October brings change to much of the world of nature. Amphibians begin to adapt to the lower temperatures by becoming dormant, eventually to become almost comatose beneath rocks/leaves, in the mud or damp earth. Reptiles adapt in similar ways, often in groups, beneath natural barriers, underground, in adjustment to the colder climate. Deer change habits, often following the change of food supply (acorns have fallen..) and the coming mating season, which, in southeast Tennessee, is usually in November. Birds change, adapting to the change in climate and food supply. Many species adapt by migrating, while other species tend to 'stay at home'. Have noticed that recently the Robins (photo above) are beginning to appear in groups. When they arrived from more southern climes, back in February, you may have noticed a similar grouping of the Robins. Now, as in February, this is relative to their annual adaption. Some Robins stay in/near this area year round. Others migrate to the Gulf Coast area. Seems that just before they are destined to leave, as well as when they first arrive, they are in groups for a time. Ever wonder exactly what sets their biological clock?
The Barn Swallow, pictured above in a dead tree near Lake George, is one of the great travelers. This 4"-5" bird migrates to South America, only to return to our area in late winter/early spring to again initiate courtship/nest building activities. Nothing like a 10,000 mile journey to have a little fun.
The Eastern Bluebird and the Common Flicker, two more of our year round residents. Look in your yard...chances are you have a Flicker around from time to time. No doubt following a food source, I see lots of Flickers on the ground this time of year. Look for the characteristice black "V" on the chest and the red on the nape of the neck...good ID field marks.
The Eastern Meadowlark. Only the last couple of years have I noticed them within our properties, though they are common around southeast Tennessee. Their habitat is open fields. They often perch on utility lines and fences near open pasture. This one appears on a dead branch near the top of a hickory tree...overseeing pasture below. The male is quite colorful...with a black "V" on a bright yellow breast. The female is more drab. They too are year round residents. More "Changes"...emphasizing area trees, in the next post.
Late October, early morning, from the Land in Tennessee parking lot.
Yes, had to take of photo of this lucky dog. The dog, Traveler, belongs to one of our Greenfields residents. Once found abandoned along a county road, emaciated and struggling, Traveler now seems to be living a much better life! He is in a Polaris, traveling along one of our woodland trails. The photo is a bit deceiving.....the dog is not driving.
Same squirrel as below, still at it...same tree...a few minutes later, at dusk.
The late afternoon sun provided just enough light for these two photos of a Gray Squirrel trying to discover one more snack prior to retiring for the night. Here the squirrel is jumping from one rather frail looking limb to another. These arboreal acrobats seem to be fearless.
Taken from Greenfields South...3rd week in October......
Fredonia Mountain....taken early AM, late October, just north of our office......
From Highway 127, late October, just north of Dunlap......
