Hi River Roaders,

We had beautiful weather this past week, and the birds and blooms were out in force. For many naturalists, myself included, mid-May is a favorite time of year.

Every year we have several deer that spend a lot of time on our grounds. I guess this one will be easy to identify.

I’m not sure if this buckeye tree was selected for this spot because of the red flowers, or it was just serendipity, but it looks nice beside the fire plug.

I was “plant blind” to the blue eyed grass (Sisyrinchium sp.) on our grounds until two years ago. Now I see it every where. It’s actually in the iris family.

Tall meadow rue (Thalictrum pubescens) in bloom in Springsview Garden. This plant is also very common along the canal.

Last week I said that it was my favorite week because of peak bird migration. I saw and heard many species this week, including this northern parula warbler that was getting ready to take a bath in the springs. I also got good looks at a redstart and a Cape May warbler, but no photos.

I heard both Swainson’s thrush and a veery this week. I’m calling this a veery because I had been hearing it’s ethereal downward spiral song all day.

I’ve been enjoying trying to identify some of the grasses on our grounds. I think I can say with confidence that this is fowl manna grass (Glyceria striata), a native grass found in wet places.

We added to our fern diversity this year, with the addition of two cinnamon ferns (Osmunda cinnamomea) to Springsview Garden. I find them striking in bloom.

Next Week: Brood X!

I hope you can get outside this week and observe the wonder of nature that is the 17 year cicada.

Joe