"At last came the golden month of the wild folk ― honey-sweet May, when the birds come back, and the flowers come out, and the air is full of the sunrise scents and songs of the dawning year."
― Samuel Scoville
Warbler season is underway, but instead of the usual waves, it's been more of a trickle so far. It remains to be seen how the season will unfold by mid-May, but this spring migration has been rather underwhelming. Nonetheless, it's difficult to be disappointed with 20 warbler species. I might be a bit spoiled by some of the more impressive early May migrations I've experienced in the past. The early leaf-out this year is making it challenging to get clear views through binoculars, let alone capture good photographs. As a result, expect fewer bird-related blog posts for now.
I've been stopping at a productive spot along Military Ridge State Trail near the Sugar River on my way into work the past week — tallying a number of FOYs. I've biked this trail in the past, but I must say one can appreciate its scenic beauty much better on foot. For the weekend, though, it's always the Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor to start, then maybe other nearby locations like Marshall Park and Governor's Island.
Yesterday I found my first Six-spotted Tiger Beetles of spring at Deer Creek, which is just across the street from my apartment.
It was midday, so the lighting was rather harsh and contrasty ...
I've gone to Pope Farm Conservancy for Six-spotted along the rock wall, but for whatever reason, they emerge later at this location. Checking previous records, right around mid-May. The rock wall helps to render better portraits, as the predaceous beetles are often at angles relative to the sunlight.
May offers a rich tapestry of natural wonders for naturalists to explore and enjoy in southern Wisconsin. As the weather warms up, the landscape comes alive with a burst of activity. Birds that have migrated back for the breeding season are actively singing and nesting. Warblers, with their vibrant colors, are particularly stunning and sought-after by birders. The woodlands and wetlands are filled with the sounds of frogs and toads calling for mates, while wildflowers like trilliums, bluebells, and columbines carpet the forest floor with a riot of colors.
Don't miss it!
All images © 2024 Mike McDowell