Spring is really springing when we see the osoberries blooming.  The earliest bloomer (that I know of) in these parts, they grace the trails first with bright green leaves, then with hanging bunches of delicate white flowers.  I’m not the only one excited to see them – early pollinators are also out and about visiting on warm days.

I had the pleasure of seeing a pileated woodpecker here in Alton Baker Park for the first time last week!  Its huge body, red head and distinctive call made my heart beat with excitement.  They are the birds responsible for the large rectangular holes on the sides of trees, often right at eye level for us humans.

The nest that has been occupied by ospreys for years is gearing up for its annual bald eagle – osprey throw-down.  Each year, the bald eagles try to get the nest, and often go after the osprey’s young before they fledge.  Each year, the osprey fight them off.  How do the smaller birds get the bigger ones to go?  Until the osprey return, we get to hear the eagle crying its possession over the big, beautiful nest with a cry that makes my nape hair stand on end.

Advertisement