Wintering Flocks at the Feeder
Everyone should recognize this plump little bird, even if you aren't an active bird watcher. It's the Carolina Chickadee, which lives in Kentucky year-round. You will hear it chattering and…
What’s that Blob in the Tree?
Now that the tree branches are bare, you may notice dark blobs in the branches and wonder what in the world they are. Here in Kentucky, there are two options…
Golden Ginkgo Trees
Many trees turn bright yellow in the autumn, but one of my favorites is the bright yellow Ginkgo tree, found in many locations since it is a popular landscaping tree.…
The Mobbing Crowd
It is not uncommon to see a group of crows or mockingbirds chasing a hawk or eagle, or a group of songbirds fluttering and calling around a perched owl. Such…
Sumac in the Fall
We all enjoy the bright colors of fall. Sometimes I can't find enough adjectives to describe the reds of maple trees and dogwoods. But the brightest red of all may…
Is It an Orange or Apple?
During these bright autumn days, you might notice a peculiar looking tree growing along the roadside. It looks like bright green oranges or softballs are hanging from its branches! Maclura…
Blooms Along the Brook
Historic Springhouse Despite the record rainfall and floods of spring, the summer has been dry. Looking around the Preserve, not much seems to be in bloom. Arrowroot in Upper Pond Only…
Hummmming Along at the Nature Preserve
When you come to Mahan Manor at the Nature Preserve, look at the garden right by the driveway. Several hummingbird feeders hang there, where they are a popular spot for…
Blackbird, Blackbird
Black Vultures It's not easy to tell birds apart sometimes, especially if they are the same color, like black. There are some things to watch for which can help. If…
Native Grasslands
Kentucky’s native grasslands have almost disappeared by the 21st Century, but it is important to restore and protect these areas. Early settlers found vast forests, except in south-central and western…