The sounds of Sandhill Cranes evoke nature's whimsy. Having sandhill cranes in my neighborhood fills me with profound joy. Their majestic presence adds a touch of wilderness to everyday life. Their distinctive calls echo through the air, marking the changing seasons. Watching them gracefully navigate the skies or stroll leisurely through fields brings a sense … Continue reading Sandhill Crane
birding
Red-winged Blackbird
Harbingers of spring on the pond. Red-winged blackbirds at my birdfeeder evoke all the springtime vibes. Their glossy plumage, adorned with fiery red epaulets, ignites the senses. Their melodious distinct calls weave through the air, a tribute to nature's song. Each visit brings a burst of life, a reminder of the wild's proximity. Their presence … Continue reading Red-winged Blackbird
Sibley bird guide app
This bird guide app isn't free but it is an excellent set of field guidebooks turned into an app. Sibley Birds App David Allen Sibley is a renowned American ornithologist and artist celebrated for his exceptional contributions to bird identification. Born in 1961, Sibley gained widespread recognition for his groundbreaking field guides, notably "The Sibley … Continue reading Sibley bird guide app
Ring-necked Pheasant
Colorful, adaptable, ground-foraging, game bird. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbBtKHq04K0 The Ring-necked Pheasant, a strikingly colorful bird native to Asia, has become a captivating presence year-round in my Minnesota yard. With its iridescent plumage and distinct neck ring, this bird adds a touch of wildness to my surroundings. Their distinct cackling calls punctuate the air, announcing their presence. Witnessing … Continue reading Ring-necked Pheasant
Audubon’s “Birds of America” Online
A stunning collection of hand-colored prints depicting various bird species in North America available online. Birds of America - John J. AudobonJohn James Audubon's BiographyJohn James Audubon's "Birds of America" is an ornithological masterpiece, published between 1827 and 1838. This monumental work comprises 435 life-sized illustrations of North American birds, showcasing Audubon's meticulous artistic skill … Continue reading Audubon’s “Birds of America” Online
Homemade hummingbird nectar recipe
Creating homemade hummingbird food is simple and involves only a couple of ingredients. Crafting your own hummingbird food ensures a pure and natural nectar source for these enchanting avian visitors. Commercial alternatives may contain harmful additives, preservatives, or red dyes that can be detrimental to hummingbirds. Homemade nectar, made simply with water and sugar, provides … Continue reading Homemade hummingbird nectar recipe
Wood Duck nest box
Providing suitable nesting sites for these beautiful birds. Building a wood duck nest box is a tangible act of conservation, fostering the well-being of a species integral to wetland ecosystems. These nest boxes offer critical nesting sites, mitigating the loss of natural cavities due to habitat changes. Wood ducks, known for their vibrant plumage, faced … Continue reading Wood Duck nest box
Barn Swallow
Acrobatic, delicate, dedicated parents. Barn Swallows gracing my barn evoke a lively spectacle of nature. With iridescent blue-black plumage, their aerobatic flights adorn the pasture, capturing the essence of summer. These agile birds skillfully snatch insects mid-air, contributing to natural pest control. Nests, meticulously crafted from mud, cling beneath eaves, echoing a timeless bond between … Continue reading Barn Swallow
Downy Woodpecker
Lively and rhymical woodpecker. Downy Woodpeckers bring enchantment to my yard with their lively antics and distinctive black-and-white plumage. Their petite stature, just 6-7 inches in length, adds charm as they flit gracefully among branches. The rhythmic drumming resonates, a percussion of nature's symphony. Their arrival is a reminder of the intricate beauty within the … Continue reading Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Flashy movements, climbers, with rhythmic slower drumming. The Hairy Woodpecker's rhythmic drumming and distinctive black-and-white plumage bring a unique rhythm to my yard, transforming it to include natural wonder. Their diligent foraging, tapping resonantly on our tree trunks, adds a woodland symphony to our life. With striking markings and a dignified presence, Hairy Woodpeckers captivate … Continue reading Hairy Woodpecker