neighdoctor

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By Tight Fit

Jordan Lake Dam, Haw River:  In the prior post, we looked at a whitestar morning-glory (native to NC) during the night, when it was resting and closed.  In the growing daylight, the whitestar blossom begins to open.  The blossom is almost irresistible to the eastern bumblebee.  The bumblebee is just a little bit smaller than the wee whitestar blossom. There is an advantage to the whitestar in this tight fit.  As the bumblebee wedges itself down into the flower, to reach the nectar, the insect picks up the pollen of the whitestar.  The bumblebee backs out, carrying her load of pollen and heads for the next blossom.  Pollination for the flower and nutrition for the bumblebee!  The eastern bumblebee narrates her story and I think she does a fine job…

By Fledgling Bald Eagle

Jordan Lake, Haw River:  Oh Joy!!! The fledgling bald eagle was going to land very, very close.  I concentrated.  Snapped a photo and got the moment of intent just before the landing. The fledgling disappeared into the boughs of oak leaves.  I waited.  Then I waited some more figuring he would get hungry and fly out.  1 hour and 20 minutes later I was still waiting, and, had to leave for an appointment.  The youngster won the patience round, by default!  Ah, well, I did get us a great look at his precise landing.  Did you notice the set of talons he has???

By Doc Ellen’s Natural Minute 08/27/2020

Jordan Lake, Haw River, Thursday, August 27, 2020. It is unsettling, to say the least, to sit here beside the quiet Haw River and think about what’s going on in Louisiana and out west. My heart goes out to all of them. My thoughts go out to all of those who are in danger and to all of those who will go and help. Take care, be safe. Stay well. Send your support in whatever way you can to any and all in need.

By Notch the Bald Eagle Fishing the Riprap!

Jordan Lake, Haw River: Bald Eagle!  Fishing in the riprap!  This is Notch the Bald Eagle.  I haven’t seen this almost 5-year-old eagle since January when she still had a few dark feathers in her tail.  There are still one or two on her face.  I sure hope she finds a mate this fall.  Wow!  It has been a long time since I got to photograph a fishing bald eagle.  Oh, my.