I did not know there was an entire day dedicated to raccoons. Don’t let those cute little faces fool you, raccoons are pesky little creatures.
To keep them from destroying my bird feeders, I actually have to grease the poles. I must look like a right fool out there greasing the poles to my bird feeders. But the silly process works.
How long have you been taking pictures? When I was 12, my grandfather gave me an old 126 film camera.
I thought I had the world. Compared to today’s cameras, the 126 is a dinosaur. But I still remember the feeling of setting up displays or photographing nature. Over the years, my photo skills have drastically improved. Bu my love for nature is still as strong as ever.
I wish he could see how my photography has changed over the years.
And, how a simple camera was the start of a lifetime adventure in photography.
Every year, a pair of Swans return to our area. For me, their return means warmer weather is just around the corner. Even though we had lots of snow, freezing rain, and other fun slushy mixture on Sunday, I still believe spring is officially on the way.
Last week was freezing here in mid-Michigan. The Polar Vortex gave us unbelievably frigid temperatures. Along with biting cold, the bone-chilling wind chills made me want to stay indoors. Then, we had a brief warm up to almost fifty degrees. And, now…well…we have ice everywhere. I am afraid to ask what Mother Nature has in store for us next.
I just know he (or she) is telling me, “Excuse me can you fill your bird feeders? So I can sit out here, eat, and drive your dogs insane.”
I took extra care on keeping my feeders full. I had numerous winged visitors and a few furry ones.
I think the bird was giving me the evil eye because I was interrupting lunch. Notice the thin layer of ice on the branches?
Even though, I generally do not mind winter. I mean, the changing seasons is why I enjoy Michigan. But, I must admit, I am looking forward to Spring.
White with black markings, the Hickory Tussock Moth Caterpillar stands out against the green foliage. Slowly moving along the underside of the leaf, the caterpillar seemed to avoid detection from passing predators.
Researching the spiked tuft caterpillar was interesting. Many people have allergic reactions due to the hair like spikes. My grandfather used to say “if you are dumb enough to pick it up then it’s your own fault.” I still take this advice to heart when I am out in the woods. I am really cautious as I photograph insects and wildlife in general.
Off from my porch, I have a Burdock plant in bloom. I know most people wonder why I let the “weed” grows so close to my house. The answer is simple. Photographing bees.
Right now, the water is extremely high. Leaving me to stick close to my house. One good aspect, I get to watch the birds “play” out by my feeders. I admit the little Downy woodpecker is one of my favorites. He just seems to scamper up the pole with ease.
When I am outside taking photos, I cannot help but wonder if he is watching me as much as I am watching him.