Explore Missouri

Cattle Egret

2011-10-28T13:01:00.001-05:00

On recent trip to Squaw Creek NWR in Mound City Missouri I spotted these three cattle egrets cleaning their feathers and sunning themselves on a stump in the marsh. They were approximately 10 feet off the shoreline and very tolerant of human activity. I was able to photograph them from the car without disturbing them at all.

Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis) are closely related to herons such as the Great blue Heron, Purple Heron and the Green Heron. Cattle egrets will be found in tropic, sub-tropic and temperate zones and are often associated with cattle, hence the name. They feed on the insects disturbed by the large hooved animals.This species also removes ticks and flies from cattle, but it can be a safety hazard at airfields, and has been implicated in the spread of tick-borne animal diseases. It is not uncommon to see huge flocks of over a hundred of these egrets in a pasture with cows. I saw such a flock several years ago when we visited Oklahoma.
They do nest in large colonies near bodies of water much like other herons and egrets do. Their nest is a platform of sticks. These birds as adults have few natural enemies, but the eggs and chicks are often preyed upon by raccoons, snakes, and other predators.

The Cattle Egret is a stocky heron with 35–38 inch wingspan;and weighs 9.5–18.1 ounces. It has a relatively short thick neck, sturdy bill, and a hunched posture. The non-breeding adult has mainly white plumage, a yellow bill and greyish-yellow legs. During the breeding season, adults of the western subspecies develop orange-buff plumes on the back, breast and crown, and the bill, legs and irises become bright red for a brief period prior to pairing. The sexes are similar, but the male is marginally larger and has slightly longer breeding plumes than the female; juvenile birds lack coloured plumes and have a black bill. The positioning of the egret's eyes allows for binocular vision during feeding, and physiological studies suggest that the species may be capable of nocturnal activity. This species gives a quiet, throaty "rick-rack" call at the breeding colony, but is otherwise largely silent.

The species first arrived in North America in 1941 (these early sightings were originally dismissed as escapees), bred in Florida in 1953, and spread rapidly, breeding for the first time in Canada in 1962. They were orginally from Southern Spain and Portugal. The massive and rapid expansion of the Cattle Egret's range is due to its relationship with humans and their domesticated animals. Originally adapted to a commensal relationship with large browsing animals, it was easily able to switch to domesticated cattle and horses. As livestock kept spreading throughout the world it was able to occupy otherwise empty niches. Many populations of Cattle Egrets are highly migratory and dispersive, and this has helped the species' range expansion. Its global population estimated to be 3.8–6.7 million individuals.

Elrod Mill Conservation Area

2011-08-13T20:54:00.001-05:00

Elrod Mill Conservation Area in Andrew County is located on the Platte River. It was purchased by the Missouri Department of Conservation in 1980 to give access to the Platte River. In the 1800's this site was the location of a grinding mill that ground flour for local residents. The mill was powered by the flow of the river. William Elrod ran the mill and in 1885 when the first post office was built in this area not only was the post office named after Elrod he also became the postmaster.

This is one of the smaller conservation locations owned by MDC with only 59 acres, and without a doubt one of the most beautiful. The area is mostly timber with some crop ground. There is a huge sand bar that acts like a beach. Fishing is good here with catfish being the predominant fish. There is hunting allowed in the area with the proper hunting licenses and portable tree stands. This is a beautiful place to spend a day just hanging out. The Platte River is one of the most gorgeous rivers in NW Missouri.

Mute Swan

2011-08-02T20:08:00.001-05:00

Swans are the epitome of grace, love and romance which is a contradiction of their actual temperament. These birds tend to be aggressive, defensive and often are the bullies of the waterfowl world. Mute Swans (Cygnus olor) as pictured here are common throughout much of Eastern North America. These birds are the descendants of captive populations of swans brought over from Europe and Asia. Mute swans were often used as display birds in city parks, cemeteries, water gardens, botanical gardens and zoos. These birds mated and did well in captivity and as is often the case some birds escaped their captive environs and found the native landscapes to their liking and have created naturalized populations throughout most of the eastern United States and parts of Canada.

These are large birds measuring up to 67 inches in length and have a wingspan up to 94 inches. They may stand nearly 4 feet tall when on land. They are also heavy birds that may weigh up to 26 pounds with females being a little smaller at around 20 pounds. This species is easily differentiated from the similar Trumpeter and Tundra Swans by their curved neck and orange bill with a distinctive black knob.
Mute swans mate for life and both sexes share in the maintenance of the nest and the care of the young cygnets. Juvenile swans are born dark gray or black in color and do not obtain their beautiful white plumage until they are adults. The popular nursery rhyme "The Ugly Duckling" was written about an abandoned swan cygnet that looked far different from the other ducklings it was living with. In the end after all the ducklings made fun of this unfortunate little orphan he had the last laugh when he turned into a magnificent white swan.

These birds feed on a wide range of vegetation including submerged aquatic plants, and field crops like wheat. During the winter months significant damage may be done to crops through trampling and feeding by these swans.

Mute swans get their name from their nearly silent demeanor. The only sound they are reported to make is some grunting, hoarse whistling and snorting. These sounds are generally used to communicate to the cygnets. They also give off a unique vibrant throbbing of the wings when in flight. Other species of swans are much more vocal and even have obnoxiously loud voices.

These birds can be quite intimidating in their behavior as they are often very aggressive in protecting their nest and young. Male Mute Swans referred to as Cobs are responsible for protecting the young cygnets when on the water. They take this job very seriously and have even attacked canoes, boats, swimmers and anything else they perceive as a threat to their offspring. On land they will stand their ground against Foxes, Canada Geese and a number of other predators including humans which on occasion have been attacked by these birds. I for one would not want to go up against one of these birds when it is protecting its cygnets. I've been chased and pinched by geese and it is an unpleasant experience to say the least, I imagine a swan would be much worse.

Bullfrog Metamorphosis

2011-07-16T20:21:00.001-05:00

While exploring the pond where I work I discovered numerous tadpoles in the process of completing their metamorphosis into froglets. These are juvenile bullfrogs and will soon be on their way to adulthood. The first picture shows the froglet with its long tadpole tail still very much visible.

This second image shows an additional froglet with just a nubbin for a tail. He is much further along on the transformation scale.

Finally, this young froglet has completed his transformation and has lost his tail entirely. There were dozens of these young bullfrogs all over the lily pads. Apparently they were all emerging at once from the water for the final time. Bullfrogs need two years to complete their lifecycle, which makes these youngsters two years old. It will take an additional year or more for them to reach the large size of the adult.

This image is a full grown adult which measures about 5 inches in length from mouth to tail bone. From the look of our pond at the office we are going to have a healthy population of these beautiful frogs....providing of course that the raccoons, turtles, skunks, and birds don't feast on them first. If you would like to learn more about Missouri Bullfrogs you might enjoy a post from last spring Bullfrogs

Rochester Falls Conservation Area

2011-07-07T18:19:00.000-05:00

Approximately 3 miles from my house is the conservation area known as Rochester Falls. These falls are part of the Platte River and are a popular place for campers, fisherman and nature lovers alike. This is a beautiful place to visit as the river flows over the limestone outcroppings creating these small but lovely falls. Typically when we think of "water falls" we think of giant plummeting streams of water that "fall" for great distances. These falls aren't as awe inspiring, but that certainly doesn't take away from their beauty.
Rochester Falls is owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation and is frequently patrolled by our county agent. This place is a hotspot for young people to drink, party and swim. It can be a struggle to protect people from themselves at times. In the past month two young people drowned within a week of each other at the falls. It is common for people to disregard the "no swimming" signs and venture into the river anyway. These are unfortunate tragedies that could have been prevented. When visiting areas such as this, it is always best to heed the warnings posted, they are there for a reason.

This area is mostly old-pasture, timber and grassland. Fishing often yields catfish, especially flatheads, and carp. My son and his friends set bank lines along this portion of the river and recently caught two huge flatheads, one weighed 35 pounds the other weighed 40 pounds. (pictured below)

Canoeing and kayaking are also favorite activities on the Platte River, and this is a good access point for putting in or taking out your watercraft. Motorized boats cannot be put in at this location. The Platte River would most likely be too shallow anyway. There are eleven campsites and two tents per site are allowed.

Wildlife abounds, including dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies, snakes, deer, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, rabbits, bobcat, fox, and flying squirrels.

Fox Kits

2011-06-24T23:00:00.001-05:00

Last year we had a family of foxes living on our farm. I managed to take a few photos of the kits and was privileged to watch them off and on throughout the year. This year they came back and this time she has seven babies, which is three more than she had last year. I've been watching them for several weeks now. They roam all over our farm and one in particular is very accepting of my presence. It has a decidedly crooked tail. He/she lets me photograph it and get quite close to it. The others in the little are more skittish and less accepting. Here are a series of photos from the first time we spotted them, until today.

Dickcissel

2011-06-10T23:38:00.003-05:00

This beautiful little bird is a Dickcissel (Spiza americana), they are a common sight throughout the midwest during the late spring and summer months. These birds migrate back into the United States late in May or early June, which is much later than most birds returning to their breeding grounds. Dickcissels nest near the ground and typically build their nests in grassy meadows, prairies, or other tall grass areas. Males are very colorful and somewhat resemble Meadowlarks with their black collar and yellow breast. Females on the other hand are drab by comparison and look more like sparrows.

Dickcissels are fond of seeds and insects. In their winter range they may be a pest to grain

farmers because of their habit of forming large flocks and feeding on the grain seeds. Early in fall these birds begin forming loose flocks that gradually grow in number by mid to late fall. It is not uncommon for a flock heading south to contain millions of birds. It is this tendency to congregate in such large flocks that causes so much trouble for grain farmers in their overwintering sites. Venezuela is especially plagued with these birds, and consequently use poisons and other methods of ridding themselves of these birds. In the midwest breeding grounds, Dickcissel faces several additional threats: cowbird parasitism, the destruction of nests and nestlings by mowing machines, and loss of habitat due to changing agricultural practices and succession.

The wintering population of these birds can become highly concentrated at certain favored roosting sites. A single "successful" poisoning event of a large flock of roosting birds could significantly reduce the world population of Dickcissel.

Formerly common in farming regions of the eastern states, especially on the Atlantic coastal plain, the Dickcissel disappeared from that region by the middle of the last century and is now most numerous in the Midwest. It appears in small numbers on the East Coast during the fall migration and rarely but regularly in winter at feeders, often with House Sparrows.

Because of the damage these birds cause to local farmers in their wintering ground, the Venezuelan Audubon is working in conjunction with local grain farmers and with the US Fish and Game in a monitoring program of the night flights of the dickcissel. These birds have a distinct call that they sing while in flight. These calls make locating and recording them relatively easy and flock sizes can be monitored.

What Can You Do?

Audubon's Important Bird Area program is a vital tool for the conservation of Dickcissel as well as other species. To learn more about the Important Bird Areas program and how you can help, visit: . http://www.audubon.org/bird/iba/.

To learn more about the Dickcissel Night Flight Call Monitoring project in south Texas, visit:

http://www.oldbird.org/index.htm.

Gray Tree Frog

2011-05-21T11:58:00.001-05:00

This little green frog hiding on the cornstalk is a Gray Tree Frog (Hyla versicolor)....I know......I know......it sounds like a misnomer, since he is obviously green and not gray. Truly the name is correct, and so is the color. They are color change artists, and will adapt their color to blend in with their environment. They cannot change color as rapidly as a chameleon but they get the job done nonetheless.

The ones I find near the house are usually gray, and the ones I see out in the grassy areas are green. Those found near unnatural objects or if found dead they will most likely be gray in color. They have a bright yellow patch on their hind legs. These frogs should not be confused with another native frog called the "green tree frog (Hyla cinerea)". It is also green in color, but this frog is medium-sized, up to 6 cm (2.5 in) long. Their bodies are usually green in shades ranging from bright yellowish olive to lime green. The darkness of the color can change depending on lighting or temperature. There may be small patches of gold or white on the skin, and they may also have a white, pale yellow, or cream-colored line running from the jaw or upper lip to the groin. They have smooth skin and large toe pads. The abdomen is pale yellow to white. Males have wrinkled throats (indicating the vocal sac) and are slightly smaller than females.

This arboreal species is native to almost all of the Eastern, and Northeastern United States and part of Southeastern Canada. Males begin singing for mates in May and continue calling for several weeks. I began hearing them call about 2 weeks ago. The calling is still somewhat sporadic and hasn't reached its crescendo as of yet. It could be because of the erratic weather we've been having. Daytime temps in the 90's, then in the 50's. Overnight lows from 70 down to around 38. Crazy Missouri weather....trust me if you don't like the weather wait a day, it WILL change.I'm sure all this fluctuation has them confused....Do we wake up? Do we sleep? Do we mate? Do we sing? Do we sleep? Eventually our weather will straighten out and then the super hot humid weather of summer will be here. It is at this time I see the tree frogs everywhere. They are most commonly active in the evening and at night. I find them in birdhouses, under the shutter of my home, in the gutters and clinging to the side of the house.

In Missouri the gray tree frog is found statewide and are the most commonly encountered tree frog throughout its range. They will be active all spring, summer and fall. When the night temperatures begin falling they will burrow into the soil and become dormant all winter, in a type of hibernation. Gray tree frogs do not have to burying themselves below the frost line as their "blood" is made up of a type of antifreeze called plasma glycerol. This substance prevents damage to tissues. Frogs are extremely sensitive to pollution and as such are considered indicator species. Areas with high pollution will have no frogs or very few frogs. Oxygen is breathed through their skin therefore any pollutants in the water or air will also be breathed in at alarming rates. We've all heard stories of frogs with more than two eyes, or numerous spare body parts. These mutant frogs have been heavily exposed to some kind of pollutant.

Frogs benefit humans in many ways, one of which is by being the indicator species they are. This gives us humans a "heads-up" as to what is going on in the environment, and hopefully gives us time to rectify any problems that are occurring. They also eat numerous insects, especially pesky mosquitoes and night flying moths.

I remember my husband always telling me to not handle these frogs because they are poisonous. He would insist it was true as that is what his grandpa told him, and if grandpa said it, it MUST BE TRUE! I would assure him the only way the frog was poisonous is if I suddenly decided to eat it, which of course I had no intention of doing. I also told him the frog is in more danger of being damaged by the oils or secretions on my hand, than I am in being poisoned by handling it. It never ceases to amaze me though, how rumors, myths and old wives tales run rampant in these parts.

Robin nest

2011-05-08T16:34:00.000-05:00

Joey came and found me last week to tell me that a bird had built a nest on his 8 foot step ladder. He did not see the bird so he did not know who created it. I went to investigate and noticed a Robin sitting on the nest. She flew away when she spotted me, so I climbed the later and discovered four beautiful blue eggs. It only took her a week and a half to build the nest and lay her eggs.

I went back several days later to check on them and discovered that three of the eggs had hatched. Momma robin was sitting on the nest, while daddy robin was sitting in a tree keeping watch outside the shed.

Fuzzy little babies waiting for mom. One little blue egg remains to hatch.

OPEN WIDE!

The Forest is coming ALIVE

2011-05-03T14:14:00.000-05:00

The Mayapples are beginning to bloom. At the office where I work there are two varieties, one blooms white and other pink. Until this year I did not know they smelled so heavenly, but they sure do, just like perfume!

The Jack-in-the-pulpits are nearly ready to open

The Spring Beauties have been blooming for several weeks now, they are such delicate little flowers.

The Hickory Trees are opening up

A beautiful "fishing spider" disturbed from his winter hiding spot

Galls formed on an oak leaf, some tiny little wasp laid her eggs on the leaf, and the leaf protects itself by forming a cyst over the egg. When the egg hatches, the larvae feed and grow, causing the cyst to also grow.

Unknown peach-colored mushrooms

Wild Phlox growing beside a log. The spring flower is blooming all over the woodlands right now.

Morel--the treasure of the woods!

Wild plum is one of the first trees to bloom in the spring, which gives nectar to hungry bees just waking up from their winters sleep.

I believe these purple violets are Birdsfoot violets. They sure make the forest

colorful.

Anywhere there are paw-paws growing in the forest, you are sure to find this gorgeous Zebra Swallowtail.

Snakes, like this little garter snake hide out on cooler days in the spring. This one was hidden behind the bark of a rotting tree.

You may find other unexpected surprises like a five-lined skink. These little guys hide out under logs and under the bark of trees. This one was living with the garter snake pictured above.

An empty snail shell, left behind.

An Eastern Comma Butterfly looking a little worse-for-wear after a long winter.

Exploring the woodlands in the spring is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon. Everything is waking up after a long winters nap. Wildflowers are beginning to blooms, trees are leafing out and the creatures who live there are becoming active. Don't miss out....get outside and EXPLORE!

Snow Geese

2011-04-30T22:53:00.000-05:00

Snow Geese are one of the most commonly seen of all the water fowl in the United States. It is not uncommon to see flocks containing hundred's of thousands of birds. They are native to North America and are sometimes referred to as the Blue Goose. The two common names of Blue and White refers to the range of colors that this bird comes in. They will range from completely snow white with black markings on their wings to bluish color and even speckled varieties like the pictured here.

They breed in the northern most parts of their range, Greenland, Canada and Alaska. White- and blue-morph birds interbreed and the offspring may be of either morph. These two colors of geese were once thought to be separate species; since they interbreed and are found together throughout their ranges, they are now considered two color phases of the same species. The color phases are genetically controlled. The dark phase results from a single dominant gene and the white phase is homozygous recessive. When choosing a mate, young birds will most often select a mate that resembles their parents' coloring. If the birds were hatched into a mixed pair, they will mate with either color phase. They will migrate south during the winter and it is at this time that they come into Missouri in HUGE numbers. Squaw Creek NWR refuge sees up to a million of these birds each winter.

White- and blue-morph birds interbreed and the offspring may be of either morph. These two colors of geese were once thought to be separate species; since they interbreed and are found together throughout their ranges, they are now considered two color phases of the same species. The color phases are genetically controlled. The dark phase results from a single dominant gene and the white phase is homozygous recessive. When choosing a mate, young birds will most often select a mate that resembles their parents' coloring. If the birds were hatched into a mixed pair, they will mate with either color phase. Snow geese breed from late May to mid August, but they leave their nesting areas and spend more than half the year on their migration to-and-from warmer wintering areas.

During spring migration, large flocks of snow geese fly very high along narrow corridors, more than 3000 miles from traditional wintering areas to the tundra.

Outside of the nesting season, they usually feed in flocks. In winter, snow geese feed on left-over grain in fields. They migrate in large flocks, often visiting traditional stopover habitats in spectacular numbers. Snow geese often travel and feed alongside white-fronted geese; in contrast, the two tend to avoid traveling and feeding alongside Canada grey goose, who are often heavier birds.

The population of Greater Snow Geese was in decline at the beginning of the 20th century, but has now recovered to sustainable levels. Snow Geese in North America have increased to the point where the tundra breeding areas in the Arctic and the salt marsh wintering grounds are both becoming severely degraded, and this affects other species using the same habitat.

Major nest predators include Arctic foxes and Skuas. The biggest threat occurs during the first couple of weeks after the eggs are laid and then after hatching. The eggs and young chicks are vulnerable to these predators, but adults are generally safe. They have been seen nesting near Snowy Owl nests, which is likely a solution to predation. Their nesting success was much lower when snowy owls were absent, which leads scientists to believe that the owls, since they are predatory, were capable of keeping predators away from the nests. Few predators take snow geese away from the nests, but Bald Eagles do take them given the chance.

The dark color of the blue morph Snow Goose is controlled by a single gene, with dark being partially dominant over white. If a pure dark goose mates with a white goose, the offspring will all be dark (possibly with white bellies). If two white geese mate, they have only white offspring. If two dark geese mate, they will have mostly dark offspring, but might have a few white ones too.

Snow Goose hunting in the eastern United States was stopped in 1916 because of low population levels. Hunting was allowed again in 1975 after populations had increased. Populations have been growing so large that the geese are destroying nesting habitat. Hunting has not slowed the dramatic increases in population size.

Populations have been growing exponentially in most parts of the range. Some colonies are becoming so large that the geese are destroying nesting habitat, and hunting is proposed to decrease the populations.

Which is smarter, a snow goose or a crow? This seems like a ridiculous question. In folklore, the goose is regarded as “silly,” and the crow is regarded as wily.

When Aphrodite first came ashore she was welcomed by the Charities (Roman "Graces"), whose chariot was drawn by geese.

References:

Cornell University

Aboutbird.com

Wikipedia

Silver-Haired Bat

2011-04-28T18:35:00.001-05:00

Today when I arrived at work Dr. C from the University was in my office and asked me if I would like to see a silver-haired bat hanging onto the side of a tree? "Of course!" Did he even have to ask? We grabbed Dr. Ashley and headed out into the timber to see the bat. It was clinging to the side of a tree about 4 feet off the ground. This is the first time I've ever seen this particular species.

Silver-haired bats (Lasionycteris noctivagans), which also go by the name of Silverwings are medium sized bats covered in dense black hairs . The hairs on their back are tipped in silvery gray.

The species name of this bat translates into "night wandering shaggy bat."

Their preferred habitat is forested areas, which is exactly where we found this bat. There is a patch of timber directly behind our office building that the University uses for their ecology class, biology class and herpetology classes. I use the trail through the timber for trail hikes with visiting school groups.

Silver-haired bats hide out during the day in cavities within trees, and under the bark of trees. Why this particular bat was clinging to the side of the tree completely exposed to the elements and prying eyes is a mystery, especially since there are shagbark hickory trees within 10 feet of where this bat was located.

Shagbark hickory's are one of the most common trees in the timber near our office. I like to point them out to the children, and talk about how special they are.They have such "shaggy" bark and grow incredibly tall. I always ask the kids if they like the cartoon Scooby Doo? They all raise their hands. Then I ask them who Scooby's best friend is....they all answer "Shaggy". Then I ask them to look in the woods around them and find the "shaggy tree" It takes them a few minutes, but they all find it. I confirm that they are right, then tell them the tree is called a Shagbark Hickory.

Then I tell them to hold up their fists, and explain to them that an animal the size of their fist lives under the bark of the shagbark hickory tree during the day and comes out at night to hunt insects. Do they know what it could be? I get many responses from Birds, bugs to snakes, but eventually they settle on bats, and of course they are right.

Had the silver-haired bat chosen to rest under the bark of the Shagbark it would have been a better choice, but for some reason it seemed content right where it was. We were able to get close to it and photograph it, and at no time did it seem alarmed or bothered. Our voices didn't even bother it. Hopefully it wasn't sick, although Dr. Ashley didn't seem to think it was.

This bat is found throughout the United States with exception to Florida. Their northern most range is Alaska and parts of Canada. They even range into Mexico. They feed on a wide variety of insects including moths, caddisflies, mosquitoes, crickets and beetles.

These bats form maternity colonies in tree cavities or small hollows. Mating takes place in early fall and fertilization is delayed until the following spring. Two pups are born between late June and early July. Just before birth takes place the female will begin to roost with her head facing upward. She will hold her tail membrane forward to form a cup-shaped basket which will catch the pups as they are born.

Adults may live up to 12 years, providing they aren't preyed upon by skunks, feral cats, owls or raccoons. Silver-haired bats are one of the slowest flying bats in the animal kingdom, which could account for their susceptibility to predation. Unlike other bats this species roosts singly instead of with other members of their kind.

This species is somewhat migratory. In its northern most range it will migrate south and spend the winter in caves or other secluded locations. Little else is known about their hibernation habits. These bats are one of the most common bats found in the United States. They are known to carry a special strain of rabies that is reported to be only in this species and the Eastern Pipistrelle .

Reported deaths have occurred due to this strain of rabies. Silver-haired bats have very tiny, sharp teeth capable of biting without undue pain. Many people are bitten and do not even release they've been bitten. The puncture wounds are so tiny as to be almost unseen. These particular cases of rabies have been primarily reported from the more northern and northwestern regions of their range. It is always best to not handle a bat, this is especially true of a bat found during the daylight hours. Better safe than sorry. That being said, bats are one of the most important predators of insects in the animal world. The presence of rabies in bats is relatively low, with approximately 1/2 of one percent of bat populations carrying the virus. The good outweighs the bad and bats should be tolerated. I have put up bat houses hoping to attract them to our farm, but so far they have not used them. Hopefully one day they will take up residence here.

False Morels

2011-04-27T19:49:00.003-05:00

This blob-like, brain-like, fungus is a False Morel in the genus Gyromitra. There are several mushrooms within this genus and all are referred to as false morels. They also go by many other common names, such as Red morel, beefsteak, brain mushroom, glob mushroom, and redheads.

They have well developed stems, and their oddly shaped caps are generally reddish brown to yellowish brown. When sliced open, they are not completely hollow--and this is the best way to distinguish them from the morels, which are hollow.

Many people eat these mushrooms with no ill effects, but studies are showing that others have severe reactions to eating these mushrooms, and in some cases death could result. Other reactions to consuming these mushrooms could be dizziness, nausea, and coordination problems. In southern Missouri these are eaten regularly with Yellow Morels and are considered quite tasty. Perhaps certain people have built up immunities to the toxins within these mushrooms. Perhaps they are just lucky. Perhaps their bodies are just able to consume them and not suffer for it. I for one would not want to chance it. I would rather err on the side of caution and live another day...or at the very least, not spend days suffering ill effects from a potentially poisonous mushroom.

“There are old mushroom eaters and there are bold mushroom eaters, but there are no old bold mushroom eaters”

The one pictured here is very large, it measures nearly 9 inches tall, and 6 or 7 inches in diameter. The base is 4 or 5 inches in diameter. I believe it is Gyromitra esculenta. Which generally fruits near conifer trees. It is referred to as beef steak morel in some areas and is consumed after special preparation. There have also been confirmed fatalities. Some of the toxin is removed by boiling multiple times in water and discarding the water. Reportedly cooks have been poisoned simply from breathing the steam. One of its toxins is monomethylhydrazine (MMH) which has been used in rocket fuel. It is available canned and dried from Finland and probably other countries as well.

So what's the problem? One danger is the varying levels of MMH in different poisonous mushrooms. Some species contain very little, others contain enough to kill. MMH levels also vary among geographic regions within a single species. The point is nobody knows how toxic any false morel will be in any location. MMH is a cumulative toxin. This means that its levels will build up in your body after repeated consumption. This could lead to illness or even death. Keep that in mind the next time someone insists to you that they've safely eaten these poisonous mushrooms.

Most appear in the spring and summer and grow directly on the ground. Although some are found on wood or later in the year, they are unlikely to be mistaken for true morels. Caps are usually brown or reddish brown and occasionally yellow. Most stems are a light color, ranging from white to tan. These mushrooms are considered saprotrophs, meaning they feed on dead and decaying organic matter. Some have suggested that they may be mycorrhizal as well (forming a symbiotic relationship with trees).

Like true morels, false ones are often found in areas where the forest floor has been disrupted. You're more likely to see them near washes, rivulets, man-made disturbances in the ground, and roadsides.

Make note of the cap shape. False morels have caps that are "wavy" or "lobed". They appear to be bulging outwards. True morels have a more uniformly shaped cap with pits or ridges. They appear to be pitted inwards rather than bulging.The cap of the false mushroom hangs freely from the stem. A true morel has a cap that will be attached to the stem. This is not always the case but more often than not it is.

Don’t eat any mushroom unless you are ABSOLUTELY sure that it is safe!

You should never eat any mushroom unless it is positively identified as edible. If you are in any way uncertain about the edibility of a mushroom, don’t try it. If in doubt, throw it out!

While morels are easily identified, other species of safe mushrooms have deadly look-a-likes. If you are just starting to collect and eat wild mushrooms, don’t rely on books or websites alone for your information. Go hiking with experienced experts, who can show you how to identify the important characteristics of edible and poisonous mushrooms.

References:
http://www.mushroom-appreciation.com/false-morel.html

House Sparrow

2011-04-25T12:49:00.000-05:00

House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) is a small non-native bird that resides near human dwellings. Its species name of domesticus even hints at its preference for associating with human activity. They are native to Europe, Asia and parts of the Mediterranean and have been introduced throughout the World, both purposely and accidentally. They are perhaps the most widely distributed bird species in the World.

House Sparrows aren’t related to other North American sparrows, and they’re differently shaped. House Sparrows are chunkier, fuller in the chest, with a larger, rounded head, shorter tail, and stouter bill than most American sparrows. So these gregarious birds should not be mistaken for native species of sparrows. The house sparrow competes for nesting sites with native birds and often displaces them. Bluebirds are especially targeted by this bird, house sparrows will enter the bluebird house and peck holes in the eggs or kill the babies. They also take over purple martin houses, chick-a-dee houses and any other birdhouse they can fit into. I noticed one the other day in my own backyard trying to fit into a wren house entrance. It's eyes seriously misjudged the diameter of the hole, compared to the size of its own body. She worked and worked at trying to fit. I had to admire her for the positive attitude...kind of like a woman who is convinced she can wear a pair of jeans one size smaller, and will do everything she can to make them fit!

I personally do not tolerate house sparrows and as soon as I discover nests in my bluebird houses or other bird houses I destroy the nest, eggs, and any nestlings. I admit this is an ongoing battle and I find myself clearing out a nest almost daily for over a month or more. Some people may find this cruel to the bird, and cannot imagine killing any bird, and that is fine. If you prefer to let them take over your nest boxes and breed and add to the ever growing population of house sparrows then that is your choice. I for one prefer to give the native species a fair chance. House sparrows and starlings are two species of birds that are not protected under the migratory bird act, or by any other Federal or state laws. They are much more aggressive than the smaller nesting birds that typically fall victim to the house sparrow invasion. I do however have a pair that takes up residence in my clothes line pole every year, and I leave them alone. Mostly because they are not invading the bird houses.

Birdwatchers have no particular love of house sparrows and that comes back to the invasive tendency of the species. These birds feed on a wide variety of seeds and other foods. They are very fond of wheat and oat seeds and will often invade fields in large numbers. Farmers often shoot, bait or trap the adults to keep them out of their fields. Sparrows are also known to spread diseases such as West Nile and Salmonella to humans and to livestock, which is one more reason they should not be tolerated in large numbers.

House sparrows do have natural enemies in the form of birds of prey, in particular American Kestrels. Cats will also capture many house sparrows. In Europe they are often victims of roadkill and in parts of the Mediterranean humans feed on them as part of their normal diet.

House sparrows were introduced into the United States in 1851 in New York to help control caterpillar populations. After the initial release there were many subsequent releases in various parts of the country, with each release they became more and more established. They have now spread their range throughout all of the United States. They are listed as a species of least concern with the IUCN because of their large population and range. These birds return to their birthplace after every migration (a characteristic known as philopatric). Because of this, local populations have adapted to the color of their habitat resulting in 15 distinct subspecies in the West.

Depending upon how you feel in regards to these little birds, you may want to implement a control plan on your own property. This is especially true if you have bluebird houses.

Cedar-Apple Rust Galls

2011-04-22T17:42:00.002-05:00

Cedar Apple-Rust Galls are a type of fungus in the genus Gymnosporangium. While they can and do cause damage to apple trees. They are not known to cause any significant damage to cedar trees, but can become unsightly if there is a large infestation. In some rare cases if there are apple trees and cedar trees within the same vicinity it may cause death to both trees. Cedar trees become infected in the summer months, and by June of the following year small green-brown, somewhat kidney-shaped galls will be present. Each gall is covered with small circular depressions, similar to the dimples on a golf ball. The following year, in damp weather the depressions sprout with orange tentacle-like projections that swell immensely (pictured).

After last nights rainy weather our cedar trees came alive with these odd looking fungal galls. The projections are gelatinous and feel very slimy to the touch. Once the rains of spring subside the galls die and may damage or kill the part of the tree it was attached to. If that is the case, my trees are doomed. They are completely infested.

My nearby apple and crabapple trees may possibly be in trouble. As the apple tree is next in line for spreading this fungus.

On susceptible crabapples and apples, tiny yellow spots appear on the leaves after infection in the spring. As the spots mature, they become yellow/orange and swollen with a red border, and develop tiny black dots in the center of the lesion. By mid-summer, small cup-like structures with tubes are visible on the undersides of mature leaf lesions. The fungus may also infect fruit and even succulent twigs of very susceptible crabapple and apple varieties.

From the slimy projections on the juniper, basidiospores are released that infect crabapples and apples. Although these spores may be carried several miles, most infections occur within a several hundred feet from the source juniper. A wet spring period of 4-6 hours at 50-75 F is sufficient for severe infection. Symptoms are described above. Two to four weeks after the tiny dots appear in the center of each spot, tubes appear on the undersides of leaf lesions. Most people only notice this stage after the tubes have split and take on a ragged appearance. Aeciospores, released from the tubes, become airborne and infect susceptible juniper hosts from midsummer into early fall.

The following spring, galls (consisting of both fungal and host plant tissues) begin to develop on the juniper. These galls continue to grow through the summer, and by fall they are full size (3/8 to 1 and 3/16 inches in diameter), greenish-brown to tan and round to kidney shaped.

In addition, golf ball-like depressions form on the gall at this time that will give rise to telial horns the following spring. The telial horns are brownish in color, but rapidly elongate and become bright orange with spring rain. Shrinking and swelling of telial horns can occur several times with intermittent rainfall. Each time the projections swell, basidiospores are released.

After the projections have released their spores, the horns collapse, dry and eventually fall off. The galls die at this point, but may remain attached to the juniper for a year or more.

In summary, the complete cycle of cedar apple rust takes 24 months to complete and requires infection of two different hosts.

This fungus is a major pest to apple orchards and can cause significant damage and make the fruit unmarketable. In some states there are ordinances that state any infected cedar tree within a mile radius of an apple orchard must be cut down. Fines are issued for those who do not comply. Remarkably the fungus does not generally damage the cedar trees, only the apple trees. Buying resistant varieties of apples, like Delicious, helps reduce risk to this damaging fungus.

References:

http://plantclinic.cornell.edu/factsheets/cedar-applerust/cedar-applerust.htm

http://urbanext.illinois.edu/focus/cedarapplerust.cfm

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/ipm.asp?code=28

http://www.natureatcloserange.com/2007/11/cedar-apple-rust-gall-or-playdough-hair.html

http://www.sfrc.ufl.edu/4h/cedaappl.htm

Muskrat---Missouri's little water rodent

2011-04-14T12:15:00.002-05:00

This adorable little swimming creature is a muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus). These medium sized rodents are found in all manner of aquatic habitats, including wetlands, ponds, and lakes. Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge has hundreds of these little muskrats swimming around the wetlands. They are closely related to voles and lemmings. Their common name comes from two special scent glands located near the tail that are capable of giving off a strong musky odor. They are also related to Beavers, and share the same habitat, but are easily differentiated by their much smaller size. Muskrats weigh up to 4 pounds and can grow to be approximately 24 inches in length, half of that will be tail length. Muskrats are covered in two layers of dense, short fur. The double layer of fur helps them stay insulated in the cold water. Their tails are long, hairless, covered in scales and flattened vertically to help them maneuver as they are swimming. They drag their tails behind them as they walk on land making them easy to track.

They are comfortable walking on land as much as they are swimming in their aquatic habitat. In the water they can dive and spend up to 17 minutes underwater. They close off their ears to keep water from getting in them. They do have hind feet that are somewhat webbed which helps them swim, but their tail is the main means of propulsion.
Muskrats are very common all across the United States, Canada and parts of Northern Mexico. They are however absent from Florida where the Round-Tailed Muskrat is found instead.

Muskrats continue to thrive even though much of their wetland habitats have been destroyed, this is large part due to the fact that new habitats are created in the form construction canals and drainage ditches. They are able to live in areas that are somewhat polluted such as the sulfurous runoff from coal mines. Frogs and other aquatics creatures cannot survive in such areas.

In the spring fighting will break out among males that are fighting for females or defending territories. Some of these fights can be severe and often they are injured or even killed. The two pictured here were chasing each other. I somehow think this was a male chasing and pursuing a female. She wasn't having any of it though. She swam away, and when he gained ground on her she would turn on him and snip at him. Gives new meaning to the term "muskrat love"! Once a mate is located they will remain together and rear their young.

Muskrat families build nests to protect themselves and the young from cold and predators. In streams, ponds or lakes, muskrats burrow into the bank with an underwater entrance. These entrances are 6 to 8 inches wide. In marshes, lodges are constructed from vegetation and mud. These lodges are up to three feet in height. In snowy areas they keep the openings to their lodges closed by plugging them with vegetation which they replace every day. Some muskrat lodges are swept away in spring floods and have to be replaced each year. Muskrats also build feeding platforms in wetlands. Muskrats help maintain open areas in marshes, which helps to provide habitat for aquatic birds.

(Muskrat lodges at Squaw Creek NWR)

Muskrats are most active in the evening or early morning. They can be found feeding on cattails, and other aquatic vegetation. It is reported that they do not store food for the winter, but instead feed on the insides of their lodges when they are unable to get out and swim to seek food. They also share a somewhat harmonious relationship with local beavers and may raid their food stores. Although nearly 100% of their diet is vegetation, they may on occasion eat mussels, frogs,fish, crawfish, and small turtles. Muskrats create trails that they travel to and from the water, these trails are even visible under frozen water. It is these travel pathways that trappers will set their traps to capture these little furbearers.

Muskrat fur is warm, and the trapping of muskrats for their fur became an important industry in the early Twentieth Century. At that time muskrats were introduced to Europe as a fur resource. Muskrat fur becomes prime at the beginning of December in most northern states. Muskrat fur was specially trimmed and dyed and called "hudson seal" fur, and sold widely in the United States in the early twentieth century. They spread throughout northern Europe and Asia.

Some European countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands consider the muskrat to be a pest that must be exterminated. Therefore the animal is trapped and hunted to keep the population down. The muskrat is considered a pest because its burrowing causes damage to the dikes and levees that these low-lying countries depend on for protection from flooding. Muskrats also sometimes eat corn and other farm and garden crops.

Some people eat muskrat meat and claim it tastes like duck (at least they didn't say chicken). In Detroit it has been ruled by the Archdiocese that muskrat can be eaten during lent in place of fish as they live in water same as fish, so therefore is considered the equivalent to fish.

Native Americas considered the muskrat a predictor of the upcoming winter weather. They would watch the muskrat and his autumn activities. If the muskrats built mounds early and much larger, then the winter could be expected to be severe. In some Native American folklore it was the muskrat that dove under the primordial seas and returned with the mud that created the Earth, after other animals had tried and failed.

Muskrats are an important part of any ecosystem as they provide necessary nutrition to other animals in their environment, including mink, bobcats, lynx, fox, coyote, bears, eagles, alligators, wolves and snakes. Even otters, and snapping turtles may prey on the young muskrats if they can catch them.

These little water rodents are a pleasure to watch and visiting any nearby wetland should yield numerous muskrats to enjoy.

Blue Jays

2011-04-04T16:19:00.001-05:00

Blue Jays(Cyanocitta cristata) are easily one of the most recognized birds in Missouri. Their distinctive blue and white plumage and their loud obnoxious calls make them unmistakable. They are located throughout the Central and Eastern United States and parts of Canada. There may be migratory populations in the Western United States. Males and females look alike and their plumage does not change with the seasons like many other songbirds do. A signature mark of this species is the black collar around their neck. Males measure 9 to 12 inches in length with wingspans up to 17 inches....females may be a little smaller. Blue jays also have a crest on top their heads, which they raise when alarmed. These birds are the sentry of the woods, calling out loudly to advertise to all forest residents that danger is lurking nearby.

Blue jay feathers, like many other birds with vibrantly colored feathers are referred to as structural coloration, which means the color is caused by light refraction, rather than any true pigment. If you were to crush the feather it would lose its structural integrity and therefore lose its color too. I found this blue jay feather in our timber, where perhaps the bird is molting into its new springtime feathers. Birds must molt their feathers a couple of times each year. Some will molt into new breeding colors, others like the blue jay merely molt into new, more structurally sound feathers. I love hunting for feathers and have a small collection of them I have found over the years, I think they are among one of the most intricate and beautiful things found in nature.

Blue jays have a large, varied diet that will include nuts such as acorns, seeds, berries, fruit, insects, other bird eggs, small frogs, and other vertebrates. I've witnessed them consuming dog food, cat food and garbage. They are common backyard visitors and many people have mixed feelings about their presence. They are known to be aggressive and will often run more timid songbirds away from feeders and they will even invade the nests of other birds and destroy eggs and nestlings. I've heard people refer to them as "trash birds" which is unfortunate, because they truly are remarkable birds with gorgeous coloring and unique habits. I have at least three nesting pairs each spring and each are welcome visitors. They seem to get along well with the other birds at the feeders, at least for the most part. They often hoard nuts and bury them in the ground, and much like squirrels do that share this same habit they often forget where they buried them. This forgetful nature benefits the trees by allowing the buried seeds to sprout and encourage new trees to grow. From this stand point they help plant trees, which helps the forest grow and succeed.

The moment a little boy is concerned with which is a jay and which is a sparrow, he can no longer see the birds or hear them sing. ~Eric Berne

Mating season begins in mid-March and continues until Mid-April. Nests are built in bushes, trees or other suitable locations (they seem to prefer evergreens). Pairs bond for life and both sexes will work together to build the nest. The male will look after his female and even feed her as she sits on the eggs. Typically she will lay four eggs and they will hatch in about 3 weeks. Both mom and dad will take care of feeding the young and they will be ready to fledge the nest in about 3 weeks. The parents and offspring will remain together until fall, when they will go their separate ways. This helps to avoid food competition in the winter when food is more scarce.

In old African-American folklore of the southern United States the Blue Jay was held to be a servant of the Devil, and "was not encountered on a Friday as he was fetching sticks down to Hell; furthermore, he was so happy and chirpy on a Saturday as he was relieved to return from Hell"

Blue jays are highly intelligent and are able to solve simple puzzles and will utilize "tools" to help gain them access to food. They are very vocal and are capable of learning a wide variety of sounds, including human voices, dogs barking, cats mewing, and hawks screetching. They reside in a wide variety of habitats, including coniferous and deciduous forests, suburban and urban backyards as well rural areas. They are very common in all their range and are even spreading further westward to the Northwestern territories. In these areas they may interbreed with Stellars Jays.

The oldest blue jay studied by researchers in the wild lived to be 17 years and 6 months old, most blue jays live to about 7 years old. One captive female lived for 26 years and 3 months.

As spring returns and the birds are busy nesting and tirelessly feeding their offspring is a perfect time to exercise some tolerance and appreciate all of the native wild birds that make our backyards their home.

Missouri Black Bear

2011-04-02T13:15:00.000-05:00

(Photographed at Omaha Zoo)

This beautiful bear is the American black bear (Ursus americanus), and they are the only bear native to Missouri. Black bears are the smallest of all the bears found in North America. In Missouri black bears were hunted almost to extinction and were considered extirpated from the state by the 1950s. In the 1960s Arkansas implemented a program to restore the black bear to their state. It is believed that the majority of the bears that currently reside in Missouri are a result of those Arkansas bears. Some DNA testing has been done on Missouri black bears and some unique blood lines have been discovered which lead officials to believe that at least some of the bears found in our state are direct decedents of our original black bear population. Until recent years Missouri black bears were an elusive creature, rarely seen by humans.

With more and more sightings occurring near human activity it has prompted the Missouri Department of Conservation to implement a data study on these elusive bears. The study, which is being funded through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Wildlife Restoration program with help from Safari Club International, will provide information about the movement patterns, population densities, habitat preferences and overall numbers of Missouri bears.

The first phase of the current study – which is a joint effort between the MDC , the University of Missouri-Columbia and Mississippi State University – consists of trapping and radio-collaring 13 bears in southwest and south-central Missouri this fall. These bears will be monitored over winter to learn more about denning habits and the time frame of winter denning in Missouri.

In spring of 2011, hair snares at select sites throughout southwest and south-central Missouri will collect data that will help biologists get better estimates of overall population and male/female ratios. In fall 2011, 13 bears will be trapped and radio-collared in southeast Missouri and those bears’ denning habits will be monitored over the winter. The field portion of this project finishes in the spring of 2012 with the setting of hair snares in southeast Missouri.

(Photographed in Tennessee---Cades Cove---Smoky Mountains)

The black bear is the largest and heaviest wild mammal in the state. It has a long muzzle with a straight facial profile; rounded, erect ears; rather short, stout legs; and a very short tail practically concealed in the long, heavy fur. For black bears in Missouri, the fur is predominantly glossy black; the muzzle is brown, and there is usually a white patch on the chest. The sexes look much alike, though females are usually smaller than males. They may weigh up to 800 pounds or in some cases more, but typically males will weigh between 125-550 pounds. The females weigh around 90 to 275 pounds. They will reach lengths up to 6 feet. Their color can vary widely depending upon their range....this includes blond, white, brown, cinnamon, and dark chocolate brown. As mentioned, Missouri bears are mostly jet black in fact 70% of black bears are indeed black. They are very strong creatures and can flip over boulders weighing as much as 325 pounds. They're excellent swimmers and will often swim just for fun, but also to hunt for fish. They can also run rapidly reaching speeds up to 30 mph.

Their generalist nature allows them to take advantage of their environment by feeding on a wider variety of foods. In the wild Black bears eat a variety of foods. Plant matter includes grass, berries and other fruits, various seeds and nuts, the inner bark of trees and roots. Animal food includes ants, bees and their honey, crickets and grasshoppers, fish, frogs, small rodents, fawns, bird eggs and many kinds of carrion. Acorns are an important food source in the fall as bears prepare for winter. As they prepare for hibernation, they may gain as much as 30% of their body weight.
Black Bears are attracted to areas inhabited by humans because of the immediate availability of food. This may be in the form of garbage, garden vegetables and fruits, even pets. There have been reports of these over exuberant bears coming into house through open windows, doggy doors or doors left open. If this happens they will literally raid the pantry. They are very dexterous and can open screw lids on jars and work latches on doors.

(Baby black bear photographed at Cade's Cove---Smoky Mountains)

The American Black Bear is listed with the IUCN as a species of least concern due to their large distribution as well as their large global population estimated to be twice that of all other bear species combined. The black bears are not related to polar bears, brown bears or grizzly bears. All of these bears split from a single species of bear approximately 5 million years ago. The black bears closest living relative is the Asiatic bear. Asiatic and American black bears evolved from Sun Bears approximately 4.58 years ago. After this initial split the American Black Bear then split from the Asian Black Bear approximately 4.08 million years ago.

A few years ago we took a family vacation to the Smoky Mountains and stayed in a cabin not far from Cades Cove. We took an auto tour through the park and were speculating as to whether we would see a bear. We were approximately a mile into the drive when we spotted a large bear reaching up into a tree to feed on the ripened cherries. We drove a little further and came to a creek where a small child was swimming. We told the family there was a bear nearby, and no sooner did we say those words when a yearling cub crossed the creek about 20 feet from where this little boy was swimming. They scooped the boy up and put him in the bed of the truck. We were so excited, not only did we see one bear, but two! We drove on further and noticed a bunch of people pulled off the side of the road. We got out to see what was going on and noticed three bears in a tree. A momma bear and her two cubs. We watched their antics for quite some time, several times covering our eyes as the baby bears nearly fell from the tree branches. This was the highlight of our trip to be able to see so many of these wonderful bears in one location.

I feel honored to live in a state with such a diversified wildlife population. Even though these bears were not photographed in Missouri, I know that they live here and that is enough for me. One day perhaps as I venture to the southern part of Missouri I will be able to witness one of our very own black bears.

Resources:
http://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/black-bear
http://mdc.mo.gov/newsroom/black-bear-study-underway-missouri
Wikipedia

Coopers Hawk

2011-03-27T00:31:00.000-05:00

Majestic birds like this Coopers Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) are regular visitors to backyards and bird feeders all across their range. They are not after the birdseed, but rather after the birds that are after the birdseed. This one was photographed at my office as it sat in a tree right outside my office window. I noticed the song birds had disappeared, and when I looked out to see what the problem was I spotted this beautiful hawk sitting there as if daring the little songbirds to show up. The songbirds seemed to know he was nearby and stayed a safe distance away. After about 30 minutes he gave up waiting for dinner to show up and flew off. Within about 15 minutes after the hawk departed, the songbirds showed up at the feeders again.

Coopers hawks are medium sized birds with males being smaller than females. Average weight for a male is less than a pound and females weigh up to 1.2 pounds. Birds found in the eastern part of the United States are typically larger than their western cousins. All have short rounded wings and a very long tail with dark bands, round-ended at the tip. Adults have red eyes and have a black cap, with blue-gray upper parts and white underparts with fine, thin, reddish bars. Their tail is blue gray on top and pale underneath, barred with black bands. Immatures have yellow eyes and have a brown cap, with brown upper parts and pale underparts with thin black streaks mostly ending at the belly. Their tail is brown on top and pale underneath, barred with dark bands. The eyes of this hawk, as in most predatory birds, face forward, enabling good depth perception for hunting and catching prey while flying at top speeds. They have hooked bills that are well adapted for tearing flesh of prey. Immatures are somewhat larger than a Sharp-shinned Hawk and smaller than a Northern Goshawk, though small males nearly overlap with large female Sharp-shinned hawk, and large female Cooper's Hawks nearly overlap with small male Goshawks. The Cooper's Hawk appears long-necked in flight and has been described by birdwatchers as looking like a "flying cross". The Cooper’s Hawk is seen mostly flying with quick, consecutive wing beats and a short glide, though they may also soar.

Coopers hawks mate for life. They will mate once per year and raise one brood per year. Their breeding range begins in Southern Canada and extends to Northern Mexico. Those birds living in the northern most part of their range are migratory and leave their summer ranges and head south. During the winter months we see a large increase in hawks coming into Missouri, Coopers hawks included. They will be found in woodlots, riparian areas, open woodlands, and deciduous woodlands. They are becoming increasingly common in cities and can be found nesting in backyards and city parks. They feed on a wide variety of food including backyard birds, lizards, frogs, snakes, chipmunks, mice, squirrels, rabbits and bats. They have even been observed drowning their prey. For many years these hawks were hunted by farmers because of the belief that they fed on chickens and were given the nick-name "Chicken Hawks." Because of this persecution they were hunted to almost extinction, then with they added threat of DDT their numbers dropped drastically. Research proved that they did not feed on chickens with any regularity and the damage was not as severe as farmers claimed. DDT was banned and with the hunting banned their numbers climbed and they are quite common throughout their range now.

Cooper's Hawk was first described by French naturalist Charles Lucien Bonaparte in 1828. It is a member of the goshawk genus Accipiter This bird was named after the naturalist,William Cooper one of the founders of the New York Lyceum of Natural History (later the New York Academy of Sciences in. New York Other common names; Big Blue Darter, Chicken Hawk, Hen Hawk, Mexican Hawk, Quail Hawk, Striker and Swift Hawk.

White-Tail Deer

2011-03-25T16:46:00.002-05:00

These gorgeous deer are Missouri White-Tail Deer (Odocoileus virginianus virginianus) and are native to North America and can be found throughout the United States with exception to many of the far western states. Throughout the great plains they will be found in Aspen groves and river bottoms with deciduous trees. They can also be found in other countries such as Mexico, and Canada as well as other continents like Central America, and as far south as Peru. There is much speculation among scientists as to the genetics of this species. Because of the tendencies this deer has had for cross-breeding with other deer populations over centuries there are many recognized subspecies. Some scientists say there are more than 30 subspecies, and other scientists claim the number is far less. One thing is certain their DNA can be found at least in part in many different deer populations all across their range. Two recognized subspecies, the Florida Key Deer and the Columbian White-Tail are listed as endangered. Their populations are drastically reduced due to habitat loss. This large genetic variation allows them to take advantage of a wide variety of habitats and plays are large part in this deers success.

Many people do not realize that the white-tail deer in Missouri almost became non-existent. Before settlers came to Missouri there was a large population of these deer, predominantly found in the Northern part of the state. Once settlers came into Missouri they were faced with a ready meat supply and hunted the deer almost to extinction. In addition the deer experienced habitat loss brought on by cutting, burning, farming and grazing forest lands. At one point the estimated deer herd was at 400 deer in the entire state. Laws that were set in place during that time went largely ignored or were not enforced which did little to help the situation. It wasn't until 1931 that enterprising individuals brought in white-tail deer from Minnesota and released them in the Ozarks to try and increase their rapidly declining numbers. They held a deer hunting season and found that the numbers were stable, or declining. Something had to be done and soon. In 1937 the Conservation Commission was formed and one of their top priorities was rescuing the deer population. The Commission closed deer hunting season from 1938 to 1943. During this closure, additional deer were stocked from Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and from existing refuges within the state. Enforcement of the Wildlife Code of Missouri by professionally trained conservation agents helped deter poaching. By 1944, the statewide deer population soared to 15,000, and Missouri held its first deer season since the recovery effort had begun. In recent years, nearly 500,000 gun and bow hunters typically harvest around 300,000 deer annually during statewide seasons. Missourians can take pride in the widespread restoration of this major wildlife species. Deer hunting is part of our heritage and has been passed from generation to generation for many years.There are many groups or people who are opposed to hunting, and for various reasons. Many of them will cite cruelty which is unfortunate, because if hunting is carried out by skilled, trained and ethical hunters there is nothing cruel about it. Mother nature is far harder on her own kind than any hunter could be. If you have never witnessed a deer suffering from starvation or disease then you are fortunate indeed.

(Deer found dead by unknown causes)

Overpopulation of any wild animal species can create huge problems for that species. There simply is not enough habitat available to sustain too large of numbers of any animal. They will exhaust their resources and become weakened and susceptible to disease that can be spread to healthy animals. They cannot locate appropriate food supplies and will slowly starve to death. These are far more horrible ways to die, than at the hands of a hunter.

The white-tail deer in Missouri change color with the season. During the spring and summer months they will be a reddish-brown and in the fall their coat will change to a gray-brown and will remain that way until the following spring. These large mammals are masters of camouflage and can virtually disappear in their environment.

(Yes, there is a deer in this picture)

There is a population of all white White-tail deer in Romulus, NY, they are not albino, it is just a melaninistic variation. They are protected and looked after by park rangers in the area.

Male deer are referred to as bucks or stags and may reach weights up to 300 pounds.....however that would be a large buck. There is a record listed of a white-tail deer (buck) being shot that weighed 511 pounds, which is a HUGE white-tail and definitely not typical of this species at all. Females are usually much smaller and will range in size from 90 to 200 pounds. Bucks regrow their antlers each year, beginning in the spring they will start sprouting antlers that are covered in a vascular tissue called velvet. They will remain in velvet throughout spring and summer. When autumn returns they will begin rubbing their antlers on trees or other vertical surfaces to rid themselves of the velvet and expose their beautiful new rack. Soon after that the rut will begin and males will be focused on finding females. Often times they have total disregard to their own safety and will run across roadways in front of cars causing accidents. They will also fight other bucks for the favor of a female, or show dominance in a give territory. Small bucks learn to fight by mock fighting with mature bucks and by fighting with other young bucks. Fights rarely result in death, an exception to this would be if their antlers become locked together. This will certainly result in death as neither deer can separate themselves to be able to move or feed.

Dominant males will win the favor of many does and go on to mate and pass his genetics onto the next generation. The rutting period in Missouri usually begins the middle or end of October and continues throughout November. In January the bucks drop their antlers, that is to say they shed them. Many people enjoy combing the timber and fields in search of antlers to add to their collections. I myself have never found one, but I know many people who have. In April the females will begin giving birth. The first year does typically give birth to a single fawn, but older more mature does may give birth to twins or even triplets. Fawns are born with spots which help them blend in with their surroundings making them difficult to see.

(Picture:wikipedia)

In addition they are also born scentless and the mothers will clean up all fecal matter so no scent surrounds her offspring. Does will often place their babies in a secure location and then wander off to feed. The fawn knows to stay put until mother returns. If you happen to find a fawn laying in the grass all alone, have no fear, mother is nearby. The baby is doing exactly what it is supposed to be doing staying put and staying motionless. Taking this fawn from the wild out of concern will cause more harm than good. Mother deer are much better moms to a fawn than a human could ever be. If you find a fawn that is truly abandoned or orphaned then an intervention may be needed. Baby deer require special care, including special milk. It is not recommended that untrained persons try to care for a fawn, nor is it legal. These young deer acclimate to humans readily and become pet-like. While this may seem cute, it puts the deer in grave danger when it is released back to the wild. A tame deer is a dead deer. Take these orphaned or abandoned deer to specially trained and licensed wildlife rehabbers.

White-tail deer are generalist when it comes to their diet and will eat a wide variety of plant material. They will eat legumes, leaves, cacti, grasses, fungi, shoots, acorns, fruit and corn. They may also find your prized garden and yard plants delicious fare. Many people struggle each year to keep these munchers out of their yards and gardens. There are many plants available to plant that are distasteful to deer and you might consider planting those varieties. Putting up deer-proof fencing will go along way in preventing deer from entering your garden in the first place. This is typically a problem in more suburban and urban areas where food is more scarce and your vegetation is simply to tempting. Where I work we have birdfeeders behind our building and each evening during the winter the deer show up to feed on the seeds. Winter is a difficult time for deer, food is much more hard to come by and they are resorted to feeding on bark or twigs. There is very little nutrition in wood. Acorns are a favored winter food, but some years the oaks may produce smaller or fewer acorns to assure its own survival. This lack of acorns results in a lack of food for our white-tails. Some individuals will feed deer, and I cannot tell you to do this, or to not do this. It is your own personal preference. There are good points and bad points about this practice. Just make sure you do your research before beginning any kind of feeding regiment. Make sure the outcome is what you expect.

White-tail deer notoriously avoid humans and are vary wary of our presence. To them we represent danger. They have many ways to communicate their discomfort. They may stamp their front feet as a warning, they may snort. If truly frightened they will run away flashing the white fur under their tail as a warning of nearby danger. Any other deer in the area will see this and retreat as well. This white fur under their tail is where their common name came from. They are very fast runners and may reach speeds up to 30 mph and can leap over fences and are excellent swimmers.

(Foot stomping a warning)

Deer also communicate with each other by scent. They have four scent glands located on four different parts of their body. These scents are used in a variety of ways. Males will urinate on their legs during the rutting season, the urine will run down their legs to glands located near their feet. They will rub this scent around their territory to advertise their presence to other males. This is like a no-trespassing sign to entering bucks, telling them that this area is already occupied. Scent is also important in helping males locate females. Some scent is so strong that it can be detected by the human nose.

Deer face other dangers besides disease, starvation, loss of habitat, hunters, and car collisions; they are also preyed upon by other wild animals. Bobcats will feed on fawns or young deer. Coyotes, wolves and mountain lions are capable of killing full grown deer. Parasites such as lice, mites and roundworms can take its toll on deer by weakening them and making them susceptible to predators. If the infestation is too severe they may die of starvation brought on by the parasites. Dogs are another problem deer face. Irresponsible dog owners allow their dogs to range and roam free and dogs are predators just by their genetics and they love to chase deer. They may run deer into barbed wire fences, out into traffic or outwardly kill the deer.

Through successful conservation efforts the white-tail deer is here to stay. We are blessed in Missouri to have a large sustainable white-tail population and I am fortunate enough to see them on a regular basis. While the white-tail is classified as the smallest deer in North America, they are absolutely one of the most beautiful. While it is true that car collisions occur and gardens may be feasted upon....I must say the good outweighs the bad and I hope to continue to enjoy Missouri white-tails for years to come.

Timber Rattlesnakes

2010-07-05T12:14:00.000-05:00

This impressive snake is the Timber Rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). Don't you just love the species name? Horridus? Hinting at how horrible this snake can be? This is one of five venomous snakes in Missouri. The other four are the 1.) Western Pgymy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius streckeri), 2.)Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus catenatus), 3.) Osage Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix phaeogaster), and the 4.) Western Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma).

The timber rattler in the first picture was photographed a few weeks ago at a farm we own. It was approximately 3 1/2 feet long and had 5 rattles. It was very calm and show no signs of aggression. We could only manage to make it rattle when I reached down and touched it's tail. We watched it for about 45 minutes and I managed to get 70 pictures of it. She slithered away to hide under a pile of wood. Once she was safely hidden she started rattling. We found that rather odd, and assumed it must be a nervous reaction to us bothering her.

Scientist are finding out that these snakes are not rattling to warn of their presence. They instead remain stealthly hidden and quiet. To rattle is to advertise your presence and ultimately leads to your death. In parts of Oklahoma where these snakes are harvested during rattlesnake roundups test were done, and the results showed that the snakes in areas that were heavily harvested were mostly silent. In areas where little to no harvesting is done, they rattled more often. This indicates the evolution of a more silent rattlesnake. They are evolving and learning to change their ways. The rattlesnakes developed the rattle to protect them on the great plains from being stepped on by great hoofed animals like buffalo. Now this rattle is a calling card to death.

The timber rattlesnake is the largest of all the venomous snakes in Missouri, reaching lengths up to 5 feet. The largest recorded specimen in Missouri was 47 inches long. The all time record for this species is one recorded in Alabama, at a length of 6 feet 2 1/2 inches and weighing in at 5.5 pounds. That would be one seriously large timber rattler. They are a thick bodied snake and often times have a girth the size of a grown mans forearm. These are a beautiful snake, and they are highly variable in their coloration. They can have a base color of yellow, gray, tan, or brown with dark brown to blackish markings. The markings are like bands or v-shaped lines along the mid-body. Often there will be a rust colored dorsal stripe running the entire length of the body.The tail is black. The top of the head is gray, light tan or yellow and unmarked. As with all pit vipers they have deep pits on either side of their head. These pits are sensory pits and used to hunt prey. They feed on mostly mammals, but will also eat birds, frogs and other snakes. While they are capable of eating other venomous snakes they typically eat garter snakes. These are potentially one of the most dangerous venomous snakes in North America, largely due to their very large fangs and copious amounts of venom. Thankfully they are mild tempered and generally give plenty of warning before striking. The one pictured below that is very well camouflaged was found on our farm in Fillmore Missouri. Last year my husband and I were there so I could do some bug hunting. We are aware that rattlesnakes reside on this farm and were being very careful as we walked through the tall grasses. I walked by a tree that had a small pile of yellow limestone rocks near it. It looked like a good spot for a snake to sun itself after a cool night like we had the night before. I noticed nothing. My husband walked right behind me, and said "There is a snake" I turned around and noticed he was pointing to the rock pile I was just near. I went back to the pile and sure enough there was small timber rattler laying in the grasses near the rocks. These snakes have amazing camo. I walked within 2 feet of him and never spotted him. He was about 2 feet long. Joey got a stick and gently nudged him so we could see where his head was, and it took off behind the tree and disappeared. He showed his head for about 1.1 second, certainly not long enough to get a picture. I at least got a picture of how cryptic their coloring is, and I found out how very easy it is to walk right past one and not know it is there. He did not rattle at any time, nor did he show any aggression.

Unfortunately these snakes are in sharp decline in much of their range, and have disappeared entirely from numerous counties throughout Missouri. Largely this is due to loss of habitat and persecution by people who fear being bitten. They are state protected and should be left alone. While I would not want to find one in my back yard, I certainly can appreciate them in the wild where they belong. I often try to educate people about their importance to an ecosystem and that losing them could cause untold amounts of devastation. Fear of snakes is so deeply rooted in many people that they feel the only good snake is a dead snake, and this tends to be doubled when it comes to the venomous variety. I could find no records of any deaths in Missouri due to this snake or any other venomous snake. Most bites occur in men ages 18-25. My guess is alcohol is involved. If you are inebriated, and out messing with a creature that you KNOW has the potential to bite and kill you, you deserve to be bitten! Leave them in peace and they will leave you alone. Above all else, if you want to see one of these snakes in the wild, leave the alcohol at home!

Often times people ask me how to age a rattlesnake. The tail grows a new rattle each time it sheds, but this is not an accurate indicator of age as the snake may shed up to 3 or 4 times a year depending on how plentiful food is. Often times rattles get brittle and break off or they become damaged and fall off.

I am working with a professor of herpetology at MWSU in St. Joseph doing a rattlesnake study on our farm in Fillmore, MO. What we hope to learn from this study is:
1.) How many snakes are on this farm?
2.) Are they breeding and how many young are there?
3.) Where are they hibernating?
4.) How far are they traveling away from the den site?

It should be an interesting study, and will hopefully gain us much knowledge about these often hated, but gorgeous animals. We met Dr. Mills, and two of his students at the farm last week. We walked the farm for around 2 hours and were about to give up without sighting a single snake of any kind. As we headed back to the cars, my brother-in-law shouted that he found one. We went to investigate his find, and noticed there was a nice sized rattle snake hidden under a large rock. Dr. Mills pulled the rocks away and exposed the snake. It was about 2 1/2 feet in length, and once again did not rattle. Not even when held down with a snake stick did it get irritated and warn us with that all to familiar Cicada-like noise of the tail. This one has 6 rattles and a button. The tail is visible in this photo below.

If one can look past their own fears, to the beauty of these misunderstood creatures, they would see an animal that is fascinating in its creepiness and beautiful in its lethalness.

Exploration

2010-06-19T10:55:00.000-05:00

I made it!!!

Uh....Mom...how do I get off this thing?

Never Mind... I figured it out!!!!

All that climbing gave me an appetite!!!

I can DO it!

2010-06-09T21:42:00.000-05:00

Our little raccoon baby is becoming quite independent. She grabs the bottle and wants to hold it herself, the problem is it weighs more than she can handle for more than a few seconds. It falls to the floor, she scrambles in a frantic manner to locate it and try as she might she cannot figure out how to get it back into her mouth with any success. I spend the entire feeding session placing the bottle back in her mouth and fighting her for control of the situation. SHE WANTS TO DO IT! She is one feisty little raccoon. I can't help but wonder what the next few weeks will bring

She has discovered that raccoons are curious.....yes it is bred into them....nothing is safe from their prying eyes and sensitive feet.

She is beginning to eat solid food now, mostly grapes, cherries and bananas. I've given her some dog food soaked in her milk and she seems to like it. Although I think she like taking the dog food and putting it in the water bowl and playing with it,more than she likes eating it.

Here she is sampling cherries, which seem to be her favorite.

My first trip outside...I'm not sure about this green stuff...

MOMMY! Hold me..pleaseeeee.

I've got a secret!

Bullfrog

2010-05-30T21:55:00.000-05:00

Bullfrogs (Rana catebeiana) are the largest frogs native to Missouri as well as in the rest of their range. They originally ranged from the Great Plains states, south to Texas, east to Central Florida. They were intentionally released in many Western States including California. This purposeful release was as a food source. The Red Leg frog in California was suffering a deep decline in numbers due to over harvesting. The bullfrog was released to compensate the reduction of numbers. Like what happens when most well meaning people release non-native species into new territories it poses a huge problem for native species, which is exactly what happened in California. Spadefoot toads, red-legged and yellow-legged frogs, young western pond turtles as well as native fish and even waterfowl chicks fall prey to this carnivorous frog.

The color of these frog can range from green, olive to brown. The hind legs are marked with distinct dark brown lines. The belly is white and the throat will have mottled gray appearance. Breeding males will have a yellow throat. The eardrums are visible on the side of their heads. The males have eardrums that are much larger than their eyes, the females have eardrums that are smaller or the same size as their eyes. These frogs range in size from 3 inches to 6 inches. The largest recorded bullfrog was over 8 inches in length (that's a lot of frog legs!). This frog is almost exclusively aquatic. They will be found in or near ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, and sloughs. In years of drought their numbers may be greatly reduced. During years of heavy rains they will be seen crossing roads in large numbers.

Bullfrogs are easily disturbed and will hop away if approached. Young bullfrogs will let out a "yelp" when jumping away. Breeding takes place in Missouri between Mid-May and Early July. Males will aggressively defend their territories during the mating season and will fend off other males by biting, mounting, kicking, bumping, or pushing other males. Large males can be heard on warm, balmy evenings singing loudly with a distinct jug o' rum call. Several of these bullfrogs all singing at once can be a deafening chorus.....especially when planning a camping trip and they decide to sing loud and proud for the ladies. I've been awoken in the wee hours of the morning by their loud voices, crawled sleepily out of my tent and and flung whatever was handy at them. It effectively scares them away, only to have them return persistently to the same area over and over again! I can't help but feel that this is carrying "territorial" a bit far...can't they find ANOTHER side of the pond to sing from? One side is as good as the other right?

After mating, females are capable of laying up to 20,000 eggs. These eggs hatch and the young tadpoles will live in the water for 1 1/2 years before completing their life cycle. It will take another 2 to 3 years for them to reach adult size.

There was a study conducted in North Carolina that proved bullfrogs are resistant to the venom of the copperhead. To a lesser extent they were also immune to the venom of the cottonmouth.

Raccoon Eyes

2010-05-21T19:24:00.000-05:00

My eyes are finally open and I can see the world around me for the first time. I'm not sure who this crazy lady is who keep putting a bottle in my mouth and wiping my bottom? She talks sweet "baby-talk" to me.

I like climbing on her and and scratching her with my sharp claws (and she never complains). Sometimes she tries to hug me, cause she says I'm SOOOOO cute, but I do NOT like to be hugged. I will forgive her though, cause she feeds me.

This new home isn't like my old home, but it is pretty good, even if the crazy lady wears Popeye socks, she isn't too bad.

Raccoon Rescue

2010-05-10T18:26:00.001-05:00

This precious little bundle is a two week old Raccoon. It was given to me by one of the Conservation agents in NW Missouri. Apparently a lady living in NW Missouri came into her kitchen to discover that her dog had brought her a present, in the form of this little baby. Fortunately the dog did not hurt the raccoon, but it sure freaked his owner out. She called the agent in her county and he in turn called me and asked if I could care for it. After caring for several raccoons many years ago I had made a promise to myself (and my husband) that I would NOT care for raccoons again. Once I laid eyes on this sad, orphaned baby I could not say no. She came home with me two weeks ago and was approximately a week old. In the picture above she is two weeks. At three weeks they open their eyes, although she has not done so yet. I really think she is a runt, and therefore a little behind what is considered average or normal. It took two days to get her to suck a bottle. It just did not feel like mommy, so she rejected it, but patience paid off and I finally coerced her into sucking.

Raccoons are one of the cutest mammals in North America. They are also one of the most destructive forces known to the animal kingdom. There is nothing a raccoon can't get into or out of. Life is going to get real interesting here on the "Cox Farm" this summer. This little girl will be with us until September when she will then be old enough to survive on her own. I will keep you all updated on her progress.

In this picture she is sucking on my finger, much like human babies they have a strong need to suck, even after getting their belly full, I am considering a pacifier for her.

Is this not the cutest little baby ever? I'm such a softy.

Blue-Winged Teal

2010-05-09T20:24:00.000-05:00

Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge in Northwest Missouri is a great place to see all forms of water fowl. A recent visit to the refuge proved fruitful as the blue-winged teal had returned and were pairing up in various areas of the wetland. The males will reach lengths up to 15 inches with the females being smaller. Their breeding plumage is unmistakable, the males possess a beautiful white "crescent" in front of their eyes. When in flight they have light blue patches on their forewings. After mating, the female will lay her eggs in a nest made of grasses lined with downy feathers, this nest will be located very close to the shoreline. She may lay up to 15 eggs. They will hatch in about 25 days and be ready to fledge in about 45 days. They are found throughout most of the United States during the summer months. They will overwinter in warmer areas such as the southern United States and Central America and South America.

While feeding they typically do not dive, instead they will skim the surface of the water for vegetation such as duckweed. They will also feed on insects and other aquatic plants. Their numbers have been steadily increasing over the past several years, especially in Eastern North America. This increase in numbers seems to be in large part in an increase in favorable habitat, like wetlands, ponds, and other shallow marshy areas.

Red Fox

2010-05-02T17:22:00.000-05:00

This year on the farm has proven to be quite interesting where wildlife is concerned. My husband and I have been seeing an adult Red Fox roaming around our farm for many weeks now. Because of the frequency in which we've been seeing her we figured the fox was a female and probably had babies somewhere on our farm. One day about 2 weeks ago Joey rounded the corner of one of our sheds and she was sitting beside a hole that leads under the shed. She began yipping and barking at him. I figured by the description of her behavior those babies were under the shed. Exactly one week later Joey and I were on the four-wheeler and drove around the same shed and one of the babies was outside. It was trying with great effort to drag a rather large rabbit, that it's mother killed for it back under the shed. After much tugging and pulling he finally managed to get it back inside.

I tried for the last two weeks to get pictures of the babies all to no avail. Then today my husband was spraying weeds in one of our lots when he spotted three fox kits running around and playing. He called me and told me to come down to the lot if I wanted pictures. I quietly approached this drainage tube and sat patiently waiting. After about an hour two kits ran out, spotted me and took off under the shed.. I knew there was at least one more so I continued to wait. 15 minutes more went by when a little face peeked out. Within a few more minutes another little face peeked out. There are a total of four kits.

The one of the left in this picture seems to be the dominant sibling. He was larger than the other three and more confident. The little one on the right was very submissive to him, and seemed to look up to him for security. It was very cute to watch them interact.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) are apex predators. They are the most widely spread of all fox species. As their name suggests they are predominantly reddish is color. There are some variations in color occurring in some specimens. They may be gray or even silver. These lighter colored foxes are often called "Silver Fox". Closely related to dogs, they have learned to adapt quite well to human encroachment. This ability to co-exist with humans has led to them being a highly successful predator that is very plentiful in almost all of its range. They are even able to co-inhabit areas where other more specific species of fix live such as the Arctic Fox.

Red Foxes can be found throughout almost all of North America, and are considered native to forested areas, but are introduced in more temperate regions. Many Red Fox were imported into the United States to create a fox hunting population, many of these imported species most likely crossbred with the native red fox to create a hybrid. This hybrid red fox could be the red fox many of us see.

Red Fox are the largest of the "true foxes" and can weigh up to 17 pounds. The fox which live in northern regions tend to be much larger than the ones found in more temperate time zones. Probably the most recognized feature of the Red Fox is their bushy tail. It is typically tipped with white and almost half as long as its body length. They will use this large fuzzy tail to wrap around themselves in the winter to help keep them warm. They have very large ears, which gives them excellent hearing. When I do trail hikes with small children we use our "fox ears" to hear things better. I have the kids hold their hands in front of them so that all their fingers are touching, then we place them behind our ears and push our ears forward. This funnels sounds into our ears and makes sounds appear louder. This is similar to the way foxes hear, they funnel sounds into those really large ears.

Although they are predators, they will feed on a variety of foods. This includes berries, fruit and even sunflower seeds. So while they are classified as carnivores, they are more accurately omnivores. When hunting their favorites are mice, voles, rabbits, birds and eggs. They have even been known to take down deer fawns. Watching them hunt is very humorous, it looks as if they are playing with their upcoming meal. They will stalk their prey, then leap high into the air and pounce the unsuspecting victim. They are capable of hearing mice scurrying around in the tall grass from a great distance. Fox have small stomachs for their overall size and cannot consume large portions at a single feeding. They will store leftover food in caches to consume later.

Many people have long held the belief that Red Fox and Coyotes will not co-exist in the same territory. Red Fox do tend to live outside the perimeters of the coyotes home range. In reality most coyotes will ignore the red fox. In fact there are documentations of the red fox and the coyotes feeding together. There are definitely cases where the fox and coyote are aggressive to each other, these aggressions are usually initiated by the coyote. The only time the fox would be the aggressor would be if the coyotes approached her young. Here on our farm we have a family of coyotes living in a ditch on our property and we also have this family of fox. They seem to co-exist peacefully.

Typically fox are loners and only pair up in the winter. Their territories may be as large as 19 square miles. Several dens will be located within their ranges, and they will utilize these dens as hideouts. A larger den will be used during the winters, and for a birthing chamber. They will mark their territory using scent glands located underneath their tail. The scent given off by this gland is very much like the scent from a skunk. They are not capable of spraying their scent like a skunk though. We humans can smell the scent if we are within a few feet of where the fox sprays. Mated pairs will raise 4 to 6 young each year. When the young reach 8 months of age they are capable of being on their own, and usually leave the den to begin life as a full fledged adult fox.

I feel very fortunate to have this family of fox living on our farm and I hope to see them much more in the future. I'm sure they will help control and overpopulation of rabbits that tend to eat our garden veggies.

Mayapple

2010-04-30T19:13:00.001-05:00

This pretty little pink flower is the bloom of the Mayapple. They grow throughout Eastern North America in wooded areas. This one was photographed in St. Joseph on the walking trail at my work. While hiking with a group of children I discovered them in bloom. I've hiked this trail for 6 years, in all seasons and this is the first time I was lucky enough to see the blooms. Shows that being in the right place at the right time is what making discoveries is all about. After doing some research I discovered that this pink bloom is rare for Mayapples, they usually have a white to off-white bloom. I am excited that I was able to see pink ones!

This plant goes by many different names, and it probably depends upon where you live as to what you call it. Some of the more common names are Hogapple, Indian Apple, Umbrella Plant (from the shape of the leaves), Wild Mandrake, Wild Lemon (from the taste of the fruit), and Devil's Apple.
Once established they seem to be prolific. The woods at work are abundant with them, I usually pick one to show the kids up close and then ask them to image that it is natures own umbrella. Think of all the little critters that might find shelter under it's leaves during heavy rains...i.e. mice, insects, etc. They just laugh at the absurdity of the picture they get in their minds. Personally I like the notion that little creatures "might" hunker down under the leaves of this unique plant and wait out a spring storm.

Although the "apple" on this plant is edible it is reported to taste rather bitter. Raccoons seem fond of it and are sometimes seen sampling the berry....which is where this plant derives another common name of "raccoon berry". The root of the plant is poisonous and can cause inflammation of the skin and eyes. Shawnee Indians would boil the root to make a strong laxative. There are two medications on the market today, one called podophyllin that is used as a strong cathartic, the other is peltatine that is being used as an experimental drug to treat some cancers.

Rumor has it that any woman who pulls up the root of this plant will soon become pregnant. I say leave it be!

Jack-In-The-Pulpit

2010-04-26T17:01:00.001-05:00

This unusual flower is called Jack-In-The-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum). They are a wildflower native to Missouri as well the rest of the Midwest and Eastern United States.. You will find them in deciduous hardwood forests growing in moist soil in the undergrowth. They are capable of reaching heights of up to 2 feet, but typically will be 8-12 inches. They are considered poisonous to livestock, which will graze on them if it is the only greens available to them. If you own cattle, sheep or horses that are allowed to graze in timbered areas that feature these flowers, it might be best to not let them graze in these areas until the plants are no longer present. Digging up the plants when they are found can help reduce their numbers if you are concerned for livestock. Otherwise these plants are beautiful and certainly very interesting to look at. The one pictured here was photographed today on a woodland trail behind my office at work. I found 5 total in the woods all within a few feet of each other. Their blooming time is limited to spring here in NW Missouri. In some areas they are capable of blooming throughout the summer. In the fall, bright red berries become evident.

These plants are perennial and will return year after year. They grow from an underground corm, that resembles a turnip. Long shoots will break through the ground and three leaves will form behind the peculiar bloom-like structure. They will range in color from purple, green and greenish-white. These flowers are easily grown in shade garden and make an interesting addition to your perennial shade garden. The flowers are sure to illicit many comments.

This plant goes by many names, and depending upon where you live can be called, Bog onion, Devil's ear, Marsh turnip, Brown dragon, Indian turnip,Plant of peace and Memory root. Much myth surrounds this interesting plant.....The Meskwaki indians would float the inner seed of this plant around in a cup of water. This was done to decide the fate of sick individuals. If the seed floated and rotated clockwise four times the patient could expect to recover from whatever illness was plaguing them. If the seed sank before completing four rotations it meant the patient would surely perish. The seeds were also ground up and placed in meat. The meat was left outside for the Sioux Indians (the enemy of the Meskwaki indians) to find. Believe it or not the Sioux indians would pick up the tainted meat and consume it, learning too late their mistake when they fell ill and died. They fell for this trick not once, not twice, but over and over again. Apparently never learning the cause of the illness and death of their tribe members. It was discovered if the root was left to dry for up to 6 months it could be ground into a powder and used to make bread. Apparently drying the root releases the toxins and makes it safe for consumption that causes illness or death. A poultice was made from the root and used to treat sores, and even snake bites.Early settlers adopted this practice from the Native Americans. There are many other lores attributed to this plant. Some stated the plant grew at the base of the cross at calvary, and the red streaks are from the fallen blood. Still another lore says that bears which were in hibernation for forty days could eat this plant and and fully recover from their long hibernation.

The design of the plant is very important for protection. The spathe which covers the “pitcher” of the plant protects the flower that is hidden inside at the base of the spadix. This prevents the tube from filling up with rainwater, which would wash away the pollen. Insects, especially gnats, are drawn into the spathe by a fungal smell emitted by the plant. They are attracted to the color of the pollen which covers the floor of the chamber. Because the tube is slippery, insects have a hard time leaving. There is a small flap formed by the leaves that smaller insects can fit through to complete pollination. Larger insects, including flies, however get stuck and often end their life in the base of the plant. Though the shape and design of the plant mimics that of a pitcher-plant, Jack-in-the-Pulpit is not carnivorous. The plant is also able to change sex. Most plants are males that become female in favorable conditions. Because the responsibilities of the female plant (seed production) require strength, plants may never become male or revert back if conditions suddenly change.

Sources: http://www.stolaf.edu/academics/naturallands/woodlands/ephemerals/jack-in-the-pulpit.html

Sand Cherry

2010-04-12T10:57:00.001-05:00

This beautiful pink flower is the bloom of the Sandy Cherry tree. This unique tree can also be cultivated as a shrub. While not native to Missouri, with beautiful red leaves and gorgeous pink blooms they make a stunning addition to your landscape. Bees are attracted to the highly fragrant blooms. The smell coming from the flowers on this tree is almost intoxicating in their intensity. They grow to be approximately 10 feet tall, and are hardly from zones 2-8. Grow them in full to part sun locations, otherwise if grown in the shade their foliage will change from purple-red to yellow-green. They seem to be tolerant of a wide variety of soil conditions, but prefer well drained soil best. They are prone to various diseases and have a life expectancy of approximately 10 to 15 years.
Japanese beetles are VERY fond of the purple leaf sand cherry, unfortunately. Other pests include peachtree borer, scale, fall webworm, aphids, mealy bugs,and tent caterpillars. Diseases include honey fungus, verticillium wilt, black knot, cankers, powdery mildew, leaf spot, bacterial leaf scorch, and frost cracks.
Over all I would recommend this pretty little tree to your yard. They provide beautiful color and fragrant blooms.

Daffodil

2010-04-09T11:38:00.000-05:00

Second blooming flower of spring. My daffodils finally opened and showed their lovely yellow flowers. Such vibrant color sure puts a smile on my face after such a long cold, harsh winter.

Yellow Crocus

2010-03-25T12:32:00.000-05:00

I was beginning to think that nothing would begin blooming. I usually have crocus blooming by the end of February or the first of March. I just discovered these blooms 2 nights ago....so all I can say is....Better late than never.

Winters final fury....?

2010-03-22T14:22:00.002-05:00

Friday dawned bright and sunny with a forecast for 50 degrees. I spotted two Turkey Vultures soaring on the thermals and a painted turtle sunning himself on a log in the pond at my office. These two sights created in me an overwhelming sense of contentment....Spring was near. My excitement was short lived however, with the voice of the weatherman blaring on the radio "100% chance of Snow, accumulations up to 5 inches!"

NO! Say it isn't so! NO MORE SNOW! I simply cannot take it, not another day!

Unfortunately for me the weatherman was right, Friday night the snow began to fall, and it continued to fall all day Saturday, with gusty winds up to 25 MPH. It was a frigid, miserable day, this first day of Spring! What is the old saying about March roaring in like a lion and leaving like a lamb, or is that the other way around?

All told this latest snow storm dumped 5 more inches of snow on us. Sunday the temperatures reached the 40's and melted the snow, on the already water-logged soil here in NW Missouri. The ground here just can't hold any more water. When I walk across the yard, the water squishes up out of the soil and feels like you are walking on a water-logged sponge.

It was still quite chilly yesterday, but I was still prompted to head outside and see what birds were hanging at the feeders. I found chick-a-dees, sparrows, Northern Mockingbirds, Northern Cardinals, Juncos, American Goldfinches, Downy Woodpeckers, Yellow-Bellied Woodpeckers, Starlings, Common Grackles, and White-Breasted Nuthatches all busy feeding, and tormenting each other. Breeding season is on the horizon. Each morning I am awakened to the sounds of the birds singing a delightful chorus, in the hopes of attracting a suitable mate. Apparently the recent weather activities do not put them off in the least. Once they have sex on the brain there is not stopping them.

I am hoping and praying that Saturday's snow fall was a fluke, and that warmer days and sunshine are ahead.

Seriously, one 60 degree day in 4 months is enough to make even the nicest person cranky....yes.....I mean me. I am getting seriously cranky! I need warmth! I swear being born in Missouri was some cruel joke the fates played on me....I should have been born in a different hemisphere, I just know it!

More snowy weather

2010-02-20T16:54:00.000-06:00

There seems to be no end to the snowy, cold weather that we are experiencing in NW Missouri. Yesterday the weatherman predicted an inch of snow.......after 4 inches fell it became apparent he miscalculated! Looking out the front door, the snow was coming down so heavy I could barely seen our grain bins across the driveway.

This view is of a corn field across the highway from where we live. The snow was such a wet snow that it clung to the sides of the trees. It was fast accumulating on the highway and made traveling treacherous.

(House Sparrow)

I threw some dried cranberries, sunflower seeds and leftover nuts into the front yard. The birds were grateful, as they scratched around in the snow,looking for the treats. House Sparrows, Cardinals, Starlings, Chick-a-dees, Harris Sparrows and American Goldfinches all showed up for dinner.

(Harris Sparrow)

(Northern Cardinal)

Chick-A-Dee

The weatherman is calling for 2 more inches of snow tonight and an additional 5 inches tomorrow. The farmers almanac said that we could get 22 inches of snow in NW Missouri throughout the month of February, appears that they are correct. I can't remember a time in my life when I was more ready for spring and the return of warm weather.

Poor kitty

2010-02-17T11:46:00.000-06:00

"Hey!...Ummm...could someone please get this house off my neck?"

Winter Snow Brings Hungry Birds

2010-02-11T14:06:00.000-06:00

The feeders at our house are busier than a McDonalds on Friday night. Black oil sunflower seeds scatter all across the ground as these greedy birds flock to the feeders, beaks frantically and furiously gobbling at the seed as if it were their last meal. Messy messy birds!

This little Hairy Woodpecker seems to be saying "Who you talkin about? I'm not makin no mess!"

"You can't see me!

This little mockingbird ate his fill of the crabapples and appeared to be so full he was reluctant to fly.

Wonder if he was able?

"can we say glutton?"

"How dare you call us messy!" Ummppphh see if I eat here again, such insults!

"hey you! Down there! More food.....pleassseee"

It doesn't get any better than this!

Canada Geese

2010-02-01T11:05:00.000-06:00

One of the most familiar sights throughout the Midwest are the Canada Geese (Branta canadensis). They are native to North America and easily the most recognized of all water fowl. Distinctive of the species is the black head and the white chin. They are quite large with a wingspan up to 6 feet and may weigh up to 12 pounds. Another species of goose called the Giant Canada Goose was nearly extinct at the turn of the 20th century. A small population was found in Minnesota and through conservation practices they have made a come back in most of the original range. This species is very large, in fact they are the largest goose Worldwide. They may weigh up to 24 pounds and they are capable of living up to 24 years. Average would be anywhere from 10-24 years.

The Canada Goose will breed in Canada and the Northern most states in the United States. In recent years they are moving their breeding territory further south and it is very common for them to mate and raise goslings in Missouri. Canada Geese begin breeding at age two and will remain with the same mate throughout their life. If one is killed or dies of natural causes the other may seek a new mate. They build nests near the edges of water sources like lakes, and ponds. The female will lay 3 to 8 eggs that are protected by both parents. The female will spend more time on or near the nest than the male, but rest assured he won't be far away. Nothing is more protective or easily angered than a goose guarding eggs or babies. These large birds can inflict a painful bite if disturbed. Geese face many predators that are bent on feasting upon their eggs or young, these include raccoons, foxes, mink, ravens, gulls, crows and bears. As adults they are rarely preyed upon, but they can be killed and eaten by coyotes, wolves, owls, foxes and eagles.

In many parts of their range they are becoming a pest. They occur in such large numbers that the noise alone can drive some people mad, they leave their droppings everywhere and many times these droppings can carry bacteria, and they can be highly confrontational. Employing scare tactics to make your place undesirable to them will often times encourage them to leave your area. Extended hunting seasons have also helped. If not, relocation practices may need to be implemented. Man is the creation of his own problems in many cases, and in this case it is no different. With the addition of many man-made water sources such a golf course waterways and farm ponds, beaches, large goldfish ponds and large community neighborhoods with decorative recreational water sources. This has encouraged these large birds to come pay a visit. Often times they like what they find and they invite their friends to join them, and before you know it you have 100's of these lovely birds residing at your local pond.

Canada Geese are migratory, but in much of their range they have forgone this migratory behavior and taken up residence. With all their needs met, there is no reason to move on out of the area. They are primarily an herbivore, and eat forbes, grains and grasses. Although occasionally they will feed on small fish and insects.

While they are considered to be a pest in parts of their range, especially when they take up residence in your neighborhood, they are truly a spectacular bird to watch. They are protective, loving parents. Committed partners, and graceful fliers and beautiful in appearance. The unmistakable "V" formation in the evening sky as it crosses the colorful horizon evokes thoughts of fall, with all its sights and sounds. on the return trip, I can't resist standing and watching as a flock of these large noisy birds travel on their northward journey to breeding grounds in the spring.

Ice Crystals

2010-01-27T15:57:00.000-06:00

Last week the cold temperatures brought with them a gorgeous display of ice crystals. They were hanging from every available surface. Photographing them proved challenging for no other reason except the very windy conditions. Flapping leaves, sticks and other vegetation are difficult to bring into focus. I really wanted to capture at the very least some passable images of this wonder of nature, before it disappeared. All too often things like this are fleeting.

The bright blue behind this image is an illusion. The sky was actually dark and gray and very uninviting the day I took these images. By using the macro lens and the automatic flash, it blue out the background and created this lovely shade of blue. Reminds me of a Colorado sky.

Our snowy world is changing right now. Almost all of the snow has melted, which caused localized flooding of the rivers. Ice jams were butted against the bridges which created other problems. The back flow of water contained so much trash, I even spotted a refrigerator. I am constantly amazed at the stuff people will dump near Rivers; for it to carry away later when the waters rise. Then it becomes some poor individuals problem down stream. I know we are far from out of the woods when it comes to additional snow fall. From the predictions I've heard, we could see as much 25 inches in February. UGH!!! This is going to be a long winter, especially for a self proclaimed lover of hot weather. I need sunshine, and temperatures above 70 before I even feel human. I roam through winter and grumbling, growling beast of a former person I once recognized as myself.

Please Summer, return to me!

Meadowlarks

2010-01-21T10:41:00.001-06:00

Meadowlarks in the winter? I've lived in NW Missouri my entire life and until last winter had never spotted an Eastern or Western Meadowlark in the coldest months of winter. Once again this winter they are here, foraging in the fields for whatever food they can find.

Eastern and Western Meadowlarks (Sturnella magna & Sturnella neglecta) are found throughout the Eastern portion of the United States. All guides that I consulted said they are present in Missouri year-around, which is evident by their presence in January, scavenging in the snow. It does not say much for my observation skills that I just now this past year figured out that they were here at other times besides spring and summer. The Eastern Meadowlark is very closely related to the Western Meadowlark. The only accurate way to distinguish them from one another is by song and location. Although they will occasionally interbreed and create hybrids where their populations cross. There are up to 17 subspecies of Eastern Meadowlark that are recognized. I sent these images to a bird expert and even he is having some difficulty in accurately telling me which species they are. He feels pretty certain they are of the Western variety.

In the spring these birds become very vocal and their call herald's in the spring. There is something so very beautiful about their song. Eastern Meadowlark Vocals and Western Meadowlark Vocals Within a mile from our farm they sit on the phone wires looking down over their territory, very much like sentries overseeing their vast kingdom.

Despite their common name of Meadowlark, they are not related to Larks at all, in fact they are more closely related to Orioles and Blackbirds. They can be a medium to large sized bird measuring up to 9 or 10 inches with a 17 inch wingspan. They have a distinctive yellow patch on their chest with a black "V" shaped marking. They are associated with open grasslands, roadsides, agricultural areas, and prairies. They are ground foragers and feed on weed seeds, insects and other grains found within their habitat. In much of their range they are declining in population, most likely this if from habitat loss. In our area they are plentiful and we are blessed to see them frequently.

Dogwood Canyon

2010-01-11T15:29:00.000-06:00

Dogwood Canyon is a little gem found in the southern most regions of Missouri. In fact portions of the property cross into Arkansas. A couple of years ago I had the privilege of visiting this beautiful place with a group of volunteers. Each year the Missouri Department of Conservation show their appreciation to their volunteers by treating them to a weekend getaway somewhere in the state. Dogwood Canyon stands out as one of my favorite places thus far that we've seen. It is privately owned by the same person who owns Bass Pro Shop. The property is well maintained and a definite must see if you are in the area.

There is a crystal clear stream that meanders throughout the park. Trout are plentiful and fishing is allowed for a fee. They also rent bicycles , for those of you inclined in that direction. Periodically throughout the day they have guided tram tours. We were able to take one of these guided tours, and it is truly a great way to view the park.

Waterfalls abound, each one more beautiful than the next. The smell of the forest, and the water as it flows and splashes is a sensory experience you won't soon forget.

If time would have allowed I would have loved to hike this park. There is even a chapel onsite for those who would like to get married in such a gorgeous setting. As you take the tram ride and wind your way into Arkansas you are greeted by the sight of a herd of Elk and Buffalo. Occasionally white tail deer will come down from the hills to mingle with the elk.

They offer an old fashioned chuck wagon breakfast that is to die for. We were served eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, home fried potatoes, fresh fruit, toast, juice and milk. The tables were decorated so invitingly that it even made breakfast more enjoyable.

Wildlife thrives throughout the park. Everything from butterflies, to deer. The turtles bask in the sun on the logs and rocks partially submerged in the water. Quick to dive under when you wonder to close.

I was there in September and the places was intoxicatingly beautiful. I can only imagine what it would be like to visit in the spring when the dogwoods are in bloom. It is these gorgeous native trees that the park was named after, and the hills are filled with these trees. One day we will make a trip there to see this place in the spring.

Keep in mind this little hidden gem of the Ozarks when paying your next visit to Southern Missouri.

My Snowy World

2010-01-04T11:06:00.002-06:00

Thought I would share a few images of the snow that blankets my world right now.

The first is a dock located at Happy Holler Conservation Area Lake in Savannah, MO

This is a large snag of trees located at HHCA lake. In the spring and summer this is an excellent place to kayak and fish for bass.

A snowy cornfield

A snow covered Hedgeball. In the summer these oddities are lime green in color. The freezing temperatures soon turn them a chocolate brown color. Many people place these odd balls in their basements as natural insect control. Not sure if it works, but would be great if it does. Certainly better than pesticides.

While driving along the gravel roads in the country we spotted numerous nests in the dormant branches of the trees. So well hidden in the foliage of summer, they become exposed with the absence of leaves.

Nest #2

This darling little red fox squirrel was making the snow fly as he dug around for nuts and corn in this snow covered field. He had excavated about a 5 foot round circle out of the snow and was consumed with looking for food.

I am a self-proclaimed hater of cold, but even I have to admit getting out on such a blustery, cold, sunshine filled day was fun, and we were blessed to see many wonderful things. Even getting stuck in the snow in a ditch didn't dampen my mood.

Bobwhite Quail

2010-01-01T20:40:00.000-06:00

Bobwhite Quail are one of the most endearing of all wild birds. Who hasn't heard the distinct call of the male (bob-white bob-white) as he seeks a mate or a covey to join. A few years back we had a female who came into our yard to eat the cracked corn I threw out for the doves. She stayed around for a week or so then we didn't see her again. Once in awhile we are fortunate enough to find a small covey of these lovely birds on our farm. We hear them each spring and summer calling from the back fields and it always makes me smile, they just sound so endearing.

This year the numbers of these birds were down. Most people in the area are blaming our extremely wet year. The early spring floods destroyed nests. Those that managed to survive, had to fight wet conditions and many did not make it. The ever persistent birds tried again for a second clutch, only to have those hit hard by late summer rains and more flooding. The ones pictured here were photographed near Happy Holler Conservation Area in a corn field. They were scratching around through the snow to reveal the ground beneath and were busy dining on the corn they uncovered. This covey held nine birds, each as beautiful as the next. I felt very fortunate to have seen them and to be able to capture a picture, These birds normally stay close to the timber lines when the weather is as ferocious as it has been. It pleased me to a great degree to know that they were making it through these difficult times. It is estimated that as much as 80% of the quail population will die over the winter months. Lack of food and shelter being the primary culprits. Harsh temperatures are hard on them as well. These birds face many difficulties besides the weather. Turkey populations have grown to such a huge number in Missouri that they have all but destroyed natural quail habitat. They compete for seeds, berries and other tidbits. Many landowners have allowed their property to become overgrown. This lack of management creates ideal habitats for Turkey, but lousy habitat for quail. There are many good government funded programs out there to aid landowners in creating better habitats for these great little birds. Our family works diligently to encourage these birds and to provide proper areas for them to feed, nest and to hide. It would be a sad state of affairs should these birds reach low enough numbers to warrant state or federal protection. Quails Unlimited, as well as our very own Missouri Department of Conservation are working hard in conjunction with farmers and landowners to create working relationships that not only benefit the quail, but the landowners as well.

Missouri Snow

2009-12-30T20:58:00.001-06:00

Living in Missouri gives you one guarantee, if you do not like the weather wait a day and it will change. This year we have had unseasonably wet conditions and that seems to be continuing into the winter as well. December 23rd the snow began to fall and it didn't stop until December 26th. We ended up with 12 inches of beautiful white snow before the blizzard moved out of the area. I say blizzard, because that is what it turned into. It was bad enough that the snow fell without ceasing for 3 days, but with it came ferocious winds that drifted the snow in piles. Many county roads were closed entirely, and untold amounts of people were drifted in and could not leave their driveways. The highway where we live was down to one lane on Christmas day and we weren't sure we would make it out to visit relatives. Fortunately my husband was able to plow the driveway with the tractor and blade and I have a 4x4 Chevy Tracker that got us where we needed to go safe and sound. I couldn't help but feel bad for those families that were unable to leave and have Christmas with loved ones. Mother Nature simply had other plans for everyone. This is without a doubt the most snow we have seen in many many years. Another inch fell last night, but it melted by this afternoon when the temperatures reached 35 degrees. That felt like a heatwave in comparison to the single digit lows we'd been having.

The icicles were photographed at my work. The first one was easily over 10 feet long and a very impressive sight. The second picture shows numerous icicles hanging from the eave of our building. The longest was nearly 3 feet in length and sharply pointed. Very dangerous if it should happen to decide to break loose and fall at the precise moment you walked under it. Nevertheless it is still beautiful, especially glistening in the sunshine.

I can hardly wait to see what Mother Nature has in store for us in January and February, which are notoriously our worst weather months. We better hold onto our hats!

Striped Skunk

2009-12-22T16:12:00.001-06:00

This creature needs no introduction, who among us can look at those tell-tale stripes and black and white coloring and not know this is the Striped Skunk? I've long been an advocate for the animals nobody seems to love, this includes our lovely little skunk here as well as many other creatures like Armadillos, Bats and Bugs.

The skunk pictured here was photographed a couple of summers ago on our farm in Fillmore, Missouri. My husband and I had made a trip up there to look at the crops and take a drive in the country. It was a beautiful late spring day in May. We drove across the pond dam and off to one side I spotted something black and white in the corn field. I told my husband to "STOP!" I jumped out of the truck and ran down the hillside. I was so excited at being this close to one of my favorite animals. Lucky for me I had my camera with me. I inched closer and closer, being very careful to not spook this little darling. For quite some time she seemed to not notice me (which I know was impossible). When I was within about 20 feet of her she became nervous and looked at me. For one long minute in time I was looking into the eyes of this sweet little creature. She cocked her head at me and decided I was close enough. She reared up on her back legs and stomped her front legs at me. What did I do... you may ask? I laughed of course, how absolutely adorable was that! I inched closer. Oh yes. Once more she stomped at me. This was simply too much, and I fell irrevocably in love with this creature. Suddenly I hear from the top of the pond dam...."If you get sprayed you are walking home!" Drat! I had completely forgotten my dear husband. I just smiled, I was very confident this skunk loved me as much as I loved her. I inched closer. This time she entertained me by changing her repertoire from foot stomps to dance moves. She literally did a head-stand and tapped out some fancy footwork on her front legs. I nearly cried at how cute this was. Now keep in mind this whole time I've been inching ever closer to this little stink bomb on legs, and was now well within firing distance. This whole time my husband is shouting from the pond dam to get back to the truck before I get sprayed. While I was taking time to assure him everything would be okay, this lovely creature picked that precise moment to turn the tables on me. She charged me! She came at me at full speed....let me tell you what....having a skunk, no matter how adorable, chasing you, will make you move...FAST! I turned tail and ran as if my life depended on it. She chased me all the way up that pond dam. I was laughing so hard I could barely run. My husband dove into the truck ( the brave man he is). When I reached the truck the skunk stopped and turned to run across the pond dam. She stopped and looked around, making sure it was safe and she began digging in some dry grasses (pictured). In short ordered she disappeared under ground. It was at this point I figured out she was a momma with babies. Skunks have long had a nasty reputation for being a quick draw with the "Stink cannon". I found this little female to be very patient with a meddlesome human (namely me). There were many opportunities for her to spray me, and she chose not to. Perhaps she knew I was not a serious threat, that I was merely a goofy human with not much sense. I will forever remember my first close-up encounter with this lovely creature.... How sweet it was to be able to ride home in the "front" of the pickup!

Nature Brings Serenity

2009-12-08T11:43:00.000-06:00

SERENE

SHADOWS CAST LONG ON THESE NIGHTS.
AS THE STARS LOOK DOWN LIKE THE WATCHING EYES OF ANGELS.

A COOL BREEZE UPON THE FACE REMINDS,
THAT THE BREATH OF THE MOON CARESSES THE LAND.
AND IT'S LIGHT CRADLES THE HEART.

WHETHER YOU WALK ALONE OR HAND IN HAND.
THIS IS A PLACE THAT YOU WILL FIND THE SOLACE OF THE SOUL,
THE SPIRIT OF GOD.

THE BIRTH OF DREAMS LAY HERE AS WELL.
SMALL CHILDREN CHASE RAINBOWS.
LOVERS CARESS.
A MIDNIGHT STORM OF ALL THAT YOU ARE.

THE ACHE OF THE WORLD DISAPPEARS,
AND ONLY LOVE REMAINS.
WHISPERED GENTLY LIKE FALLING VIRGIN SNOW.

SO COME HERE WHEN YOU NEED TO BE HELD,
OR YOUR TEARS NEED TO FLOW.
UPON MY SHOULDER YOUR TEARS WILL DRY.
THESE WORDS MY ARMS TO HOLD.

Ray Hancock

Rascal

2009-12-05T14:59:00.000-06:00

Meet Rascal, an absolutely ornery raccoon that lived as part of our family for 5 months in 2004. She was part of a litter of five that was born in a chimney. Well meaning humans removed their mother, completely unaware that they were essentially leaving her babies behind as orphans. 24 hours later these delightful babies made their presence known with loud squeals and cries that only a raccoon can make. A rescue by the MDC in St. Joseph resulted in all 5 of these very tiny, very hungry and none too happy babies ending up in my care. Within 3 days it became apparent that I was going to need help. Five raccoon babies all demanding to be fed every two hours around the clock, meant no sleep for me or anyone else within ear shot of these supremely loud youngsters. I found some friends willing to share this responsibility and I was left with two babies affectionately named Rascal, and Ringo. This was manageable but still a handful. If they had been the only thing that required my attention it would have been easy-breezy. Living on an 86 acre farm brings a lot of work along with it, mowing a 5 acre yard each week, two children, a home, meals, plus my job were all screaming at me as well as these adorable abandoned babies.
Even with their eyes shut they would still manage to crawl up the sides of their cage and I would find them crying pitifully as they scooted across the floor trying to find Mom, or some sort of warmth. I would scoop them up and put them back in the cage under the heat lamp. After about 3 jail breaks I finally rigged a top for the cage which kept them contained for the time being. They grew fast, as did their appetite. I did a lot of research, trying to learn everything I could about the proper care of these wild babies entrusted to my care. I met many people, all with horror stories to tell of raising raccoons. I admit to having many trepidations about the long term commitment that this obviously was going to be. You see, raccoons are not able to fully fend for themselves until they are 5 or 6 months of age. Now that may not sound like a very long time, but let me assure you it is. Many wild animals are ready to be released at 2 to 3 months. This was going to be double that amount of time. These are animals that seem to have a special gift for finding and getting into trouble. At 3 months of age we placed them outside, they had full run of the yard and took up refuge in a hollow tree in our front yard. Each morning I would yell for them and they would very drowsily drag themselves up and out of the safety of their new found home to see what all the commotion was about. They would crawl down the tree, stretching in a very exaggerated fashion as if to tell me "this better be worth waking me up" A few treats in the form of marshmallows or grapes and all was forgiven.
Raccoons and water seem to go hand-in-hand, and it didn't take them long to find our goldfish pond, try and try as they might they could not figure out how to catch those obnoxiously tempting orange fish. You could almost see the frustration on their faces! I lost count of how many times they went head first into the pond, only to come racing out with their tail tucked between their legs looking all bedraggled from their experience. It almost seemed cruel to taunt them with those tasty fish that were inaccessible to them. I finally took pity on them and bought a kiddy wading pool and stocked it with crawfish, minnows and tadpoles. Oh...you should have seen them. They were like kids at Christmas, not knowing what gift to try first. In no time at all each of the treats swimming around in the water were stomped on, crushed or otherwise devoured. Oh what fun!
As each week went by they became braver and braver and began venturing out on exploratory missions that would have them gone sometimes for days. As any mother would I worried, concerned that some unfortunate accident had injured them or worse.....
They would return, heads held high looking quite proud of themselves for their grown-up behavior. I would just shake my head and smile...congratulating them on being big kids now. Nothing was safe around these mischief makers, if it struck their curiosity they found a way to get into it, or out of it. I walked on the back porch one day to find one of these "teenagers" laying on his back with a Mountain Dew can in his paws drinking his fill of the bubbly, caffeine laden beverage. Oh great!....just what I needed on my hands a caffeinated raccoon! As if they weren't energetic enough. I scooted him back outside sans drink. He pouted for a bit, but soon found something else to occupy his time.
Once they reached 5 months of age, in September, Ringo was showing all the signs of being an aggressive, independent male raccoon. His sister Rascal, was still sweet natured and liked people. So we had a puzzle on our hands, do we turn Ringo loose on his own and hope he makes it, or do we turn them loose together and hope Rascal stays away from people? The decision was made for me one evening when Ringo made his way into our duck enclosure and was trying have Duck Ala Orange' for supper. I entered the cage and grabbed for him and he turned on me. That was all I needed to see to know he was ready to be on his own. We took both of them 2 miles away to a stocked pond and beautiful pasture with nearby trees. Some friends of ours owned the property and were thrilled to have us release these raccoons on their property. They seemed so happy in their new home and I felt good about leaving them. Until......three days later Rascal showed up on a neighbors porch looking a little worse for wear. She had been in a fight with something, and was begging for help. We took her back in, gave her penicillin and fed her. Two days later my son drove her on his four wheeler back to the pond, only to have her return to our house the very next day. We were sitting in the kitchen and heard a racket, I pulled open the curtain to discover Rascal laying in a bird feeder on our kitchen window. Ok this wasn't going to do at all! My friend who owned the property suggested that she was probably just not ready to be on her own. She offered to take Rascal in for the winter and see what the spring would bring. It was amazing the difference a few more months made in Rascal demeanor. She became much more aggressive and raccoon-like. In March we released her again......or so we thought! She made her way back to our house again and tore into our greenhouse looking for food. We live trapped her and drove her 10 miles away to a conservation area, far away from people. It was high time she learned to be a raccoon. As far as we know she survived and caused no more problems.
This was one of the best experiences I never want to repeat that I've had in my life. Raccoons are charming, ornery, mischief makers that will win your heart, make you laugh, and drive you absolutely crazy!

Bobcat

2009-12-02T11:38:00.002-06:00

"An Animals Eyes have the Power to Speak a Great Language"

Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are one of the most common wild cats in North America, there are an estimated 1,000,000 roaming from Southern Canada to Northern Mexico. They can be found in almost every state within the continental United States. This wasn't always the case though, in the early 1900's these cats were almost non-existent in the Midwestern States. Over hunting and trapping had severely declined their numbers. A bobcats fur was highly prized and contributed to its near extinction in many parts of its range. Laws were put into effect that protected these gorgeous cats and allowed their numbers to rebound. They are now plentiful and common in almost all their range. While trapping and hunting are common practices today, there are laws and seasons in place to prevent their numbers from severe decline.
Bobcats can be found in a wide variety of habitats, including woodlands, and nearby edges, semi arid deserts, swamplands and they have adapted quite well to urban areas. They are commonly seen within the city limits of many large towns and cities. They feed on rabbits and hares predominantly; but they are opportunistic and will feed on whatever food is plentiful in their area, including turkey, quail, pheasant, mice, songbirds, fawns and any other small creatures that they are able to capture. Bobcats are one of the smallest wild cats in North America and typically grow to be about double the size of the average house cat. Males may reach up to 28 or 30 pounds, but that would be on the large size. Typically 23-25 pounds would be more in a normal range for them. Their color may be brown or gray with black tufted ears. They have a speckled underbelly and a short black-tipped stubbed tail (from whence they get their name). Bobcats like most wild cats are solitary and generally only come together to mate. Males and females will locate each other by scent markings and mating generally occurs in winter or early spring. Females carry their litter approximately 8 weeks. The female will secret herself away to give birth and care for her young kittens entirely on her own. She typically will have several dens located in a given area. She will move her kits from den to den as necessary. In about 11-12 months these young kits will be ready to venture out on their own and establish their own territories.

The one pictured here was rescued by animal control in Kansas City and turned over to a wildlife rehabber who specializes in raising these creatures. Bobcats will humanize quite easily, that is to say they will readily adapt to being around humans, making it near to impossible to release them back to the wild. They will have no fear of humans and will recognize them as friends instead of foes. A tame bobcat is a dead bobcat. The one pictured was found in an apartment being raised with a pet boxer by humans. After being turned over to the rehab specialist he was "taught" how to be wild again. I was asked if I could release it, along with two others. I drove to Kansas City with my son and after tranquilizing the cats, we loaded them in separate carriers and I headed north near where I live. We took them to a secluded place near the river at Happy Holler Conservation Area. By the time we arrived they were waking up from their naps. We placed all three carriers on the ground and opened the doors, two of the cats (males) wasted no time in sprinting from the cages. The smallest male ran and darted in and out of trees affirming that this is where he belonged. You could almost hear his heart singing in happiness. The larger male, was much more dignified and simply walked off with his held high in a very regal fashion and none to gracefully slid down the river bank onto the frozen river and disappeared from view. The sweet little female had to be coaxed from her confinement. She was very timid and shy. We finally had no choice but to dump the cage on end and none to delicately force her out. She got the hint and sprinted away. There is no way to describe in words that are adequate the feeling it gives you to return such a majestic creature back to their intended home. Well meaning people try to tame what Mother Nature never intended to be. Remember: it is ok to observe and learn from these creatures,to take photographs and appreciate them in all their glory, but it is NEVER ok to remove them from their natural home and try to make pets out of a creature that is meant to remain free and wild.

A recommended read is "Bobcat Year" by: Hope Ryden. This is a wonderful book written in a fact based fictional content. It is a must read for any animal lover. It can be purchased off Half.com or Amazon.com

St. Augustine, Florida

2009-11-27T12:24:00.002-06:00

On a recent trip to St. Augustine, Florida (The oldest city in the United States), we spent a gorgeous 4 days exploring the beaches, restaurants, local shops and kayaking the salt flats. Brown Pelicans were everywhere, perched on pillars, docks and anywhere else they could find a vantage point for capturing fish.

The only thing more plentiful than the pelicans were the gulls. We stopped at a restaurant on a pier for some supper. Soon after you are seated the waitress brings you a basket of various breads to feed the gulls. Each table along the perimeter of the building has a trap door that you are able to open and throw your bread down to the hungry, greedy gulls. What they do not manage to catch falls into the bay and the equally hungry ocean fish greedily gobble up. It is a unique dining experience, and a definite must do it you visit this lovely area.

One of the shorebirds checking for handouts

This is the view from inside the restaurant. It was so beautiful and peaceful here. We've traveled to many places in the United States, but I can honestly say this is one of my favorites.

Each morning we woke early and headed to the beach to greet the sunrise. We were never disappointed by God's handywork.

We spent many hours walking the beach collecting seashells, and came across many of these gorgeous purple starfish. Our time on the beach was probably the most enjoyable of the entire trip. We met many wonderful, nice people always willing to share a smile and conversation.

Another must is a visit to the Alligator Farm. Alligators and Crocodiles are plentiful, they give feeding demonstrations throughout the day. For me though the excitement of this place lies in the birds that are present. This is a breeding ground for several tropical birds, like the one pictured above. Isn't he gorgeous all fanned out in his breeding plumage? What female bird could resist? Literally hundreds of birds flock to this area each spring to vie for the attention of females of their own kind. April is an excellent time to visit.

The Alligator Farm is home to many resident exotic birds like this Scarlet Macaw. They also have a small population of Old World Buzzards, like the one below.

No trip to this area would be complete without a visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse. They give guided tours several times throughout the day. This is a view of the lighthouse from our Kayaks. While out on the salt flats we saw several Dolphins and many herons and egrets. No matter how hard I tried I could not take a successful picture of the dolphins, but it was enough for me to have seen them.

I know this is a blog about Missouri, but when we are fortunate enough to visit other wonderful areas around this great country I can't resist sharing them. If you ever have the opportunity to visit St. Augustine, please do! You won't be disappointed!

Peek-A-Boo

2009-11-17T12:13:00.001-06:00

Earlier this summer we had a resident tree frog take up our birdhouse as his homestead. I thought it was so cute how he would sit at the entrance hole and peek out at us. If we wondered too close he would retreat to the safety of his new found home.

Some flowers to brighten up the day

2009-11-03T15:23:00.001-06:00

I just love the combination of colors in this photo. Goldenrod makes a gorgeous accent against any flower, but especially the purple berries on this Beauty Berry Bush.

Tulips in the background and an unidentified purple flower in the foreground.

Bleeding Heart, this particular plant is from a start that belonged to my great-great grandmother.

Iris

Daffadil

Fern

Gladioli

Hyacinth

Indian Grass

Asiatic Lily

I hope that these images brighten the day for you, no matter where you live

Casey all dressed up for Halloween

2009-11-02T11:06:00.000-06:00

I know Halloween is past...but I just couldn't resist sharing a picture of our spoiled rotten little Casey Kitty. Here he is showing off his Elephant Costume for Halloween. Dressing up and trick or treating is hard work....

Black Snakes---just in time for Halloween

2009-10-30T13:50:00.002-05:00

(Is it me..or is this snake smiling? Wonder what he is thinking?.....good thing I'm bigger than a frog)

Halloween.....and Snakes, they go hand in hand

Black Rat Snakes are one of the most common snakes encountered in Missouri. They can be quite large, reaching lengths up to 6 feet or more. I find more of these snakes than any other species of snake. They are plentiful around our farm, and often end up in our basement, especially this time of year. As soon as the temperatures begin to cool down in the fall, something in the snakes genetic make-up tells them it is time to head for shelter. This can be in cellars, caves, holes in the ground, or basements. Often times these hibernaculums will have hundreds of snakes sharing the same den space. This can include venomous snakes as well as non-venomous. They seem to be tolerant of each others presence at this time, when at no other time during the year. Fortunately for us, only a few stray snakes make it into our basement each season. In March or April they come out of their hiding places (sometimes, they FALL out of their hiding places) giving me quite a start. I scoop up the uninvited guest and place them in a tank until it is warm enough to turn them loose. I have a tendency to let them go in the yard, and my husband gets completely irritated at me for it. He is convinced they will find their way back into the basement. This may be true, but there are worse things to find in your basement right?

Having no real fear of snakes I cannot understand when people are so put off by these amazing creatures. Admittedly I wouldn't want one falling in my lap unexpectedly, but I would feel that way about any creature.

That's just plain scary!

I am always excited to spot snakes in our yard, and I am completely fascinated by them. I just can't resist capturing them ( or should I say TRY to capture them). I have been bitten so many times, you would think I would learn to "look but don't touch", apparently I was dropped on my head as a child, because I still try to pick up every one I see. Black Rat Snakes are one of my favorite snakes. They are usually mild tempered, except as babies. Seems when snakes are little, they feel the need to strike at anything that moves. Age brings self-control and they generally do not bite if handled gently and with respect. The keyword in that sentence was "generally", I would never say never!

The Black Snakes main diet consists of rats, mice, voles and other small rodents. They are capable of climbing trees as you can see in the second picture. They will feed on baby birds, bird eggs and the occasional adult bird, especially under cover of darkness when the birds are settled in for a long nights sleep. The snake will sneak up the tree and catch the bird unawares.

Snakes use their long, forked tongue to "smell" their environment. This will help them determine if food is nearby. They are capable of waiting patiently for hours without moving in the hopes of a meal passing by. A snakes tongue is forked for a reason, they can differentiate where prey is located by which side of their tongue picks up the strongest scent. If the right side of the tongue picks up more scent particles, then they strike to the right, same for the left. The tongue is drawn back into the mouth, and those scent particles are pulled across a very sensitive scent gland called the jacobson organ. This organ tells the snake if what he is smelling is food or not. Without the use of legs, arms, hands or feet, these creatures have had to evolve highly specialized ways of locating their dinner. They can silently sneak up on their prey, they use their extremely sensitive sense of smell, venomous snakes have heat sensing organs called pits located on their face that can detect the slightest amount of heat coming off even the tiniest of creatures, like mice.They have no ears, so they use their muscles to sense vibrations on the ground which alerts them of danger, or possible food nearby. Then venomous snakes take the evolution of species to a whole new level with the use of a powerful venom. Depending upon the species, the venom will act in different ways.

Black Snakes are a non-venomous snake, but they are often needlessly killed because of their resemblance to the Cottonmouth or Water Moccasin as it is often referred to as. People fearing a bite, will kill and ask questions later. Many non-venomous snakes pay dearly for looking so much like their venomous cousins.

Right now, as the weather carries the scent of autumn, you are likely to encounter snakes most anywhere as they seek shelter. Try not to be afraid, take a moment and admire one of God's truly unique creatures. Be grateful for the service they provide as rodent patrol. Please be kind, and resist the urge to get the hoe, and behead these poor misunderstood creatures. Above all..

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Bullfrogs

2009-10-20T10:35:00.000-05:00

Bullfrogs are a sure sign of summer, their loud croaking signaling their desire to find a mate. Or maybe they just sing so loudly as sign that life is good, and it's great to be a frog. We have a koi pond in our backyard and it attracts numerous bullfrogs. One spring we were cleaning the pond out to get it ready for summer enjoyment. I noticed a movement in the bottom sediment once the pond was drained. I had to look twice to make sure I was seeing what I thought I was seeing. Sure enough, this bullfrog had legs growing from his mouth. Was this some sort of mutant frog? Had some weird chemical leached into the water causing such an odd malformation? Upon closer inspection-----it appears bullfrogs are cannibals. This large frog had consumed one of his cousins, or perhaps sibling, right before my eyes. I have not looked at bullfrogs the same since.

Once the hot summer months arrived, many more bullfrogs showed up at this pond. At one point I had counted 15, in various sizes. Each evening was filled with their loud singing. These Don Juans of the amphibian world were relentless. Croaking with all their might well into the wee morning hours. Finally daybreak brought silence. Sleeping with the windows open on cooler evenings would bring with it a serenade of epic proportions. Once in awhile the smaller frogs would meet an untimely demise by some hungry Garter Snake. I'm thinking these snakes hunted down the noisy little frog and silenced him!

Is it me or is this frog smiling? He looks just a little too pleased with himself. He's probably the little blabber mouth that kept me awake. Regardless of the noise they make, I can't help but like these little green hoppers. I enjoy sitting by the pond watching them stalk their insect prey, and apparently sometimes each other. As they lazily float around on the lily pads I can't help but be envious of their relaxed life style. How grand would it be to float around on a soft bed in a cool pond on a hot day?

Signs of Fall

2009-10-15T12:32:00.000-05:00

The seasons seemed to come and go so fast this year, or perhaps that is a sign I am getting older. Missouri summers are usually so hot and humid that the only relief is found in air conditioning. This summer was an exception to that rule, there were only a handful of days that reached above 90 degrees. I admit to being very disappointed by this fact. I love the heat, sunshine and long days. September rolled in with much cooler temperatures than normal. October arrived with temperatures that were more like November. I love the fall crisp air and beautiful colors, but I seem to enjoy them more when they arrive after a hot summer. There didn't seem to be much transition this year.

These pictures were all taken in the past few weeks, and are so reminiscent of fall, that I had to post them to share. The first two were taken in Rockport, MO. This little town is just south of the Iowa border, and is now home to a small wind farm that is supplying the town with natural energy.

These three windmills were tucked away in a valley between two bluffs, they looked so pretty against the bright blue sky.

The trees pictured here are aptly named the "Kissing Trees". They are located at the Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City,NE. They have a wonderful walking trail there, and a fifty foot tree house with a view of the forest floor. Leaning over the edge is sure to give you a mild case of vertigo.

Nothing says fall like a visit to the pumpkin patch. Arbor Day Farm has one of the biggest I've ever visited. We walked for quite some time until we found just the right one. Then we had to carry that heavy monster all the way back to the main building. We took turns lugging it, very proud of our find. If you look at this picture, ours is the one right in the center, now let me tell you this thing easily weighed 25 or 30 pounds. Now that may not sound like much, but factor in its circular shape and it makes for a heavy load indeed.

On our way home from Nebraska we made a detour through Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge. This is a wonderful wetland that attracts many species of birds. I've volunteered for them on numerous occasions and it continues to be one of my favorite places to visit. On this particular visit there were a few ducks, and pelicans visiting the area. Later in the season the Eagles will show up in great numbers, as will the snow geese. every year on the first weekend in December they host a special event called Eagle Days. It is not uncommon for hundreds of eagles to be present. It is truly a sight to see.

There were still a few Great Blue Herons braving the cooler temperatures and hanging close to the shore. I even seen one on a muskrat mound that had his head pulled in close to his body and his feathers were all puffed out warding off the cold (pictured below).

American Coots are one of my favorite "ducks". Their black coloring and white bill make them a stand out on any pond or lake. Many people think they are nasty, dirty little birds and don't have much use for them. I think I just tend to be a fan of the animals I see as the underdogs. I love armadillos, opossums, bats, bugs, and coots.

The pelicans were hanging pretty far out in the water making it difficult to photograph them. They are such interesting birds.

If you are ever in North West Missouri this is a must for you to visit. You won't be disappointed. The scenery is beautiful, there are walking trails, birds, deer, and many other things to see.

And probably the biggest sign that Fall has arrived is the return of the dreaded Multi-Colored Asian Lady Beetle! These non-native species have usurped our own lovely native species and have taken over with such vim and vigor that it is difficult to even find a native species these days. Wherever you live, I hope you enjoy this autumn season, and are able to get outside and explore.

Red Fox Squirrel

2009-10-10T21:56:00.003-05:00

When you mention the word Squirrel it will raise mixed emotions depending upon who you ask. Bird watchers who spend small fortunes on bird seed each year, often find themselves waging war against these little thieves. Bird lovers often have to come up with some pretty ingenious squirrel deterrents. Baffles on poles, coffee cans on wire, greasing poles with oil or even Vasoline. Manufacturers have even gotten on board and created "guaranteed squirrel proof feeders". If you are battling these cute little critters, you are well aware that when it comes to squirrels there are no guarantees. For every puzzle we throw at them, it seems they sit and calculate the situation and in no time they've solved the problem of how to invade that delicious feed. Bird seed laid out in those handy little feeders, is like an all you can eat buffet, and offers too much temptation to a hungry squirrel. While I sympathize with each bird lovers plight, I just can't help but be on the other side of the fence with these little guys. What some people refer to as tree rats, I see as an adorable furry tailed creature that is sure to make you laugh.

Their energy is to be envied, they appear almost spastic as they leap, climb, and crawl from tree to tree with such speed as to sometimes disappear before your very eyes. Have you ever cornered one on the trunk of a tree? You on one side of the tree, and the squirrel on the other? Then it's around and around the tree we go, sometimes I think they view it as a game, knowing full well you aren't going to catch him, and if you did, you would get a nasty little bite for your trouble. In our area of Missouri there are two species of squirrels that we find, one is the Red Fox Squirrel, the other is a Gray Squirrel. Pictured here is the larger Fox squirrel. As you can see by the dirt smeared all over his face in the first picture he has been busy digging holes and burying nuts. He kept his eyes on me as I watched his antics. He repeated the same action over and over....run, grab a nut, run somewhere else, dig a hole, bury the nut, cover the hole, repeat. Often I am asked "do the squirrels find all the nuts that they bury"? The answer is "no" they do not. They are able to locate seeds buried under the ground by smell, not by memory. As they roam around during the winter months the powerful smell of buried nuts and seeds will lead them to hidden caches underground. Sometimes they find ones they've previously buried, other times they find ones that another squirrel buried, either way this caching serves them and the environment well. They are guaranteed food when times are lean and food supplies are low, and trees like oaks, hickories, and other nut bearing trees are guaranteed to get their seeds dispersed. Many of these forgotten nuts sprout and grow into young saplings, often not far from the parent tree.

Many years ago I completed training classes that allow me to rehabilitate wild animals in Missouri. To this day one of my favorite animals to rehab are these little tree squirrels. They are very easy to care for and their survival rate is high. I've had them come to me as "pinkie" squirrels, that is to say they are very tiny and hairless, maybe 3 or so days old. When I am able to save them it is a good feeling. At about 13 weeks of age they are released to our timber. For a few days I keep a supply of food out for them and provide them with shelter until they are confident enough to head out on their own. It doesn't take them long to figure out just what they were designed to do and I will see them leaping from tree to tree, and paying no more attention to me than as if they had never seen me before. Just as it should be. Many people have asked me how I can bear to release these animals after giving them months of care. The answer is simple, "they aren't mine to own". They belong in the wild, no wild animal truly enjoys a life of captivity. I would be doing a disservice to any wild animal if I tried to "tame it". If someone wanted to keep one as a pet there are some things you should consider. First of all is it legal, many states forbid the capture and containment of wild animals. Missouri is one such state that frowns on this. In certain situations permission can be granted, but you better have a good reason for keeping the animal, you better have permission from the proper authorities and you better be prepared for the care involved. If caught with a wild animal in your possession you can face fines, and time in a courtroom. Caring for these animals is no small feat. Large caging with plenty of room to climb and roam is needed. Fresh food and water is essential on a daily basis. If you let them run your house, be prepared to be a substitute tree. They will leap from any vantage point right on top your shoulders, or your head. Trust me this can take you by surprise, and those claws are sharp! As fast as they land on your head, they will in turn use your head as a spring board launching them somewhere else, once again digging their claws into you. My arms have had scratches on them to the point of being raw from their constant climbing. They are charming, spritely, hilarious and equally energetic, skittish and easily frightened. Their pulse races and they are constantly on guard. It is this timid, untrusting nature that keeps them alive in the wild.

The Red Fox Squirrel is the biggest squirrel in the North America and reach lengths up to 2 feet with the tail. They are found throughout the Eastern Portion of the United States, and have become very plentiful in urban areas. They are rusty orange all over with grayish colored tips on their hair. Sometimes this can give them a Old gray haired look. This long bushy tail serves many purposes. One is to aid them with balance as they tight-rope walk across power lines, or clothes lines. Another function of this gorgeous tail is to provide warmth, they will pull that tail up over their back to help shield the fury of winter winds(picture 3), or curl it around themselves as they sleep in their dens or nests.

In captivity they are capable of living up to 15 years, in the wild they rarely make it beyond one year. They are an important part of the food chain and provide much needed nutrition for hawks, coyotes, fox, bobcat, owls, and various other meat eating predators. Only on vary rare occasions do they contract rabies, they would most likely not survive an attack by a rabid predator. If they did survive the initial attack it would still be very hard for a squirrel to pass this deadly virus along to other animals including humans. The squirrels teeth have a half inch gap between the front incisors and the back cheek teeth, this gap does not allow for the flow of saliva. It is this saliva that is the mode of transportation to the virus.

Whether you love them or hate them, they should be admired for their tenacity, energy and the great service they provide in helping plant trees, and for the sacrifice many make by playing their part in the food chain. If you just can't beat them at the "bird feeder game", try placing some corn, or sunflowers out for them away from the feeders to see if this will distract them, and help keep them away from your bird feeders. After all, sometimes there is truth to the saying "if you can't beat them, join them"

The Dandelion

2009-10-10T00:06:00.001-05:00

To the Dandelion

Dear common flower, that grow'st beside the way,
Fringing the dusty road with harmless gold,
First pledge of blithesome May,
Which children pluck, and, full of pride, uphold,
High-hearted buccaneers, o'erjoyed that they
An Eldorado in the grass have found,
Which not the rich earth's ample round
May match in wealth, thou art more dear to me
Than all the prouder summer-blooms may be.

Gold such as thine ne'er drew the Spanish prow
Through the primeval hush of Indian seas,
Nor wrinkled the lean brow
Of age, to rob the lover's heart of ease;
'Tis the Spring's largess, which she scatters now
To rich and poor alike, with lavish hand,
Though most hearts never understand
To take it at God's value, but pass by
The offered wealth with unrewarded eye.

Thou art my tropics and mine Italy;
To look at thee unlocks a warmer clime;
The eyes thou givest me
Are in the heart, and heed not space or time:
Not in mid June the golden-cuirassed bee
Feels a more summer-like warm ravishment
In the white lily's breezy tent,
His fragrant Sybaris, than I, when first
From the dark green thy yellow circles burst.

Then think I of deep shadows on the grass,
Of meadows where in sun the cattle graze,
Where, as the breezes pass,
The gleaming rushes lean a thousand ways,
Of leaves that slumber in a cloudy mass,
Or whiten in the wind, of waters blue
That from the distance sparkle through
Some woodland gap, and of a sky above,
Where one white cloud like a stray lamb doth move.

My childhood's earliest thoughts are linked with thee;
The sight of thee calls back the robin's song,
Who, from the dark old tree
Beside the door, sang clearly all day long,
And I, secure in childish piety,
Listened as if I heard an angel sing
With news from heaven, which he could bring
Fresh every day to my untainted ears
When birds and flowers and I were happy peers.

How like a prodigal doth nature seem,
When thou, for all thy gold, so common art!
Thou teachest me to deem
More sacredly of every human heart,
Since each reflects in joy its scanty gleam
Of heaven, and could some wondrous secret show,
Did we but pay the love we owe,
And with a child's undoubting wisdom look
On all these living pages of God's book.

James Russell Lowell [1819-1891]

Flowers and Frogs

2009-10-03T18:38:00.000-05:00

Pretty tulip all red and white

Little did you know what would turn up inside

A little tree frog, hopped into sight.

Unexpected surprise, on the wind he did ride.

Tulip in the wind shaking to and fro..

Still the little tree frog held on tight....

The wind battered tulip held this little beau

Keeping his perch til night.

Suddenly to the right, a sound,

A tiny cousin, a Boreal Chorus Frog sang out loud.

Small it's true, with eyes bright and round,

He sings with feeling, his notes abound.

Night has risen, day is done

Frogs everywhere, gray and green

With songs all joined, the chorus is begun

I sit and I listen, as is my routine.

Spring and Summer oh what a joy.

But alas the season must end.

Winters wind does summers heat destroy.

Now I must sit and wait for the return of my friends.

Beauty Berry

2009-09-29T14:31:00.002-05:00

Beauty Berry in the family Lamiaceae contains up to 150 species. Most species are tropical, but many survive well in Temperate zones like Missouri. Those that grow in temperate zones will be deciduous, meaning they will lose their leaves in the winter. In tropical zones they are evergreen. They are native to Asia, Southeast North America, Australia, and Central America.

In the spring these bushes will develop pretty pink or white blooms. They grow to about 6 feet tall, and about 5 to 6 feet in diameter. After blooming the leaves appear....later in the season gorgeous metallic looking purplish berries make an appearance. These berries grow in small clusters all along the bare branches. These berries will last well into the cold winter months and are an important food source for hungry birds and other animals when all other food sources have been exhausted.

Many species of these plants are used as hosts to certain moths like Swift Moths and Ghost Moths of Asia.

Wine and jellies can be made from the berries. I personally have not tried them, but would curious what it would taste like. My bush is loaded with berries, perhaps I need to try it. One species of beauty berry called American Beauty Berry is a natural repellent against Mosquitoes and ticks. I say we need to plant these things everywhere around our farm, no mosquitoes or ticks? How grand would that be? These bushes are attractive and make wonderful additions to any landscape.

Miss Fluffy

2009-09-24T14:58:00.000-05:00

Oh it's a Cats life.....

eat, sleep, and yawn,

eat, sleep and yawn......

Catch a mouse,

catch a bird....."Did I say that? Don't tell my humans!"

"Ohhhh, all this hard work makes me tired."

Boreal Chorus Frog

2009-09-22T10:38:00.001-05:00

I've previously posted about these little cutie-pies Boreal Chorus Frog . This photograph depicts an adult. To see the babies, click the link. I think they are so sweet, I just couldn't resist sharing another image.

More Shelf Mushrooms

2009-09-20T17:38:00.000-05:00

Publish Post

These crazy-looking bracket or shelf mushrooms showed up on an old Maple tree in our front yard. I have never seen anything like them before. They are a pumpkin orange, and kind of velvety feeling. I haven't been able to find them in any of my field guides. If anyone knows what they are I would sure like to know. Probably 1/4 of the tree is covered in these growths.

Happy Holler Conservation Area

2009-09-14T16:06:00.000-05:00

Happy Holler is located about 8 miles North of where I live. It encompasses 2207 acres. The 102 River borders portions of the area and offers great fishing. We make many visits out there to fish for catfish.

Pictured here is my daughter Shaylyn and her boyfriend Jake, while they ended up not getting a single bite on this trip to the river, they did have fun trying. The area also offers a large lake for bass fishing, and bird watching. I captured these images of a tree swallow, white heron and Prothonotary warbler while Kayaking this spring.

Deer are plentiful in the area as well as turkey and you're almost guaranteed to see one or the other long about evening time.

I love to drive the country roads that wind all through the area, I always see a lot of wildlife, beautiful wildflowers and tons of birds. If you like hunting, it is permitted within the boundaries of the conservation owned property. Horseback riding, hiking, and picnics are all activities that are easily enjoyed here.

One of my favorite passtimes is to hunt for insects. I spend a large amount of time out at Happy Holler poking around in the wildflowers searching for whatever insects I can find. I am rarely disappointed, like pictured here is a stilt bug on a guara plant.

Here is Missouri Primrose which is plentiful all around the area, and certainly pretty to look at.

If you get the chance to visit this Conservation Area, do so. You won't be disappointed.

Peek - A- Boo

2009-09-09T12:22:00.000-05:00

PEEK-A-BOO

I see you!

This adorable little gray tree frog (green color phase) found a safe hiding place on a stalk of corn.

2009-09-04T09:41:00.001-05:00

These gorgeous mushrooms were growing from the side of a tree along a busy city street in the town where I work. I spotted them on my way home and did not have my camera with me (When will I learn). I drove 15 miles home, and asked Joey if he wanted to take a road trip with me. He of course wanted to know where, and when I told him I needed to go back into town and get some pictures of some cool mushrooms that I spotted on my way home. He of course thought I was nuts, but he agreed to ride along. I had never seen anything quite like these before, they were growing up the side of the tree like stair steps. Their flesh was very bright white, and they had gorgeous "gills" on the underside. While I was busy snapping photos, a couple out for an evening walk stopped and hollered from across the street "If you hadn't of been taking pictures, we would have never noticed them".

It just goes to show that each of us should slow down and look at what is around us, you never know just exactly what you will discover.

Lady's Thumb

2009-09-02T11:01:00.001-05:00

This common weed (or wildflower--depending upon your view) is Lady's Thumb (Polygonum persicaria), it also goes by many other common names such as Spotted Lady's-Thumb, Redleg, Adam's Plaster, Redshank and Persicaria. These little flowers while pretty at first, can fast become a nuisance, they spread rapidly and will take over any area where they are present. I made the mistake of encouraging it, mistakenly thinking it had an interesting flower, now it has choked out many of my other plants and shows no signs of stopping. Seems I will be yanking and pulling this stuff out before there is nothing left of my garden but Lady's Thumb. Polygonum is native to Europe and Asia, it was introduced to the United States, it has established itself in all the mainland states. This troublesome little weed was first discovered in the Great Lake regions in 1843 and is now considered an invasive weed in those parts. This plant can reach heights up to 2 feet, and it has lancet shaped leaves.This plant prefers sunlit moist conditions, but will easily adapt to poorer dirt and shady conditions. There are several species and sub-species of this plant and I am unsure which one is pictured here. One species has a telltale purple splotch on the leaves. It can be found most anywhere, along roadsides, in ditches, along riverbanks or in backyards like the one pictured. This plant contains persicarin and tannins which were used to treat diahrrea and infections. Fresh leaves have been used to stop bleeding.

The nectar of the flowers attracts Halictid bees, wasps, and Syrphid flies primarily. Less comon visitors include small butterflies and bumblebees. Halictid bees also collect pollen occasionally. The foliage is eaten by the caterpillars of some Copper butterflies and several species of Moths, while the flowers and fruit are eaten by the caterpillars of the Gray Hairstreak butterfly. Japanese beetles are also quite fond of the foliage of this and other smartweeds. Mammalian herbivores rarely feed on the foliage of Lady's Thumb because the foliage is pungent, peppery, and slightly bitter. However, White-Tailed Deer may chomp off the tops of young plants upon occasion. The seeds of smartweeds are very popular with waterfowl and granivorous songbirds. The seeds of Lady's Thumb, in particular, are eaten by birds in both upland and wetland habitats. The ecological value of this little plant is rather high, notwithstanding its weedy nature.

Sources: www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/lady_thumb.htm
Wikipedia

Where have all the birds gone?...HMMMMM

2009-09-01T12:45:00.001-05:00

You think?.....NAH!

Partridge Pea

2009-08-27T13:41:00.004-05:00

Partridge Pea (Chamaechrista fasciculata), a legume found throughout Missouri and much of the eastern United States. It is very common along road banks, ditches, and abandoned fields. Occasionally partridge pea is planted on purpose to aid in road bank erosion, as it grows rapidly and spreads profusely. This plant is insect pollinated by long tongued bees such as minor bees, bumble bees, honey bees, and large leaf-cutting bees.
Sometimes leaf-cutting bees will portion off parts of the petals to provision their brood nest with. Three sulphur butterflies use this plant for their host. You will likely find Little Sulphur, Sleepy Orange and Cloudless Sulphur caterpillars feasting on the foliage. Bobwhite quail and greater prairie chickens feed on the seed of this plant, the seeds are viable throughout the winter, so therefore they are an important part of these birds diet. Partridge Pea begins blooming in mid to late summer and blooms until the first frost. With sufficient moisture it will retain flowers throughout this entire time. The blooms are somewhat sensitive and will partially close when touched or disturbed.
If you raise cattle, be careful, this plant is toxic to cattle. The plant contains a cathartic substance that when consumed in substantial quantities can be stressful to cows and ultimately cause death. They like the flavor of this plant and they will readily consume it. It would be best to not grow this plant near livestock. Many Native American tribes recognized the benefit of this species of plant and used it in natural healing, the Seminoles used it to treat nausea. The Cherokee used it as a stimulant to ward off fainting spells as well as to keep sports players from tiring out.
Those of us who like to "grow native" utilize this beautiful plant within our gardens. It is easy to grow, attracts bees and butterflies and is pleasing to the eye.

Another Shelf Mushroom

2009-08-24T10:29:00.003-05:00

This gorgeous orange shelf mushroom was found at Happy Holler Conservation Area. It is the first time I've ever seen an orange variety.

American Goldfinch

2009-08-20T10:50:00.003-05:00

The American Goldfinches are in the middle of their nesting season and I am noticing an increase in their numbers. It seems they are attracted to all the coneflowers that have gone to seed. This one here was busy plucking seeds and eating them as fast as he could pick them. Greedy little sucker, I say.

They are certainly one of my backyard favorites. In the summer their bright sunny color brightens up the landscape. Their antics at the feeders, as they chase other finches away from their cache is fun to watch. They readily scold each other and mock fight. Then in the winter as their colorful plumage gives way to their more drab winter coloration they begin to flock together in huge numbers. I counted over a 100 at one time in my yard a few years back. They are a joy year round!

Shelf Mushrooms

2009-08-18T15:18:00.003-05:00

Shelf Mushrooms always fascinate me. These appeared on a rotting stump in our backyard after a recent rain. I think they are so pretty.

Black Bears, Barns, and the Beautiful Smoky Mountains

2009-08-14T15:32:00.008-05:00

Waterfall in the Little River, Townsend, TN

Little River

Old barn at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

View of the Smoky Mountains.

Cabin with a view.

Black Tail were very common in the Cades Cove area of the Smoky Mountain National Forest. They were very tame and easy to approach. These two pictured here were running towards a couple of other deer near the roadway.

Odd moss and fern-like growths on the sides of trees throughout the area.

One thing we hoped to see, but really didn't feel we stood much chance were the Black Bears. My daughter asked me if I thought we would see a bear and I answered by saying that the chances were probably pretty slim. We rounded a corner, and there was a large mama bear reaching up and pulling berries out of a tree. A few minutes later our daughter spotted one crossing a creek. Several miles down the road people were standing around looking up in a tree. We stopped and looked, and found two baby black bears and a mama. They were eating cherries out of the tree tops. One little baby was precariously hanging from a tree limb, several times he almost fell. Mama lost sight of them a couple of times and would jump from limb to limb until she could see them again. The tree would shake under her weight, and those little babies would hold on for dear life. They were so cute. All told we saw 6 black bears and got far closer than we thought possible.

Baby Black bear climbing a limb trying to reach his mama.

Gorgeous orange mushrooms in the timber.

Update: I finally got an ID on this mushroom--- it is Caesar's Mushroom (Amanita caesarea). They are named from being the favored mushroom of Roman emperors. This mushroom is found within oak woodlands, sometimes mixed with conifers. This mushroom is highly prized for its flavor, although best to be careful as it can be easily confused with other mushrooms within this genus that are highly poisonous.

Black Tail Deer in the woodlands.

Joey, Joel and Shaylyn touring an old mill settlement. We tried to figure out why this barn was built the way that it is. Does anyone have any ideas why it is elevated?

Update: Joey did some research and discovered the reason these barns were built this way was to provide shelter during inclement weather for livestock. It also provided and area for the farmer to shelf corn.

Tree tops--Smoky Mountains

Water chute at the grist mill.

Paddle Wheel at the grist mill.

Paddle Wheel House and Paddle wheel at Cades Cove.

Old Barn within the Smoky Mountain National Forest.

And you know you are in the South when you drive down Interstate 40 and as you enter Tennessee you spot a Rebel Flag!

Nashville Tennessee

2009-08-10T16:35:00.002-05:00

Cumberland River

We are in Tennessee this week. This is our last day in Nashville, and tomorrow we leave for Townsend Tennessee, near the Smoky Mountains. We will be staying in a cabin near the mountains. I thought I would share some of the scenery of Nashville. Even though this is a blog about Missouri, I thought we could depart for a bit and visit our neighbor to the east, and enjoy the beauty they have to offer.

Coal Barge Moving against the current on the Cumberland River

The Andrew Jackson Showboat seen in the distance, docked on the Cumberland River

The Two-Rivers Park walking bridge. This is a great walking and biking trail and gives beautiful views of the river.

Gray Squirrel came to visit.

The Grand Old Opry

Cooter's Museum-

where you can see everything Dukes of Hazzard. I can remember as a child watching Dukes of Hazzar-d each week. It was no miss television night. My brothers were huge fans. Touring this museum brought back a lot of fond memories. Our son is a huge fan of the reruns, and even painted his first 4X4 truck General Lee orange.

Ryman Auditorium--the birth place of the Opry.

Music Row downtown Nashville.

Very scary at night, lots of homeless vagrants, begging for handouts. I would be scared to death at night down there alone. Well on second thought I wouldn't be down there at night alone! It was a happening place. Lots and lots of bars, all booming with country music. People roaming the streets, and sightseers everywhere. One old homeless man, missing an arm followed us for several blocks begging for money. He reeked of alcohol and was incapable of any kind of normal communcations skills. To see people actually living like that, sure makes you grateful for the life you have. One of security and full of human comforts.

Nashville Military Cemetery

Tranquil and beautiful, the Nashville Military Cemetery is well worth visiting. Thousands and thousands of soldiers and their families find their final resting place here.