An Unusual Visitor to Peggy’s Feeders

Over the last month or so, a male Ring-Necked Pheasant has taken up residence near Peggy's house in Michigan.  He's been visiting the front porch feeder, enjoying the corn she's been putting out for him.  Haven't seen a female yet, but maybe they're just shy. By the way, this is a view through the front … Continue reading An Unusual Visitor to Peggy’s Feeders

First Day of Spring in Chicago

As I came home from Northern Michigan on the first day of spring, it was clear I was heading south by the disappearance of snow and the warming temperatures.  By the time I arrived home, my car thermometer had risen over 25° into the balmy 50's.  Of course, my yard oddly always has the most … Continue reading First Day of Spring in Chicago

Peggy’s Snowflakes

  With all the snow that Michigan has received this winter, my mom Peggy decided to try and make something fun out of it.  On days that it was warm enough to endure being outside, she experimented with taking pictures of individual snowflakes and came up with some amazing shots.  I've always heard that every … Continue reading Peggy’s Snowflakes

Visitors to the Homemade Suet

While I was out there putting the new homemade suet in the feeder, I heard, and then finally found a Flicker in the neighbor's yard.  I haven't seen him at my suet feeder yet, but I hope he comes to visit.  In the meantime, the last couple of days I've seen Chickadees, a Downy Woodpecker, … Continue reading Visitors to the Homemade Suet

Trips Down Memory Lane

One of the things I've really enjoyed while blogging is having my memory jogged by reading other blogs.  For example, reading about lichens and mushrooms on  another site brought back memories of when I was in high school and my family went to a huge Audubon gathering in the Allegheny State Park called the Allegheny Nature … Continue reading Trips Down Memory Lane

Great Backyard Bird Count

Great Backyard Bird Count February 14-17, 2014 Since 1998, birders of all kinds have come together for a four day bird count in February. Counting birds at the same time every year provides a snapshot into the overall health of bird populations around the world. Years ago as a service project,  my Girl Scout Troop … Continue reading Great Backyard Bird Count