Now that we are officially into Autumn, I’ve noticed some changes. The dabbler duck numbers are increasing, the leaves on many trees are becoming more colorful, the late summer flower blossoms are fading and the New England asters are absolutely, gorgeous!! I’m also hearing spring peepers again in what Pete refers to as “Spring echo.” The length of day now is similar to the length of days during Spring and some plants and animals react like it is Spring. You may also have noticed a blossom or two on some of your Spring flowering shrubs; I have a couple!!
Pete is continuing his Guided Nature Walks in October. The schedule is Saturdays, October 5 and 19 and Sunday, October 27 all at 10:00 am. Meet at the Visitors’ Center.
The Native Plant Festival and Sale was a huge success! We were fortunate to also have wonderful weather that day!! There were vendors, native plants for sale, demonstrations, a raffle and presenters. We had several speakers who shared the importance of native plants and how to successfully grow them. The last presenter of the day was Jean Soprano of Kindred Kingdoms Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. She spoke about the careful, fascinating work she does caring for wildlife. To conclude her program, she brought four raptors; an American kestrel, a red Eastern screech owl, a red-tailed hawk and a great horned owl. Great birds, SO COOL!!
Great news, the Seneca Trail will reopen on Tuesday, October 1st. Hopefully, you can get out soon to explore and experience all the amazing things at the Montezuma Wetlands Complex trails, towers and the Refuge Wildlife Drive. Remember, the Refuge Wildlife Drive is currently open to vehicles only. Dogs on a leash are only allowed in and around the Visitors’ Center and on the parts of the Seneca Trail that are open.
There will not be a write up next week, but bird lists will be posted in the Visitors’ Center sunroom and on the VC desk.
Pic #1: great egret May’s Point Pool, #2: sandhill crane Knox-Marsellus Marsh, #3: pair of trumpeter swans May’s Point Pool, #4: young trumpeter swan, #5: Jean Soprano with great horned owl, #6: Jean Soprano with red-tailed hawk, #7: maximilian sunflowers, #8: New England asters.
ENJOY, be respectful and safe.
Recent Comments