"The ache for home lives in all of us ― the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned."
― Maya Angelou
As May ends, many species of birds, exhausted from their arduous migratory endeavors, complete their extraordinary voyages. They find solace in lush habitats, beckoning them with an abundance of sustenance and the promise of creating the next generation. These avian nomads find respite in tranquil prairies, dense woodlands, or along the welcoming shores of lakes and rivers. They replenish their energy, eager to engage in courtship rituals, construct nests, and raise their fledglings. What better place to observe birds on territory than Spring Green Preserve in Sauk County?
May also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings. Bird migration epitomizes the resilience and adaptability of these magnificent creatures, while also highlighting intricate relationship between various ecosystems. Their presence enriches the environment, fostering pollination, dispersing seeds, and maintaining a delicate balance in nature. This Lark Sparrow, however, is likely not searching for seeds (it will eat them, of course), but for crunchy-juicy insects. Wait ... my beloved insects!? With Nature nearly everything that lives is potential food for something else.
Spring reminds us of the ephemeral nature of life and the transient beauty that graces our world. It prompts us to cherish and protect these fleeting moments, to safeguard the habitats that sustain these winged wanderers, and to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the intricate tapestry of life that surrounds us. Even a place as wonderful as Spring Green Preserve renders trouble ― I saw some folks who were likely poaching reptiles judging by their nets, bags, and turning over rotting logs and such. By the time I got off the bluff and back to the prairie, they were nowhere to be found.
Naturally, with all plants ― native and non-native ― my botanical foe returns. Urushiol, the oil found within Poison Ivy's leaves, stems, and roots, is its weapon of choice. While harmless to some, this oily resin triggers a powerful allergic reaction in many individuals (like me), leading to a dermatological nightmare. Even the slightest brush against its foliage can be enough to set in a horrific cascade of itching, swelling, and blistering persisting for weeks. Immune? County yourself lucky!
Pretty leaves, but let it be!
More than any other month of the year, Nature unveils its most vibrant and captivating hues during May. As the winter frost melts away, a symphony of life awakens, and the world becomes a canvas of resplendent beauty. It's a month of transition, where the embrace of spring fully manifests, and the air is alive with fragrant blossoms and the melodies of countless creatures.
To demonstrate the hues and vibrance, here's Blue-eyed Grass, Prairie Phlox, and Columbine.
Lastly, tiger beetles ...
There was only a single Splendid Tiger Beetle observed yesterday, so their time is pretty much over until their second emergence during late summer. Alas, I did not find any Common Claybank Tiger Beetles so far this spring, so that will also have to wait until summer's end.
This one appears to have endured a bit of punishment, but I've seen them in far worse condition. You can see it's missing part of a rear leg and its elytra are a bit banged up. At least its mandibles and antennae are intact ― it's ability to fly and run were in no way impaired.
Rar!
There were a few Big Sand Tiger Beetles at both the East Unit and West Unit. So far this year I haven't made an effort to spend more time with this species, but I'll probably do so soon at the Sauk City Canoe Launch now that the Wisconsin River has gone down and revealed more of the beach.
Festive Tiger Beetles were omnipresent, except for atop the bluff. It's interesting how the Splendids are seldom ever observed on the prairie path below, and the Festives never seem to venture to the rocky outcroppings ― specific microhabitats keep them from having to compete with one another. Six-spotted Tiger Beetles own the woodland trails and I did spot a few of them on my decent. Given the prevalence of Poison Ivy and mosquitoes, I did not bother to photograph them.
Though a Yellow-breasted Chat was very vocal, I didn't hear any Blue Grosbeak songs during this visit. Lark Sparrows, Field Sparrows, Orchard Orioles, and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were the primary participants of the prairie chorus. The gorgeous weather kept me out most of the day, but eventually one must head home while leaving another behind. As insects approach their summer crescendo, there will be more outings to Spring Green in the weeks and months to come.
Spring Green Preserve, Wisconsin, US
May 27, 2023 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
50 species
Mourning Dove
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Black-billed Cuckoo
Turkey Vulture
Cooper's Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-headed Woodpecker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Acadian Flycatcher
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
Yellow-throated Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Horned Lark
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Bank Swallow
Barn Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch
House Wren
European Starling
Gray Catbird
Brown Thrasher
Eastern Bluebird
Wood Thrush
American Robin
Cedar Waxwing
American Goldfinch
Grasshopper Sparrow
Field Sparrow
Lark Sparrow
Eastern Towhee
Eastern Meadowlark
Orchard Oriole
Baltimore Oriole
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Blue-winged Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Yellow-breasted Chat
Scarlet Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
All images © 2023 Mike McDowell