Inspired by Dogs & Nature
This species is a year round resident here in Illinois. I often see them in pairs during both the breeding and non-breeding (winter) season. I find that an endearing quality. Interestingly, they are not a native species to the Eastern USA (East of the… Continue Reading “The Charming House Finch”
The 2021/2022 winter season for birds was a bit sketchy. First, the Avian Flu was cause for officials to suggest removing wild bird feeders. Finches, like the American Goldfinch also presented with avian conjunctivitis, a highly transmissible eye disease and doubled the recommendation to… Continue Reading “All That Glitters”
I was just about to head home after hanging out around a seed feeder we fill during the winter season. I was also running the Merlin Bird ID app which listens and then reports if it hears a bird and what species best matches… Continue Reading “Camo Sparrow”
I love taking photos of the wildlife around our farm, especially the birds. I also enjoy creating art – anything from watercolor painting to unique food gifts. Here’s are a few samples of how I combine photography with electronic imagery. I don’t alter the… Continue Reading “Pics & Crafts”
I took this image of a Brown-headed Cowbird back in February 2022. He dresses up nice for Halloween!
Perennial plants, like the grasses that comprise much of our farm-gone-wild, are going dormant for the winter. But, first they must release the bounty of their summer’s mission. Seeds that float on a breeze to disperse next year’s promise can appear like snow in… Continue Reading “Deep Autumn”
When I saw the hawk perched on a dormant bird box, I stopped dead. I knew that any movement he might perceive could force him to fly off. Then, my mind went to, “oh, too bad the lighting is so bad.” Of course, I… Continue Reading “Rustic”
I am not sure what bird species is my favorite. Clearly, when I was stuck indoors due to health issues and my only connection with the nature world happened from my back patio, I found the Bluebirds which made a nest in a box… Continue Reading “Until Next Year”
This handsome Eastern Bluebird assumed a look out position at the very top of a retired utility pole near our old barn. I suppose he wanted a Bird’s-Eye-View.
Although a few days ago there was a bit of frost in the morning shadows, daytime temperatures sustain both plants and animals, including insects. On a day which started close to freezing, I still provided a meal to a mosquito in the afternoon –… Continue Reading “Little Fall Daisies”