Previously this Spring, I provided an update on the Bald Eagle nests that I visit in this area of eastern N.C. Please review that post for more information on these nests. The pictures below are from one of those nests and show the 2 chicks there as well as the parents. All the other nests discussed in the previous post all have 1 or 2 chicks , all doing well.
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Recent warm spring weather has escorted a wave of spring green and a few early flowers in The Field. Most trees are now fully draped with their summer clothes. This past week, I have seen a few new seasonal arrivals in our bird population. The Ospreys are back and have been repairing their nest, with possible eggs already produced. I saw my first few Blue Grosbeaks in the fields, as well as a Prairie Warbler and a Pine Warbler. Of interest was a Fox Squirrel engaging in behavior i have not observed before. He dug out a small sandy area next to a tree and proceeded to roll around in it for 10 minutes or so. I do not know if this may be mating behavior (leaving scent), or a way of getting rid of bug pests, or just having fun!! I also got pictures of a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers hanging around the nest, but saw no sign of eggs or babies yet. I am happy to see the seasonal changes and look forward to the arrival of more summer bird residents. See pics below. SEE GALLERY BELOW. CLICK ON ANY PIC TO ENLARGE. USE SIDE ARROWS TO MOVE BACK AND FORTH. SCROLL UP AND DOWN FOR MORE RECENT ENTRIES, OR CLICK ON ARCHIVES ON THE RIGHT.Winter has had a long run in eastern North Carolina, but the 80 degree temps of the past two days is a strong suggestion that the cold is finally really over. All our trees are fully budded and sharing their tons of pollen with us locals, At Goose Creek State Park, where I was able to spend yesterday morning, the signs of spring are quite visible. The hardwoods are green. The Ospreys have returned from their vacation south and are busily repairing nests to hold the new chicks they will soon provide the world. Migrating warblers can be seen visiting the park again. I saw Yellowrumps, Prairie Warblers, Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, and Northern Parulas. Woodpeckers are busy banging away at new nest holes. Resident Wood Ducks and Canada Geese are guiding new chicks across the creeks and swamps. The forest is awakening again to the glory of new life. See pics below. SEE GALLERY BELOW. CLICK ON ANY PIC TO ENLARGE.USE SIDE ARROWS TO MOVE BACK AND FORTH. SCROLL UP AND DOWN FOR OTHER RECENT ENTRIES OR CLICK ON ARCHIVES ON RIGHT FOR EARLIER ARTICLES. |
Jerry Lotterhos is a retired professor who resides in Greenville, N.C.
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