We were excited to see a young eaglet sitting on the edge of a nest in a tree along the Mississippi River. A second eaglet could be seen lower in the nest, stretching its wings. Eventually one of the parents came back to the tree and sat in the shadow of a branch above them, dutifully keeping watch before settling back into the nest.
“I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.” ~ Helen Keller
At this time of year, a drive around the flooded fields and woods surrounding the Mississippi levee never disappoints. It offers an opportunity to observe a variety of waterfowl and small birds.
“Birds are the most popular group in the animal kingdom. We feed them and tame them and think we know them. And yet they inhabit a world which is really rather mysterious.” ~David Attenborough
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
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
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
Walking along the boardwalk at the Reelfoot Wildlife Refuge, we spotted a Bald eagle sitting near the top of a cypress tree a short distance away. It was keeping a close eye on a number of coots which were swimming among the vegetation out in the lake.
“Food may be essential as fuel for the body, but good food is fuel for the soul.” ~Malcolm Forbes
This pine warbler made a quick stop at my feeder one day this week. Though not one that I had seen around before, his bright color and cheery trill were most welcome.
“Always remember to set a place at the table of life for the unexpected guest.” ~Linda Ellerbee
Hummingbirds are attracted to the bright red color of the cardinal flower. From these delicate, trumpet-shaped flowers, the hummingbird receives sweet nectar. In return, the cardinal flower depends on the hummingbird for pollination.
Across the downs a hummingbird
Came dipping through the bowers,
He pivoted on emptiness
To scrutinize the flowers.
~Nathalia Crane
walking on a country road 