Muddy Sneakers

Snow Day!!

2009-03-03T14:27:00.007-05:00

Now it's common knowledge that we just don't get a lot of the white stuff down here in the south, but Sunday night it snowed and we got a pretty fair amount! 6 to 12 inches in some spots. It was GREAT! I think I spent the majority of yesterday out with the camera, the scene was just so beautiful. I took almost 700 photos! Of course, after weeding through them the 'ok' shots were numbered WAY below 700. :)

These guys were out sledding around with a four wheeler and their dog! I think the dog was even enjoying it.

This lone grackle showed up at one of the feeding stations yesterday for some suet. It was so funny to watch. As the snow would fall from the trees, the grackle seemed to be opening it's mouth specifically to catch the flakes as they drifted by.

"Baby, it's COLD outside!"

I have a hard time deciding between color and mono sometimes.

A view westward...

Out in the back pasture...

Across the road...

Such beautiful light even makes my compost bins look pretty!

Bluebird

2009-02-25T14:47:00.001-05:00

Bluebirds are just cute. This fellow was sitting on top of an old okra stalk with one of his buddies...till I grabbed the camera of course. I did manage to get a few shots of one of them though. They are pretty severely cropped, hence the size, but he's still just the cutest thing!

Trying on a new look...

2009-01-03T10:12:00.003-05:00

I'm in the process of renovating and trying out some new looks for the blog so it may take a minute more to load. Happy New Year...again!

A Hawky New Year

2009-01-01T14:26:00.004-05:00

Well Happy 2009 folks! The old year has passed, the new has arrived, and I've got my first shots ever of a Red-shouldered hawk.

This bird flew by while I was walking my dogs earlier today and hung around long enough for me to get the girls back to the house and grab my kit. A really exciting start to the photographic year.
Apparently, he's been making himself quite at home around the farm the last few weeks, even taken to sitting in the mimosa tree to watch the feeder birds. Guess even hawks need a little snack from time to time. Usually see the sharp shinned hawks taking the little birds though.

By the way, if I'm wrong on the id of this fellow let me know. I heard another red shoulder 'talking' in another tree across the pasture, and that combined with some other shots I took are what lead me to this id. But if it's a red-tail, please correct me! :)

House Finch or Purple Finch?

2008-12-04T10:28:00.005-05:00

When I first began 'birding', distinguishing between house and purple finches was one of the first things I learned. For me it was especially confusing when they were in their winter feather. So, if you're wondering the same thing about some of your feeder birds, this article is for you.

Male and Female

Both sexes of both finches display similar characteristics. The male is always more brightly colored and the female is brown for the most part.

Purple or Red?

The name 'purple' finch is indeed a bit misleading, especially in their winter feather because they do look more red than purple. But in the spring and summer, the males will moult into a beautiful rich red, that almost looks like a mixed purple. The color reminds me of mixing primary red and blue to achieve the secondary purple.
Male house finches on the other hand are most obviously red. Some of them are even a bit of an orange mutation. I am not sure if that is related to genetics or food supply.

Females Are Confusing

In my experience, the females are the most difficult to tell apart unless you know what you're looking for. Female purples are always darker brown than female house finches. Female house finches are almost tan in color. The both have streaked breasts, but the purple finch has more obvious 'stripes'. You're also going to notice a thick streak above and below the female purple finch's eye. I think the eye streak is the fastest way to id along with color in general.

Size Matters

Another distinguishing difference between the two finches is size. Purple finches tend to be a bit larger than house finches. The are a little longer from head to tail tip as well as 'bulkier'.

Other Look Alikes

There are other birds that can be confused for purple and house finches. Certain sparrows favor them as well as female redwing black birds. You may even be apt to mistake a pine siskin for a house finch. Be sure to pay attention to color, body shape and feather markings, bird location(feeder, field, etc), as well as bill shape. These factors will help to narrow your id search down not only when it comes to purple and house finches, but other birds as well.

Happy Birding!

Quick Fact:

House Finches are NOT native Eastern North American birds and are considered a nuisance by some. How'd they get to the eastern side of N.A.? They were caged pets released near NYC in the 1940's.
They are native to western half of the continent. They are also the most prolific carrier of a disease called Mycoplasmal Conjunctivitis or House Finch Disease.

Bird-O-Rama

2008-12-03T13:31:00.002-05:00

I'm back to my winter birding obsession it seems. The feeders are back up at the window and I've even discovered a new site out in the pasture to watch and listen to sparrows, wrens, cardinals, bluebirds, and more. I'm so pleased! :) Here are some recent photos from the window feeders.

Autumn and Bach

2008-10-29T10:39:00.001-04:00

Where the winds may take you...

2008-10-28T19:38:00.002-04:00

Saturday brought about some fabulous weather for our annual BalloonFest. It was pretty cool and the wind blew a bit, but it made for a lovely sky backdrop for all the colorful hot air balloons.

Parking with Ducks

2008-10-17T16:10:00.004-04:00

Went to the park a few days ago and got a few shots of some of the muscovy ducks in the pond. Granted, they're not true 'wildife' I suppose, but nice to look at just the same.This little hen looks like she's saying, "I wonder what's under here?"

We've also had a few migrating monarchs pass through. Not as many as years past though.

An Uncommon Butterfly

2008-10-06T09:48:00.004-04:00

The long-tailed skipper (Urbanus proteus) is not very common this far West in North Carolina.
From the information I have read, it's a southern migrant that usually sticks around the southern coastal plains here in NC, but lo-and-behold what do I see on Saturday morning but a long-tailed skipper feeding on my butterfly bush!
We have LOTS of skippers here in Iredell County (Western Piedmont- about 500 miles from the coast), but this fellow has to be the most fantastic skipper I've ever seen. There's no way you could get him mixed up with another.

Frawgs....err...frogs

2008-09-22T09:24:00.003-04:00

On one of my morning walks last week I almost stepped on this little guy. He was a most unexpected find, as it has been rather cool lately, but I suppose he was just out enjoying the lovely morning and the dew.
Oh, and it's a Pickerel Frog, one of NC's 'true frogs' (ie: it's not a toad or a tree frog). Be sure and check out the call if you have a chance. It's such a loud and odd noise, you'd never believe it came from such a small creature.

Around the House

2008-08-28T15:50:00.004-04:00

Fred the cat was terribly offended by this moth one morning a few weeks ago, so I relieved her of the annoyance. I dunno why she didn't like it, I thought it was pretty neat! It was a large moth, but not as large as the luna moths we see occassionally. I'm thinking it's a Imperial Moth of some sort. A really neat find. Thanks Fred!
I'm thinking this is either a young mocker in moult or this fellow's just had a really bad summer!
It's always interesting the array of colours found in nature. Hot pink and lime green, who woulda thought!
The squirrells have been doing a fantastic job of raiding the pear and apple trees this year. It's like nothing I've ever seen in years past. Makes me wonder if they know something about the upcoming winter season that I don't.
Hot peppers anyone?

More of the Smokies

2008-08-21T15:30:00.001-04:00

Cades Cove - GSMNP, TN

2008-08-21T13:21:00.004-04:00

(Be sure to click on the photos...some were cut off in the blog frames!)

The last time I was in the cove I took photos of EVERYTHING. This time I decided to concentrate on my favorite subjects instead: the wildlife. While this visit didn't pan out well for wild turkeys (it was a little too late in the morning), I did see PLENTY of deer! I photographed at least 3 sets of does/fawns and saw more than that. On the way back to the Sugarlands Center, we were also able to photograph a sow black bear and her two cubs foraging in the forest. Unfortunately, as was my 'luck' last time in the cove, my bear photos were underexposed due to my error and haste. ACK! :)

The Great Smoky Mountains (Pt. 1)

2008-08-21T13:07:00.003-04:00

Monday was a day trip day over to the Smokies. These particular shots were taken on the TN side of the national park, about 3 hours from my home, on a little stretch of parkway between I-40 and 421 called, 'The Foothills Parkway'.

Granted, I have never been great with landscapes, and I was minus any filters and much knowledge...but I'm not too dissatisfied with these.

INVASION!

2008-07-25T12:47:00.003-04:00

Ahhh....Friday morning...the weekend is on it's way...looks like it's gonna be a lovely day....hey....huh....what is that annoying screeching sound? Wha? Whoa! They're EVERYWHERE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, the grackles have INVADED the funny farm! I awoke this morning to the sights and sounds of a huge flock of common grackles dispersing among the farm. Some were in the yards, some were in the back pasture, some were in the trees...but most of them had gathered in what's left of the corn and my BIRD FEEDERS!!!!

I tell ya, that's a face I'm not even sure a momma grackel could love...

For every black bird you see, there's 3 or 4 more....AHHH!

Rascally little boogers......

A Few For Today

2008-07-23T16:25:00.001-04:00

A 'Seedy' Bunch

2008-07-22T15:39:00.009-04:00

I really meant to post these photos in a sequential order, but alas, sometimes my brain doesn't do what I want it to do!

This morning brought a ton of winged visitors to the feeders, including my favorite little Carolina wren.

This wiley little squirell is very entertaining. I've let her hang around for some time now. She's yet to destroy a feeder, just enjoys the tray feeder and bird bath for a drink.

This little tufted titmouse was having a rough morning. The heat is really getting to some of the birds. July has been crazy with the weather and I think we got a little spoiled with the low humidity and low(er) temps of the last couple weeks. We've had a week of steady 90's with high humidity so far. Definately taking a toll on everyone.
Okay, so I am a Goldfinch FANATIC! I think they are one of the prettiest 'feeder' birds around and I especially enjoy watching them eat from the sunflower heads.

Here's that silly little wren again. I could watch 'him' all day long. He's so funny.

'He' has a stash of seeds under the tray feeder which he checks and munches on from time to time. The ants that gather also make a yummy snack I'm sure.
Sing, sing, sing...

'Owl Practice' - Thought he looked a bit like a tiny owl in this shot.
The tufted titmice ran amuck at the feeders this morning as well. There were three of them, the same clutch mates from some earlier photos of a bird bath session I posted previously I believe, who raise cain with the house finches whenever they're around. They're usually too fast and jumpy for me to get a good photo, but today they were quite cooperative.

Praying Mantis

2008-07-20T16:56:00.002-04:00

This mantis was in my herb garden having a snack this afternoon. Too bad they aren't more picky eaters...he was devouring a honey bee. I'd much rather him eat the 'bad bugs'. Ah, oh well!

July Window Birds

2008-07-20T13:19:00.005-04:00

Goldfinches

2008-07-18T13:50:00.003-04:00

This young pair of goldfinches has been frequenting the feeders and sunflowers lately.

Random Photos

2008-06-20T20:58:00.004-04:00

I don't have much time to type these days, so I thought I would just load some recent photos of random nature stuff. A yellow breasted chat, honey bee, lady bug, Zebulon skippers have crossed my path in the last couple months.

In other news, black bear sightings are being reported in the county now. The 'bares' are coming down further and further to find food for winter. This drought is really taking a toll on wildlife. Even the insect populations seem to be on the decline...well, except for the skeeters. ACK.

Water Fun

2008-06-20T20:50:00.003-04:00

This family of baby (well, young) tufted titmice decided to check out the bird bath while mom and dad were at the feeders. Reluctant at first, a couple of them soon got the hang of it!

Snake days are here again!!

2008-05-31T21:59:00.007-04:00

Hurray!!! It's that time of year once again- time for snakes to begin making an appearance! I know a lot of folks don't even like to hear the word snake, much less get excited about seeing them, but I'm quite enthused. (Much to my friends and family's chagrin.)

At any rate, this little beauty was having a rest at the bottom of our drive today. It's a little eastern king snake I believe, if you look closely you can see the faint yellow rings around it's body, although the belly markings suggest a rat snake. Either way I think it's probably a 2007 hatchling, about 3 feet long and maybe an inch in diameter.

I'm really excited about this fellow. This is one of the nicest, most docile snakes I've ever handled. The last kingsnake I examined was a hatchling and much more aggressive than this snake. I guess it doesn't take much to make me happy.

See how the snake is sort of balled up? That's a defensive/protective measure. "I'll ball myself up and hopefully you won't hurt me too bad or you'll just loose interest and go away." (See...snakes aren't on a mission to GET YOU.)

INTERESTING FACTIOD: Eastern Kingsnakes will eat other snakes! They are immune to the venom of pit vipers: copperheads, rattlesnakes, and cotton mouths.

In the Middle

2008-05-28T20:29:00.004-04:00

We had an influx of fledgling birds this past week. Robins, titmice, bluebirds, starlings....everywhere! Thankfully the cats didn't notice, but I did! This little fellow was quite content to have his portrait made.

Memorial Day Roses

2008-05-23T10:17:00.003-04:00

I think yellow roses symbolize friendship? Well, I'm not 100% sure, but I do know that my Mom's yellow roses are 100% pretty. So here's to all my pallys out in the land of blogs and also in rememberance of all those who have fought for and are still serving our great nation. Happy Memorial Day everyone! God's speed!

Migrants and Residents

2008-05-01T09:19:00.012-04:00

The past week has brought with it some new migrants, namely Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks. Two males have been visiting the feeders on a pretty regular basis. These birds don't breed below 3000 ft I'm told, so I am assumming these fellows are first year males looking for some good and easy eats. Notice the heavy beak, much thicker and larger than other 'finch types'. These guys are related to cardinals. On Sunday I was awakened by what sounded like a really loud cat. I halfway thought it was a grey catbird, but I've never seen or heard one around here before so I just dismissed it as a real cat. Later in the day my earlier thoughts were confirmed when I actually saw the catbird hopping around in the 'grape garden'. He/she has been visible everyday this week and quite tolerant of me and my camera as well, I wish I could say the same for the lighting. This bird is grey with a bit of charcoal black on it's head, and oddly enough rusty undertail feathers. I hope you're able to see that in these shots.

A brown thrasher ventured out from it's scrubby home yesterday to mill around in the yard a bit. It's quite unusual to see one out this far in the open, they're usually fairly secretive birds that stick close to brushy growth- in my experience anyway. Interestingly enough, both the catbird and the brown thrasher belong to the same family as the northern mockingbird, another resident here.
In my afternoon walk yesterday, I was treated to several different types of dragons and I finally got off a few shots of the swamp darner that has been eluding me. The common whitetails have also showed up. I haven't seen any mature males but there are plenty of females and juvenilles. The setwings, baskettails, and others are flying strong too.

The transition from spring to summer is beginning here in the south. The nights still get a little cool but our days are peaking in the high 70's and lower 80's now. Soon the humidity will arive and the dog days of summer with it. Here are some images that reflect this 'in between' season:
Bearded Irises

Lady Bugs and Butterflies

Tent Caterpillars
Baby Peaches

Dragonflies

2008-04-16T18:20:00.005-04:00

This afternoon's walk was leaving me a bit disappointed until I came across a few old friends. A swamp darner eluded me, but they're tricky to shoot unless it's late and they're soaking up the last bit of sun they can get. I did get a few nice shots of a lone baskettail (Epitheca cynosura) and a swift setwing (Dythemis velox)- I may be wrong on that id, I'm a little rusty.
The setwing:

And the baskettail:

Odd Nature

2008-04-16T11:39:00.003-04:00

Sometimes nature can be a bit odd, funny even. While heading out on my daily walk yesterday a female robin and her 'catch' caught my attention. She was doing her dead level best to get the worm airborne with herself, to no avail. I took a few shots from a pretty good distance and thought to myself, 'that sure is a big worm, I wonder if she's got a snake...' Sure enough, by the time I got about 4 feet from her she finally gave up and dropped it: a smooth earth snake. Ironically enough, this snakes diet consists mainly of small insects...and earthworms.
I do love nature. Never a dull day!

It Begins

2008-04-15T09:42:00.007-04:00

It's official now. The hummingbird season is emerald green for go. Two more males showed up last night at the window feeder.
FAN-TAB-U-LAS-TIC.
They've learned where the feeder is and I've learned that it "ain't" so easy to photograph a hummer in flight...even with a DSLR. :) I did, however, manage a few shots. Well, more like 179 shots, but who's counting?
They spent the evening hours guarding their spot and chasing one another off. I hope some females show up soon.

The next time I see these guys, I'm going to shoot them in RAW. I get so frustrated with amount of artifacts present in jpegs.

Does it seem like you're looking at the same photo over and over? I promise you're not, I just couldn't decide which I liked best!

I did manage to get him in flight once, even if he's a bit of a blur!

The hummingbirds have arrived!

2008-04-14T08:11:00.004-04:00

The first hummer I've seen this year arrived yesterday evening! It was a beautiful male ruby throated hummingbird (the only kind you'll see east of the Mississippi) and he made two visits to the feeder outside my window. Unfortunately I was on the wrong side of it so my photos didn't turn out so well, but that's ok, he or another will be back I'm sure.
The park ranger at Riverbend Park, about 40 minutes west of here, said that he's banded several newcomers and has also seen many birds return that he's banded in the past. I'm looking forward to seeing more myself. They are just the cutest little birds!

In other birding news: A couple of field sparrows showed up to pick through what was left of the millet in the late evening. I really enjoy these little birds. At first only one would show up and then he or she began bringing it's mate, I assume. They're so shy it's hard to get a good photo without scaring them off.

Dragon Hunting...and more

2008-04-13T17:09:00.011-04:00

While out on my bird walk this morning I decided to go dragonfly hunting. The meadow on the other side of a wooded area is nice and green and the sun warms it nicely, I so figured that would be a good place to start. And viola! Success!

I came across several baskettails and a couple green darners, and this fellow, what I believe is a Carolina Saddlebags (Tramea carolina)- a new dragon for me.

The bird walk also proved fruitful. I got several shots of a red-bellied woodpecker, I believe one of the pair that are nesting in an excavated cavity nearby.

This Carolina wren has been nesting in an old chicken nest box, oddly enough, that I turned upside down over a fence post. Last year this or another C. wren nested in my barn and was successful, until something disturbed the nest in the overnight hours and the babies didn't survive.
The dogwoods have begun to bloom. Sadly, the drought conditions have taken their toll. The flowers aren't nearly as numerous and bold as they usually are and a couple of the trees suffered major loss.
This eastern tiger swallowtail is already looking worn. Poor fellow, the season has just started!
The fencie was out again, sunning on the tire of the old cattle trailer. I really enjoy these lizards. They are so tolerant of me and my camera.

My ducks have been feeling left out lately, so here's some not-so-exotic waterfowl captured in living color.
Well, here's to a fabulous weekend and a beautiful beginning to a new week.

Love is in the air...among other things!

2008-04-11T09:23:00.011-04:00

Well yesterday certainly proved fruitful in my search for critters. The weather was warm, sunny, and absolutely fabulous.

These skippers (I believe they're skippers of some sort) were taking advantage of the fantastic day.

Saw the first dragonfly of the year as well! HURRAY!!! I wasn't able to get close enough for a proper id of this fellow, but I did manage a shot from a distance.

Some more baby mantids made thier way out yesterday. These wee babies have already dried out and look much different, more like the adults, than the newly emerged mantids of the other day.

Sherbert the cat came along to help 'guard' the camera equipment from any ferocious bugs...he's scared of pretty much everything else.
All manner of butterflies and bees were out pollenating yesterday. The apple blossoms were covered!

To wrap the day up, I took a short walk and came across this fellow soaking up the last rays of sun. It's an eastern fence lizard, a juvenille male or an adult female, I'm not completely sure.

A cheeky visitor

2008-04-09T09:43:00.009-04:00

This little squirrel has been visiting my tray and suet feeders lately. I know a lot of folks don't like squirrels, but I don't mind her. She's actually pretty funny and so long as she doesn't tear up my bird feeders, she can stick around.

And speaking of cheeky...here is a blue jay:

With spring comes bird nests and new babies. I've been watching this red-bellied woodpecker carving out a nest cavity for a few days now...can't wait to see the babies fledge when the time comes!

In other news...the sun has FINALLY broken through the clouds this morning and it's going to be a fabulous 70*F!! Hurray!

ENJOY THE DAY- YOU ONLY GET ONE AT A TIME! :)

Spring is the time for babies!

2008-04-06T18:49:00.007-04:00

I know when most people think of spring babies they see a cute little baby deer or fuzzy rabbits or baby birds. I think of those things too, but I also look forward to all of the newly emerging baby...INSECTS!
Almost like clock-work, the baby mantids have begun to emerge from their egg cases. You can almost set your calendar clock by these guys. This egg case was in an exposed spot, but seemed to weather the winter well. There are usually more babies than this, but this case looked smaller that most and maybe a little damaged.

Just to give you an idea of their size, compare this fellow to the stitches in my sweatshirt sleeve.

This tufted titmouse and it's mate have been frequenting the feeder outside my window lately. When I took this photo he/she was laying low. I think the resident Sharpie may have been flying over. I hope the other made it out ok. I just hate it when the hawk gets one of my feeder birds.

These brown headed cowbirds decided to come eat at the tray feeder this afternoon. I've never seen any of these birds before, let alone a pair. Not the greatest photo, but it will do! :) You have to be super sneaky to get close to these birds. Oh, an interesting cowbird fact: they are parasitic layers. What does that mean? Well, they don't build a nest of their own, instead they go around laying one egg at a time in other song bird nests. Sometimes the bird will recognize and push the invasive egg out but sometimes the mom and dad of that brood raise the cowbird as one of their own, often at the expense of the other babies in the clutch. Cowbirds are much larger and eat more than their adoptive siblings.

Out In The Pasture

2008-03-21T14:59:00.014-04:00

I decided to stake myself out in the pasture late yesterday afternoon to visit with my bluebird friends and maybe a sparrow or two. Well the sparrows were elusive as always, but it didn't take long before Mr. and Mrs. Blue showed up.

The bluebirds that hang out in the yard aren't this 'outgoing'. I dunno what it is with these two, but they always seem to make themselves known when I come out with my camera. In fact, as I was photographing the male, the little female decided that she wasn't getting enough attention and made her way closer to my spot.

I caught the male in the middle of his meal.

"Yeah, I know I look good."

One of the resident mockingbirds was delightfully announcing his presence in the ivy when I came back from the field. One of these days I'm going to record him. It's amazing how many bird songs they have stored up in that little brain. I've even ran to my window one morning because it sounded like a red tail hawk was sitting just outside screeching. NOT- it was a mockingbird. :)

I was able to get a few pretty nice shots of a male cardinal yesterday as well. Cardinals seem to elude me more than any other song bird. But I'm happy that I at least have these shots.

Yes, spring is here and I am OH SO GLAD! This is what my yard is covered in right now: purple clover flowers. Yeah, I know it needs to be mowed, but this is so pretty.

Have a blessed Easter!

Catching Up!

2008-03-11T14:44:00.013-04:00

Time sure flies when things are in the changing process. I've been moving files to a different computer and working on some other things and haven't had time to update since the waxwings 1st arrived awhile ago. Alas, not too much to photograph either. I'm hoping some new spring migrants will visit soon. The Ruby-throated hummingbirds should begin making an appearance soon. But until then, here are some shots of spring blooms, black vultures, waxwings, other birds, even a honey bee.

Whew! Until next time....

An eventful day...

2008-03-01T19:54:00.003-05:00

We've had quite the exciting day here on the funny farm. A flock of cedar waxwings spent the day in the front yard! Hurray! Also watched a sharp shinned hawk make lunch out of one of them- now THAT was awesome. Unfortunately, my AF wasn't set to continuous, so all I got of the event was a blurred hawk flying. :) hehe

I'll post more photos tomorrow...but here's one to get your feet wet with.

New Favorites and Old Reliables

2008-02-28T15:24:00.010-05:00

This year has seen the pine warbler become one of my most favorite birds. They're pretty, inquisitive, and sometimes just plain ol' funny. Today was no exception, with 3 warblers making appearances throughout the morning, one of which decided that he would try the finch feeders and hummingbird feeders out for a change. (They usually stick to eating the suet cakes.)

A few mornings ago during some fog, a red winged blackbird showed up at the feeders and hung around for a bit. A lone cedar waxwing even graced us with his presence yesterday afternoon.

And what a surprise to see this fellow land at my feeders this morning! I'm going to put out some meal worms so he and his pallys will visit more often.

Several wrens have been making appearances as well. Usually I only see one every few days or so, but I put some peanut butter out yesterday and they really seem to enjoy it!

Out with the old....

2008-02-24T10:35:00.006-05:00

And in with the new!

Yesterday was a marvelous day! I woke up to fog, but soon it burned off and the sun warmed the air nicely. It was just a great day to be outside. Got a few shots of the fence line early in the morning while it was still foggy outside...kind of contrasts the colorful flower shots. :)

Totally Lunar

2008-02-21T09:30:00.005-05:00

Got some shots of the lunar eclipse last night. Aside from some intermittent cloud cover, we had a really nice view. These were shot with my biggest lens (150mm)and a higher film speed ( = lots o' noise) which isn't saying much for an astronomy photograph. It would be neat to have a HUGE telescopic lens to use for stuff like this, but I'm still pleased. It was really neat to watch and I think I may have a new interest!

Lions, tigers, and bunnies! Oh my!

2008-02-18T18:56:00.007-05:00

Bunnies? I know, I know. What in the world do bunnies have to do with a backyard nature blog, right? Well, the answer is: not a cotton pickin' thing! :) But even I can't resist showing off pictures of my new baby bunnies. Who cares if they're domestic rabbits! :)

This is Carrot Bunny. Carrot is the friendly and outgoing rabbit of the two. She loves to lay around in the sun and roll. Trust me, not many things cuter than that. She also loves to run around and do the happy bunny dance. And SOFT!! Oh my goodness!

This is Uno. Uno is so named because she has one little white foot. She is a bit more flighty than her sister, but is quite the character when she gets comfortable. Uno likes to explore and squeeze herself into odd places. She is also a HUGE fan of celery and apples. She is also a bunny after me own heart- very interested in the camera stuff. :)

They were two weeks old on Saturday and they're growing SO fast. I can't even believe how much longer their ears and bodies are. Even their little heads are bigger. Pretty soon they'll be all grown up. But aren't babies fun?

A new warbler! :)

2008-02-15T20:04:00.004-05:00

I was out for a short walk with the camera this afternoon and saw a new warbler (for me) flying around with the blue birds. I got a couple shots of 'her', and believe she's a yellow rumped warbler, a common winter migrant here. I used my 150mm, but she was so far away it didn't do much for detail, still I'm happy to have record.

Also got this shot of a tufted titmouse doing what they do best: lookin' fer stuff to eat.

The eastern bluebirds are out in full force this week. They're beginning to set up breeding areas and claim houses already. It's so exciting, spring is in the air! Even have a few daffodil blooms!

Red Breasted Nuthatch

2008-02-07T18:28:00.001-05:00

Got a few decent photos of a red breasted nuthatch today. I'm pleased. Oh and a pair of cardinals have been visiting the seeds that get thrown out by the finches lately.

And here's a pair of doves, part of a mockingbird, and a few finches for kicks!

Aquatic Rescue and Birding

2008-02-03T10:12:00.000-05:00

I went hiking yesterday at a local park (well, it's about oh maybe 20 miles from my house) on the Catawba River. The section of the river where this park (Riverbend Park)begins is located next to a dam that is part of our power grid (I believe).

At any rate, the gates had been opened before we arrived to allow more water out into the river. When we came literally to 'the end of the trail' we walked down and out onto some rocks that had been exposed by the receding water line. Looking around I noticed a small fish, a young large mouth bass, laying on the ground and it was still 'trying' to breathe! What a treat! I got to release a fish back into the river!

Now I know to some folks that's no big deal, but hey, who cares! I thought it was pretty darn cool. If we hadn't come by there that little fish would have croaked. And if he or she makes it to adulthood, perhaps it will make a nice catch for a future angler. And after all, it makes you feel good that you helped something to live, however small and insignificant it may seem.

At any rate the hike was great, the weather was fantastic, and I can't wait to go back. I think we covered about 4 miles over varied terrain next to the river, back into some freshwater wetlands, and some lovely 'meadow'/hardwood areas. Didn't see too many birds, although we heard a rather elusive red shouldered hawk making his rounds in a fuss. We also saw and got some pretty decent shots of a Great Blue Heron on the other side of the river. Photos of a GBU are a first for me, so I'm rather pleased. Oh and there were tons of what I think were ring-billed gulls flying about the dam area as well. Overall, a loverly day!

Thanks to 'D.C', the documentary photographer of our 'fish rescue'. :)

Rainy Day Blues

2008-02-01T14:58:00.001-05:00

It's just plain ol' cold and rainy today. Yuck. But that also means birds at the feeders, all-be-it waterlogged birds.
These poor critters were enduring the muck and mess to have a bit of suet and seed. Too bad I couldn't loan them a scarf and umbrella.

Yesterday afternoon I got a couple shots of this grey squirrel gathering dry leaves for it's nest. I suppose some repairs and plugs were needed. Reminds me that spring is on it's way and soon the nest will be filled with babies. :)

Woodland Birds

2008-01-30T19:55:00.000-05:00

More woodland species...I've posted a couple pine warblers before, but I think this is my first decent wren photo. The Carolina Wren is the species that built a nest in my barn in 2007. One of my most favorite birds!

By the way, these photos were taken with my new Olympus DSLR that was given to me as an early birthday present. It's really so much more than I could have ever hoped for in a camera. How awesome is that? God DOES bless his children in the most unexpected ways.

Parking Lot Gulls

2008-01-29T16:46:00.000-05:00

Always a familiar sight in the winter months, ring-billed gulls in the parking lots of supermarkets and fast food joints can be just as interesting to observe as their woodland cousins.

As I was leaving the good ol' WalMart parking lot today I saw a flock of ring-bills
enjoying the afternoon sun and I'm sure the warm pavement.

Here's a shot of an adult and a juvenile with it's 1st winter plumage (foreground bird). Notice how it has more brown and white rather than simple grey and white feathers.

Birds, birds, birds....

2008-01-22T16:24:00.000-05:00

See if you can match the bird with it's name! :)

-Red-bellied Woodpecker
-Male Pine Warbler
-Female Pine Warbler
-Carolina Chickadee
-Roufus-sided Towhee

New Arrival

2008-01-20T12:13:00.000-05:00

A Ruby Crowned Kinglet showed up in the snow yesterday along with the warblers. It was a nice little treat to see another new bird, I must say! :)

If you look closely you'll be able to see a wee bit of red under the olive feathers on his head. Every now and then the male ruby crowned kinglet will ruffle those feathers to reveal the red 'crown' feathers underneath. Hence the name!

I was also treated with a couple more pine warblers. :)

Winter is here!

2008-01-18T14:06:00.000-05:00

Well, our first taste of wintry precipitation arrived yesterday in the form of a few inches of snow and we're expecting more tonight and tomorrow. Although I'm not a big fan of being cold a trudging through the wet muck snow leaves behind, it has been a great opportunity to photograph some neat birds at the feeders.

'Wild Canaries'

2008-01-13T18:48:00.000-05:00

Well the goldfinches were out in abundance today. The small flocks that winter here are beginning to get their breeding plumage. The males are especially noticeable with small dots of black beginning to peep through on the crown of their heads. Even the females are not as drab.
Goldies are sometimes called 'Wild Canaries' due to the bright yellow feathers the males sport in the spring and summer. They are quite beautiful birds and a welcome guest to add color to my feeders. The goldfinches' main food source is seeds, making them a bit more visible (bird feeders), which is why they are so recognizable to most folks. They stay in flocks much longer than other finch species because they don't begin breeding until later in the summer when weed seeds are abundant.

Around my neck of the woods in mid May, it's no surprize to see 50 goldfinches hogging the feeders along with the house finches and titmice. They'll eat anywhere and in most any condition: hanging on to feeders while the wind swings them like a pendulum, on the ground flitting about with the sparrows, and they seem especially fond of warm drizzling rain.
Check out this older post for a 'Summer Goldfinch' on a rainy day. He's all decked out in his Sunday best.

I've been thinkin....

2008-01-12T19:33:00.001-05:00

This little finch just looks like she's thinking on something. So cute!
I was in Albemarle, NC this weekend and got some nice photos at a lovely park called City Lake Park. Now granted, I'm not much of a landscape photographer, but I'm a bit partial to these photos.

Have a fantastic week folks and remember: enjoy the simple things...don't live in a world of unrealistic expectations, you'll miss way too much!

What a start to the day!

2008-01-10T09:15:00.001-05:00

WOW! What an amazing start to the day I had! When I raised my shade this morning and looked out in the front yard, I noticed a lot of birds on the ground and in the pear tree...looked a little closer and saw that they were Cedar Waxwings! Yahooooooooo! Cedar Waxwings have been eluding me for years, and they LIVE in my part of the state too! I know most 'birders' would probably snub their noses at my excitement over a waxwing, but lemme tell ya, this is too cool for me!

I managed some photos, but they aren't the greatest with my point and shoot camera. But hey, at least I have a record of this neato event!

Another thing that made all of this even more cool is that the flock of waxwings were hanging out with a flock of robins, a small flock of eastern bluebirds, and even a few starlings. They all moved as one flock from tree to tree and tree to ground. How cool is that? I think they were all hanging out looking for grubs or something. The waxwings also seemed to be having a go at some of the buds on the pear tree.

So the moral of the story is: EXPECT SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY!

It's a squirrels life...

2008-01-08T17:36:00.000-05:00

(Can I just say that for the FIRST time in my life I actually spelled squirrel right on the FIRST try!!?? lol)

I made a little shelf feeder for the larger birds and squirrels to eat corn and sunflower seeds from the other day. Took a few days, but one has gotten the hang of it now.
The inquisitive goldfinches are coming to my new feeders on a regular basis now. They seem even more interested in what the big eye is looking at them through the window than the chickadees and tufted titmice do.

Window Birds

2008-01-07T09:18:00.000-05:00

Well, not much doing yesterday. Took a few shots of some American goldfinches that decided to hang out on my window feeders. Got a contemplative little tufted titmouse as well.

It's been rather warm the last few days. The weather has been doing wacky stuff for it to be the middle of winter. We've gone from average daily highs in the upper 20's to highs in the 60's. Which don't get me wrong, I like the warmer weather (I am in the south after all), I've just been hoping for a little taste of snow or something. We could really use some more precipitation.

On a lighter note: This is half of a duo of Carolina Chickadees I've labeled as 'Double' and 'Trouble'. Don't let the meek tiny exterior fool you. These two are cheeky little boogers. I think they throw down more sunflower seeds than they eat. It's really a trip to watch them pull one seed out at a time until they find one that 'fits'. Maybe I should rename them 'Goldi' and 'Locks'. (This particular bird happens to be 'Double' by the way.)

Drum roll please....

2008-01-05T17:43:00.000-05:00

I had a new bird at one of my feeders today! Huzzah! Okay, so it's not like waking up to find a new card with a bow on it in your driveway, but it runs a close 15th! :) Seriously though, I was really stoked when this little bird showed up and even more excited that I got some pretty nice shots through the window!

This...ah hem....is a Pine Warbler! (They eat pine seeds, hence the name! Sometimes frequent feeders...)

Have you ever wondered...

2007-12-29T17:13:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered what a woodpecker does after he or she's finished making all of those holes in trees? I mean what is it looking for and how in the world does one get it out?

The answer lies in it's tongue. A really incredible tongue. After the woodpecker pecks her hole she sticks her tongue, which is longer than her bill, into the whole to probe around for goodies, like grubs! :) Once something yummy is located a woodpeckers tongue is able to stab it and pull it back out of the hole for a 'wholesome' meal, no pun intended. :)

Here's a shot of a female downy's tongue as she was sticking it out after eating some suet.

Here's a really AWESOME link to follow if you'd like to know more about woodpeckers. You'll find great information and some cool photos of a woodpeckers tongue in action!
www.hiltonpond.org/ThisWeek030308.html

Bird crazy!

2007-12-29T15:01:00.001-05:00

Have I ever mentioned just how much I enjoy wild birds? Shoot, I even like the domestic ones! (I'm sure my chickens and ducks would thank me for throwing that one in.)

Anyways...I decided to put up a few feeders outside my art room window so I could watch them and take some photos in between commissions. It's great!!!

In about an hour and a half multiple chickadees, a brown headed nuthatch, a pair of downy woodpeckers, a house finch, and a couple tufted titmice showed up. Even a pair of doves hung out on the ground below. :)

White Breasted Nuthatch

2007-12-28T20:52:00.000-05:00

It seems I never have my camera with me outside when there's an opportunity to photograph these little beauties, so I took a few shots from inside the kitchen window instead! :)

Nuthatches and sunsets

2007-12-20T13:38:00.000-05:00

Here are a few photos to kick the new season off.
It looked like snow the other afternoon as the sun was beginning to make it's way across the western sky. Took a few shots of some clouds breaking up. Man was it COLD!!

Also got a couple shots of this little brown-headed nuthatch grabbing some sunflower seeds. I love nuthatches, and this type in particular is very docile. The downy woodpeckers tend to show up with these boogers and are just as friendly.

Time flies!

2007-12-20T10:03:00.001-05:00

Man, time sure does fly by and before you know it, it's December! :) I've been busy the last 5 or 6 months and haven't had a lot of time to take photos or update my blog, but I'm going to do my best to get back to it, especially for the New Year. Winter photography isn't my strong suite, but I think the challenge will be good for me. Who knows? Might actually see something new and get some great shots of it! :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Dog Day Cicadas (Tibicen canicularis)

2007-07-11T15:36:00.000-04:00

Summer is here and the cicadas are singing. Have a look at this short photo essay to see some cicadas emerging and hanging about.

It's 'Wren'-derful!

2007-07-01T19:33:00.000-04:00

Okay, so the title leaves something to be desired, but I'm excited none-the-less. It seems that a Carolina wren decided to build her nest in my barn this year, in a rather unorthodox location at that. I suppose that really shouldn't surprise me that much seeing as how they used a hanging basket on the porch last year, but at least it was out of 'cats reach' for the most part. This years nest is at eye level for me and, while well protected from the weather, it leaves something to be desired when it comes to feline access. But mother does know best, so alas, I will keep my opinions to myself and let momma wren do her thing. Though I am sure she would fuss me up one side and down the other if I did have a mind to tell her what I think! (Carolina wrens are especially fond of making noise and lots of it! They will fuss and yell until they're satisfied the threat is gone.)

I've been trying to keep an occasional eye out for babies without stressing mom out too much. If I get too close she flies outta there like a bullet and all I can do is hope I've ducked fast enough! While making my rounds at the barn today I peeked in and low and behold there were brand new babies!!! Wee iddy biddy little things! So precious! I tried to snap a few photos but didn't mess around too much as I didn't wanna tire the wee ones out before momma got back with dinner.

Watching birds grow is really a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to seeing these babies fledge.

Next up: 'Summer's Dog Day...Cicadas?'

FINALLY!

2007-06-13T14:59:00.000-04:00

Finally got a couple shots with me new lenses that I REALLY like! Woo hoo!

Opossum, to thee I opine!

2007-06-11T21:33:00.000-04:00

O is for oscilating ears that move back and forth to hear,
P is for picky, which we know you aren't at all,
O is for omnivore because you like to eat all manner of plant and critter,
S is for silly because you're a funny looking fellow,
S is for 'stay back!' when you gap your mouth open and show your teeth,
U is for ugly, for some people think,
M is for marsupial, the most interesting animal here by far!

How I do enjoy opossums!

Walk softly and crouch low, Grasshoppa...

2007-06-09T19:13:00.000-04:00

Lans sakes! I got some new toys for my camera yesterday and today I'm putting them through their paces, err maybe that should be they're putting me through mine! Crawling around on the ground chasing bugs is hard work!

I've been practicing on one of my favorite insects, the lowly grasshopper. I think they're just so cool. What an under-rated bug! Did you know that when this particular hopper is captured it will actually throw up?! Ewwwww! I wouldn't wanna eat it after that, good thing for the hopper...and me!

The photos I've posted are of what I believe to be an Orange-winged Grasshopper, part of the Band-winged family of hoppers. The 'rainbow' inner 'thigh' is supposed to be indicative of the orange-wings.

Please forgive the slightly out of focus shots and the poor dof, I'm still getting used to the new lenses and manual focusing!

Bad News Bears?

2007-06-08T08:43:00.000-04:00

The last month or so has brought about a few black bear sightings in areas pretty close to me. Now it's been great for the local news stations but, I'm not sure the bears are getting a fair "15 minutes".

Personally, I like bears. Not because I think they're cute and cuddly looking, but because they're powerful and agile creatures who live a relatively calm life. Think about it: a lot of people see bears as vicious meat shredding carnivores (no thanks to Hollywood), when in actuality they're omnivores- consuming more insects, plants, and fish than typical animal flesh.

Black bears are also pretty solitary critters roaming great ranges in search of food. The reason they may seem more obvious to us now is #1) because we're developing more of their home ranges with houses that hang yummy bird seed and pack garbage cans full; and #2) droughts and other seasonal anomalies cause food shortages in their normal feeding areas causing them to roam further to find good eats.

Eating is probably the thing a bear does best and the most important at that. They're fortunate that a high body fat percentage isn't really a bad thing. Heck, bears have it made really! Eat all you want of what you love for 7, 8 months and then sleep it off over the next 3 or 4! Sounds like a great plan to me, unfortunately I have the metabolism of a rock rather than a bear.

Seriously though, don't freak if you're ever washing dishes and glance out to see a bear lumbering across the backyard. Calling 911 isn't going to make it go away. They can't restrain it with a roll of bandage tape and a stretcher. Make the best of an odd situation by grabbing your camera, perching yourself up in the window, and getting some shots of a probably once in a lifetime visitor.

PLEASE NOTE: Bears are very powerful and FAST. Keep your distance and DO NOT harass
or attempt to feed a bear EVER. Remember that a bear has no problems running you down if he or she feels threatened, especially a sow and her cubs. Never place yourself between a mom and babies. Be very aware of your proximity at all times. If you see a bear in your area and no one is in immediate danger (please use common sense here), the best thing you can do is notify your local wildlife officer.

Snake Season Safety

2007-06-07T13:15:00.000-04:00

Now that we've addressed some common snake myths, let's take a few minutes to explore what you can do to be safe and avoid dangerous encounters.

#1: What should I do if I come across a snake in my footpath?

Very simply remain calm and carefully back away from or walk a decent distance around the snake. Screaming, running, and otherwise having a 'hissy' is only going to make your blood pressure go up and the neighbors call 911. Trust me, the snake will not be impressed.

#2: How can I keep snakes out of my yard?

The best way to keep your yard snake free is to keep it mowed. Granted, this isn't exactly 100% all of the time effective, but if your lawn is cut on a regular basis mice and other creatures (snake food) won't have any where to hang out making it much less likely that a snake is gonna be enjoying your evening cookout with you.

#3: How do I know if a snake is poisonous or not?

This one's a little tricky because I don't want to encourage you to pick up, poke, or otherwise harass a potentially venomous snake just to determine whether or not it's venomous.

It has been said that you can tell the difference via head shape: venomous snakes (copperheads, rattlesnakes, cottonmouths) have broad triangle shaped heads while others don't, but this is simply not accurate. Some non venomous species, such as water snakes, also posses this attribute. And in fact, one of the most potent of all venomous snakes, the coral snake, is often confused with a non venomous snake due simply to color band arrangement.

The best way to avoid a harmful bite is to not handle any snake that cannot be POSITIVELY identified as non-venomous.

#4: What should I do if I am bitten by a snake?

First off, try not to panic. Stay as calm as you can. Try to remember that almost half of all venomous bites are dry(no venom injected) and you CAN be treated. DON'T run or overly exert yourself. Try to SAFELY determine if the snake was venomous or not. Non-venomous bites do not generally require medical treatment, but please do not take any chances if you are unsure. Get to the nearest hospital or emergency facility IMMEDIATELY or dial 911 or your local emergency number. Do not eat, drink(including alcohol), or take any medicines. Don't apply a tourniquet or attempt to suck the venom out. Do not cut the bite wound with a blade in an attempt to excise the venom and do not apply ice or anything extremely cold to the bite area.

If you are certain the bite came from a non venomous species: be sure you wash the area well with soap (an antibacterial hand soap) and water and keep it clean. Take some Tylenol or Aspirin for pain relief. If the wound is becoming infected, seek medical attention.

#5: What is the best way to avoid a snake bite if I am going to be out and about hiking, camping, working in brush, etc?

Wearing long pants and above the ankle boots is a great start. If you don't desire to wear pants/boots then at least wear solid cover sneakers of some sort, NOT sandals. Gloves are great for working in brush along with long sleeves if possible. When you're in a possible snake 'hot zone' be as aware as you can of WHERE you're putting your hands, feet, and hiney. Don't sit before you look, especially around piles of rocks and out crops. Be aware that many snakes blend in SUPERBLY with leaf litter so PAY ATTENTION especially in low light situations. And finally I would suggest not roaming around after dark if you can at all help it.

I hope some of these suggestions will stick with you as we venture outside to enjoy the summer season. Remember, be safe and enjoy from a distance! Leave only footprints.

'Snake Season'

2007-06-06T07:20:00.000-04:00

Well summer is here and along with the heat and humidity come the snakes. With so much information looming about concerning these reptiles, I thought I would have a crack at dispelling some myths and perhaps cause you to give snakes a more favorable look. Alright alright, I know if you hate them now you probably aren't going to be in love with them by the time you're through reading this, but at least you'll be more informed.

Common Snake Myths

#1: Snakes are slimy and live in holes.

I'm not sure who started this one, as snakes don't look a bit slimy to me even from a distance, but it's one of the most common misconceptions most people have. Snakes are reptiles, therefore they have scaly skin which tends to shine and glare in direct light. The other myth that most of us are taught religiously as children is that all the holes in your yard are 'snake holes'. So let's just look at this from a logical standpoint for a second: How would an animal with no legs, feet, or claws dig a hole? It's not going to happen. Most of the holes you see are created by rodents such as moles and chipmunks and even insects (yellow jackets have elaborate underground nests). Will a snake utilize a hole? Sometimes, but more often than not they're hanging about in trees, tall grasses, and under leaf litter - most of the time places you will NEVER come into contact with.

#2: Copperheads and rat snakes interbreed.

This is a myth common to the east coast because we have both copperheads and rat snakes inhabiting the same areas. The myth itself is genetically impossible because we're talking about two VERY different types of snakes. For one thing copperheads give birth to live young and rat snakes lay clutches of eggs. It just wouldn't work. A lot of people however are confused by young rat snake and copperhead patterns due to some similarities. Juvenile rat snakes are grayish brown with charcoal square shaped blotches on their backs with a black-gray checkered belly. A baby copperhead is tan with copper colored blotches that saddle the back and has a yellow tipped tail. A worded description may not sound similar, but to an untrained eye in the field they look the same. Bottom line: DON'T pick up or harass ANY snake period. And especially one you are not able to identify beyond a shadow of a doubt.

#3: All snakes are venomous.

Well I'd hope you'd know better than that, but unfortunately I think this myth is what drives most people's fear of snakes. This is very false, much to the snakes' demise. Many different snakes constrict (something like suffocation) their prey (rodents, birds, lizards, other snakes) and many of them simply eat insects whole. There are only a few venomous species here in North Carolina and they can be easily avoided if you are aware of your surroundings.

#4: Snakes are naturally aggressive.

This myth ties in with number three. Most people are afraid of snakes because they believe the snake is out to 'get them' which is simply not true. Wasting energy and even venom on you is NOT what the snake has in mind. Snakes bite humans in defense when we enter their territory, do not heed their warnings, and/or harass them. "Well, what about the black racer? They chase people!" Most of the time you see a racer 'racing' it's going to be AWAY from you. They are very aggressive when cornered and will readily bite and fight, but the key here is to LEAVE IT ALONE. Others believe that a tail rattle is a sign of aggressiveness which isn't true either. A lot of snakes, including rattlesnakes, rattle their tales simply as a WARNING that you are too close and to back off. It's not a display of aggression, but a courtesy they're giving you before they physically defend themselves. You can't expect a snake, or any animal really, to play the game of life on human terms. They're animals and will therefore act as animals which means defending when threatened.

#5: The only good snake is a dead snake.

Not so really. Did you know that snakes keep the rodent population under control? Kill all the snakes and you're gonna see mice on the increase. Snakes are also part of the prey end of the food chain as well. Many birds of prey, who also eat rodents, eat snakes. Snakes are also valuable aesthetically. Many people enjoy learning and observing snakes simply because they think they're interesting, and yes, even beautiful.

I hope that you've gleaned some useful information from this blurb and you'll maybe give snakes a bit more of the benefit of a doubt in the future. Next, we're going to explore some snake season tips on how you can avoid and safely co-exist with snakes.

Damselflies

2007-06-05T08:13:00.000-04:00

I decided to go to the park yesterday morning after having been Sunday night and not seeing any dragonflies at the water. I enjoyed my time with the ducks and ducklings, but decided that I would concentrate on getting some good dragonfly shots and maybe some damsels too. Well, as the day would go, the sun was harsh and the mud was deep, so the pictures did turn out as nice as I had wished. None-the-less, I enjoyed myself and the critters and even had a rather friendly damselfly land on me several times to sun itself.

Violet Dancer - Argia fumipennis violacea (A subspecies of the Variable Dancer)

I also saw several Blue Dasher dragonflies and some small red dragons I have not identified yet.

And finally, who could resist taking a ton of photos of these precious little babies?

Jumping Spiders, Daisies, and Allium bulbs...

2007-06-01T15:16:00.000-04:00

What do all these things have in common? Why, they were on my morning walk! I even found a ringneck snake and boy was she a little beauty. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera with me, but here's a link that will tell you a bit more. They're such neat little snakes. Contrary to the picture shown in the link, most ringnecks in my area have a bright orange almost fluorescent belly.

Meanwhile...this beautiful little jumping spider was making herself at home on some wild daisies, scoping out those who dare come to close for breakfast.

I do enjoy a pretty daisy and this one especially caught my eye. Wildflowers are so neat because you never know what's gonna show up where next.

And lastly, the old allium 'bulbs' are a bloomin'. Allium is the name of the onion family genus and this pretty little 'flower' is what's called 'crow garlic' and it's everywhere in the fields around here. Some folks call them wild onions, which I guess they are really, but I don't know that I'd eat them.

And while we're on the subject...

2007-05-30T19:44:00.001-04:00

Here's a pair of mourning doves that were kind enough to allow me to sneak around them for a few shots.

These are some of the most beautiful birds around, in my opinion. Their soft coos are a welcome reprise to the buzz of traffic and the stagnant heat of the day. Oddly enough, the 'whistling' noise that you hear when these birds fly away is created by the wind breaking against their wings, and not a vocalization as you might suspect.

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

2007-05-30T19:39:00.000-04:00

A new butterfly for me! Woo hoo! This little beauty was sitting in my trowel early this morning when I went out to water the flowers. Mourning cloaks are true brushfoots. When their wings are open they are a wonderfully rich chocolate brown with blue and yellow lacing. I'll be keeping my eyes peeled for more of these! They are also one of, if not the only, butterfly that over-winters here in North Carolina.

Goodbye, old friend...

2007-05-27T16:51:00.000-04:00

Sadly today I had to put my first hen that I ever raised down due to some accidental injuries. Chicken or not, she will be missed. I thank God that I had the opportunity to learn so much about Him and myself via this little lump of feathers. I'll miss her a lot, but I know everything happens for a reason and so I feel as if this is a new beginning for me. I'm not really sure how animals fit into eternity, but I pray as C.S. Lewis writes that if I should be in Heaven one day and look over my shoulder for an old beloved pet that brought me great joy on this earth- they'll be there. I don't live for the day that I will be able to see my animals again, but should heaven hold that joy for me I'll gladly accept it with gusto.

Goodbye old friend.

Hairstreaks

2007-05-24T13:43:00.000-04:00

No, I'm not talking highlights from a box at the beauty supply store, I'm thinking more along the lines of butterflies in the family of Lycaenidae. Hairstreaks are one of several small butterflies in my area that show up this time of year. There are several different 'flies' with the hairstreak name sake that look similar, but are in fact not the same.

At any rate, I came across this little beauty (a Banded Hairstreak [Satyrium calanus] I believe) yesterday and managed a few shots of him. I quite enjoyed myself and I don't think he minded all that much either.

The incredibly fast and sometimes annoying skippers...

2007-05-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

In my search for butterflies I don't seem to be fairing so well, but then again it is early in the season. However, if skippers tickle your fancy I've got plenty of them! Skippers are generally grouped with butterflies but they aren't 'true' Papilionoideas (butterflies) such as monarchs or swallowtails. They belong to another family called Hesperoidea. Skippers body to wing ratio is much larger than true butterflies and they feature shorted more curved antennae and other differences. Most people see these small butterflies and think they're moths, but moths belong to another butterfly 'superfamily' entirely. A good way to tell the difference between a moth and a butterfly or skipper is to check out the antennae. Moths generally have 'feathered' ends and butterflies will have something of a knobby looking end on their antennae.

At any rate, I haven't id'd this fellow yet but I am leaning towards a Hobomok or Zebulon skipper. These guys were quite territorial so it's probably a Zebulon. I'm welcome to anyone who can tell me yea or nae on this one, so please correct me if I'm wrong! :)

My favorite things...

2007-05-16T11:45:00.000-04:00

I really like that song from The Sound of Music. Sometimes I sing it to myself while I'm out walking the trail looking for something to point my lens at. So in honor of my favorite song I decided to post some of my favorite nature photos today. Hopefully this evening I'll be feeling more up to getting out and taking some new shots for the blog, but until then...

This is one of my all time favorite photos. I just love everything about it!

Sam and Frodo: two baby robins I raised last year.

And finally, though this is by far just a tiny sample of my favorites, a sunrise in the Great Smokey Mountains.

Butterfly Time

2007-05-09T09:41:00.000-04:00

Well, the butterflies are finally beginning to show up...well, sort of. I've seen some small skippers and a few swallowtails, which never seem to want to 'pose' for a photo, but not the usual quantities.

I believe these are summer azures, from what I understand spring azures are not so common anymore.

The early spring dragonflies seem to have retreated, with the exception of the common whitetails, and I am left to wait until mid summer for the darners and other assorted 'catches' to return. I suppose taking a trip to a local body of water would yield more promising photo ops, but I'm more interested in what shows up in my 'area' at the moment.

Fighting bluebirds?

2007-05-07T11:49:00.000-04:00

When I saw these two guys going at it I thought I was losing my mind. It looked as if there was going to be a duel to the death! I never knew eastern bluebirds to be so territorial, but when another male showed up to an established pair's nest in the backyard, let's just say it was ON!

Kind of funny really. Bluebirds are so demur and peaceful looking, guess that idea is blown out of the water now.

On a lighter note, the eggs have since hatched and parental duties have ensued for the pair. Can't wait for the babies to fledge!

New birds!

2007-05-07T11:42:00.000-04:00

Haven't posted much as I haven't been out to do much photography lately, but in the last week or so I have seen two new species that I've never seen before: the red breasted grosbeak and the scarlet tanager.

I don't have any superb photos of either, but consider these 'good enough' as a record of, "I saw that!"

Two beauties, unusual and stunning.

Birds and rain

2007-04-12T11:55:00.000-04:00

I find it so interesting that most birds seem most active right before or during a rainy period. I look forward to seeing and hearing all manner of songs and clamoring about when I know rain is in the forecast.

Yesterday I watched for a long while while a couple of resident American Goldfinches as well as many Carolina Chickadees, Cardinals, Song Sparrows, Mourning Doves, Mockingbirds, and European Starlings milled about the yard and feeders.

Never would I have thought that doing something so seemingly mundane would bring me such enjoyment. And I do enjoy birds. :) Perhaps one day I will have the equipment needed to photograph them better.

April 6, 2007

2007-04-06T23:25:00.000-04:00

Today was a bit fruitless in terms of being walk my daily photo trek. I did manage to get out for a while and catch a few pictures, but nothing really much stood out to me today. Of course the temps have dropped back into the 50'sF for highs and with the pollen so heavy and the wind blowing, being outdoors is starting to take it's toll on my general condition.

I observed several sanddragons today as well as a couple more blue dragonlets. Perhaps if I had been able to venture out this evening before sunset I would have seen more. A juvenile fence lizard posed about a bit for me; that was a nice treat.

My final photos of the day were of a bumble bee (I believe) sunning himself on a bird feeder. It struck me as silly because it looked as if he were trying to partake of the seed mixture himself.

April 5, 2007

2007-04-05T19:58:00.000-04:00

Today turned out to be another great day for dragons, despite the lower temps or perhaps due to them. I saw several new types and because of the cool air they were stationary for longer periods trying to soak up some rays.

Some of my id's include: Little Blue Dragonlets, Common Sanddragons, and Swift Setwings. Still seeing some Baskettails and of course, Common Whitetails.

Eastern Fence Lizards and Baby Mantids

2007-04-05T10:42:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week, while out on a daily photo walk, I sat down on a fallen tree and found exactly what I had been searching for: an Eastern Fence Lizard.

She's a little beauty, it was so nice to find her. Fence lizards are more or less calm and easy going so long as you're not harassing them. They'll usually stick around for quite a bit and the babies have an even better temperament.

I was also able to witness the emerging of baby mantids from their egg cases. If you've never seen a baby praying mantis, then you've got to check out this photo.

April 4, 2007

2007-04-05T10:26:00.000-04:00

I went out into the back pasture today, sounds remote but it's really not, and was able to get several good shots of the 1st dragonflies of the year. There were at least 3 different types, if not 4 and it was definitely exciting. At one point I was surrounded by a ton of baskettails landing in the last vestiges of sun for the day, trying to warm up for the trip home.

I identified what I believe to be 2 brown or twin-spotted spiketails, the latter being less common. Several baskettails, both common and stripe-winged were flying about with a couple of common whitetails.

The weather was just right, highs around 80F, and a bit of a breeze. I hope tomorrow will bring a nice turnout, though the temps are expected to fall a decent amount overnight.