It’s not necessary to go far from home to enjoy the beauty of nature. If you just sit still and watch, sometimes nature comes to you.
“What a voyage is this we make without leaving for a night our own fireside!” ~John Burroughs
Bird watching
Author: Rebecca
Sandhill Cranes
The call of the Sandhill Cranes can once again be heard as they wander the grain fields around Hop-In Refuge in search of food.
“We are all wanderers on this earth. Our hearts are full of wonder, and our souls are deep with dreams.” ~Gypsy proverb
Reflections
A lake is a landscape’s most beautiful and expressive feature. It is Earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature. ~Henry David Thoreau
Insects on Bur Marigold
Bur marigold attracts many insects which enjoy the nectar and pollen from their flowers. The beautiful yellow flower heads can be seen in September and October growing in sunny or partially shady wet areas.
“For observing nature, the best pace is a snail’s pace.” ~Edwin Way Teale
Golden hour
There’s something magical about the lake as the sun sits low in the sky and the landscape lights up in beautiful golden hues.
“If a year was tucked inside a clock, then autumn would be the magic hour.” ~Victoria Erickson
White pelicans
White pelicans, migrating from their breeding grounds in the north, sometimes take a southern route along the Mississippi River. A number of these birds arrived at Reelfoot Lake in October in search of food and a place to rest.
On our first encounter with them, we spotted a large number flying silently overhead.
Later, we saw several sitting on logs out in the lake, preening their beautiful white feathers.
Below, the second pelican from the right eventually grew tired of sitting and preening, and opted instead to go for a swim.
Whether in the air or on the lake, it is always a welcome surprise to come across these magnificent birds.
“Nature’s prime favourites were the Pelicans; High-fed, long-lived, and sociable and free.” ~James Montgomery
Backyard squirrels
What a quiet place our yard would be without the activity of the squirrels as they scurry among the pine trees. At this time of the year, they are particularly busy collecting or munching on seeds and nuts.
“People look at me like I’m a little strange, when I go around talking to squirrels and rabbits and stuff. That’s ok. That’s just ok.” ~Bob Ross
