Nature around these parts of late:
Black-Billed Magpie
For several weeks, a black-billed magpie could be seen hanging around near our dogs' yard. He may still be around, I'm not sure. His presence is a bit of a surprise since magpies are not usually seen this far north. Look in any bird field guide, and it will not show magpies living as far north at any time of year.
However, in the past few years I have heard some reports of sitings from friends and acquaintences. This is the first I have seen of a magpie here in Fairbanks. (When I lived in Washington state, I saw them all the time.)
To see a picture of a black-billed magpie and hear its call, go to http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black-billed_Magpie/id.
I observed this magpie flying around with a much larger raven. Not surprising on the raven's part; ravens are extremely playful.
Red Fox
A few days ago, I glanced out the window to see a small red creature trotting away down a path in the woods. My first thought was of a pomeranian. Of course, that seemed strange. A few moments later, I glimpsed his tail--big and fluffy with a white tip. It was definitely a red fox. About an hour later, I caught sight of him again for a few seconds. I waited a few minutes, then I went outside and cautiously made my way to where I had seen him. He was long gone, of course, but I did get some good shots of his tracks. Hopefully, I'll have those pictures up on the website soon. :)
Black-Billed Magpie
For several weeks, a black-billed magpie could be seen hanging around near our dogs' yard. He may still be around, I'm not sure. His presence is a bit of a surprise since magpies are not usually seen this far north. Look in any bird field guide, and it will not show magpies living as far north at any time of year.
However, in the past few years I have heard some reports of sitings from friends and acquaintences. This is the first I have seen of a magpie here in Fairbanks. (When I lived in Washington state, I saw them all the time.)
To see a picture of a black-billed magpie and hear its call, go to http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black-billed_Magpie/id.
I observed this magpie flying around with a much larger raven. Not surprising on the raven's part; ravens are extremely playful.
Red Fox
A few days ago, I glanced out the window to see a small red creature trotting away down a path in the woods. My first thought was of a pomeranian. Of course, that seemed strange. A few moments later, I glimpsed his tail--big and fluffy with a white tip. It was definitely a red fox. About an hour later, I caught sight of him again for a few seconds. I waited a few minutes, then I went outside and cautiously made my way to where I had seen him. He was long gone, of course, but I did get some good shots of his tracks. Hopefully, I'll have those pictures up on the website soon. :)
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