Harassment: Avian Style

I watched as the eagle arrived at the lake swooping in low over the water.  Soon a lone crow flew out from the woodland beginning to harass the eagle with very close fly-bys, better described as dive-bombing, while calling loudly.

A number of crows nest in these woods each spring and I would expect that this crow was defending its nesting territory. 

After a few minutes of rapid fire action the eagle flew over the nearby mountain top, apparently looking for somewhere where the "locals" didn't object to its presence.

Observing wildlife interact makes the days afield all the more enjoyable, being able to capture a photo is always a bonus!

Sparrow Identification Help Needed

While visiting the local wetland, which I discovered had gone dry, I realized that if I were to obtain any wildlife photographs on this foray that I needed to begin searching for species other than waterfowl.

Locating a fruiting tree with a considerable number of birds about I settled in under the shade of a nearby tree. Soon this little sparrow landed in the nearby branches posing for its photo op.

Sparrow identification is not one of my strong suits and I would much appreciate the help of anyone who feels they can provide positive identification.

Camera Critters: Muskrat

A Muskrat hurries back to the safety of the water carrying a huge bundle of food

Muskrats are hesitant to leave the protection of the water and when they do they make each trip count. This bundle of reeds will be carried into the den for later dining.

I hope you all have enjoyed the muskrat photographs I have been posting. Some of you have commented upon pond owners despising the little critter. Muskrats in a natural habitat create very little problem, but a man-made pond is a totally different matter.

Ponds are created in places where water would not normally pool. The basin is typically sealed with a layer of clay which keeps the water from seeping into the soil. When a muskrat digs its burrow through the clay layer the pond begins to leak. A colony of muskrats can destroy a good size pond in fairly short order.

For more Critter Captures visit our friend Misty by clicking the Critter Captures logo above.

With Trumpets Lifted Up

When viewed from slightly below the Lilies remind me of a band of trumpeters with horns raised.

Large patches of these hardy wild lilies are blooming abundantly along our rural roadsides.

Their early shoots are one of the first signs of spring to appear promising an end to the seemingly long winter. Now in early summer they are providing a welcome burst of vibrant color along our travel routes.