wild birds

Category

By Mockingbird Cicada Snack

Jordan Lake. Over the last couple of days the Riley’s 13 year cicada chorus has mostly faded into history. Now the birds such as this northern mockingbird are snacking on what they can find in amongst the rocks, on the sidewalks and probably in your yards. This mockingbird certainly enjoyed his cicada snack.

By Black Racer and Mockingbird Territory Dispute

Jordan Lake. I watched for over two hours as the northern mockingbird did its best to say no to the black racer snake. Neither animal was hurt but both were very frustrated. Yes black racers will get into birds’ nests. Yes black racers sometimes become a meal for hawks, bald eagles and other snakes. I always try to remember that nature is never cruel but she is harsh.

By Don’t Blink

Jordan Lake. First Nest. Do not, I repeat, do not blink! I saw the first fledgling pop up out of the trees so I turned to follow it. Then realized the second fledgling was also in the air. By that time I had lost track of the first one. So like I said don’t blink … this is the second of the two fledglings. Hopefully in the next couple of days I’ll get pictures of both of them together!

By Great Blue Heron and American Water Willows

Jordan Lake. Great blue herons really enjoy standing still within a garden of American water willows. Fish love to get in around the stems of the American water willow which of course means it’s a good place for a great blue heron to look for food. The American water willow’s blossom reminds me somewhat of a tiny iris. You can find them at some of the boat ramps on Jordan Lake these days. Go and enjoy this native plant.

By Mockingbird and Cicadas Songs

Jordan Lake. Do you need some bright cheerful song to brighten up the grayness of the day? This northern Mockingbird was very full of itself. Occasionally looked down to make sure that I was actually listening and watching it. By the way the constant hum underneath the mockingbird’s song is the chorus of the cicadas singing.