Saturday, March 30, 2013

Phenology 3.30.2013

Blackbirds in the Silver Maples
My head is spinning; its a phenologists dream world out there right now!  Spring has arrived and it is here in full force.  Here are just a few of the changes that have been noted today:
  • 1st Thunderstorm of the season
  • American Robins have returned to the farm
  • Our pair of killdeer have come back and are eagerly flying around the farm looking for the ideal nesting site
  • Flock after flock of migratory waterfowl are flying back and forth from the large wetland to the east to their feeding grounds in the west - here are the varieties I have seen so far:  Canadian Geese, Mallards, Wood Ducks, Lesser Canadian Geese, Tundra Swans, and even Sandhill Cranes
  • Apple trees buds are swelling
  • Chickadees have changed their tune from their winter chirps to the wonderful "Chicka -dee-dee-dee" song
  • Spring cool-season grasses and clover are starting to show their green leaves
  • Flocks of red-winged blackbirds and common grackles are flying by and resting in the large maples
  • Even a few flying insects have emerged, but I have yet to identify them
With all of these changes happening around us, I can hardly stand to spend a moment indoors.  Yes the season of muddy boots and the fresh smell of rain is here - get out there and enjoy it!

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