BUGS!

There are a lot of little hidden away places to go hiking here in the river valley. I took a walk the other day on the refuge. The area had lots of tall grasses so I got to enjoy an abundance of dragonflies and damselflies as well as some beautiful sunshine!

First Signs of Fall

There are signs of fall all around. Schools are back in session and returning to the Audubon Center. Leaves are starting to change. Birds are migrating. Where did my summer go?

Leaves changing color

Maple leaf changing color

Today, I left work mid-afternoon and took a hour walk around the property and brought my camera. Saw a bunch of dragonflies and frogs (gray tree frogs, spring peepers, and wood frogs). I also saw a couple garter snakes and woodpeckers.I was also surprised to see so many of the leaves starting to change color already! It was a nice relaxing hike where I cleared my mind a bit and I got some fun photos.

Dragonfly

Tree Frog resting on Milkweed

Fun bug on milkweed

For those of you keeping track, today was the 22nd day in a row that I worked at least a half day. When people ask me about the birds at the center, I always tell them that they are permanently injured and non-releasable. Lately, I have been feeling like the permanently injured, non-releasable intern. I am tired and starting to get a bit antsy. The good news is I have tomorrow off and will be heading off site. YAY!

creepy crawlies

Today was a day filled with all sorts of creepy crawly (and pretty) critters. During lunch, the kids found an AWESOME luna moth!!

This afternoon, I observed a class where kids learn about reptiles and amphibians. After some time in the classroom, its off on a herp hunt....here's just one of the frogs they found, a spring peeper.

While they were exploring, I found a few more creepy crawlies of the insect variety.

Unknown species but it sure looks cool with its black spots and yellowy body!

A spider in its web!