Signs of Fall

Have you noticed a change in the air?  Perhaps a whiff of drying leaves or a blush of frost tinging the dew on the morning grass? 

Signs of Autumn are subtle this time of year.  A few leaves tinted unexpectedly.  Golden rod and purple aster flag their colorful plumes in the cool morning breeze.  The last monarchs of summer begin to gather and make their way south.  Birds, such as the Canada goose, also gather and begin to feed, building their fat stores for the long flight to warmer, milder places.

As you walk in the wood, pause and listen.  The deer are beginning to gather.  Be cautious at the sounds of rattling antlers.  The male deer are establishing their places and have little tolerance for interlopers.  Also be cautious when walking in areas where people hunt.  Before walking down an inviting path, be sure to ask the land owner or manager permission.  Not only is this good manners, but could keep you or your pet from being mistaken for a deer by a hunter lying in wait.

Spring Wildlife

Spring is a season full of wonderful surprises to those who keep their eyes open.  Tiny Cottontails are chasing their mom around the pasture.  A whitetail doe carefully hides her fawns in the grass.  Many, many birds are on nest or fledging.

American Woodcock

Now here is your test: in the center of this picture is an American Woodcock.  While coming back across the pasture to pick up some more fence posts, we came apon this little lady sitting patiently on her nest.  We have heard them in the twilight however had not yet come to recognize their call for what or who was making it.

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Woodcock/sounds

Birds and animals will come where they can find food, shelter, and feel safe.  This is something to think about when encouraging or discouraging wildlife in your area. Give up on where little bird is hiding?  look to the center of the picture for her eye.  she is facing right, bill down, and her wings are folded across her back to the left.