Spring Already?

Think about the tulip bulbs that were planted last fall. Or the birds that flew by today. They must all be confused. No climate change reports have come their way, so how do they figure out what to do and when? If spring has come today…and gone...
Birding in Minnesota

Birding in Minnesota

Walking around the numerous lakes in the neighborhood with a “birder” son is a special Thanksgiving treat. The cooperative weather enhances the pleasure as we peer at numerous ducks, enjoying the crisp fall atmosphere. Another treat to give thanks for is seeing old...

A Memory from the Beach

A late afternoon splash of rain chases the humans away. By the time I walk the beach after dinner the birds have returned and people have vanished. This is what I consider a perfect beach. When I think about global warming I ponder how long these slivers of island off...

Bee-eaters in Botswana

Surprises come in all manner of shapes and forms. Periodically I submit photographs or an article to a contest. A shrug of my shoulders usually accompanies the click on the word “submit.” I don’t expect my submission to be used. Then an email from...
Foster Grandmother

Foster Grandmother

Early in April I go to the Wild Bird Center to buy seed for the clear plastic bird feeder stuck on my third floor apartment window. When I start to refill the feeder I am startled to see a bunch of scattered wispy weeds. I wonder, is someone building a nest? I put the...