quite as active as hoped for. I have noticed that when the wind is very strong they seem to take refuge among the brush. Until another day.

Great Birding Morning

2011-04-03T23:41:00.004-04:00

I was pulled to work the 3-11 shift for the weekend which I dreaded because my normal hours are 6-3 but decided it was the lesser of two busy weekends.

I wasn't sure I would feel like getting up early to go birding this morning knowing I had to go in at 3 but decided with the beautiful weather, yes and it turned out to be a fantastic day.

On a couple of occasions over the last 2-3 weeks when going to my favorite haunt, I had spotted a bird I didn't readily recognize but with traffic was unable to stop. This morning early I headed out with the intention to take a couple of side stops and there it was. I went to a turn around and came back up just knowing the bird would be gone but there it was. I eased out of the car grabbing the camera and grabbed some shots. I knew it was not a bird normally seen in the are but still unsure at this point what it was.

When I arrived at my destination I grabbed the bird book and started looking. My friend punch it in on the ipad and there it was. A Scissor-tailed flycatcher. They are not normally in the area and are more towards Texas and Oklahoma. What a thrill. So this constitutes a rare bird in this area.

Day continued with a Yellow Palm Warbler and several other good shots. I am just getting home and wanted to make a post but it is off to bed now. I have tomorrow off and plan to head out early. Weather is suppose to be beautiful so I hope for good birding.

Fly By - The Happy Heron

2011-03-31T18:02:00.001-04:00

Common Yellowthroat

2011-03-29T18:39:00.004-04:00

After 7 days where high temperatures went from 83 to 40, today was a nice day before rain that is suppose to move in tomorrow. The server that operates the computer system I work on crashed and burned around noon today so home I went quickly to change, grab the camera and head out.

Was thrilled to see the Common Yellowthroats had returned to the area. I generally only see them in this area spring through summer. This male's bright yellow stood out and caught my attention quickly.

I saw the female but never could get a decent shot of her. Something for another day.

Canon 50mm lens vs Black Lab

2011-03-27T15:29:00.003-04:00

Guess who won? Yucky weather today and practicing some digiscoping through the window. Trying a couple of different lenses and cameras. This is what happens when you don't secure your items. Yes, not very happy with "THE DOG"but I have as much blame in the incident. If it has your scent on it, put it up! At least, it was the least expensive of all.

So, I will add this to the list of 4 remotes, 1 cordless telephone, 1 cell phone and countless other minimal items.