Jordan Lake. “Dear cormorant,” said the turtle, “if you don’t mind would you please tell me what you see above all the trees? There must be more than just sky which is all I can barely see.” “Dear turtle,” replied the cormorant, “yes I will share what my sight reveals as we rest here on sunny log.” Captain Doug and I drifted past and so didn’t hear the bird’s tale, alas.

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.

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.