Journal of Nature Observations

Where Are They Now?

2012-01-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

Sunny and seasonably cool today in Southeast Tennessee, after yet another significant rain event yesterday. About 1.5"-2" of rain fell in most area locations. We haven't had a 'bird post' in a while now, so this post is dedicated to the birds. Though birds are warm-blooded, many of them migrate as an adaptive measure to maintain existence, an existence tied directly to the seasonal food supply. Other species of birds stay in our area year round, while some only visit with us during the winter months, then head back north in the spring for the annual courtship/nesting rituals. Two of our permanent residents are shown in the photograph above...The Eastern Bluebird and the Common Flicker. Most woodpeckers are year round residents. Examples include the following species (the Flicker is in the woodpecker group): Red-Bellied - Pileated - Hairy - Downy - Red-Headed. All of them are current regulars at my feeders. A few other common species are featured below.....

The Brown Thrasher typically migrates, but not far. They winter along the Gulf Coast states. The Thrasher's cousin, the Gray Catbird, winters in the same area. The other member of 'the mimic thrushes (previous post), the Nothern Mockingbird (our state bird), is a year round resident.

Hard to imagine a photo better depicting the male and female Eastern Towhee. The male sports the dark cape. They are year round residents.

No way to mistake the striking presence of the male Northern Cardinal. Another year round resident of our area.

This photo from last winter, when snowfall was above average. This year, no snow to speak of...so far. This is Bewick's Wren. Looks cold, almost inert... Very vocal in late winter/spring...they emit a variety of rolling, high-pitched songs as the weather warms, most often heard just after first light. A very active and perky little bird, I have had them nest in old boots in my outbuilding, as well as in old flower pots. I enjoy them immensely. This one is year round, while it's cousin, the House Wren, winters along the Gulf Coast to return in the early spring.

This small bird needs no introduction to those who feed birds. Carolina Chickadee.
Taken this week. Often found in the presence of the Tufted Titmouse...both species perform a daily back-forth pattern to and from my bird feeders, lasting as long as daylight allows. At times during the day, the nearby trees are alive with both species, followed by periods of inactivity. Constant companions during all seasons.

This photo taken this week...the Northern Junco. Some simply call them 'winter birds' and for good reason. This avia winters in the southeast, then flies all the way to Alaska and northern Canada to breed! How about that for an annual honeymoon vacation? Conversely, the Barn Swallow breeds here, then flies to Argentina, Costa Rica for the winter. Imagine.

Look A Bit Closer During Winter.....

2012-01-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

Transition day today in southeast Tennessee. From rather mild pleasant weather to windy, rainy conditions. May even get a bit of snow on the Plateau tonight. Normal hi/low temperature averages for today are 47/28 on the Cumberland Plateau. I hear many talk of the beauty of Tennessee in the spring and fall. One can also love the Tennessee winter and what it offers...but you may have to look a bit closer. And, once you are again 'out there' you may just discover some of nature's winter treasures, like the Pileated Woodpecker clinging to the Red Maple above (they visit my suet cakes daily)....

....or a Gray Squirrel perched high in an oak....

.....or appreciate the natural effects of elevation on a cold winter morning......

....or anticipate a sunrise just before the mighty helio peeks over a mountain......

.....or the small things hidden along the forest floor....like this Ground Pine (Lycopodium).....

....enjoy the serenity of the mountains while walking along a woodland trail.....

....or stand on a covered bridge and enjoy the natural soothing sounds of a noisy mountain stream...this is Mother's Bridge on Stone Creek - within our properties.....

....even appreciate the winter modifications of the various species of flora (perhaps like you....just waiting for the warmth of spring)...note the new buds at the apex of the stems on this Mountain Laurel. An 'old timer' once told me one could predict the level of harshness of the coming winter by the thickness of the covering of the buds...which begin to form as the leaves fall in the autumn. In some species of the conifers, like two species of local pines (Eastern White Pine and Shortleaf Pine/Yellow Pine), growth of the previous year will 'shed' (turns brown - then falls), while the green growth of the current year remains along the distal portion of the twigs. Thus the ground covering of brown pine needles beneath the pine trees. Happens every year.

Let's Take a Walk....and Merry Christmas

2011-12-20T08:27:00.000-08:00

Holiday time....Cloudy and a bit warm (low 50s) today in southeast Tennessee. As my uncle used to say...weather moving in. Using recent photographs, thought we might take a walk back with this post...and perhaps take a moment to remind ourselves what is important in life, and how nature often plays a role in our ability to make sense of it all. That maybe we could view these photographs and in some small way, appreciate the harmony and beauty that surrounds us, and that all creatures play a part in the vast ecosystem that we call planet Earth. Traveling along Highway 127, noticed extraterrestrial movement out the window of my vehicle, to the East, my left. After a quick ID, pulled off the highway to enjoy the show. Sandhill Cranes. Hundreds of them. Flight after flight came in to the winter wheat fields along the highway. Passing motorists did not seem to notice, or at least they did not slow. In my mind, it was a very special way to spend an early morning (it was just after first light). Continuing the thought......... ...of how I appreciated the solitude and beauty provided me on this cool late autumn morning. These majestic birds were doing what their kind do. Survive-adapt-obtain nutrition. Join the fight.

They often fly in a 'V', though this group is somewhat scattered just prior to landing in the field. The 'chortle' of these birds is distinct and many times I hear them (especially on cloudy days..and at night) without seeing them. In migration, and even from one feeding area to another, they often fly at 1,000'-3,000' or higher.......

.....Full moon hanging in the western sky...just after first light, 10 days ago. I wonder if.....

....no, couldn't be. Note the startled look on this young Whitetail Deer. For some reason this group of three deer allowed me to within 25' prior to their flight through the forest. A message ?

...a walk along a woodland trail. Nothing like being 'out there'. The peace, the wonder of it all, appreciating the fresh air - the quiet - remembering the frondescence of only a few weeks back - alert for movement - reflecting on how it used to be - of how it could be - of how it should be - of who was near - and who was not - what if? No, don't go there...let's continue along the trail....

....and take note of the Mistletoe growing from the limb of an oak...could it be? ...to each its own.....

....even appreciate the Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), arguably one of nature's least attractive creatures, but necessary in their role as one of the 'recyclers' of our ecosystems.....

...and realize there are places of refuge and that indeed, all that wander are not lost. This flowing mountain stream is Stone Creek, as it passes beneath Mother's Bridge and along Mother's Park, yet another secluded, naturally refreshing spot to 'get lost' within our residential areas. And yes, I was sitting on a rock in the stream when this photo was taken, and appreciating the opportunity and freedom to do what my kind do. Merry Christmas to all and to all happy trails.

More Deer and Stuff....

2011-12-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

Don't quite know what to say. Any caption that came to my mind did not do this picture justice. Mother Nature, you've done it again. Note the swollen neck (typical of a rutting buck...even more evident in the photo below) and muscled torso of this magnificent buck.

Odocoileus virginianus at its finest...same deer as above. He belongs here...the snow, the cold, the quiet mountains - his territory. Good luck ol' boy. We hope you have plenty of progeny to carry on the fight.

Another big buck. Photo taken last week. This one was trailing a doe. This deer walked - hesitated - walked...never ran. His mind no doubt on other 'things'. Woods a bit too thick for a clear photo. Spread of these antlers and tine length off the main beam impressive.

Very late in the afternoon. Camera made this young buck appear in good light. In actuality, it was almost dark. I had just come out of the deep forest via one of the trails...and this deer was standing near a pond. Was in the process of putting the camera away....and this opportunity came along. Probably about 18 months old.

Had to include this shot of a young deer standing in the rain. Quite a surprise. I was adjusting the camera settings and looked up to see this...standing only 20' or so away. Seconds later, the youngster ran into the woods - to be joined by mama and then the two of them raced away through the forest. I got the feeling watching them run that mama gave her baby a good talking to about walking so near Homo sapiens. Most likely the young of the year...about 6 months old.

Another spontaneous photo taken as darkness fell one day last week. There were seven deer, all does, in this group. Four of them appear here - standing at attention in the cold wind....alerted by the movements of the other three, which were moving around just to the right of this photo.

While on a photo session, had to take a moment to sit atop a rock bluff overlooking a noisy stream. Peace. Ah, said the old man....remember to keep your nose into the wind and your eyes along the skyline.

The Call....From the Eye of a Deer

2011-11-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

Late afternoon. Low sun angle. These four mature whitetail does were seemingly enjoying their time together. Mid-November....cold...chances are a buck was nearby, perhaps awaiting the protective cover of darkness to make his advance with one of these females. The annual rut (mating season) of the deer is underway in southeast Tennessee. The peak of the rut lasts 2-3 weeks typically, with periods of follow-up activity possible on through December. If a doe is not bred during the first estrus cycle, she comes into 'heat' again 28 days later (a third cycle may also occur), thus explaining why fawns are born at different times the following year...from late May to late June usually.

A mature whitetail buck, this one quite an impressive animal. Left undisturbed, deer usually stay within a square mile or so of where they are born. During the rut, however, the males become much more active, even belligerent at times, and often wander. They rub their antlers on saplings (see below), sometimes staging a 'mock fight' with an imaginary rival. Competition among males, in healthy deer herds, can become fierce. Most often the largest and strongest bucks outduel the younger males...who are often forced to wait until next year. It is during this time the big bucks become most vulnerable to their # 1 enemy...the hunter. Interestingly, through the years, I have only witnessed deer actually mating 3 times. The act of copulation, almost always at night, is brief...only minutes in duration. Why? Same reason they never truly 'sleep'. Awareness/survival is the first order of business....mating and the deer's version of sleep only become options after # 1 is achieved. Gestation is typically around 7 months.

Quite a scene. Christmas Day last year. Taken by one of our Stone Creek residents. Priceless.

The track of a whitetail buck. Note the imprint of the dew claws (smallest part of the track...in the foreground of the photo), a sure sign that this deer was relatively heavy. Does, which are typically significantly less weight than the males (for similarly aged animals), rarely leave a mark of dew claws. Also note the splayed nature of the hoof...another sign of significant weight. The track of a doe is typically more rounded with parts of the hoof closer together. In fawns and youngsters, the parts of the hoof may touch or almost so, creating a heart-shaped track.

This young Hemlock bears the brunt of the efforts of a whitetail buck rubbing his antlers. The shavings resulting from the rub were atop the leaves...a sure sign that the buck had only recently passed through.

This doe is surrounded by preferred typical whitetail habitat...thick tangles of vegetation bordered by more open woodlands and brushy fields. This variation of habitat leads to plant biodiversity (along with a safe refuge of cover).... thus a variety of potential food souces....a key to the expansion and growth of the whitetail population across the southland the last few decades. This deer was photographed as I walked along a woodland trail. All the deer fled, it was one of six in a group...and she paused just long enough for the photo before vanishing into the thick growth.

Walking this same area of our properties ten days ago, these buck rubs had not been made. This week, as shown. Colder weather, full moon, mid November.....three key ingredients that stimulate the hormones/reproductive cycle of the deer, and subsequently the rut. The timing of the rut varies in different parts of the USA......typically earlier in northern states and later in more southern states.

These two saplings were not only rubbed by the antlers of a buck...but broken and destroyed....the hormones must have really been flowing.

Lucky Dog - The Squirrel - And More October.....

2011-10-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

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......

Autumn Leaves Plus....

2011-10-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

The Mockernut Hickory. The brilliant yellow is typical of this species in autumn.

A colorful blending along one of the development roadways.... of Sourgum (burgundy), Hickory (brightest yellow) and Yellow Poplar (also yellow).

Sumac. Along with the Red Maple, Sourgum and Blackgum, this species is accountable for much of the red/burgundy autumn coloration.

Harvest time. This display near the entrance of our properties.

Blackgum. This species has been very colorful this fall. The leaves almost always turn a deep burgundy (have seen a few that were almost red).

At the time of the photo, this doe was staring intently at something....could very well have been her fawn (or fawns) lying in the vegetation nearby.....

Whitetail Deer: near dusk, two adult does and three fawns (in Greenfields).....

Seasons Change.....

2011-10-09T07:40:00.001-07:00

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.

The Good - The Bad - The Beautiful...

2011-09-16T06:52:00.001-07:00

September has brought delightful weather. Highs in the 70s, lows in the 50s (upper 40s this morning)....low humidity - refreshing breezes. Due to the rather dry August, many of the deciduous leaves adjusted....some have turned red or yellow prematurely (to us) and some of the leaves (primarily oak) have turned brown. Due to the recent rains, October should still be rather colorful. Great hiking weather. Get out and enjoy the great outdoors!
Five Wild Turkey gobblers and two Whitetail Deer. Seldom are we presented with such a photo opportunity. This great shot was taken by Gary and Maryann Hertzberg, near their home within our properties. Thank you for sharing this special scene.

Have just originated the "Fredonia Mountain Nature Resort Arboretum". Spent most of a day recently placing tags, as shown, along two of our hiking/nature trails....in Mother's Park and along Stone Bridge Park Trail. The project is on-going, and when all is completed, plan on having many of the most common coniferous and deciduous trees within our properties identified.

Nothing like a September walk through the woods.....

One more look at one of the new wildflower gardens in Greenfields.......

Saved this photo for last.....as to some it may not represent the good or the beautiful. Spotted this reptile near one of our trails recently. It was posing in the sun and maintained this posture on the forest floor the entire time it was being watched. This is the Black Rat Snake (Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta). The young look nothing like the dark colored adult...but, on the dorsal side and tail, have a bold pattern of gray or brown blotches on a pale gray background color...much like the adult Gray Rat Snake (Elaphe obsoleta spiloides). This pattern disappears as the snake gets older. Commonly called the 'mountain black snake' or simply 'black snake' this common species is one of four 'black snakes' found in our area. The other 'black snakes' are the Eastern Racer (Coluber constrictor), the Black King Snake (Lampropeltis getula nigra), and the black version of the Hog-Nosed Snake (Heterodon platyrhinos)...all of which I have seen within our properties. We also have the 'cousins' of the Black Rat Snake.... the Yellow Rat Snake, the Red Rat Snake (Corn Snake), and the Gray Rat Snake. All are genus Elaphe. The specimen shown was about 3' in length, but they are known to reach 5'-6'. They feed on small mammals primarily and are accomplished tree climbers. They are not venomous. Often, when threatened, they 'freeze', especially if they are caught in the open...on a road or trail. They may coil and strike when cornered, mostly as a bluff.

2011-09-16T06:52:00.000-07:00

Life Cycles - Deer - 'Coon and More

2011-08-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

The Bobwhite...this recent photograph shows a male of the species. No doubt other members of the 'covey' were nearby. Endangered in some parts of the Southland, the Bobwhite is doing well within our properties. Their signature call can be heard daily in many parts of our 3,500+ acre Nature Resort, especially early morning and late afternoon.

These two young whitetail bucks are in their second year, most likely born late spring 2010. Soon the velvet covering the mineral-rich antlers will begin to dry and peel. The deer hasten the process of shedding the velvet (a matrix of protective membranes) by rubbing the antlers on small saplings or shrubs. This process is not to be confused with the buck rubs of late fall (during the "rut"), which involve more hormones and aggression. In healthy deer populations, bucks of this age, though sexually mature, typically do a lot of watching and waiting during the rut, as larger, more experienced males pursue courtship with the does.

No, this photo was not taken from the Audubon Collection, nor from the archives of any on-line service. This recent photo is from the camera of Frank Kahoun, one of our residents with whom I exchange wildlife photos. What a great shot! Note the sunflower seeds on the ground....from the suspended feeder above. Thanks again Frank.

Nest empty. No activity at all. All the young have now flown away. I do believe all 5 young survived. Photo Date: 8-19-11.

Ah...here they are....5 little heads have now emerged above the edge of the nest....and did they get active when momma flew in with a few insects! Photo Date: 8-5-11.

Mother Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) on the nest....the young are too small to be seen at this point in time...... Photo Date: 7-20-11.

Memories.....

2011-08-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

Annually, as the calendar turns toward late summer, my thoughts seem to always find their way to yesterday, when the clock ticked a bit slower. I think of harvest time, the cool winds of autumn, clear blue skies, days gone by. Seems to help me appreciate life, space and time. I think of my early days in Tennessee in a house similar to the one shown. Tough. But I did not realize it. When the world as I knew it included only a few miles and a few people....a country store and a country church. Just dreamed of a chance to see the world, spread my wings, and discover my niche. Often my mind drifts back to:

Dusty hayfields along Salt Lick Creek.....square bales on to a trailer behind a tractor, and then into the barn....Cousins and uncles..anyone not afraid of work....'Like a Rock'....

Cattle grazing in the meadows.....mostly milk cattle that demanded time morning and night....

Cornfields....and more cornfields....wash up at the outside pumphouse...make some home-made ice cream......listen to the Bobwhite, then in the late evening stillness, the Whippoorwill. Relax...just relax and listen......

The old barn across the creek... a refuge......a treat any time...especially when it rained. Memories.

Scenes of Summer.....

2011-07-18T13:34:00.001-07:00

A Red-Winged Blackbird perched in a willow along the banks of Lake George in Greenfields......

Look closely....enlarge by a click...an Indigo Bunting can be seen on the left side of this photo, on the boomerang shaped limb....

Yes, same tree as above...this time a Red-Headed Woodpecker....striking against a clear blue summer sky...

A female Ruby Throated Hummingbird....taking an infrequent break on a feeder. With a heartbeat known to be 900+ beats/minute, is it any wonder they do not live very long?

Recent photo of a masked bandit. This Raccoon has manipulated a bird feeder in such a way (photo below....Is this a look of mischief or getting caught in the act of piracy?) as to cause the sunflower seeds to fall to the ground. Raccoons are survivors......ominvorous, and seem to adapt to a variety of habitats. Native only to North America, the 'coon is a solitary animal, except for breeding and caring for the young, which are born in the spring. Female prefers a leaf nest in a hollow tree, but may also use woodchuck burrows, rock outcroppings, and even culverts. Female only accepts one male per season. The male typically stays around for about a week before moving on.

A Nature Photo is Worth...Priceless....

2011-07-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

The Eastern Kingbird resting on the banks of a quiet mountain lake. These flycatchers are common in most of Tennessee, and abundant within our properties. Often seen harrassing hawks and crows. They winter in South America, and fly back to us each spring. They often hover, seemingly on the tips of their wings, searching for food...mostly flying insects. The white horizontal bar on the end of the tail is distinctive and a good ID field mark. The red spot on top of the head is rarely seen.

Though it has been months, just had to do it...another look at the mysterious "Black Fox". It has been seen again just recently.

This male (golden color) and female Common Goldfinch (perched on the sunflowers) seem to be enjoying the pose from the back deck of Mike and Mo Fuller's beautiful home in Greenfields West. And yes, they love sunflower seeds.

A good look at a young whitetail buck with antlers in velvet. This one is most likely about one year old...having been born early last summer. Male whitetails are not sexually mature during their first late autumn breeding season, being only about 5-6 months old at the time, but by their second autumn they are ready for action....if they can win the favor of a female from older, more mature bucks. This is also when they are most likely to lose their life to another predator of the fields and forest...man. Contrary to some opinions, the 18+/- month old deer may have 4-8 points on the antlers, or it may be a spike (single vertical antlers on each side)....depends on heredity and nutrition. If the young buck survives its second autumn, it becomes much more wary and secretive...a much different animal than during the first year. No more being naive and hanging out with the crowd. Despite this, it is rare for a male deer to live past four and a half years.

Nature's Ways.....

2011-06-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

Story starts below....

Follow this Killdeer (notice the bold dark bands on the white chest...a good ID field mark) through the next three photos. I first spotted this one running through the grass near Lake George, no doubt searching for a snack. Next I saw it near the water's edge, still as a stone. As I slowly approached (within about 75'), the bird flattened it's posture into the pose shown...belly on the ground, neck extended, hoping to go unnoticed behind the grass.

The Ox-Eye Daisy....one of many area members of Compositae....the 'daisies'.

The Eastern Cottontail Rabbit...Sylvilagus floridanus....a species that is a key component of many wildlife food chains. A common species, this rabbit is the one you may see along the roadside, at the edge of a field, or your yard, especially in the late afternoon or early morning. When I see one (the one shown, a large adult, is in my yard), the first sensation I get is one of sadness....as few rabbits live to see the end of their first year. Hawks, weasels, snakes, owls, foxes, coyotes, eagles, dogs....all chase the rabbit. The death rate vies with the birth rate...it is not uncommon for rabbits to produce 3-4 litters per year. Within hours of giving birth, the female rabbit mates again. Litters are typically quite large, with average being 4-6.

Let's Hear It For The Oaks......

2011-06-02T11:35:00.001-07:00

- In the shade of an oak, down by the river, sat an old man and a boy...settin' sails, spinnin' tales, and fishin' for whales..." Willie Nelson....Yes, the oaks, genus Quercus, play a part in all our lives, whether acknowledged or not. Oaks make up a large percentage of the southeast Tennessee deciduous forests. They occupy a prominent role in our natural ecosystems as well as being utilized by man in a variety of ways, most notably those related to the furniture/home building industry. ID of the various species in this genus is not easy. Taxonomists often group them into two general groups....The White Oak Group and the Red Oak Group. Below are photos/general comments that might help in appreciating and identifying some of the Oaks. Featured are the common species in this area. Others of this group I have seen around the region include: Bur Oak - Chinkapin Oak (rarely on The Plateau) - Willow Oak - Scarlet Oak - Turkey Oak - Pin Oak.

Northern Red Oak...common in our area. Often tall and stately with an open crown, distinctive striping on the trunk. Leaves moderately lobed, thin, dull above and hairless. To 80'.

The Blackjack Oak....not a tall tree. Leaves leathery and thick, often shiny.

The Chestnut Oak....common on the Cumberland Plateau, not so much off it. The acorns are large and visibly appealing, to humans....but not to the wildlife. Some years, the ground is covered with acorns beneath an adult tree, and 60 days later the ground will most likely still be covered, as very few inhabitants of Kingdom Animalia can tolerate the bitter taste. Only other similar leaf belongs to the Chinkapin Oak.

The White Oak... easily identified by the rounded lobes of the leaf, much like the pattern formed by your 4 fingers together (unlike the Red Oak group) and gray scaly bark. Mature trees often have large limbs near the top of the tree in a broad, spreading pattern. This tree does not take domestication well....as many transplanted specimens die due to the stress of leaving the native leaf-covered, moist forests for open yards of suburbia. Acorns are relatively 'sweet' and palatable...cherished by wildlife.

Post Oak....similar to Blackjack. Seldom gets to 50'. Leaves often large, with a relatively thick cuticle... and shiny.

Southern Red Oak. Also tall and stately with an open crown. Leaf deeply lobed, with narrow central spine, sharp points. Similar species are the Scarlet Oak and Turkey Oak.

Black Oak. Darker trunk, often with deeper furrows than Red Oak, otherwise similar. Foliage is typically more dense than the Red Oak, especially in younger trees. Leaves often glossy above....mostly hairless beneath. Another distinguishing mark is the orange inner bark. Can reach 75'.

The 'Mimic Thrushes'

2011-05-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

- A beautiful day in Tennessee....near 70 with mixed clouds. Could be that you are waking up to the sounds of one of these featured avia. If this is true, odds are it is the Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), the state bird of Tennessee. If the other two species included in this unofficial group (they are not true thrushes) are heard, chances are you may not have identified the source as yet.

- Along with the Northern Mockingbird, the other two members of this group are the Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) and the Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum). The latter two occupy similar habitats...as both are denizens of dense undergrowth and are more often heard than seen. All are known for their unusual vocals, long tails, and curved bills.
- By far the most vocal of the group, the king of nature's mimics, is the feisty Mockingbird (middle two photographs). One of these feathered tunesmiths has graced our office in springtime/early summer for as long as I have been in Dunlap. It, or perhaps one of it's progeny, often perch on top of the office roofline and proceeds to sing for hours. Periodically, the bird may fly to a nearby tree, or it's nest, only to return shortly...and the performance continues. The male of this species even sings at night, often perched atop a utility pole or on a dead limb, especially one located near the top of the tree. Like most songbirds, this species is most active and vocal during the breeding season. The Mockingbird is basically gray, with white wing bars, roughly the size of a Robin, but slimmer. The white wing and tail patches are prominent during flight. They will mimic most anything....from other birds to sirens to the neighborhood cat and dog. They are well named...one of the great entertainers of the bird world.

- The Gray Catbird (next to top photo) prefers a more secluded life. They often utter a mellow, distinctive cry similar to the 'meow' of a cat...thus the name. Note the black cap on the slate gray head. It often flips it's tail, much like the Mockingbird...but there are no white wing patches.
- The Brown Thrasher (bottom two photographs...and the top photo), like the Catbird, prefers the dense tangles of fencerows and understory. This bird is rufus colored above and heavily striped below...and note the yellow eye, which is distinctive. It is a bit larger than the other two members, sometimes reaching 11-12". On occasion, especially during the breeding season, the male becomes a bit more ostentatious, as in the bottom two photos. This one was in the top of a tree adjacent to Lake George within our properties. If the bottom photo is enlarged (click) it reveals that this one was in full throat....and hearing the song was what made me take notice in the first place. The song is somewhere between the other two species....a series of rolling, deliberate, paired phrases. In summer, this bird is rarely seen...but still heard. I sometimes hear their voice in the undergrowth while hiking/walking, especially late in the afternoon. Knowing the source of a song is not always easy in the bird world...and the Brown Thrasher falls into this category.

- The Mockingbird and Thrasher may stay in our area year round. If they migrate, they usually only go as far south as the Gulf Coast area, and return in early spring. The Catbird is more likely to leave our area for the winter, and migrates to the Gulf Coast, Florida, and Latin America.

Sunhine and Rain.....Contrast Needed......

2011-04-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

- Sunshine and rain....we've had both the last few days. Today is sunny, a breeze, and mid 70s...with perhaps the brilliance of this glorious day a needed contrast to the storms that swept across much of the southern and eastern USA a few days ago. Mother Nature is often beyond description. While we are blessed to enjoy and appreciate the wonder of nature, as in these photos, many across our great land are suffering today. Thoughts and prayers.

- What is still blooming currently? Dogwoods....for about a month now! Unprecedented in my notes. The Black Locust is blooming locally, as is the Multiflora Rose, a species introduced from Japan in the 1860s that, due to prolific habits of survival and reproduction, has spread rapidly across much of the USA. It often forms inpenetrable tangles...but seeds are food for many species of birds and the showy white flowers are not unattractive. Also, the Pinxter Flower and Wild Azaleas are beginning to bloom in the woodlands across our area.

- Photos.....top to bottom.....(click to enlarge).....

1) The male Northern Cardinal....can't get enough of this species....this one enjoying a moment of rest after several of my sunflower seeds......

2) A Pink Dogwood in an area yard.....

3) Male (on left) and female Wood Ducks....taken at a distance - on Lake George....love is in the air.

4) Female Northern Cardinal (right) and one of the mainstays at my feeders....the Tufted Titmouse.

5) Caught this Red-Bellied Woodpecker trying to evict a grub from a crevice in an oak......

6) A female Downy Woodpecker taking a break after visiting my suet cake....

7) This photo should have perhaps taken the top spot....this male Pileated Woodpecker seems to be searching the trees for something....most likely it's mate, which had just flown from one of my feeders nearby.....

Everyone's Talking.....and a Bald Eagle

2011-04-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

- A blustery April day in southeast Tennessee, after another rain event yesterday and last night...the creeks and rivers are full.

- Everyone seems to be talking about the dogwoods this spring. The Tennessee woodlands, as well as residential areas, seem to be full of the showy white flowers of Cornus florida (add subspecies name of rubra for pink (rubra in Latin actually means 'red').

- No doubt this is in part due to the above average rainfall this spring as well as several warm, sunny days. This is 'showtime' for the dogwoods....as this angiosperm is quite inconspicuous and seldom noticed any other time of year.

- As shown in the photos, we have Pink Dogwoods, White Dogwoods (top photo) and we have some specimens that have both pink and white flowers (next to top photo)! Actually, considering the latter, this tree is most likely two trees growing together since youth, and some of the white flower have already faded, but it is beautiful!

- Don't expect woodland dogwoods to be as showy and full as the ones in these photographs (taken near our office). Wild specimens near the edge of a forest, or in fields have a better chance to be full of blooms like the ones in the photos.

- Also, have a local bird photo that is a bit unusual....next to bottom. While traveling just north of our Dunlap office, spied these brilliant white birds in the trees over a waterway. Pulled off the road for a closer look. Turned out to be Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis). Some of the birds appeared to be asleep in the tall trees....had their yellow bills tucked beneath a wing. - The Bald Eagle in the bottom photo seems to be angry...perhaps the chosen prey had escaped. This photo was taken by Frank Kahoun within our properties a few days ago.

The Color of Spring.....

2011-04-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

- A beautiful spring day in southeast Tennessee....brilliant sunshine, a breeze, and the creeks are roaring after 2+" of rainfall last evening.

- The Redbuds (Cercis canadensis) are blooming currently, so the Flowering Dogwoods (Cornus florida) are sure to follow soon.... in fact, some dogwoods are already blooming in the lower elevations.

- It is a great time of year to be a birder....lots of activity. Most all species are in the process of nest building, egg laying, or courtship displays. Saw an Osprey in flight over the Sequatchie Valley this morning, and a Bald Eagle was seen near Lake George, within our properties, last week.

PHOTOS....top to bottom.....

- The Northern Mockingbird (Genus: Mimus)....our state bird....uncommon on feeders....but perhaps curiosity got the best of this one....

- A never ending battle....this Gray Squirrel would not be denied my sunflower seeds.....

- Two male Purple Finches and a male Goldfinch.....

- Two male and two female Goldfinches.....

- What more can I say? Is this the most striking of all the birds? Typically nervous on my feeders, and they never hang around for very long.....this male Red-Headed Woodpecker seemed to be enjoying a rather peaceful moment atop my suet cake.....

The Conifers.......

2011-03-11T09:01:00.000-08:00

- After two periods of considerable rainfall in the last week, good to see the Tennessee sunshine today. Creeks are roaring. First saw the bloom of a Downy Serviceberry on March 3....the first of the blooming species in our local woodlands.

- Prior to the annual coming of the deciduous leaves to our southeast Tennessee mountains, thought it would be appropriate to pay tribute to a few of our evergreen friends - the conifers.

- Collectively these species adorn our winter landscape with green color, and many outdoor lovers, as myself, find comfort and peace listening to the sighing of the wind cut by their needles.
- The species presented here play an important role in the ecosystems of the mixed Tennessee forest.

Top to bottom.....

1) The Shortleaf Pine (Pinus echinata)....To 70'...cones 2"-3", needles in bundles of 2, no more than 3. Bark scaly in adults. Young specimens are full and vibrant, adults not so much. Adult trees, as the ones in the photos, often have a straight trunk devoid of limbs, until near the crown, which is often rounded. Similar species is the Loblolly Pine (P. taeda), which is more common south of our location. Both are important lumber trees.

2) Next two photos...The Virginia Pine (Pinus virginiana). Common on the southern Cumberland Plateau, but not as aesthetically pleasing as the other species mentioned here. Often called the 'Scrub Pine', this tree is often found in clusters, as pictured. Branches are tough and fibrous, difficult to break. Cones are 2"-3". Needles in 2s. A 40' specimen is considered large.

3) Next two photos...The Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis). Nothing like it! These beautiful trees are common in areas of our mountain properties, and completely absent in others. Seem to prefer creek canyons and rocky slopes, though they can surive in other habitats. Needles short and relatively flat, less than 1", pale, almost white beneath. Cones, as pictured, are small, also less than 1". As a fuel, wood throws sparks. Twigs of young trees browsed by deer and rabbits.
4) Next two photos....Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana). More common off the Cumberland Plateau, at lower elevations, but a few specimens dot our winter scape. To 50', 3-sided needle-like leaves. Fruits consumed by over 50 species of birds, including Mourning Doves and Bobwhites. Heartwood is aromatic, rose-brown in color. Adults often have bark that is scaly, shredded.

5) Bottom two photos...The Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus). A tall stately tree, to 100'+, that is a favorite of landscapers and golf courses. The ONLY 5-needle pine in the eastern USA. Needles 2"-4", cones slender, 3"-10". Not as resinous as other pines, thus the great demand as a lumber tree for residential construction. Due to demand, virgin stands of this magnificent conifer are now rare, if not gone altogether, even in the northeast, where this species is abundant. For this reason, reforestation is common. Suscepitible to disease, especially some of the fungal variety.

What A Glorious Day.....

2011-02-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

From top to bottom.....

- Got up before the sun, experienced the grandeur of a late winter sunrise from a chosen perch deep in the woods.......

- Traveled deliberately, breathed deeply, attempting to take in all of what this day had to offer....

- Like this striking Red-Headed Woodpecker.... peering intently, with a cocked eye, at the stranger passing through.....

- Like this raptor just after sunrise, ruffled against the mountain breezes....appears to be a juvenile Red-Shouldered Hawk.....

- Found a waterfall on a woodland stream......

- Listened to the invisible vector of the wind from atop a bluff in the woods........

- Stared at the stark mountains... my mind wandering through space and time....

- Near the end, seemed to know of the path less taken....

- Available to anyone willing to participate....

- What a day....what a glorious day.

- All photos from The Fredonia Mountain Nature Resort near Dunlap, Tennessee.

Only Mid-Winter....But.....

2011-02-11T07:59:00.000-08:00

- First heard the coo of the Mourning Dove outside my window on February 3 this year. The familiar rolling song of the Northern Cardinal, the one that will continue on through the spring and early summer, was heard first on February 1. Why mention it? The old timers used to say (maybe they still do) these are among the first signs that winter is about to "break". Awfully cold last night, so maybe the birds did not read the same books as the old timers.

- The below average temperatures are upon us again in southeast Tennessee, with a bit of snow on the Cumberland Plateau....but changes are just around the corner. Forecast for the next several days is for sunny skies and temperatures reaching the 50s.

- One opossum, two skunks and two raccoons....road kill seen this morning (see previous blog entry).

- The opossum, the only North American member in Marsupialia (the female has a pouch...and gives birth to premature young who stay in the pouch for weeks) of Class Mammalia, is an amazing creature. Not much to look at but their adaptive ways are amazing. May do an entry about this common animal in a later post. Did you realize there is a North American Opossum Society?

Photos......top to bottom.....taken yesterday......

1) A Pileated Woodpecker, enjoying the suet cakes, seems to have detected a disturbance

2) The Common Crow. Perched in a Black Oak in a very cold wind, I wonder what this one was thinking......

3) What a mischievous look! A common sight on many late winter bird feeders.....
4) Two Mourning Doves trying to warm themselves in the sun under one my young Eastern Hemlocks. Note the closed eyes of the one on the right.

5) The Red-Bellied Woodpecker. Like many southeast Tennessee woodpeckers, this species is quite colorful, and visits the suet cakes often. Yesterday I had five woodpecker species on the feeders (Hairy, Downy, Flicker, Red-Bellied, and Pileated).

The Tale of the Fox.....

2011-01-31T10:30:00.000-08:00

- The cunning of the fox is well documented in many parts of Tennessee. And since I have been asked several fox questions recently, and have actually seen two specimens the last few days, it is time to pay tribute to the fox. Actually two foxes....the Red Fox and the Gray Fox.

- Both the Red and the Gray Fox are found in our part of Tennessee, though not commonly seen. Both are primarily nocturnal, though on occasion they are seen around dusk or dawn.

- Foxes are being seen more this time of year because the males are seeking out the females for breeding, thus more travel and exposure. Same is true for Woodchucks, Skunks, and many of the smaller mammals. No doubt, for this reason, February leads all the months for road kill. Gestation is generally 50-55 days in the foxes with the young being born in late March to early May. Foxes are lithe and graceful, with adults ranging from 8-15 lbs. They stand approximately 13-16" at the shoulder, and range from 35"-41" in length.

- The Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), top two photos, is a strikingly beautiful animal, especially in winter, when the coat is full. Regardless of where they are found, they most always are reddish above, have a white tipped tail, black 'stockings' and feet, pointed ears, and a long, bushy tail. Black phases and 'cross' phases are known. Red Foxes, like the Gray, often den on a slope, creek bank, or near rocks, many times in 'remodeled' woodchuck holes. They will have a main den entrance and 1-3 inconspicuous 'escape' holes. The main entrance is often littered with the remains of small prey animals and feathers. Foxes typically have 3-8 kits. The den is abandoned by August, when families disperse. Until the next breeding season, males/females pay little, if any attention to each other. When about 1 month old kits begin to play above ground. The mother at first digests, then regurgitates meat, but soon live prey is brought to the den, so the young can begin to practice the craft of killing. Kits leave the den at about 4 months. Males may wander up to 100+ miles, females not so much. Other than the breeding/parenting period, foxes are solitary, nervous and shy. They are omnivorous, feeding heavily on vegetation in summer, especially berries, corn, apples, even grapes and later in autumn, acorns. Invertebrates such as crickets, beetles and crayfish are also eaten. In winter birds and small mammals are the mainstays of the fox diet.

- The Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), is similar to the Red in size, but with distinct differences. This species is grizzled gray above, with a white throat and a black 'mane' on top of the tail. The tail typically has a black tip. They are reddish below the dominant gray and usually have some red on the back of the head. This species eats more berries in summer than does the Red, otherwise hunting habits/food are similar. As the photo shows, the Gray, unlike the Red, can climb trees (the only American canid capable of doing so), and often does so when chasing squirrels or evading threat. Interestingly, the male of this species helps with the rearing of the young, but does not reside in the same den (males of the Red Fox also help with the young). Dens are often near/among rocks and they, unlike the Red, will use the den all winter for safety and shelter. Bobcats and domestic dogs are the chief predators of the foxes, if they can catch them. Reds especially are hard to catch, as they seem to have greater speed and endurance than the Gray, but the Red does not have the option of the trees.

- Locally, the foxes seem to be holding their own, with the Gray somewhat more common than the Red. Influx of the Coyote has most likely reduced their numbers in some locations. Considering their habits and lifestyle, seeing either of these species in the wild is a treat. They are masters of escape. Many are endeared to the fox due to the unusual habit of both parents caring for the young. My experience with the foxes is that you see them when you least expect to, and almost always they disappear quickly. Once feared as a carrier of rabies, this is now rare, though possible. Other than this, the foxes pose no threat to humans.

Another Short Story - From Life in the Wild

2011-01-05T08:53:00.001-08:00

In the life of the deer.......

- Early this morning, the buck in the bottom two photos came out of the woods several minutes after the group of does and yearlings (12 deer in this group) had appeared in the edge of a field........

- Periodically his nose went to the ground and he would begin to trail toward the does....and eventually all disappeared into the forest....

- The does and yearlings were moving deliberately at first....checking the ground for left over White Oak acorns, the underbrush for bits of browse, and the young trees for a few buds.....

- This all changed when the male appeared. They began to act nervous and unsettled.....

- While the does and yearlings were hanging out together and searching for food, the buck had other things on his mind......

- Chances are most of these does, other than the yearlings, have already been bred, with the estrus cycle ending at conception.....

- While it is not uncommon for a doe in estrus to breed with more than one buck, this pattern of behavior only lasts so long, and then the chemical stimulation lessens and finally stops....

- Most likely one or more of the does in this group was in her 2nd or even 3rd estrus cycle and the buck had picked up the scent......and a comparatively late fertilization could have taken place in the woods soon after these photos were taken.

- Typically in our area, the first estrus cycle begins in November and varies a bit from year to year. There is much debate as to what exactly stimulates the rut in the male deer, and the estrus cycle in the females. A long discussion for another time. For obvious reasons, the two are intertwined and for the most part simultaneous.

- Does in estrus leave scent...from a gland between the hooves, and it is this stimulant, when placed in the 'scrape' of the buck, that often begins the trailing process of the buck toward the doe, which may be a few hundred feet, or even a mile or more. It is the doe's way of telling the buck that she has entered the breeding stage...and that if he can find her without becoming distracted by another doe in heat, possibilities exist for the continuation of the species.
- Does not bred during the first estrus cycle will come into a 2nd cycle 28 days later....the reason that all fawns are not born at the same time in late spring.

- Gestation in the whitetail deer is around 180 days, with most fawns born from late May through June. Usually twins are the rule, with the sex ratio, by years of statistics, slightly above 1:1, favoring the males. Think nature is aware of statistics and life spans?

- Bucks do not live long. By TWRA statistics, most bucks seen at the checking stations in the autumn are in their second fall, approximately 18 months old. If the buck survives this second fall, he becomes a different creature....more wary and distrusting, seldom hanging out with other deer, until the next rut the following year. A buck of three and a half years and older is uncommon at the checking stations, but it is these older deer that often have the most impressive set of antlers. Locally, a buck of 5 1/2 and older is basically unheard of, comprising less than 1% of statistics. A male deer in the second fall can be an 8-point or a spike...it all depends on genetics and nutrition. In the later years, if the buck is fortunate to live that long, the antler mass/size may decline.

- All things being considered, notwithstanding the size of the antlers, the pattern of a buck's antlers will be similar year after year. For example, if a buck has a non-typical pattern to his antlers (one or more tines growing asymmetrically), this pattern will most likely continue through the life of this deer. Similarly, if an 8-point buck survives his second fall, the following year he may be a larger 8-point, or even a 10-point or more, but the general pattern of the antlers will be similar to the previous year. Annually, bucks usually shed their antlers in late January or February and the re-growth process starts soon afterward, in March.

- Older male deer are extremely cautious......spending most all of their time alone. Only during the rut do they become more vulnerable to forces that can do them harm. Active, mature bucks eat little during the rut and may lose 25%-40% of their body weight during this time. I have seen big bucks in rut in the middle of town, crossing freeways, and in general, acting crazy. Recently a cousin e-mailed a photo of a buck he had killed in a northern Middle Tennessee county. The buck was huge....and after the mandatory drying period, may very well make the Boone and Crockett Record Book. Green, the buck scored 173 1/2 by the B/C method of scoring. This buck was taken on the farm of my cousin, and in checking with other local farmers and people who lived in the area, NO ONE had ever seen this buck prior to his death! Bucks may service multiple does during the rut, and typically the strongest males are the ones to replenish the species.

- Enough for now. Thanks to Frank and Joann Kahoun for supplying these great photos. Enjoy the great outdoors.

Merry Christmas Wishes From Land in Tennessee.....

2010-12-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

- Merry Christmas from the Cumberland Plateau of southeast Tennesseee....seasonably cool and cloudy today...but Santa snow may be on the way......Since records started being kept in the 1880s, there is only a 7% chance of a white Christmas in our part of Tennessee. The last was 1993, according to the archives. Several inches fell in much of Tennessee on Christmas of 1969...but a lot of crazy events occurred in '69. Remember Manson, first man on the moon, Chappaquiddick, Woodstock.....? This year we have a chance!

- A few Christmas wishes set to the photos in this post.....

1) May we all enjoy, and help someone else enjoy, the blessings of the season...like the seemingly content Northern Cardinal in the bottom photo and the Downy Woodpecker in the next photo.....

2) May we all offer love to those who may not agree with our ideas and values....and may we all adjust as necessary in order to preserve, survive and achieve. Pictured is the notorious Bluejay (on the ground with an acorn in the mouth), a species that, due to their aggressive and sometimes sinister behavior, most all songbirds choose to avoid whenever possible.

3) May we all have a firm foundation beneath our feet, and purpose in our step. Pictured is a Canada Goose, walking on rather thin ice on Lake George, that is not at all sure of the foundation beneath its webbed feet.

4) May events encourage us and allow us to travel hopefully. Pictured is a buck rub (taken yesterday) on an Eastern Red Cedar, near the mouth of Stone Creek. This rub is on a large tree, with comparison to a human leg provided. This evidence provided hope and assurance to me that large male deer, though seldom seen, can and do survive. Does and small bucks we see quite often, but the 'grandaddy bucks'.....rarely.

5) May we all be so intent on being productive in our lives that we do not focus on the behaviors of others. This Hairy Woodpecker (very similar to the Downy Woodpecker, but larger), is so focused on my suet cake, it seemed to be unaware of the photographer (me) behind a bush only a few feet away.

Best Wishes from all of us at Tennessee Land and Nature Properties.

It's All About the Birds.....

2010-12-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

- Cold and clear today after recent snow....2-3" in most areas of The Cumberland Plateau, a bit more in other places, like my back yard.
- This change of weather and the snow cover certainly stimulated bird behavior....throughout the day yesterday. While most folks were slipping and sliding and wondering why a measurable snowfall had occurred so early this year, I spent most of the day with a camera, watching my feeding stations. I was rewarded in a big way. So, this one is all about the birds.

Photos......Bottom to Top......

1-2....A Pileated Woodpecker clinging to the bark of a Red Maple near my feeders. Adaptation: it is interesting to note that Woodpeckers have two clawed toes forward/two clawed toes aft.....unlike the perching birds, which have three forward/one aft. Second photo is a rare treat...two adult Pileated Woodpeckers....one seems to prefer suet, the other sunflower seeds.

3- A male Northern Cardinal staring down at an American Crow.
4- Foreground: Male Northern Cardinal ....Background right: Female Northern Cardinal.... Background left: Male Purple Finch

5- The Common Flicker, as taken through my window.......the black V on the upper breast and the red patch at the back of the neck are distinguishing field marks

6- Same bird as # 5, at one of my suet feeders.

7- Striking against the snow....the male Red-Headed Woodpecker. In the foreground is a male Goldfinch, now, in winter, much more drab than the summer plumage of brilliant yellow with black wings.

8- The Slate Colored Junco - seemingly content with its perch on a low limb of a young Norway Spruce....

9- To the left is one of the mainstays of bird feeders all across our area - The Tufted Titmouse. To the right is a male Eastern Towhee....it along with another male and female spent most of the day beneath the young Hemlocks/Spruces scratching in the leaves. Near the end of the day, thanks to the Towhees, there was a semi-circle of brown leaves around some of the trees. Background left is a Downy Woodpecker.

10- Let's give some credit to the smaller, more inconspicuous species that do not get as much notice in this journal....like this House Wren, which appears to be asleep. These energetic birds are fun to watch, and though hard to tell by this photo, they never stay in one place for very long. We also have two close relatives....Bewick's Wren and the Carolina Wren. The latter two, which are often difficult to tell apart, have more facial stripes than the House Wren, and the stripe just above the eye is more white and more broad. All three species nest in this area in the spring.

Enough for now. All this activity was through a 4-hour period...constant traffic to and from...a special day. Other species left out: White-Breasted Nuthatch, Mourning Dove, Carolina Chickadee, Eastern Bluebird, Starling, Red-Bellied Woodpecker, and Song Sparrow.

Late Autumn - But Winter Has Arrived

2010-12-10T11:25:00.000-08:00

- Two nights ago, leaving a restaurant on the edge of town.....the unmistakeable chortle of Sandhill Cranes came cascading down through the darkness. We stopped. All listened. One asked me..."What in the world is that sound?"...."Mother Nature in motion" I answered. "What?" The sound was continuous, over a period of several minutes. The night was cloudy, and cold, so our party did not allow the serenade to last too long. As we drove away, I explained in detail what we had heard. There must have been hundreds of the birds, in several groups, for the sounds to have lasted so long. They were headed southeast, most likely to the Hiwassee National Refuge on The Tennessee River, a staging area that has been documented previously in this journal. The Sandhills are a bit late arriving in our area this year, compared to the last several. I first heard a group of them, almost inaudible they were so high in the air, while on a hike, on November 30th.

- Seasonably cool...mid to upper 40s..... with a veil of cirrus/cirrostratus clouds filtering the sunlight most of the day.

- The first noticeable snow this year was on November 5th....only a trace on the leaves. Similar earlier this week. If the forecast holds, it appears the Cumberland Plateau may get a bit of snow on Saturday night and Sunday of the coming weekend. Good chili or beef stew weather.

- I am seeing a lot of hawks....have spotted the following this week: Broadwing, Cooper's, Sharp-Shinned, Sparrow, and Red-Tailed.....One of the Kestrels (Sparrow Hawk) was perched on a utility line, prey draped over the wire, held by talons. Despite the cold wind, the bird seemed to be enjoying the catch of the moment.....a mouse taken from a roadside field. Too much traffic for a photo. Red-Tails love to perch atop roadside utility poles while surveying the fields....a tip that could lead to a good photo opportunity of this very common Buteo.

- Enjoyed receiving nature/wildlife photos from several residents/landowners recently. A few of them are included....from top to bottom....

1) Decisions - decisions......to give up or try again?

2) What a pose....the posture of this animal seems almost artificial. This 8-point buck was attempting to obtain a snack from the wildlife feeder of Harold and Marcia Bibb, who submitted this photo as well as the next one....a great photo of deer at the feeder, taken recently on a cold frosty morning, as the sun first made an appearance over the eastern mountains. Thank you Harold and Marcia.

3) A noisy mountain stream.....one of the most soothing sounds in all of nature. Thank you Terry and Nancy Jennings (taken from their property).

4) A magnificent sunset...as taken from the front porch of Rick and Linda Meck of Stone Creek. Thank you Rick and Linda.

Thoughts of Thanksgiving......

2010-11-26T08:42:00.000-08:00

A couple of Thanksgiving quotes.......

- As we express our gratitude, let us not forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

- Thanksgiving dinner takes 18 hours to prepare. They are consumed in 12 minutes. Half-time takes 12 minutes. This is not a coincidence.

Erma Bombeck

- In America, Thanksgiving means many things to many people. May it always represent the treasures and blessings of family, freedom, bountiful harvests, open roads, mountains and plains in our window, birds soaring in blue autumn skies, and deer peering from behind a bush. Add an imagination that can visualize smiles from those who truly care, and the hope of transformation for those who do not.

- Unseasonably warm (upper 60s) and windy yesterday. As so often happens in November, often called one of the transition months by meteorologists, atmospheric dynamics have changed considerably the last few hours.....Cool (30s) and relatively calm this day after Thanksgiving, 2010, after a night of refreshing rain.

Photos.......Top to Bottom.....

- Got to admit...this one was special. While traveling along a roughed-in road in a private, undeveloped part of our mountain properties, opportunity came calling a few days ago. Looking down through the woods through the passenger side window, from the driver's side of the vehicle, I got the sensation that something did not fit in the late autumn landscape...a glimmer...sunlight moving...something...not sure...but then a large male deer walked from behind a clump of trees and stared at the vehicle...from a range of about 150 yards (I had seen sunlight glinting off a tine of his antlers). A magnificent animal to be sure...but was there time for a photo? On full zoom, as he started to walk away, starting snapping photos.....don't hurry......so rare to get a good photo of a big buck in the wild......surely one will be good....he's leaving...there is another deer...he's a big one.....surely one of these will reveal this experience....I need some luck...... As the buck began to show more alarm, and his gait quickened, I delivered the camera to my friend and colleague, Bill Newsome, who was in the passenger seat. He tried a few more shots as the deer made his way into the thick tangles of vegetation. Thankfully one of the photos was usable, thanks to some photo-shopping by Bill. Thanks Bill for helping preserve one more natural treasure. Only later, when examining the photos, did we realize the other animal, feeding in the background, was also a buck....with high curved spikes. The Tennessee gun season for deer is now open, and many are seeking trophies similar to the one in this photo. This deer will not appear on my wall, but he will remain in my memory for a time, and to me, it is a comforting thought to know he is still around. And the next time I drive by this area.....anticipation.....priceless.

- A whitetail doe....looking back at me and perhaps thinking.....What's up?

- A beautiful late autumn sky over Lake George, in the direction of northeast.

- Late afternoon.....overcast, misty day......taken at long range.....a Pileated Woodpecker outlined against the gray clouds, probing a dead snag for one more morsel before retiring to a nocturnal perch.

And Then I Remembered......

2010-11-01T10:28:00.001-07:00

- Why do I remember November 1-2? Living in a rural section of northern Middle Tennessee in my teenage years, I always looked forward to autumn..... basketball season, hunting season, holiday family gatherings, and so on. But I remember this date in 1966 not for Vietnam, The Beatles, or any of the previous reasons, but for the weather forecast...one that wound up being mostly accurate. On this date in 1966, my Tennessee location received 10" of snow. Shortly thereafter, in December of the same year, while standing around a pot-bellied stove in a country store, having a snack (probably a bologna sandwich, Coke and moon pie), two military men in full uniform walked into the place, which was located in as rural a location as can be imagined. They asked for my uncle, who happened to be standing nearby. We knew. Military men with lots of medals on their attire did not frequent our country store. A few moments later I found out that my 18-year old cousin had become the second Tennessee soldier killed in Vietnam. Some things are hard to forget.

- Brillilant weather continues in our southeast Tennessee location. A couple of good rains last week. Today is another 'Chamber of Commerce' day.....upper 60s, 25% humidity, and brilliant skies. Later in the week, below normal temperatures are forecast. I feel another long hike coming on.

Photos....Bottom to Top......

- The Northern Mockingbird, the state bird of the great state of Tennessee. This one seemed to be enjoying his perch atop an American Holly....so much so that I included two photos. These bold, energetic birds often return to the same tree each spring to build their nest. They are well named, as I have heard them mimic a variety of sounds, some natural and some no doubt unnatural, in their loud, vocal expressions. They even sing at night, often perched atop a utility pole or tree, especially at/near the time of a full moon.
- Acer rubrum....The Red Maple. Some specimens in our area of The Cumberland Plateau are more brilliant than others, but this very common tree is always beautiful in autumn.
- The Praying Mantis...Family Mantidae, Phylum Arthropoda, Genus Stagomantis....These carnivorous insects are unusual in many ways. They are the only insect that can rotate their head 180 degrees...and the triangular shaped head is distinctive. They feed on other insects primarily, and the jaws are powerful for so small a creature. Coloration varies from green to various shades of brown. They grow to 5"-6". This one, in the typical 'praying' posture, was photographed on a home within our properties. The last segment of the front legs is folded back.

- Top photos are of local specimens of genus Carya....the hickories. Both the Pignut and Mockernut Hickories are common here. The Shagbark Hickory, like the Black Walnut (Genus Juglans), is found here, though rarely at the elevations of the Cumberland Plateau. The latter two species are more common in the lower elevations and rolling hills of Middle Tennessee.

October is Special.....

2010-10-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

- Harvest time...full moon soon....brilliant blue skies.....pleasant temperatures....migrating birds of various descripta near your door....coffee on the deck early.....deer walking from cover into a clearing late in the day.....hiking through the woods enjoying the colorful foliage and fresh breezes......October is special.
- Standing near the lake in Greenfields a few days ago, a Bald Eagle soared over my head, a couple of hundred feet up.....in a straight line, seemingly on a mission.....over the trees and gone.....asked for his destination in the fleeting moment he was in view....but received no answer....maybe next time.

Photos....Top to bottom......

- On the western side of our properties.....A whitetail doe and her 6-month old fawns.....note the tail of the young one in the middle, and the trademark for which the species is named. Translation: something isn't right...who are you?....should I be going now?.... reading the mind of Odocoileus virginianus is quite a difficult feat..???

- The Common Flicker...one of my favorite avia.....they spend considerable time on the ground this time of year.....

- The brilliance of the male Red-Headed Woodpecker against a clear blue October sky.....priceless.

- A healthy whitetail buck....early morning photo.....had been eating acorns only a moment before this photo was taken....then, though in a protected area (photo was taken from the back deck of the home of Frank and Joann Kahoun...within our properties) instincts honed through time took over and he vanished into the forest.....from observation, it appears this buck is most likely about two and a half years old. Only way to tell for sure is by the dentition.....

Late September Treasures......

2010-09-29T10:47:00.000-07:00

- Chamber of Commerce weather in Tennessee currently.....good rain on Monday....followed by brilliant blue skies......70s/50s with low humidity.......nothing like Tennessee in the fall.

- First sighting in almost a year....a female Rose-Breasted Grosbeak was on my feeder yesterday afternoon. Hopefully the more colorful male(s) will pay a visit soon.

- As birders know, many species are very active this time of year. If you are considering taking up the hobby of appreciating and studying these natural wonders ...it is a great time to get started. Obtain a feeder or two at your local hardware store/Wal-Mart, grab your binoculars and field guide and prepare to be entertained. Black oil sunflower seed seems to work best, as they seem to be the preference of a wide variety of birds, and don't forget the suet cakes..... for the many species of area woodpeckers. Just this week I have observed the (woodpeckers) Downy, Hairy, Pileated, Red-Bellied, Red-Headed, and the Common Flicker. All of the woodpeckers mentioned are quite colorful, even striking in the case of the Red-Headed and Pileated.

PHOTOS....Top to Bottom......

- Top two photos......This young Bobcat was crossing the road recently in one of our 'future development' areas. One of our crew had seen what was probably the mother a few days prior in the same area. These two photos courtesy of Carl and Jennifer Smith. Thank you for sharing such great shots of one of nature's most secretive and solitary animals.

- Next two photos....I was caught by surprise on this one....a flock of Red-Winged Blackbirds came into my back yard and literally took over my feeding stations. This was a unique, but welcome, sight. I had never experienced this species on my feeders. They were back and forth....for two days...and counting. They would feed, then flee to the tops of the tall trees, only to return when any disturbance abated. The one on top of the feeder on the right side of the photo is a female, while the 'blacker' ones with the colorful shoulder epaulets are males. The brightly colored epaulets can be fully displayed, or partially, as some of the photos reveal.

- The stoic and lonely figure of the Great Blue Heron. One of our most common large birds, they are never found very far from water. They feed on frogs and fish primarily. In years gone by I would drive over to Watts Bar Dam on Highway 68 (driving west to east)...just across the dam is a recreation area. Huge TVA transmission towers run along the edge of Watts Bar Lake here, and a few of them are in/near the recreation area. Dozens of the Great Blue Herons use the towers for nest sites. The rookery was alive with action last time I was there ( a few years ago)...adult birds coming and going with food...young birds squawking for nourishment and attention. On one tower, there must have been 20+ nests. I wonder........

Adjustment Often Necessary......

2010-09-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately.....

To front only the essential facts of life.....

And see if I could not learn what it had to teach....

And not, when I came to die,

Discover that I had not lived"

Thoreau

- Economy a bit distracting, even depressing? World problems creating alarm? Concerned that America now is not America back when? Social issues allowed to enter your core and effect daily activities? Back to basics and a few things we can count on......

- September moon is currently 81% illuminated....Waxing Gibbous

- At our latitude, today, September 18, the 'day' will be 12 hours and 17 minutes....visible light is 13 hours and 8 minutes

- Tomorrow's 'visible light' will be 2 minutes and 12 seconds less

- If your location has a latitude north of Dunlap, you will lose a bit more 'light' per day

- If your location has a latitude south of Dunlap, you will lose a bit less 'light' per day

- Normal high/low temperature for today is 82/62.....77/57 on the Cumberland Plateau

- Early morning and late afternoon hikes can be invigorating this time of year....warm but the humidity has been very low recently....with levels most days staying in the 25%-40% range....

Autumn is near.....Photos......Top to bottom....

- Taken off Picnic Rock (within our residential developments) yesterday afternoon.....hikes are even more uplifting if the destination is similar to the rock from which this photo was taken.....

- Signs of change.....the Blackgums are beginning to show their customary red/burgundy coloration as the chlorphyll begins to fade and eventually die....

- The Tuliptree also showing signs of change....typically this species is the first to show yellow pigmentation in the fall....

- A female Red-Headed Woodpecker on the trunk of a Northern Red Oak....

- A Killdeer walking along the shoreline of a mountain lake....

- Another whitetail fawn....spots are still evident on this one, but they will not last much longer.....

Late Summer Nature Thoughts.....

2010-08-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

- Now this is more like it! What a beautiful week in southeast Tennessee. On the Cumberland Plateau, morning lows have been in the upper 50s/low 60s with highs in the low 80s. Lower humidity have made it a great week to enjoy morning coffee on the back porch.

Photos....Bottom to Top.....

- Old Glory on display in the beautifully landscaped yard of one of our residents on Fredonia Mountain......

- A Red-Bellied Woodpecker surveys his domain from a dead branch of an oak. These colorful birds are regular visitors to my back yard suet cakes.

- This Gray Catbird is a bit out of habitat....Typically a denizen of the undergrowth and thick tangles of vegetation, this one has decided to take a look around. This species is not as well known as its more famous cousin, The Northern Mockingbird. Both are in a group often called the "mimic thrushes". It is more often heard than seen.....a distinct repeating 'meow' emanating from thick growth, thus the name. And yes, this is the same perch occupied by the woodpecker in the previous photo.

- One of nature's most unusual creatures. This Walkingstick (an insect) is almost impossible to see among the branches it calls home.

- Species that thrive in warm, humid weather, like this Crape Myrtle, have flourished this year across the Southeast.

- The "Daddy Long Legs"....also called The Harvestman....not an insect but member of Class Arachnida....along with the spiders, ticks, chiggers, etc. This one has a back left leg missing. This species, despite local stories to the contrary, is not poisonous. They feed on decaying plant matter and an occasional smaller insect.

The Wonder of It All.......

2010-08-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

- "Those who dwell, as scientists or laymen, among the beauties and mysteries of the Earth, are never alone or weary of life"... Rachel Carson

Photos (taken recently within our nature developments) from top to bottom......

- Whitetail Deer....a doe and her two fawns, most likely about 4 months old. The white spots will stay a few more weeks and then gradually disappear as autumn arrives. The young will stay around mom until the new crop of young are born late next spring...and then they part ways, usually for life.

- An incredible wildlife photo....A large adult Bobcat walking slowly away from the camera....but wait, enlarge the photo (click) and see the young one to the right of the tree in the foreground, standing on hind legs, sharpening its claws on the trunk of a tree.

- Two more whitetail fawns, in a late afternoon pose for the camera. Priceless.

These photos courtesy of Frank and Joann Kahoun of Bluff View Estates.

Birds of Summer......

2010-07-15T09:34:00.000-07:00

- Warm and sunny today on the southern Cumberland Plateau.......with a bit of breeze.....

- Had some rain earlier in the week.....amazing how a summer rain can change the floral scape....grasses and even the deciduous trees reflect the refreshing rain with more vibrant greens and a more rigid posture in the leaves and twigs.

- Saw a young whitetail buck this morning...peering from undergrowth beside the road....slowed the vehicle and watched....perhaps 100 lbs., long spikes, covered in velvet, about 10" long. Most likely in his second year. As I drove away, in the rear view mirror, I watched the young deer come down an embankment and cautiously cross the paved road (deer hooves and pavement are not a good mix).....it seemed that he was looking both ways for traffic prior to crossing the road....could it be?

- Very much enjoying Jim Quinn's periodic reports on the "Bluebird Trail". Some boxes have had a second and perhaps even third brood this growing season. Always a good sign that the local ecosystems are in harmony......

- Speaking of summer avia, the attached photos.....bottom to top......

Bottom two photos are of a male Cedar Waxwing...taken this week....enlarge the photos (click) and note the dark band through the eyes. This photo is more proof (to me at least) of the nomadic existence of these birds, which usually travel in flocks.....first time I have seen them in our area this late in summer.

Next photo is the Eastern Pewee....a sparrow-sized flycatcher that is commonly seen on fences and low hanging limbs....watching the nearby weeds and grasses for mosquitoes and small flying insects. This photo was taken recently on a split rail fence within the properties. These small inconspicuous birds are easily confused with the Eastern Phoebe, which is similarly sized and the coloration is similar as well. The Phoebe has a bit more conspicuous white wing bars and is known for the continual bobbing of it's tail.

Top photo is of a group of Purple Martins, the largest of the Tennessee swallows. The dark specimen on the top limb is a male, which is uniformly blue/black above and below. The females have a much lighter belly.

To all who enjoy the great outdoors......"Keep America beautiful and try to keep your nose into the wind..."

2010-Early Summer Reflections......

2010-06-28T06:07:00.000-07:00

From Bottom to Top.....

- Been experiencing quite of bit of this....afternoon thunderstorms building over the Cumberland Plateau......rest of the week is for cooler (low 80s/low 60s on the plateau) and drier weather.....with less humidity....back to normal...

- Sunflowers....an entire garden of them......makes the Goldfinches happy.....

- One of nature's winged treasures....the Tiger Swallowtail.....

- Top of this photo shows the Spicebush Swallowtail.....both are genus Pterourus.....

- Two immature Wild Turkey males (called jakes) crossing the road in Stone Creek Phase 5........

- The track of the Wild Turkey....this one most likely a couple of days old.....

- Most likely the track of a young doe.........the back foot has landed in the track of the front foot....photo enlarged.....seeing newborn fawns at times.......

Summer's Leather and Lace

2010-06-11T07:17:00.000-07:00

The lace.....

- The inspiring blooms of the dogwoods, redbuds, and serviceberries may be gone, but late spring has more to display......the Queen Anne's Lace is currently blooming, as are the Honeysuckle (Caprifoliacae), along with many species of Compositae....daisies and their relatives. Also, the Princess Tree (pale blue blooms) is blooming in southeast Tennessee. Just last week, I saw the unique and beautiful blooms of the Flame Azalea in the forests of the Cumberland Plateau (including our properties)....the only orange bloom in the woods. As many flowering species....late this year, as compared to the last several.

Photos....bottom to top.....

- A Carolina Chickadee comfortably resting on one of my feeders (squirrels had just cleaned me out).......

- A Song Sparrow (note the streaked breast and 'spot' on the chest.....good ID field marks) enjoying the sunshine, perched near the top of a young Norway Spruce.

- This shot was taken during a steady rain......the songsmith (close examination shows the bill open....and the bird in full cry) is the Bewick's Wren.

- Had to include a garden.....taken recently in our area. This one contains lettuce, potatoes, watermelon, cantaloupe, a few green beans, tomatoes, and peppers.

The leather.....

Get a lot of questions this time of year regarding the harmful Reptilia and related consequences. Briefly........

- While walking the woodlands, residential areas, or miles of trails of our Cumberland Plateau, you are likely to only encounter three lizards, and despite what you may hear...all are harmless to humans. They are: 1) The Eastern Fence Swift...grey and scaly....males have dark blue 'patches' on either side of the torso. Very quick....and have the habit of cocking the head as one approaches....typically seen on fences, wood piles or rocks. 2) The Five-Lined Skink....very common here....dark covering, smooth texture, almost glossy, with parallel lines beginning behind the head and running almost the length of the animal is the ID mark. Juveniles have a bright blue tail...hence the common misnomer...'blue-tailed lizard'. Often seen on rocks, sides of buildings, and scurrying across your porch or sidewalk. 3) Broad-Headed Skink....larger than the Five Lined and without the lines, even scales for a smooth appearance (not scaly).....mostly brown and lacking distinguishing ID marks. Habitat similar to Five Lined.

Snakes are on the prowl as well.....and only two species are venomous in our area. They are: 1) The Northern Copperhead...to around 3.5'....appropriately named as the head is usually, but not always, coppery, sometimes even shiny....moreso just after shedding of the skin. I look for a profile....especially of the head/neck region...where the venom glands make for quite a contrast (curve) from the head to the neck region. Compared to non-poisonous species, the body profile if often heavier...'stout' appearance. The eye is always elliptical (cat-like) while the non-poisonous species have a round pupil. I have had considerable personal experience with these snakes and have found them to be quite lazy...often retiring and unaggressive.....unless you happen to step on one. I seldom encounter them in the wild, though I have seen them on occassion...often around tree stumps, fallen trees, and in rocky areas. 2) The Timber Rattlesnake....a different story. My encounters with them in the wild have been just the opposite of the Copperhead, and though they sometimes warn an intruder into their habitat by 'rattling', sometimes they do not. Encounters with this impressive reptile are not quickly forgotten. They are more temperamental than the Copperhead, and in my opinion, much more dangerous. Also, the venom is, drop for drop, more potent. I have found this species to be aggressive and I treat them with great respect. I have caught many Copperheads, but I think and rethink before considering pinning the head of a rattler...very strong and unpredictable. Again, I look for a profile....and once you have seen this snake, especially an adult, you will never again confuse it with any other. Strong and muscular, with a girth greater than any of the non-poisonous species, this snake strikes an imposing posture. The largest of this species I have personally seen was 58" (many years ago) and the most number of rattles I have seen is 19. The number of rattles is the number of times the snake has shed the skin....which may be once per year....or 2-3 times per year...depending on growth....which depends on the prey population...which depends of growing conditions/weather. The venom of the young is just as potent as the adults.....they just do not have as much of it! I grew up in the rolling hills/farmland of Middle Tennesse and encounters with this animal were common...very common. On the Cumberland Plateau, encounters are not nearly as common....but they are around...usually coiled and resting on the leaves, near a fallen tree or rock outcropping. Usually they have no reason to loiter on trails or roads, and most often they are only seen as they cross a road, and this is when many folks seize the opportunity to kill them. I know many fear the presence of this species. They do demand respect. In the grand scheme of the wild, they are quite an impressive animal, and have a unique place near the top of the Tennessee food chain.

The Month of May - Seek the Treasure......

2010-05-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

- Get out and hike! The month of May is typically great weather in our area (averages for today...on the plateau....are 75/55...... treasures of the outdoors are where you find them.....and vary with the beholder.....but May is typically a great time of year to view both fauna and flora....photos from bottom to top.....

- Many get the identification of these two species confused and rely too much on the brilliant white blooms.....bottom photo is the Mulitflora Rose (Rosa multiflora)....no berries.... and the next photo up is the Wild Blackberry (genus Rubus.....both are in family Rosacea). The berries will be ripe in early July.

- Two Wild Turkeys....photo taken recently while hiking in the mountain properties...notice the 'beard' on the one on the right (only males have this).....

- The Eastern Cottontail Rabbit....this one, facing away from the camera, was in my front yard recently.....and continued with this pose for an extended period of time.....I wonder what this rabbit was thinking.....rarely does this species stay in the open for very long....too dangerous. Many times I have experienced sympathy for this species....as they are the prey of many predators.....including hawks, foxes, snakes (mostly the younger), and coyotes. On the other hand, to maintain ecological balance, it is not uncommon for the rabbits, in good growing seasons, to have multiple litters, typically ranging from 3-5.

- A local favorite, found along most every roadside and in every field....the Ox-Eye Daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum).

- A Rose-Breasted Grosbeak on my feeder a few days ago......Priceless!

- On the suet cakes during the month of May.....I have identified the following woodpeckers....Red-Bellied, Hairy, Downy, Common Flicker (only once) and Pileated.

A Wide Range of April Images.......

2010-04-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

From bottom to top..........

- This recent photo, taken in a nearby residential area, shows why the Flowering Dogwood (Cornus) is still the standard bearer when it comes to springtime brilliance of flowers. The forests in our area seem to be full of them this year.

- Taken along Blackberry Trail recently.... within our mountain properties.... The Pinxter Flower....some are pink...some are white.....all are striking and beautiful.

- Love on the water.....male (left) and female Wood Ducks on Lake George.....

- The familiar profile of The Common Grackle (Quiscalus). These large (to 14") 'blackbirds' often reflect iridescence on the primary feathers, especially when exposed to sunlight. Comparable is the smaller Rusty Blackbird (to 9")...that is only rusty in the autumn....otherwise this species is often referred to simply as a 'blackbird'.....though we have several 'black birds'. This time of year, the Brown-Headed Cowbird may also be seen....which, as the name implies, looks (the male) like a brown headed medium sized 'blackbird'.

- As luck would have it.....a few days ago....while standing on the bank of Lake George, two Ospreys came flying by....one continued on into oblivion...the other alighted in a tree across the lake from me. Unbeknown to me, two Common Grackles (one can be seen across the left shoulder of the Osprey...the other is blocked by the tree to the left) were harassing this Osprey from behind (in the photograph....the Osprey is looking at the Grackle). This is not a unique occurrence....as often other birds of prey (hawks especially) are accompanied by hecklers...though actual contact is infrequent.

Green Again! Spring 2010 Observations

2010-04-13T07:10:00.001-07:00

- Spring has sprung! After a comparatively cold winter and above average snowfall, it is great to see green again.

- For the first time ever, this spring, I have witnessed the Flowering Dogwood, Eastern Redbud, and Downy Serviceberry blooming at the same time. Normally the procession of blooms is Serviceberry, then the Redbuds, then the Dogwoods. Interesting times.
- The weather has been delightful recently...today is mid 70s, low humidity, and brilliant blue skies. The remainder of the week is forecast to be similar.

- As usual, the various species of birds have been a major springtime topic of conversation....the courtship, nest building, and sometimes male competitive aggression...along with the seemingly tireless activity, have birders making notes all over the area.

- To the photos....all signs of spring in the southeast Tennessee mountains....from top to bottom....

1) This photograph is of a group of Cedar Waxwings taken back in mid-March....there were hundreds of these colorful, nomadic birds.....note the yellow border at the tip of the tail on some of the males. Periodically they would leave this lofty perch in a tall Silver Maple to feverishly devour the red berries of a nearby Holly tree.

2) Needs no introduction.....these Daffodils (family Amaryllidaceae) were photographed near The Lodge on Lake George....

3) Nature's mimic to the Copperhead. This Northern Water Snake, Nerodia sipedon sipedon (formerly called The Common Water Snake), was caught sunning on a rock, near a rushing stream. Don't be afraid! These reptiles are found around most every stream, pond, marsh, and lake all across the Southland. They are harmless, though sometimes temperamental. They usually slide into the water or beneath a rock and the first signs of disturbance....but if threatened, will strike aggressively prior to fleeing. They differ from Agkistrodon contortrix (The Northern Copperhead) in several ways....most noticeably the smooth contour in the head/neck transition (due to lack of venom glands...the Copperhead has an almost 90 degree turn from neck to jaw due to these glands...giving the head a distinct triangular shape....) and the round eye pupil (the Copperhead, like other Viperidae, have elliptical 'cat-like' pupils). Also, note the gentle slope from between the eyes to the anterior tip...the Copperhead has a high, almost vertical 'wall' in the area descending to the mouth cavity, as well as pits (heat sensory devices) on each side of the face.

4 and 5) Taken only a couple of days ago. An Osprey sailing over the waters of Lake George. Soon after these photos were taken, the bird made a succesful dive for a fish, and then flew, fish clutched by talons, to a nearby tree to enjoy the catch.

- Several Bald Eagles have been seen lately. I had the pleasure of watching one of these magnificent birds for several minutes a few days ago. The immense size and brilliant white head and neck make identification of our national emblem relatively easy.

The Kestrel...

2010-03-05T10:45:00.000-08:00

- Beautiful day in Tennessee! Mid 50s, fresh breezes and brilliant skies over the mountains.....

- First heard the Spring Peepers on February 19 this year....and then again today.....a bit early it seems.....they too, seem to be ready for spring.....

- Like most of the southeast, we have experienced more snow this winter than in many years. And though most residents seemed to enjoy the beauty of the snow covered mountains, most are now looking for signs of the change of seasons.

- As has been mentioned in this journal on numerous occasions, The Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is one of my favorite avia. These small falcons offer a striking pose when viewed online or in the identification books, but I have found on many occasions that getting a close-up photo is another matter. They seem to pose for a while, but when approached (or you attempt to get out of your vehicle), they soar from their perch as if saying....'not now'.

- Attached is a photo of two Kestrels taken this morning along the roadside. The photo shows what is likely a mating pair. Soon after the photo, each, at different times, flew out over the surrounding fields, with seemingly very little effort, only to alight back on a utility line a few hundreds yards away. I have seen several recently perched on utility lines with their favorite prey, The White-Footed Mouse, draped over the curvature of the wire, clutched by a talon. These robin-sized birds have several identifying field marks...the male has blue/gray wings with the mottled brown on white chest, and both sexes have the vertical black stripes, separated by white, beneath each eye. The frontal appearance gives the observer the thought of a mustache. Also distinct is the swallow-like flight pattern and the ability to hover over a field while searching for prey.

- The Merlin (Falco columbarius) is similar to The Kestrel (also called by many other names...."Sparrow Hawk" is common). The Merlin, a bit larger, is not common in the southeast, though I did see one within the properties a few years ago. Due to the teardrop, vertical black line beneath each eye, it has even more of the "old professor" look.

- Also pictured is the seemingly ever present Robin, another harbinger of spring. As shown, they are in groups now, but soon they will pair off to engage in rituals related to the continuation of the species.

- Top photo is of a box designed and mounted for the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis). This box is part of a 'bluebird trail' and is one of several recently installed boxes by Jim and Maryann Quinn of Bluff View Estates. Thank you Jim and Maryann for your love of the great outdoors and for adding to the beauty of our mountain properties.

A Stop Along the Highway.....

2010-02-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

- I have heard, in business, education, sports, or in general, that opportunity knocks, is available for a time, and then it passes....whether we take advantage or not......This morning, I felt as though I had taken advantage of a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with one of my favorite species of avia....The Sandhill Crane. So, this post is dedicated to Grus canadensis.

- This species has appeared in this journal previously, but, as is the case with many transient species, good photographs are often hard to come by. I have often watched these majestic birds in flight, which often seems effortless as they drift through the sky. Sometimes they are beyond sight, thousands of feet up, and their distinctive chortle is the only evidence of their presence.

- Like the Canada Goose, The Sandhill Cranes generally fly in a V-formation. This species can be distinguished in flight from the Canadas by the more slender profile, length and longer neck.

- The only other similar species in our area is the Great Blue Heron, often commonly (and mistakenly) called a "crane". This solitary and secretive bird is often seen wading in ponds, temporary puddles and along the edges of lakes...searching for a variety of aquatic 'snacks'.

- This morning......driving along on Highway 127S, I saw a couple of the cranes drifting against the backdrop of low clouds.

- Closer inspection revealed several small groups of cranes in flight, some higher than others. As I drove further, the opportunity presented itself.......

- In a field near the roadway, along a stream, were hundreds of the birds.........I quickly pulled over, stepped out, and began snapping photos. For a few minutes, I had the vantage point all to myself, but soon several other vehicles noticed the birds, and they too, pulled over to take advantage of another of Mother Nature's temporary treats.

- The cranes, which have a wingspan to 7', have a red crown atop their slender head, and often there is a rusty stain on the generally grey feathers. The location where these were photographed is roughly 40-45 minutes from the Hiwassee National Refuge on The Tennessee River, a major staging area for these birds. They are migratory and the best bet to see large numbers of these birds is usually February and November.

Winter Adjustments.....

2010-01-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

- We often cope with winter by turning on the heat within our homes, building a fire, or adding clothing when outside. Many reduce the time spent outdoors...while others prefer the cool to cold conditions for hiking, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Ever wonder how the fauna cope with winter conditions? A few thoughts.......

- The Whitetail Deer (bottom photo) cope by adding insulating layers of fat, especially along the backbone, during the fall. Also, their coat becomes thicker and the dense hairs of the integument (air filled) are excellent insulators. This explains why we often see snow accumulating on the backs of the deer. These factors are especially pronounced in the northern states as well as The Rockies, where the winter conditions are more harsh than the temperate Southeast.

- The Bobwhite (top two photos...look closely) is well insulated as well..... with overlappping layers of down covered by the well insulated primary feathers. This covey was photographed recently in Stone Creek.

- Snakes, being cold-blooded, are driven below ground in autumn. They congregate in large groups, with several species present, often beneath rocks and rock ledges.... on hillsides with southern exposure. Lizards follow a similar adjustment cycle.

- Many species of birds, though warm blooded, migrate.....some only to the Gulf Coast, Florida, or Texas...while other species migrate all the way to Latin America or South America. Other species stay with us year round.....species such as Chickadees, Titmice, Cardinals, and various species of woodpeckers.

- Woodchucks, though a warm blooded mammal (Order Rodentia), makes quite an adjustment as well, similar to the Black Bear. Woodchucks gorge in the autumn...vegetation (they love clover), grasses, corn, or whatever they can find. In mid-autumn, as the temperatures lower, the 'chuck goes underground (burrows may be 30+' feet...with a defecation chamber/sleeping chamber) and becomes dormant for long periods of time. The heartbeat of the 'chuck may go from the 90s/min to less than 5/min. Internal body temperature falls from the 90s to around 40 F. Like Ursus americanus (the Black Bear), the Woodchuck, in abnormally warm winter weather, may emerge from the den for a look around....only to return when the weather cools. Interestingly, mating usually occurs in February, when one would suppose they are still mostly inactive. Also, Groundhog Day (February 2) is not, as legend might suggest, the day the Woodchucks become active. In fact, it is usually later, especially in the northern climes.

Once in a lifetime.....

2010-01-06T11:43:00.000-08:00

- Will Geer, as his horse plodded through the deep snow toward Robert Redford's forested mountain top perch.... in the 1972 movie "Jeremiah Johnson"....simply stated...."Cold up here".....

- Unseasonably cold the last few days and snow is forecast for tomorrow....but I get the feeling most area residents are actually looking forward to a bit of snow....

- Almanac averages for today (on our section of the Cumberland Plateau) are 47/27....but we have not seen 47 in a few days now. Next week they say.

- Once in a lifetime....Infrequently through my wilderness wanderings have I spotted the Bobcat (Felis rufus)...perhaps 4-5 times in my lifetime. Always I have admired the independence and wariness of these secretive, solitary animals. I heard 'coon hunters speak of them in my youth....and actually spotted one, many years ago, in a dry creekbed in a wilderness area of northern Tennessee....and I will never forget the beauty and grace of that lithe cat as it literally sailed from the creekbed into dry leaves and though running through the dry leaves (the padded feet are very large), made only a whisper of sound as it disappeared into thick growth. Even then I knew I had witnessed something special.

- After years of traveling hopefully, in terms of a photo of a Bobcat, this week I finally got my chance and this time, unlike other times, fate was kind.....Top photo....just before darkness fell this young cat, from a distance of perhaps 300 yards, was spotted in the middle of the road. As I approached, as anticipated, the animal quickly leaped into a wooded roadside ravine. Excited, I drove past, parked and hurried back down the road, camera ready. Staring into the forest along the road produced nothing for maybe 4-5 minutes. Then, a desperate maneuver...I began 'meowing' like a cat. I noticed movement....the cat then came out of the ravine (if he had stayed...game over) and walked quickly into the field where this photo was taken. Just after the photo was taken this Felis, no doubt confused, actually ran right at me! He then turned and ran through a narrow wooded area. I thought for a fleeting instant life was about to become a bit too exciting...then the cat disappeared in front of my eyes, camoflouged in the long grass and leaves so well that I did not see it again until it ran across the road and melted into the forest.

- The Bobcat is not a threat to humans and seeing them is most often a sign of a healthy ecosystem. The animal pictured was a young one, though this is difficult to tell in the photo. I would estimate this specimen to be less than one year old.

- The bottom scene, also taken this week, stopped me in my tracks. This photo, taken early one morning along Highway 127, is of Black Mountain, located about 35 miles north of Dunlap. The morning sun on the frozen limbs created quite a winter scene. This mountain, at just over 3,000' above sea level, is the highest elevation in our area, and though I am not certain, could be the highest in Tennessee, other than The Smokies. I have hiked parts of Black Mountain and it is as wild and majestic as the photo indicates.

Thoughts From a Tennessee Mountain...at Christmas.....

2009-12-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

- Quite cool, cloudy and misty mid-December day in southeast Tennessee.....below normal temperatures and rain in places. A good day for homemade chili or beef stew followed by a good novel......

- Evidently the Sparrow Hawks are doing quite well....been seeing them often along the roadsides, mostly on utility lines. They strike a distinguishing pose as they survey a field for the Meadow Vole and White-footed Mouse....and look for the hooked beak that assures one they have spotted this small, robin-sized predator. Red Tailed Hawks have been a common sight recently as well. Literally chased an evasive Cooper's Hawk around a hillside...as it flew to the grassy field, back to a tree, back to ground.... trying for a photo...to no avail.

- Top photo is of a Red-Tailed Hawk that has just left it's perch overlooking a field. Next photo is the same Buteo.....in a typical pose....just before taking flight.

- Bottom photo....a great place for a break while on a recent hike.....and, as the two photos above the rock photo reveal...the view was not too bad either.

- Keep your bird feeders filled.....our feathered friends appreciate our assistance this time of year.

- Merry Christmas to all and to all an enjoyment of our still bountiful land.....and the fauna and flora that make it special.

November....and Thanksgiving....

2009-11-24T13:33:00.000-08:00

- Seasonable temperatures today with gray skies....typical November day.......

- Seeing lots of flocks of Wild Turkeys....along with the Whitetail Deer.....two of Tennessee's great wildlife success stories. Good management, diverse habitat, and perhaps a bit of good fortune have taken both species from rarely seen in places to plentiful in most areas. The Tennessee deer season (hunting) opened in many counties in the 1960s...prior to this the population in most places would not support a hunting season. When I was trying to survive the 60s/early 70s as a teenager, on the farms of Middle Tennessee, Wild Turkeys were nonexistent (I would know as I practically lived in the woods) in most areas of Tennessee. My, times have sure changed!

.......Photos...bottom to top......

- A fresh rub left by what was most likely a small whitetail buck....I could tell the rub was fresh by the shavings on top of the leaves near the base of the small deciduous tree.....

- This photo, taken in a remote, wooded valley on the Cumberland Plateau, speaks for itself.....for those who seem to have an affinity for the path less taken....

- A majestic Northern Red Oak...Quercus rubrum.....this specimen appeared to be in the 80'-90' range.

- A meandering woodland stream, near the trail in the above photo...and yes, I did find a perch on a nearby rock to enjoy the moment.....

- Man o' man...I would love to have seen the stag that rubbed this 6" diameter Eastern Red Cedar. Though it is often difficult to tell the size of the buck that has rubbed a tree, this one had grooves cut in the trunk (indicating tine cuts as the curvature of the main beam did most of the rubbing), usually a sure sign that an impressive specimen has passed this way.

- Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Just Thinkin'....Autumn...

2009-10-29T13:36:00.000-07:00

- Autumn in southeast Tennessee....brilliant clear skies....low humidity....yes, this is typical...but this year it has been wet, though not as wet as September...typically our two 'driest' months by the almanac, but not this year.....the leaves are a bit past peak on the Cumberland Plateau...but not past peak at the lower elevations.

- Autumn has always stimulated my thoughts like no other season....and for me this goes back to the farmlands of youth...in the 60s/early 70s....when despite the chaos across the globe and especially here at home, life always seemed to slow a bit, and even make sense, during autumn. Perhaps it was the thought that the natural forces were at work, stable and predictable, despite extrinsic factors such as those endured during those perilous times. Perhaps it was simply the stark image of autumn's full moons, the colorful foliage, or the cool breezes. Maybe this positive feeling had origins based in hopeful anticipation......of the holidays, of families being together more often or the anticipation of sitting around a fire....For whatever reason, the thoughts then are similar to the thoughts now. For many, autumn is a stimulating and inspiring time of year.

- From bottom to top.....

1) A magnificent Carya....we have at least three species of the hickories in our area...The Bitternut, The Mockernut, and The Pignut (shown). The Shagbark is also found across southeast Tennessee, but rarely at the elevation of the Cumberland Plateau, around 2,000'-2,200' above sea level.

2) Another of nature's autumn gems...this one is a young Mockernut Hickory.

3) The Red Maple (Acer rubrum). Really vivid coloration this year in many specimens....though the fall coloration in this species is often hard to predict....yellow, red, burgundy...but always beautiful.

4) Rhus glabra...almost always turns burgundy in fall....one of several species of Sumac in our area......this one is the Smooth Sumac. We also have the Staghorn and Winged Sumac. Interesingly, this is the same genus as Poison Ivy.

5) Evidence of a few close friends........

Late September Thoughts

2009-09-30T13:07:00.000-07:00

- After lots of rain last week (our area is now 3+ inches above normal for the year), this week is simply delightful! And the forecast is more of the same. Experiencing majestic Tennessee scenery in weather such as this is one of the many reasons people love to come to the Volunteer State. The upper 40s/low 50s at night, 60s/low 70s during the day, refreshing breeze, low humidity.....may I suggest a long hike into one of your favorite places.

- The attached ....top to bottom......

1) This Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is already showing the signs of the season. The Blackgum and Sourgum show a similar color in the fall (some are already beginning to turn).

2) Don't forget our small seasonal friends....species such as this are seemingly always more noticeable this time of year. This specimen is Family Acrididae....Genus Schistocerca.

3) An interesting duo of Kingdom Fungi on one of our lots in Greenfields West.

4) Another example of the many beautiful wildflowers within the mountain properties. This one is Aster sericeus, the Silky Aster.

5) The autumn product of the Chestnut Oak (Quercus prinus). These plump acorns look enticing, but many of them will still be on the ground, in a decayed state, next spring. The dime is for reference.

Reflections.....

2009-09-08T13:44:00.000-07:00

- ...Of summer, for it is nearly gone.....it will be remembered for the mild temperatures, timely rainfall, and brilliant green flora, even into September........

- ...Of beautiful flowers, from the springtime array of Mountain Laurel, Pinxter Flowers, Dogwoods, and Redbuds, to all the Compositae of late summer (see attached....the yellow blooms of the Tickseed Sunflower)....

- ...Of various fauna, that, for the most part, have enjoyed the bounty of a productive growing season.... from the abundant fawns hidden in the meadows to the less desirables, at least from the human perspective, such as the various species of Reptilia (see attached....the Red Rat Snake...also known as the Corn Snake) and Insecta (see attached...Bumble Bee on a Goldenrod....)

- ...Of a demanding and challenging economy....leading many to seek refuge and contemplate the issues of life in more natural places....see attached.

- ...Of moons and stars and sunny skies, for we never know how many days we have left to enjoy.....

- ...Of our dear friend and nature enthusiast Diane Egleston, who passed suddenly last week.... in her beloved "Eagle's Nest" on Fredonia Mountain. May God Bless.

Another Mountain Discovery....

2009-08-11T13:46:00.001-07:00

- Sometimes, with patience and a bit of good fortune, mysteries are solved.....

- Recently one of our residents inquired as to what type animal could be raiding bird feeders at night....

- Time passed, night photographs a stretch, but the after hours visits continued......we speculated....the rough and rowdy 'coons? Nope...nothing destroyed....too nice of a crime scene..... Opossum? Didn't believe it for various reasons....Gray Squirrels? Could not come to this conclusion...for they rarely, unless disturbed, move at night....

- The mystery deepened.....noises were heard....imaginations were extended.....

- Then, the photos came! Mystery solved.....from bottom to top....eating sunflower seeds, relaxing, and finally about to glide into the night....The Southern Flying Squirrel (Glaucomys vulans). Theyare seldom seen, as they spend most of their time in the canopy and, like the one in the photos, are mostly active at night.

- These small furry creatures, the smallest members of the tree squirrels, are nocturnal (as well as diurnal at times), but this is the first time I have ever heard of one dining on bird feeders. They typically take berries, insects, nuts, acorns, and sometimes even small vertebrates.

- What a treat! These small creatures do not truly 'fly' but glide for distances of up to 100 yards or so, from the top of one tree to the lower trunk of another. They can turn or change the angle of descent and just before landing they drop the tail and lift the forequarters, relaxing the skin and 'cape' between the legs....which serves as an air brake to soften the landing. They land with all four feet and often scurry around the tree trunk to the opposite side, just in case a predator has given chase. They are agile and sure footed in the trees, but clumsy on the ground. Interestingly, they are known to make excellent pets (and clean).

- A big thank you to Rick Meck of Stone Creek for supplying these unique photographs.

August Already?

2009-08-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

- The annual Highway 127 yard sale is in full swing! From northwestern Ohio all the way through Kentucky and Tennessee (through Dunlap), into north Alabama....some love it, some do not, but for all much patience is required if one is considering driving this scenic highway during this 4-day event.

- What a pleasant summer we are having, weather wise, in southeast Tennessee. All the flora is still brilliant green, the creeks are still moving, and there have been very few hot days. On the Cumberland Plateau, several nights this summer have been down in the 50s! Today is forecast to be dry with the high around 90....which will mean mid 80s on the plateau.

- Typical of late summer....deer are being seen everywhere. Last week, I spotted a very impressive whitetail buck in Greenfields. A couple of quick photos were taken, but were blurred. The deer was in typical summer 'red' coat, and had a very impressive rack of antlers, still in velvet. I would estimate 4-5 long tines on each main beam, not including brow tines, and an inside spread between the main beams of 19-22 inches. Stood stoic for a moment or two, staring, then pranced along the line of the forest before disappearing into the thick growth. As is typical of most experienced males of the species, this one was alone. It has always amazed me that these magnificent animals only live a maximum of 4-6 years in the wild. Only on TV shows, in controlled environments, does one hear of 7+ year old males.

- Top photo....the source of the nighttime din currently being heard......

- Middle photo.....A somewhat tattered Luna Moth....(Actias luna)....

- Bottom photo...The Chestnut Oak (Quercus prinus).....I have noticed that very few of the White and Red Oaks have acorns this year...at least on the plateau. The acorns of the Chestnut Oak, though pleasant to look at, are not a favorite food of the wildlife.

The Joy of Summer and a Cat and Rabbit Game...

2009-07-21T07:01:00.000-07:00

- What pleasant and refreshing weather the last few days....brilliant skies....highs in the 70s/lows in the 50s....low humidity.....mid-July? Go figure. Below average temps are forecast for the next several days, with perhaps a bit of rain tomorrow. Normal day/night is 85/66 this time of year on the mountain properties (about 2,000'-2,200' above sea level).

- Driving from Stone Creek this AM, spotted a mom turkey and maybe 12-15 litttle ones....going under a fence after crossing the road. The young appeared to be 5-6 weeks old.

- Anyone living within our mountain developments has no doubt noticed the nighttime serenade in the trees. This annual nocturnal expression is that of the Katydid (Order: Orthoptera...Family Tettigoniidae). There are several similar species in this family. Though it started some time ago, the decibel level seems to be peaking, and at times the din is almost deafening. These scratchy sounds will continue through most of the summer and then begin to subside by September. Only the males make the noises. The top photo is of a Katydid perched on my doorstep this morning.

- Sitting in my backyard recently and enjoying the pleasantness of the late afternoon with yet another good mystery novel, I watched, and attempted to photograph a standoff between a house cat and a rabbit....Beginning with the bottom photo.....

- The cat rests silently at the base of an oak...the rabbit emerges from the thick tangles of vegetation......

- Vantage points have changed a bit....now the rabbit seems to be losing interest at this latest threat in its life...while the cat seems to stare intently.......

- The rabbit rears on its hind legs for a better look, and now the cat seems to have lost interest.......

- While understanding the predator/prey relationship is a necessary part of all ecosystems...it is hard not to feel a bit of compassion for the rabbits.....seems most of the animal predators, both winged and terrestrial, are always interested in them as a food source. As the afternoon faded into twilight, the rabbit disappeared into the weeds without the cat making an attack.

Summer Thoughts

2009-07-10T12:26:00.000-07:00

- Partly cloudy and seasonably warm today on the southern Cumberland Plateau....nice breezes at 2,200' have made it a quite pleasant summer day.

- More typical summer weather patterns have finally taken in our area...after a very pleasant spring and early summer characterized by cool weeks, one hot week, cool week, along with timely rainfall. Mid 80s today with just a slight chance of a summer thundershower.

- The blackberries are ripe! And what a crop.....they seem to be everywhere.

- Getting reports of fawns all over the mountain...as well as broods of young turkeys.....but in both cases the progeny are never found very far from mom at this point in the summer. Still waiting on the perfect photo.

- Can't help but hear the distinct call of the Bobwhites around the mountain., especially late in the day. A great story of recovery and there seems to be more this summer than ever before.

- Seeing lots of small winged predators this summer...particularly the Cooper's and Sharp-Shinned Hawk. Also a Broad Wing now and then, as well as the usual Red-Tailed.

- Attached are a few photos....new and not so new....that I came across recently.....from top to bottom....

1) A place meditation, in the forest, along Stone Creek in Mother's Park......Why is it that natural sounds...be it wind, water or moving leaves, has such a soothing effect on the human spirit? Answers are as unique and many as there are minds that receive such stimuli.

2) A great shot of the largest species of woodpecker in our forests.....the Pileated, enjoying a suet snack.

3) The male American Goldfinch. 'Nuff said.

4) Caught red-handed! Watching a game, gentle rain falling, look out the glass on to the back deck...and you realize a friend has come to call (without knocking)......

When a Quiet Hike Turns Golden.....

2009-05-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

- Seasonably pleasant today in the Sequatchie Valley.....mid 70s and a breeze....

- More showers yesterday.....it has been a great spring for all flora......

- Late May until late June....prime time for the does to have their young....hopefully photos of the young deer will be posted soon....

- Attached are a few photos taken on a recent woodland hike through some of our new properties.....

- The bottom two photos are of the Mountain Laurel (Kalmia), perhaps the most beautiful of all the woodland shrubs in southeast Tennessee. Due to the recent abundant rainfall, the blooms seem to be particularly brilliant this spring. An interesting note: named for a student of Linnaeus, Peter Kalm (1716-1791), a Swedish botanist.

- During this hike along the wooded ridges on the northern periphery of our developments, the scenery wasn't too bad! Middle photos.

- The top two photos are of a local tree that I had meant to enter on earlier posts. The tree, which is not common in this area, is the Downy Serviceberry (Amelanchier), sometimes called 'Sarvis' or 'Shadbush' by locals. This tree will always catch the eye of those who enjoy identifying the flora, for it produces showy clusters of white flowers prior to producing leaves. It achieves heights of up to 40'.

Nature Throws a Curve.....

2009-05-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

- Update.....The Holly tree near the office now has no berries.....The Waxwings finally win the turf war...I wonder where these winged nomads could be today?

- At dawn this morning I heard a Whippoorwill just outside my window....Quite unusual...as these mostly nocturnal avia usually only sound off at dusk......

- Warm and rainy today in southeast Tennessee. Cooler, drier air is forecast to be on the way. Next week looks delightful. If the forecast holds true....sounds like a good time for a long hike to enjoy the clear mountain air, the noisy waterfalls, the Mountain Laurel (blooming now) and the Flame Azalea (starting to bloom).

- From time to time, we hear stories of nature that, without tangible proof, we simply pass off as "Oh sure"....Well, here is one with tangible proof...courtesy of our residents Frank and Joanne Kahoun.

- Starting back in the early spring, I began to receive sporadic reports of a mysterious animal. Reports varied slightly by the eyes observing, but all the reports had a few common characteristics.....the animal was definitely 'wild', it was 'dog-like' and it was black.

- The animal was seen infrequently...near some of the more undeveloped areas of our 'nature preserve'. After hearing a few of the reports, on multiple occasions, I hid in the flora with a camera, hoping to get a glimpse of this 'Black Fox'.

- March turned into April and the reports became less...and then nothing for many days.

- Last week, I received an e-mail from the Kahouns with the attached photographs. Finally!

- They had heard some of the neighbors talking and Frank thought that I, a naturalist always interested in a good story, should be aware of his photographs. And they were correct...A big thank you to the Kahouns....for the great photographs of such a shy and furtive creature, and for their love of nature...which seems to be a common bond of many of our residents.

- It seems they had seen this 'fox' on several occasions....the last being near the first of April when they observed the canid walking across the corner of their lot, highlighted even more by a very unusual light April snowfall. They explained to me the behavior of the animal, which included the 'jump and pounce' technique of hunting....the tactic used by foxes and coyotes when trying to stimulate a small mammal to bolt from its hiding place in the grass. In our area, these small mammals are almost always Meadow Voles and White-Footed Mice.

- Exactly what is this animal? Good question. Vulpes? Canis? Hybrid? The mystery continues.....or does it?

A Rainy Night In.....Tennessee

2009-05-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

- Rain...an abundance of rain....5+ inches last weekend...and more since...including today.....

- Enjoying the simple things Mother Nature has to offer.....last Thursday night....around 3:50 AM...lightning flashing through the glass caused me to awake....I opened the glass door (w/screen) out onto the back deck, and allowed the night breezes into the bedroom...along with the comforting sounds of rain falling in the deciduous forest behind the cabin.....thunder rolling/rain, rain and more rain........good night again......Priceless!

- The creeks throughout our nature developments are roaring to the point that many residents can hear them though they may live several hundred yards away....like me. I can easily hear Stone Creek rolling through the wooded hollow behind my cabin.

- Attached are photos of a wildlife scene that played out recently in Greenfields...thankfully in front of the camera. Driving along the access road into the developments I spotted three small shapes running down the pavement in front of the vehicle. Soon a larger avia sailed past the driver side window and alighted just in front of the three small shapes.....The large bird was a mother Killdeer (bottom photo) and the three small ones baby Killdeer chicks...perhaps 3 weeks old. Two of the chicks can be seen in the top two photos, partially hidden by the roadside grass...looking for momma. They were about the size of a golf ball....with a head. The mother, as they often do, put on quite a display of faked injury (2nd photo from bottom) while we watched.

- I see this display annually, as the Killdeer seldom flies, and they even nest on the ground. However, the display is hard to photograph, as the mother is in constant motion as she oversees the chicks. The display lasted for 20-25 minutes...until all the little ones disappeared into the taller grass. Why this species ((Charadrius vociferous) likes to hang around roads, I am not sure. Evidently the inherent danger is overcome by a favorite morsel that may inhabit the roadside habitat. Perhaps they just like to live dangerously.

Turf War.....

2009-04-25T09:25:00.001-07:00

- It all started innocently enough......one of my co-workers asked me what was going on with all the birds flying by the office windows.....

- After a glance at the activity outside, I went for the camera.......

- There is a holly tree near the corner of our office, approximately 20' in height and it is loaded with red berries......

- The berries are a favorite food of the Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla), who were waiting, not always patiently, in the nearby Silver Maple trees around our parking lot (bottom two photos...this is the male of the species).

- Two of the Waxwings can be seen, along with the holly tree, in the photo 2nd from the top.....

- It did not take long to understand why the nomadic Waxwings were waiting, and not being allowed to enjoy their desired food of the morning........

- It seems the holly tree was the nesting site of a Northern Mockingbird (Mimus) that is shown in a typical defiant pose ( top photo) on the roof of our office......

- Periodically the 15-20 Waxwings would ascend on the holly tree, and pluck as many berries as possible before the Mockingbird would aggressively drive them away.....

- This scene played out several times over a 30-40 minute period, and I must say the Mockingbird seemed to win this turf war......as the tree is still loaded with berries....

- The Waxwings would try and try for the berries, but were never allowed more than a few seconds of delight before the proud, territorial Mockingbird would arrive on the scene .....

- The Waxwings wander continuously and photos of these beautiful birds are hard to come by. The male Waxwing is striking...and can identified by the black 'mask' through the eyes, the crest, yellow band at the tail tip, and red tips to the secondary feathers.

- At my cabin in Stone Creek, I heard the first Whippoorwill of 2009, just prior to dusk, on April 24th.

Spring in Tennessee

2009-04-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

- Beautiful sunrise on the mountain this morning...clear and seasonably cool....followed by a high in the 70s.

- Very long hike through the woodlands yesterday...and the beauty and fresh breezes of spring are inspiring.

- Many species of woodland plants, trees and shrubs are blooming in southeast Tennessee currently....
- Attached is a photo of the Wood Anemone (Genus Anemone)....this small, single stalked woodland flower lives a solitary and inconspicuous existence, until someone notices it's brilliant white springtime flower protruding above the dead leaves of winter.

- Also attached is the Eastern Redbud (Cercis), which is blooming all over Tennessee currently.

- Though the photo is a bit fuzzy, I could not help but include the attached photo of a Song Sparrow (Melospiza) in the journal. I watched this small bird hop around for a time, and at irregular intervals, it would perch atop the woodpile and sing its heart out....only to return to the grassy slopes to continue its search for a snack. It is shown here in full cry with Lake George in the background.

- Also shown is the Robin, which is more common than ever in many parts of Tennessee. Never one to frequent a bird feeder, the Robin, like this one shown hopping about in the grass near Lake George, is seemingly always in pursuit of a terrestrial meal...like an earthworm or an insect, to satisfy nutritional needs.

- I also saw many Red-Winged Blackbirds in the willows around the lake, as well as Purple Grackles, the Eastern Kingbird, European Starlings, and an interesting mix of swallows. After many photographs and a bit of research all the birds in question were either Tree Swallows or Barn Swallows. I triple checked the Tree Swallows, as some of my ID books say they are not found in southeast Tennessee. But alas, there was no doubt! I took several photos of the two species perched together on limbs of fallen trees near the edge of the lake. They seemed to have a comfortable tolerance of each other.

-Finding the identity of the birds is a relaxing and sometimes challenging activity. I still recall seeing a Merlin years ago....at first I had my doubts, and then more doubts...and only when this small falcon was viewed from a variety of angles, mostly in flight, did I know for sure what I had seen. The close cousin of the Merlin, the American Kestrel, is common here, but I still have yet to see another Merlin. Priceless.

- Though no photograph was possible, I observed a Cooper's Hawk at quite close quarters when on the hike yesterday. This impressive mid-sized predator, larger than the Kestrel, but smaller than the Buteos, has three horizontal dark bands on the tail when viewed from the dorsal side (in flight). It is larger that the very similar Sharp-Shinned Hawk, with which it is often confused.

Love Triangle - Goose Style

2009-03-30T12:50:00.000-07:00

- Cool and crisp this morning, after the passage of a weather front over the weekend that brought rain and eventually lower temperatures to our southeast Tennessee area.

- The Redbuds are blooming in the mountains, the first leaves have appeared in the Sequatchie Valley (not very many in the mountains as yet), the creeks are swollen and noisy from spring rains, and the birds at at peak activity.

- The attached provide a pictorial of the competive, and sometimes nasty, disposition of the male Canada Goose during the spring mating period. From bottom to top.....

- Two male geese size each other up and posture for position as a nearby female takes on the role of a submissive, and seemingly uninterested, bystander (I couldn't tell if she was smiling).....

- The battle gets heated as the female looks on.......

- One of many chase scenes back and forth across the lake.....

- One male flies alongside his rival.....but they were simply moving from one battleground to the next......

- The top photos are of a comparatively docile pair of House Finches (the more colorful male is in the background...and yes, it was raining when the photo was taken). Their nest was approximately 10' away.

Springtime in the Mountains......

2009-03-18T13:32:00.000-07:00

- Cool and sunny this morning, followed by a warm, breezy, radiant afternoon in southeast Tennessee! The temperature is currently in the low 70s.

- I heard the first Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) on March 5, 2009. These small members of Order Anura are often called "The harbingers of spring". Only the males call and they are almost impossible to observe as they sit motionless near wetland areas and woodland pools of water.

- Also, a real treat for this nature buff...twice in the last three weeks, during hikes through our properties, I have encountered Woodcocks. Both flew up unexpectedly, practically under my feet. One flew only a few yards and alighted next to a small woodland pond...in wet leaves. Though there was no other cover of weeds, saplings, etc., the bird was so well camoflouged I could barely make it out against the leaves, though only about 20' separated us.

- Barred Owls and Great Horned Owls are sounding off nightly on the wooded ridge behind my cabin.

- The attached photos...the top photo is the water's edge of Lake George. Deer party.

- The bottom photo is of a group of Red-Winged Blackbirds near Lake George. Note the colored shoulder patches (usually scarlet/orange/yellow in the males) on a couple of the birds. These birds nest in the willows along the banks of Lake George. A couple of European Starlings are also in the photograph.

2-28-09 Observations

2009-02-28T09:06:00.000-08:00

- Dense fog and mild temperatures on the mountain properties this morning.

- Rain last night. With the mild temperatures, a good evening to open the bedroom window, relax, and just listen to one of the most comforting sounds in all of nature.......

- It is a time of activity in the bird world...and several species are active in nest building and related courtship rituals.

- The Robins have returned and I have also witnessed this week...Purple Grackles, Cedar Waxwings, Red-Winged Blackbirds, Pileated Woodpeckers (permanent residents), Northern Mockingbirds (already in song on good weather days), to name a few.

- I have seen deer all over the place this week. At various locations, as I drove to the cabin recently, I counted 15 at dusk. Under the cover of fog and dim light, they seem quite confortable, and most just stared as I drove slowly past. Most of the males are antlerless by now and I would love to find a shed pair of antlers! So far, it has not happened.

- The attached, from top to bottom....1) A recent shot of The Common Crow...a sentinel standing guard while buddies search for food in the meadows below.....2) The gregarious European Starling....the bill is yellow in the spring and summer and dark in winter. These had a yellow bill, so spring must be near!....3) Taken early this morning in the fog....four Mourning Doves perched on a split rail fence near a lake....4) Taken early this morning, in the fog, at quite a distance...the striking male Red-Headed Woodpecker.

"Keep Your Eyes Along the Skyline".......

2009-02-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

- Mild and pleasant this morning...with a fresh southwest breeze. Makes one anticipate spring!

- We have had some cold weather lately, and a bit of snow. The mountains look good in snow!

- Temperature in the mid 60s today with brilliant sunshine.

- The bottom photo was taken yesterday well after sundown, but with a bit of glow still evident behind the western horizon. Movement caught my eye along the skyline and I pulled off the road and snapped the photo. There were five deer in all, seemingly in a playful mood as darkness fell.

- The middle photo is of a Gray Squirrel that frequents my bird feeders. Caught red-handed, he flattened the torso against the ground in a defensive posture...unsure of whether to freeze or to run.

- The top photo was snapped during a bird 'feeding frenzy' recently. All who feed the avia know what I mean...periods of inactivity followed by periods of frenzy...This photo shows two Pine Siskins, two Goldfinches, and a male Northern Cardinal.

- This morning at the cabin there were 19 Goldfinches on my feeders simultaneously.

- We are beginning a great time of year for bird-watchers. Many species will be on the move over the next few weeks.

The Cardinals Always Arrive at Dusk

2009-01-22T10:59:00.000-08:00

- Cold and clear this morning. Typically this time of year, , in our part of Tennessee, the day/night hi/low is around 48/30 in the Sequatchie Valley and 46/26 on the Cumberland Plateau. We have had a few cold nights recently! The forecast is for milder weather across the area this weekend and next week.

- I observed several groups of Sandhill Cranes floating over the Sequatchie Valley this morning. The birds were in groups of 8-12 and, though I did not see them touch down, they seemed to be intent on landing in a field adjacent to the Sequatchie River. Some things warrant a quick detour from the highway......just to watch.

- Attached are several recent photos of birds on my feeders......

From bottom to top.....

1) A Common Flicker and Eastern Bluebird seem to be enjoying a casual moment.

2) A male Northern Cardinal perched stoically in the cold wind on the bough of a young Hemlock. The Cardinals always show up at dusk...sometimes as many as 6-8, males and females. They are always the last ones to leave the feeders.

3) A Red-Bellied Woodpecker caught in a curious pose as it peers around the suet feeder.

4) A female Downy Woodpecker enjoying the suet.

5) A Carolina Wren (not to be confused with Bewick's Wren), also found in this area...seems to resting comfortably after a snack. A closeup of this industrious little bird would show a bill configuration more adapted to other food sources. It must have been quite hungry on a cold winter day!

- I also observed Chickadees, Purple Finches, Song Sparrows, Mourning Doves, Hairy Woodpeckers, Goldfinches, White Breasted Nuthatches, Tufted Titmice, and even a Mockingbird during the day.

1-8-09 Observations

2009-01-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

- Cloudy and cool early this morning, with a few snow showers, but the afternoon has been quite pleasant, temperatures in the 40s with brilliant sunshine and a refreshing breeze.

- Rain...we have had an abundance of rain recently (3-4" in the last 36 hours) and the creeks, lakes and ponds within our developments are at capacity. At our elevation, about 2,200' above sea level, we have no concern of flooding.

- I have spotted several deer recently. They are often quite difficult to see this time of year...especially against the brown leaves of a forest floor.

- Also, I have seen several raptors as of late....On a hike today, I saw three Red-Tailed Hawks and a Sparrow Hawk.

- Deer stories abound this time of year, and though I haven't hunted Odocoileus in decades, I am always intrigued by the stories. Many times I require photo evidence of the tale being recounted. We found a large buck recently, apparently badly wounded in a fight with another male deer. The animal was in such bad shape, we had to put the animal out of its misery.

At one time, it must have been an impressive stag, but at the time is was found, it was in a weakened and somewhat emaciated state. I would love to have seen the opponent.

- I have had reports of several Bald Eagle sightings near our properties recently. I hope for a photo soon.

- The attached photos of the mountains were taken on a woodland hike this morning. Each is worthy of many words.

- Also attached is a photo taken today of Canada Geese behind The Lodge on Lake George. They seem to be enjoying a lull in the action, as many of the birds had their head beneath a wing, snoozing in the sun. Like the Common Crow that abounds in our area, the geese seem to always post a lookout.

12-13-08 Observations

2008-12-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

- A bit below normal temperatures on the southern Cumberland Plateau....with a beautiful sunrise on a crisp December morning. The high today is forecast to be around 50.

- We have had appoximately 5"-6" of rain this week. The creeks and waterfalls within the mountain properties are quite noisy.

- What a full moon (99% of the moon is illuminated) last night! The moon is near perigee, its closest point to Earth during its elliptical orbit. The moon not only appears closer (and larger) to us, it is closer to us!

- The top photo was taken yesterday just before darkness fell on the mountain. These two deer, a doe and what appeared to be her yearling, chose to have acorns as the evening meal. I found the pose interesting. Note the White Oak (Quercus alba) trunk on the left side of the photo. Acorns, especially those of the White Oak (the favorite of the deer) and Chestnut Oak, were abundant this year.

- The next photo is the same two deer, obviously a bit alarmed, taken about thirty minutes earlier.

- The third photo was taken early this morning. It is of a Red-Tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), feathers ruffled in the cold wind, as it surveys the terrain for potential breakfast.

- The hornet (Vespa) nest in the bottom photo is one of many in the trees across the mountain properties. It is the queen who starts the building process during the warm months, as her cell is in the center of the nest, and only she survives the winter!

Reading the Signs

2008-11-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

- A bit below normal temperatures on the mountain. Crisp and a bit windy.

- The Common Crow....the aviary equivalent to the Coyote. If adaptation is the key to survival in the natural world, it is no wonder these two species have thrived and expanded their range in many parts of the eastern USA. They will eat anything and they seem to flourish in a variety of environments. This morning around daybreak, for the birds and chipmunks, I threw a stale piece of cheese and a few stale crackers off the back deck into the woods. Literally within minutes a flock of Crows came to call...sailed through the trees and devoured my offerings. Had they been watching me? I wonder.

- Had a beautiful Pileated Woodpecker spend considerable time in a decaying Oak behind the cabin this morning.

- I stepped off the front porch of the cabin a couple of nights ago, around 8 PM, and heard a familiar noise high above. As I listened, the guttural chortle of the Sandhill Crane again came, and again. Though I could not see them, I could envision the seemingly effortless flight of these magnificent birds. Usually within a loose 'V', they often seem to float aimlessly high in the sky, often near a body of water. At the Hiwassee Refuge on the Tennessee River, one of the staging areas along the north/south migration of this species, thousands often congregate. The best time to view them is November and February.

-The last 2-3 weeks I have noticed the annual flocking together of the many Robins in our area. This gregarious behavior is typical just before they head South.

- Attached is a recent photo taken in Mother's Park, the newest and largest (12+ acres) of the 11 nature parks within our properties. If you like to hike and enjoy the serenity of the deep forest, this is great place to hang out!

- Also attached are two photos showing evidence of deer passing near my cabin. Though it is never certain that the sex of a deer can be determined solely from the track, one can often judge, by probabilities, their identity. The top photo is most likely the tracks left by a walking doe. Note that the grooves left by the parts of the front hooves are adjacent, while the grooves from the back foot are a bit separated. Also, no dew claws are evident, though the soil was soft. This is usually evidence of a deer that does not have a lot of weight, relatively speaking. Could be a very young buck, but more likely a doe. The bottom track is obviously different. The hooves are splayed and the dew claws are evident. Could have been a very large doe, but more than likely this is spoor left by a buck. Generally speaking, the relatively small 'heart-shaped' pattern with the parts of the hooves close together, is probably that of a yearling or a doe. Tracks over 3" (not including dew claws) that are splayed, with the dew claws showing, are almost always a male.

A Magical Place

2008-11-14T08:55:00.000-08:00

- A mild, misty morning on the Cumberland Plateau.....

- From the standpoint of the local flora, the leaves are past peak now, though areas of color are still evident on the mountains. The weather man has forecast rain for this evening, followed by colder weather and some wind, which will probably mean the end of the autumn foliage for this season. A good time to build a fire.

- From the standpoint of the local fauna, it is an exciting time. I have been receiving e-mails from several residents of sightings within our developments.... from Golden Eagles and Cedar Waxwings to large whitetail bucks roaming about.

- The nomadic Cedar Waxwings are in our area only a couple of times per year, usually once in the fall and once in the spring. A photograph of these beautiful birds, which are quite gregarious, is quite a treat. I am still waiting for the right moment.

- I must say, without a photo, I am quite hesitant to mention the large whitetail buck I spotted this morning. As I was walking on vacant lots near Lake George, he came out of the tall grass in a marshy, wooded area near the head of the lake. Even from a distance, his tall and wide set of antlers provided quite a contrast to the dark backdrop of the deep forest. The deer was in constant motion, head held high, until he disappeared into thick undergrowth. Sadly, he chose not to pose for a photograph! Shortly thereafter, a doe came out of the tall grass, but she was not nearly as wary as the buck had been. She too, seemed to vanish before my eyes. Maybe next time.

- However, the morning was not without a deer photograph. The attached is of three does in the Stone Creek area of our properties. They were much more agreeable and seemed to pose before walking away.

- The work in Mother's Park is nearing completion. Two new observation decks in the deep forest, one with a waterfall in view, have been completed in the park. Also, two new bridges along the new trail, for hikers and those in golf carts, are now accepting traffic, as now this woodland thoroughfare is connected to The Magical Mile hiking trail. In addition, five new single file walking bridges have been constructed in the park, allowing hikers to walk over waterways between islands in the channel. Without a doubt, this new park, which is more than 12 acres, is a magical place.

Reasons for the Season

2008-11-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

- Cool and clear on the mountain properties this morning. Delightful!

- The most pleasant stretch of weather I can remember in some time....all of September and October were classic autumn in Tennessee....cool, clear evenings and mild days.
- The autumn foliage is nearing peak in our part of Tennessee and the attached photographs are part of the reason.

- A brief summary of the attached (top to bottom) .........The top photo is of a young Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera), the state tree of Tennessee. This species, known for the long straight contour of the trunk, often turns a brilliant golden color in autumn, and 100' specimens are not uncommon on our mountain properties. The next photo is of the Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra), one of many species that turns a burgundy color in autumn. This small, thin barked tree is often found in clusters, as in the photo. For whatever reason, whitetail bucks love to rub their antlers against the trunk of this tree. The golden color in the next photo (the tree in the middle) is the Pignut Hickory (Carya glabra), one of two hickories (Mockernut Hickory) common on the mountain properties. The hickories and the Tuliptree are responsible for the majority of the yellow to golden coloration in the deciduous forests in our part of Tennessee. The next tree is the Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum), and the burgundy color shown is typical of the autumn coloration of this common species. Next is the Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica). The specimen shown in the photo reflects a bit softer coloration than is typical ...most often the leaves of this species turn a deep burgundy color, similar to the Sourwood. The variation shown in the photo becomes particularly vivid in the afternoon or morning sun. The bottom photo is perhaps the most colorful (and unpredictable) of all...The Red Maple (Acer rubrum). The leaves of this common species are almost always colorful and most often turn red, though some turn yellow, and a few stay predominantly green with a bit of yellow tint (like the one in the background of the photo). The exact reason for this variation within a species is another of Mother Nature's well kept secrets.

Autumn - Time For Change

2008-10-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

- Cool nights (40s) and mild days (mid to upper 60s) have been the rule recently. October's bright blue weather has been on brilliant display in the Sequatchie Valley and the adjacent Cumberland Plateau. Splendid weather for hiking and outdoor activities....and about normal for this time of year.

- Spotted two whitetail bucks recently near my cabin...one large 8-point and a forkhorn. Interestingly they were in the presence of a yearling. All seemed to be enjoying the late afternoon stillness.

- Forecast of rain tonight and tomorrow. Let it rain!

- Work continues in Mother's Park...one of our many nature parks. This one could be our best yet....an observation deck overlooking a wooded creek basin, two new hiking bridges across the creek, and several single-file walking bridges adjoining islands in the stream. The hiking trail through this 12+ acre park adjoins The Magical Mile hiking trail. Magical!

- The leaves have started to turn....Poplars, Blackgums, Sourgums, Sumacs, and a few of the Red Maples are particularly colorful. The hickories (typically a golden coloration) have yet to turn, though we did have our first frost earlier this week on the mountain properties.

- Spotted a Bald Eagle a few days ago.......soaring, soaring, headed to.........?????

- Attached are some of the local avia common to my feeders recently.....In the top photo a Red-Bellied Woodpecker seems to guarding the suet while the Tufted Titmouse dines on sunflower seeds. The middle photo is of a Hairy Woodpecker while the bottom photo shows the Tufted Titmouse and the Carolina Chickadee. The latter two species, which often hang out together, are in constant motion to and from the feeders.

A Place of Refuge

2008-10-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Has there ever been a better time to reflect on the words of Thoreau ?

"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately.
To front only the essential facts of life,
And see if I could not learn what it had to teach,
And not when I came to die,
Discover that I had not lived."

The times do make me appreciate our quiet and peaceful mountain developments......and I do believe I will enjoy a long, woodland hike this afternoon.

The First Signs of Autumn

2008-09-19T12:17:00.000-07:00

- Fine weather!......I have heard my late father say this so many times....describing late summer/early autumn weather as we have experienced recently...Mild days (70s), cool evenings and mornings (low to mid 50s), very low humidity, fresh breezes. Great hiking/biking weather, and great weather to open the windows at night!

- A few of the Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica) and Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) leaves are already showing signs of crimson and burgundy coloration...a beautiful contrast to the typically yellow/gold fall foliage of the many species of Hickories (Carya) as well as the Tuliptrees (Liriodendron tulipifera) which are found in abundance within our mountain properties.

- Many of the Oaks (Quercus) are dropping their acorns currently. In many areas, the acorns of The White Oaks, Red Oaks, and Chestunut Oaks, in particular, litter the ground. It is a sure bet, however, they will not be on the ground long, for much of the local fauna has been waiting all summer to gorge themselves on these once arboreal delights. The acorns of the Chestnut Oak, the largest and most visibly appealing (thinking like an animal....) of the group, are the least desired. Attached is a photo of the acorns of the White Oak, arguably the favorite food of the Whitetail Deer. These acorns of Quercus alba are relatively sweet with a pleasant taste.

- Also attached is a photo of what appears to be a Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides). I found this 20' tree in a fence row, and at first, because the leaf stalk was flattened, thought it was another Bigtooth Aspen (P. grandidentata), but the rounded and smoothly contoured teeth, and general leaf configuration has now convinced me otherwise. Both species are uncommon on our part of the Cumberland Plateau.

- Two nights ago the moon was full over the mountains....in a clear, low humidity, no light pollution sky....Priceless!

Time of The Deer

2008-08-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

- Finally, some significant rainfall this morning and forecast for the next 2-3 days. The tropical system that has brought misery to many across the Deep South could serve our area very well. All across East Tennessee, even the mature deciduous trees have been showing signs of stress due to diminished moisture content in the soil. Hopefully we will see enough rainfall to make a positive impact.

- Many in our area have commented recently on the continued abundance of buttterflies....I see them everywhere....Swallowtails, Sulfurs, Skippers...everywhere.

- A real treat....I recently spotted a Golden Eagle within our properties.... perched high in a dead tree overlooking an expanse of field and forest. Very impressive species.

- I have been seeing deer and more deer. Through the years, I have noticed, in our Tennessee location anyway, that this is the time of year when Whitetail Deer males seem to hang out together. Late August through mid-September is when this seems to happen, but the reasons are vague. The older bucks, usually solitary, seem to tolerate the presence of the young bucks, for whatever reason. The younger males are probably only seeking companionship and the older bucks are a target role model. Rest assured, history has revealed that it will not be long until this tolerance by the older boys will not be the case, and the younger males, most likely entering their second autumn, will have to be content within the social structure of other young bucks, yearlings and does. However, the deer would no doubt be disappointed to know that I am making an attempt to properly analyze their antics, for to them, there is no issue.... this behavior is simply what their kind do.

- Attached are recent photos of Odocoileus.....one of a young buck that seemed to be posing for the camera. Nearby was a doe and two young fawns (still with spots)...not a common sighting....male-female-babies together. Another photo is of a doe, seemingly a bit mal-nourished, that came within 6'-7' of the front porch of my cabin. The third photo is of a young doe, taken at sundown, that seemed to be quite arrogantly waving good-bye to the intruder in her neighborhood.

8-11-08 Observations

2008-08-11T14:20:00.001-07:00

- What weather! Cool nights (mid to upper 50s) and warm days (upper 70s to low 80s) have describe the weather on the mountain properties the last few days. Brilliant sunshine and low humidity! Is this mid-August or mid-September? Very nice!

- I have been hearing the call of the Bobwhite most everywhere I travel within the developments lately, and finally a couple of days ago, I managed to get a good camera shot of one of these rotund, primarily ground dwelling fowl. Last Friday, I watched as two adults and an entire brood of just hatched young crossed the road in front of me. The little puffs of feathers were no larger than a golf ball, but could they run! The Bobwhite has made quite a comeback in Tennessee in recent years. Once endangered in many parts of Tennessee (in the 90s), they are more numerous this year than I can ever recall. Their call in the late afternoon stillness reminds me of a time when the clock did not spin so fast! Once the most popular of the upland Tennessee game birds, I cannot remember the last time I heard someone say they had been 'quail' hunting. Watching a good dog hover on point near a hidden covey is one of the many fond memories of growing up in the Tennessee farmlands.

- Also attached is a recent photo of a traffic jam within our properties. This flock of Wild Turkeys seemed to be enjoying a light rain while the photo was taken through the windshield!

Noisy Neighbors

2008-07-29T09:10:00.000-07:00

- Seasonably warm this morning in Stone Creek, with showers here and there.

- We had about 3.5 inches of rain in this area last week, and more is forecast for the next 2-3 days.

- Attached are two common residents of our mountain properties. Anyone who lives in our area and has a deciduous canopy anywhere near their home site is well aware of the nocturnal sounds made by the Katydid (Family Tettigoniidae). The injured specimen shown in the photo, which is the True Katydid (there are other similar species), was about to be attacked by several Yellow Jackets. The din created by these Arthropods is so loud around my cabin at night it has caused me to close all doors and windows! With first light, the scratchy rendition ceases, only to begin again at nightfall. Their sounds will continue through most of August, and then will gradually decrease with the coming of fall.

- Also attached is a recent photo of the male Spicebush Swallowtail (Pterourus troilus) on, of all things, a Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa). There are several species of the Swallowtails, and all of them are endearing to those who love and appreciate the beauty of nature.

7-26-08 - The Photo That Wasn't!

2008-07-26T09:09:00.001-07:00

- Seasonably warm with a few showers about this morning on the mountain properties.

- I have seen a lot of deer this week...adults and fawns. The males still have antlers in velvet and we still see many fawns with the characteristic spots. The spots gradually fade and by the autumn, typically they are gone from the coat of the young deer. One fawn was in my driveway as darkness fell last evening....with mom watching from the nearby forest. I saw them again early this morning, so all must have been quite tranquil around my place last night.

- It has been a good season for most flora and fauna. The large Chestnut Oak just off my back deck has a good crop of acorns this year. I see young rabbits all over the place, especially at dusk.

- The greatest photo that was never taken. Tuesday morning, early AM, two adult Gray Foxes (Urocyon) trotted through my yard and hesitated in my driveway, just in front of my front porch. Alongside the adults were three young foxes, perhaps 5-7 weeks old. Though small, they had the distinct bushy tails, perky ears, and coloration of the adults. The family posed long enough for a photo (I had left the camera in the car) and then casually trotted up my driveway and disappeared into the long grass. Two items about this species you may find interesting....1) They, unlike the Red Fox, can climb trees....and do so often to avoid trouble. 2) Both mom and dad fox help care for the young, as was evidenced on this occasion. After about 4 months the youngsters will be on their own.

- Since I missed a great photo with the foxes (quite frustrating...as an opportunity such as this will likely never occur again), today we will settle for one more deer photo.....the doe featured hung around my front porch all morning, and was still nearby as I departed.

7-18-08 Observations

2008-07-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

- A bit warmer this morning on the mountain properties. The last three mornings have been delightful...upper 50s to low 60s with low humidity readings.

- Typical summer weather today and forecast for the rest of the week....pleasantly warm and sunny, with highs in the upper 80s and night time lows in the low to mid 60s.

- I have been hearing the Barred Owls and Whippoorwills frequently. Their call is a trademark of the late evening stillness in the mountains.

- A new pavilion is being constructed in Stone Creek Park, just south of my cabin. This pavilion, which covers a stone fire pit, looks out over the small lake in the park. Stone Creek Park is one of 10 nature parks found along our private roads and hiking trails.

- Attached is a recent photo taken near the entrance to Stone Creek. This doe did not seem to want to move very much. I suspect her offspring were hidden in the tall grass just across the split rail fence. Just two days before, I had watched twin fawns near this same spot, standing in the tall grass. Their ears gave them away, protruding above the grasses like the ears of a Siamese cat!

Thoughts of Early Summer - 6-30-08

2008-06-30T11:53:00.000-07:00

Clear and cool on the mountain properties this morning....and forecast to be in the mid 50s tonight...Is anyone ready to build a fire on the first of July?

- A bit of rain yesterday, about .5", and the mountains appear fresh and crisp today. It is breezy and the humidity is low.

- A great day for a long bike ride through the mountains or a relaxing woodland hike.

- A beautiful week is forecast for the southern Cumberland Plateau...highs in the low 80s and nights pleasantly cool. Rain is possible again by the weekend.

- Attached is a photo taken recently of the male Goldfinch. No comment needed.

- Also pictured is the reason why feeding birds sometimes gets expensive! An apron on the metal pole worked for a time, but these industrious rodents eventually solved the puzzle. I am currently theorizing (again) on a plan to feed the squirrels and birds separately (I have a squirrel feeder nearby...but the squirrels much prefer the bird feeders). Not an easy task!

6-24-08 Observations

2008-06-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

- Clear and cool on the mountain properties this morning.....with early AM temperatures in the upper 50s.

- I have been seeing several fawns recently. It has always amazed me how, due to innate factors, these young deer freeze when danger threatens. Often I have stepped near them while walking in fields with long grass, and they simply do not move...they flatten the ears, droop the head, continue the prone status and do not move...while the doe may flee, probably to draw attention away from the youngster (s).

- In the surrounding forests and fields, I could hear several Whippoorwills through the open windows last night....

- Attached is a recent photo of the Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) near Hemlock Park, one of the many nature parks within our mountain developments.

6-11-08 Observations

2008-06-11T07:10:00.000-07:00

- Nice and warm this morning, with a brilliant sunrise.

- Three whitetail bucks walked through my yard yesterday morning, all with antlers in velvet. One of the deer was quite small, but with forks already formed...the other two, by fall, could be in the 'trophy' category. The deer appeared for a couple of minutes, constantly moving, and then became spooked and disappeared into the thick growth north of the cabin.

- New born fawns have been spotted recently. The young deer, which begin to walk just hours after birth, typically stay hidden in undergrowth or tall grass. They rely on camouflage, lack of scent, and their motionless state for protection. It usually works, but not always!

- Attached is a photo taken this morning of The Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina). Why these colorful reptiles like to spend considerable time in roadways is up for debate, but it is a dangerous way to spend a morning.

- Also attached is a photo of two common visitors, with contrasting lifestyles, to my feeders.....The Mourning Dove and a juvenile Eastern Chipmunk. The doves are always seemingly content and relaxed, but the same cannot be said for the nervous and industrious chipmunks!

5-23-08 Observations

2008-05-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

- Sunny, breezy and refreshingly cool the last few days, with nights being particularly pleasant...low to mid 50s and a bright moon.

- Today has been a warm (around 80) and seasonal spring day on the mountain properties. A few sprinkles here and there.

- Walked the Magical Mile hiking trail (the new trail from Hemlock Park to Mother's Park) again a couple of days ago.......the trail parallels Stone Creek for over a mile....serene forest....quiet....truly magical.

- Reports of recently born fawns beginning to come in....

- It has been a great growing season for most all local flora....the Blackberry vines are currently loaded with brilliant white blooms and the Mountain Laurel is blooming along the creeks and in the valleys. Most of the blooms of the laurel are brilliant white, with occasional specimens showing pink blooms.

- Attached are recent bird photos....Can we say inconspicuous? The Song Sparrow (on the ground...Melospiza melodia) is best described by this one word. The Northern Mockingbird in the photo seems to be quite angry that I was sharing space. The photo of the striking Pileated Woodpecker is one of my best....and the bird seems to be showing the world how they use the rigid tail feathers for leverage and balance when having a meal. Two of them are tending a nest in a tree just behind my cabin.

5-8-08 Observations...Finally...The Grosbeaks!

2008-05-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

- Warm and breezy on the mountain properties this AM.

- Rain headed our way today.

- The Dogwoods are still showing their brilliant blossoms in the mountains and now the Black Locusts (Genus Robinia) are also showing their blooms. The clusters of flowers on the Locusts are white, though not nearly as brilliant white as the Dogwoods.

- Finally! Attached are photos of Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks (male and female) on my feeders. The male carries the signature. Also pictured is the acrobatic and somewhat erratic White Breasted Nuthatch, who appears to be enjoying the suet.

- The other photo was a treat for me.....capturing the male and female Eastern Towhee in the same camera shot. These birds are quite shy and often reclusive. Notice the red eye in the male, the one with the black cape.

Springtime in the Mountains

2008-05-01T09:24:00.000-07:00

- Clear and pleasant this morning on the mountain properties.

- Spring is a beautiful time in our mountain properties, as evidenced by the attached photos.

- These photos were taken on an early afternoon hike yesterday....which included a jaunt into some of our future development areas.

- Two of the photos are of The Pinxter Flower (called a Pink Azalea in some taxonomy books). These wild deciduous shrubs are common on the high exposed ridges throughout our mountain properties.

- Note in the photo of the white flowers there are pink flowers on the plants in the background....and despite most of my ID books saying this species (Rhondodendron nudiflorum) has only pink flowers, the photo seems to refute this. Observation of the leaves, twigs, stems, and flower arrangement analyzed on this trip seem to indicate all specimens were of the same species.

- The Flame Azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) is very similar, though the flowers usually have an orange hue. Both are in the Heath Family (Ericaceae).

- The other photo reflects the inspiring springtime vistas experienced on this hike.

4-29-08 Observations

2008-04-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

- Cool and clear on the mountain properties this AM...an invigorating morning with brilliant skies and a bit of a refreshing breeze.

- A bit over an inch of rain Sunday. Thankfully, 2008 has been closer to normal rainfall than the extremes of 2007.

- The Flame Azaleas (Genus Rhododendron) are blooming in the woodlands of the mountain properties. One of our only orange blossoms!

- Last evening....with fleeing gray and white cumulus partially obscuring the sunset and a brisk breeze moving the trees....and a very good novel in my hands....I dozed off on the back deck....priceless!

- New birds seem to be arriving daily. Recently on/near the feeders I have noticed male and female Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks (female in the attached photo), Goldfinches, Indigo Buntings (attached...male), various Sparrows, a Catbird, various Woodpeckers (a female Downy Woodpecker attached), White-Breasted Nuthatches, and more Northern Cardinals. The Grosbeaks and Indigo Buntings were first noticed about the middle of last week. If you have not personally witnessed the male Rose Breasted Grosbeak, you have missed one of Mother Nature's treasures. Hopefully a good photo will be posted soon.

- Many deer recently.....including six this morning. The males are experiencing new antler growth, and, for protection and nourishment, a vascular laced velvet covering will envelop the new growth until late summer, when it will begin to peel...a process often hastened by the deer rubbing their antlers against small trees or bushes.

Another - Yet the Same - Deer Story

2008-04-17T08:29:00.001-07:00

- Clear and cool on The Cumberland Plateau this morning...brilliant sushine and turkeys gobbling!

- A few months ago an entry was made into this journal about a very large Whitetail Deer that had been found in the wild, long dead, by a friend of mine in a nearby area. A photo of that deer, specifically the skull and the gnawed antlers, was included in the journal entry.

- Attached is a photo taken this morning of that same deer, after having been restored by a local taxidermist. This magnificent specimen now hangs in the office of Wayne Shadden, owner of Shadden Tire in Crossville, Tennessee. Wayne, an avid outdoorsman as well as community leader, was glad to share the story of this 'one of a kind' deer.

- When I first saw the antlers, I had the feeling it was one of the largest Tennessee whitetails I had ever witnessed, and now I know for sure. Wayne told me the rack, which was classified as non-typical, scored 213 points by the Boone and Crockett scoring method. Had the deer been classified typical (only a few of the small tines were abnormal), it would have been among the largest ever scored in the state of Tennessee. A minimum score of 170 (taken by gun) is required for a typical whitetail rack to qualify for the Boone and Crockett Record Book.

4-14-08 Observations

2008-04-14T12:05:00.001-07:00

- Cool and cloudy early AM on the mountain properties.

- After last week in the 70s, Mother Nature has done yet another about face.....

- After a sunny and pleasant stretch of days, the weekend became windy and a bit blustery...and today intermittent sleet pellets and snow showers....and then tomorrow along with the next two days are forecast to be sunny with a warming trend! Great hiking weather!

- I heard my first Whippoorwill (Caprimulgus vociferous) of the spring season at dusk last Thursday.....and the unusual notes of this terrestrial avia never fail to remind me of the quiet and tranquil evenings back on the farm. They have wintered along the Gulf Coast-northern South America.

- The Barred Owls (Strix varia) were quite vocal in the forest behind the cabin on both Friday and Saturday nights.... due in part to the fact that it is mating season.

- Attached is a recent photo, taken at great distance, of an Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) on Lake George in our mountain developments. They seldom stay long with us....usually a few days, and then they are on the way to larger lakes further north.

- Also attached is another photo of the male Northern Cardinal.

- The Flowering Dogwoods have started to bloom within the last few days and many are talking about the beauty of the blooms of the Eastern Redbud, which are common throughout deciduous woodlands and along roadsides across the Southeast.

- It is a great time for bird watchers.....as a great variation of species seem to be on the move....either involved in the nest building process or on their way to nest building locations.

- Hiking along Stone Bridge Park Trail recently, a huge deer ran through the forest, crossed the trail perhaps 40 yards in front of me, and then bounded down the ridge and out of sight. Though antlerless (they usually shed their antlers here from late January to early March), this deer was easy to identify as a male. Huge body, almost a royal appearance, and a characteristic not to be underestimated when trying to identify the sex of Odocoileus virginianus with limited visual contact....the animal was alone. It is quite rare to see does alone this time of year. For big bucks, a solitary existence is the rule rather than the exception. About the only time I see bucks together is late summer, when, for whatever reason, they seem to socially tolerate each other. The yearlings (most are born in our location within three weeks of June 1) stay with mom until the newborns come along...and then they part ways, usually for life.

4-2-08 Observations

2008-04-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

- Seasonal on the mountain this morning...cool and a bit breezy....Lower 40s with a high today in the mid 60s. The talk is of rain starting tomorrow and possibly continuing through Friday night.

- Saw my first active Serpentes late PM yesterday while on the bike...a small Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis (Eastern Garter Snake)....and this particular specimen (these common snakes are very temperatmental) seemed to be delighted to again be above ground and active!

- We had .42" of rain yesterday, while much of middle Tennessee had upwards of 2". The local temperature was in the 70s yesterday, but since a front has moved through the area, thus the somewhat cooler temperatures today.

- Walked down to Mother's Bridge construction site today....the boys were fastening the 60' I-Beams to the concrete supports, over the noisy waters of the creek. This covered bridge, which is designed for one-lane traffic, is in a beautiful wooded valley, and the water tumbling over the irregular bedrock only adds to the serenity of this otherwise quiet and peaceful setting.

- Attached is a photo of a Slate Colored Junco. This specimen is probably getting lonely, as many of its kind are in the process of leaving this area for more northern climes.

- Also attached is a photo of three regulars at my feeders...The American Goldfinch (this male is in a plumage change), a Purple Finch (male) and the seemingly always present Tufted Titmouse.

- The other photo shows a close-up of the 'paint brush' finish on the plumage of the male Purple Finch. I love Peterson's description of this avia...."a sparrow dipped in raspberry juice".

3-27-08 Observations

2008-03-27T14:27:00.001-07:00

- Clear to partly cloudy, windy and seasonably warm on the mountain properties this afternoon.

- While on a brief photo session this morning, I saw a number of Whitetail Deer and Wild Turkeys. Like our staff, they seem to sense that spring has finally sprung....but we are quite cautious...as all of us remember what happened last year at about this time....record warmth in late March followed by record breaking cold in early April...as depicted in this journal...a tough time for the fauna and flora.

- There is a chance of rain tomorrow and tomorrow night...about 50% locally.

- Today is warm and pleasant, but recently we had a bit of snow...as shown by a photo taken from my living room. The month of March in Tennessee is seldom boring!

- Also shown is a rare photo of a Red-Headed Woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) taken on my feeder in a nearby area. No, the bird is not rare, but rarely do I see them on the feeders. They seem to be content to seek their fortune elsewhere, most notably the bark of trees. They would get a lot of votes for the most striking of Mother Nature's winged creatures.

- Also shown is the striking contrast of the male Northern Cardinal against the forest green of a Norway Spruce (Picea abies) and a dusting of snow.

3-20-08 Observations

2008-03-20T09:41:00.001-07:00

- Cool and clear on the mountain this morning...mid 30s. Normal temperatures for the mountain properties on this date is 59/38 (day/night). Normal for the city of Dunlap, which is about 1,400' lower elevation (using sea level as reference), is 64/41.

- We received 1.38" of rain yesterday, and the Dunlap area is now above normal for the month of March and above average (by .8") for 2008.

- The Magnolias and Bradford Pears are blooming in the Sequatchie Valley, and soon the mountain properties will begin to show the blooms of the Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) and the Redbud (Cercis canadensis).

- Attached is a recent photo of a flock of Wild Turkeys in my driveway just after sun-up. I see this group often, and they have learned to come around and scratch in the debris beneath the bird feeders periodically. Not even these wary birds turn down a free meal now and then!

- Riding a bike on a nearby mountain road recently, I topped a hill and headed down the other side just in time to come face to face with a young Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) scavenging on a small dead mammal in the highway. The startled animal and myself experienced a brief moment of anxiety, but after a loud shout and a short sprint by the fox into the forest, we continued on our way.

3-11-08 Observations

2008-03-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

- Cloudy and cool on the mountain this morning...with a forecast high in the upper 50s today.

- We had 2"-3" of snow Saturday morning, 3-8-08. Though the temperatures were well below normal both Saturday and Sunday, the roads cleared quickly. The mountains were beautiful!

- Monday, by contrast, was clear and brilliant with temperatures near 60. Springtime in Tennessee!

- Yesterday, for the first time this season, I heard the Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer). Often called the "Harbinger of Spring", these small frogs congregate around woodland pools in great numbers this time of year....in anticipation of the breeding season. Only the males call....and the din is often quite loud. They may be the origin of the "heard and not seen" phrase....as they are very difficult to see and even more difficult to catch. Upon interruption, they will cease their vocals, becoming silent until the threat passes. As the Latin name implies, they have a distinct 'X' on their back and this field mark is one way to distinguish these tiny frogs from other similar species...like the Northern Cricket Frog (Acris crepitans).

- The Red-Winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) are back...the first ones were seen in the willows near Lake George (in our mountain developments) over the weekend.

- Attached are photos of a Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) caught in the act of trying (and failing) to access the bird feeders. As many have found out these acrobatic rodents will try most anything to get at sunflower seeds!

- Also attached is an American Robin (Turdus migratorius), seemingly captured in a melancholy pose. Perhaps this one was a bit confused by the snow and the cold...as they have only recently arrived after a winter in warmer climes!

First Signs of Spring

2008-03-01T12:45:00.001-08:00

- Beautiful sunrise on the mountain this morning...and not as cold as the last few days.

- Mid-week we had 3"-4" of snow on the mountain properties (considerably less in town) and the mountains had never looked better! Unfortunately (?) the snow did not last long, which is typical of southeast Tennessee snowfall. Though the temperature was quite cold, tierra firma just held too much heat energy (the temperature had been in the upper 50s on Monday) for the snow to survive for very long.

- Today is bright and sunny with the temperature near 60 F and for the first time, my thoughts have actually turned to spring.

- First signs of spring.... a few of the Robins have returned, the buds of the Red Maples have begun to swell, the birds are generally more vocal and more active. Soon the Barred Owl and The Great Horned Owl will render their haunting nocturnal renditions through the forest, the Wild Turkeys will begin to gobble at dawn, and the area Whippoorwills will again deliver their late evening notes through the cabin window. The latter, one of three 'Nightjars' in this area, are often heard, but seldom seen. Last spring and summer, as many as 3-4 at a time could be heard in the early evening hours near the cabin. They depend on camouflage (a 'dead leaf' pattern) and a mostly nocturnal existence for survival , being almost totally terrestrial, and they often sit motionless from a clandestined perch to deliver their reptitive three-note song. I heard the Whippoorwill often on the farmlands in my youth, but then went decades without hearing one. Now, I hear them often and it is somehow comforting to know that some things haven't changed in our country!

- Attached is a recent photo of a Slate Colored Junco (Junco hyemalis) in the grass near my feeders. This bird, commonly called a 'winter bird' by some locals, will migrate north to Alaska/Canada before too long. They are usually gregarious, so this loner is the exception.

- The top photo caught four common species at once...from left to right.... House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), Carolina Chickadee (Parus carolinensis), and Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens). Priceless!

- There was also an Eastern Towhee (Rufous-sided) near the feeder. These shy birds, which seldom venture far from dense undergrowth, are quite striking, and I hope to get a good photo soon.

- Two Pileated Woodpeckers were recently on the suet and one of the feeders simultaneously, and yet another great photo was missed.

2/23/08 Observations

2008-02-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

- A cool and misty morning on the mountain properties...mid 30s and a breeze.
- Much of the Southeast had considerable rain the last day or two, but it somehow missed Fredonia Mountain. In vain, the bedroom door and window were open....anticipation!
- The birds are more vocal lately...but many of the migratory species have not arrived yet. It is still a bit early for the Wild Turkeys to start their spring gobbling.
- I still see a lot of winged predators...especially Red-Tailed Hawks, Sparrow Hawks (American Kestrel), and Sharp-Shinned Hawks. The migratory Broad Winged and Red Shouldered Hawks, both common here, have not arrived from the tropics as yet...though an early arrival could be seen any time.
- Attached is a photo taken yesterday afternoon.....the worst nightmare of the songbird....a Sharp-Shinned Hawk (this one is a juvenile) watching one of my bird feeders. The young of this species can be distinguished from the adult by the chest markings....vertical on the juvenile, horizontal on the adult.