Natures Details

Along the river

2012-02-05T08:44:00.000-05:00

With the warm weather I have been out enjoying it. Not much ice along the river, but still many subjects to photograph. I was playing around with slow shutter speeds and water. The blue skies added some nice color to the smooth water.

Busy!

2012-01-20T20:37:00.000-05:00

WOW!

It has been more than a month since I last posted....sorry!

Been really busy with a death in the family, new camera gear and many other things. I'm back now and have many images. It's that time of year for ice images. Ice details and other winter subjects. So starting with ice shapes I shot on a small stream. It was 23 degrees when I went down to the river, but wish it would have been colder. I will be going back to get many more shots of my favorite winter time subject.

You can see the on location shoot here...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nY4Qf9eNhqY&list=UUtQmOhFHDOoH0QPegMvBrdw&index=2&feature=plcp

The little squirrel

2011-12-08T08:32:00.001-05:00

Now that I have my new camera I have been busy taking photos again...

Really glad I upgraded to a much better camera. This little Red Squirrel was so much fun to photograph. All day it would run back in forth carrying one seed at a time and stashing it in the wood pile. I watched it take the same path over and over. So I set up my bean bag on the windows edge and took out the screen. I used my 300mm to get the shots I wanted. I waited and waited...every few minutes this squirrel would stop and look around and I would fire off a few frames. Still waiting for a good snowfall, but so far all we have is a dusting on the ground.

Waiting

2011-11-19T18:37:00.000-05:00

Waiting can be so hard...

I am waiting on a new camera body to arrive and some other goodies. I'm also waiting for a good snowfall...and for hunting season to end. I really miss being out there and enjoying the wild's of Northern Michigan. So I am spending my time editing images form this past summer and photographing the birds at the feeders.

Here are a few images from this fall...

First Snow

2011-11-11T19:12:00.001-05:00

We had our first snow this morning. It was just a dusting, but enough to make everything beautiful. The pond was calm and looked like glass. Everything was reflecting off the surface. Eagles flying and the Trumpeter Swans honking along the far shore. Here is one image of the sunrise this morning...

Skunk

2011-11-09T07:10:00.000-05:00

Been so busy the last few weeks that I have forgotten to post anything. Last night I was able to photograph a skunk. This is a first for me...

Big Tree

2011-10-07T19:08:00.000-04:00

Now that Autumn is here and the trees are ablaze. I have been trying to get out daily. This afternoon while I was out exploring a deep valley I found this huge tree in full glory. As I walked under it...the leaves were falling and it was just so special.

Autumn is here

2011-09-26T20:41:00.000-04:00

Been really busy the last few weeks...only picked up my camera a few times. Now that Autumn is here I will be out more and enjoying the color. It is just starting here in Northern Michigan. Took a short walk along the pond on my favorite walking path and enjoyed the sights and sounds of Autumn.

Fringed Gentian ~Gentiana crinita~

2011-09-11T19:41:00.002-04:00

Took a road trip this morning to photograph one of the wildflower species that I have never seen before. Thanks to a great friend and wonderful photographer I was able to locate and photograph this beautiful flower.

To The Fringed Gentian

Thou blossom bright with autumn dew,
And colored with the heaven's own blue,
That openest when the quiet light
Succeeds the keen and frosty night.

Thou comest not when violets lean
O'er wandering brooks and springs unseen,
Or columbines, in purple dressed,
Nod o'er the ground-bird's hidden nest.

Thou waitest late and com'st alone,
When woods are bare and birds are flown,
And frosts and shortening days portend
The aged year is near his end.

Then doth thy sweet and quiet eye
Look through its fringes to the sky,
Blue--blue--as if that sky let fall
A flower from its cerulean wall.

I would that thus, when I shall see
The hour of death draw near to me,
Hope, blossoming within my heart,
May look to heaven as I depart.

-William Cullen Bryant, 1832

Bird Bath

2011-09-10T17:02:00.000-04:00

Busy day at the unfinished bird bath...still have work to do on it. Going to make the upper part bigger so the birds don't fight each other to take a bath. Going to set it up so I can photograph them...will be ready by spring. Today was busy...19 species stopped by to feed at the feeders and enjoy a drink and a bath. the list below is the ones took a bath.

Pileated Woodpecker

Brown Thrasher

Tennessee Warbler

Nashville Warbler

Pine Warbler

American Redstart

Canada Warbler

Scarlet Tanager

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Blue Jay

Black-capped Chickadee

Purple Finch

Song Sparrow

Robin

Mourning Dove

White-breasted Nuthatch

Starling

Chipping Sparrow

Downy Woodpecker

Mantis Love

2011-08-30T15:03:00.000-04:00

Persistence pays off....

3 hours in the meadow following a female praying mantis was worth being bitten by ants.

Here is how it took place....

The last few days I have been visiting the meadow in hopes of capturing a mating pair of praying mantis. Today was my lucky day...I spotted this large female on the hunt for food. (See images below) So I carefully set up my tripod at ground level. Every move I made she would stare at me. I moved slowly and was able to get close, but not to close. I started shooting and waiting for an insect to become pray, but nothing happened. I followed her along the ground for over an hour. About two and a half hours into my crawling on the ground. I suddenly started to get bit by ants. I moved away and brushed them off. As I was doing so I noticed a male mantis looking at me from a higher perch. So I slowly moved my tripod and took a few shots. No sooner had I took the shots...then this male flew down to the ground close to the female. I was in luck would I get my wish and witness a mating pair. I was able to get one shot, before he jumped on her and it begun. I moved in as close as I could without disturbing them. Frame after frame I fired away. She moved slowly into the tall thick grasses where I was unable to get anymore shots. I watched them for another 15 minutes and moved on. I was happy...very happy. This male will have a slim chance of surviving. The female will have him for dinner. Pregnant females need protein and since the male is the closest food source she will eat him. There is that slim chance he will get away, but most never make it.

Mantis

2011-08-28T19:31:00.000-04:00

This afternoon I spent a few hours with 5 different praying mantis. Brown ones and green ones...great subjects and they are so much fun to watch. It was windy and with the bright sunshine made it a bit difficult to get some good shots, but I did my best. I have never found them on cloudy days only on warm sunny days in late August and September. Mating takes place in September so I think today they were on the look out for a mate. 2 brown colored males, 2 brown colored females and one green female.

I was trying to get some tight close ups of her head and front legs, but she had other plans. She climbed onto the lens...so I gently lifted her up and took a few shots and carefully placed her in the grass.

I found this mantis being attacked by some very small black ants. It's a life or death struggle in the insect world.

A Walk in the Woods

2011-08-27T20:53:00.000-04:00

Late this afternoon I took a walk in the woods along the pond. I found many subjects to photograph and seen some wood ducks, but was unable to get any shots. I did find one species of fungus that I love to photograph and admire. Coral Fungi is one of my all time favorite fungus species.

I don't find it very often, but when I do I make sure to get some photos. It comes in many colors and sizes. this is the first time I have ever found this color. Mostly I find the white color form. Not only was this fungus growing along the path I was walking, but many other species. A month from now and the trees will be starting to turn color. Summer is winding down...Autumn is not far away.

Summer is Complete

2011-08-25T19:21:00.001-04:00

Well my summer is complete with the photos of one special insect.

The Praying Mantis

Chinese Mantid ( Tenodera aridifolia sinesnsis)

The only ones common in the North are 2 introduced species: the European mantid, Mantis religiosa Linn. (pale green, about 2 inches), and the Chinese Mantid (3-4 Inches) The latter is rather widely distributed and the former is largely restricted to the eastern states. In the West, Litaneutria minor occurs all the way to British Columbia.

I have been searching for one to photograph for many years and when I do find one I don't have my camera with me. Today I was in luck, but as I started to shoot I realized my battery was low and almost dead. I looked in my bag and my back up was no where to be found. So I shot as many images as I could before my battery went dead. If I would have had my back-up battery (it was on my desk) I would have stayed and followed it around the meadow as it searched for prey.

Scratches, Smoke, Wasps

2011-08-19T19:45:00.000-04:00

Been picking blackberries everyday...so my arms are all scratched up, but it is worth it. I was out taking photos near the pond this afternoon and got smoked out. A large prescribe burn was going on and the smoke was drifting over the pond. I did get the shots I wanted plus more. On my way home I stopped by the meadow and found some paper wasps that mad a nest under a milkweed leaf.

I also found a really beautiful wildflower...

Spotted Touch-Me-Not

Not only this wildflower, but the Indian Pipes were really thick. Found 56 flowers growing, but only a couple that were single. I don't mind photographing groups of them, but I like single ones better.

Indian Pipes

2011-08-13T19:04:00.000-04:00

These wildflowers are one of my favorites. They are one of the few flowers that don't have any green at all. Some are a light pink or all white. They don't last long once they are up, but they are beautiful. I found a small colony of them growing along the pond. I am planning on going back in a few days to get some more images. They will be a little taller.

Overnight Camp

2011-08-09T18:49:00.001-04:00

Set out yesterday to go camping for two nights, but something came up and ended up staying one night. It was worth the one night. I will be going back that is for sure. Heard loons calling late into the night, coyotes howling, owls hooting and something I have not heard in years...a whip-poor-will. I was able to photograph a few different species and one I have never photographed before. So many butterflies and ground squirrels. these little guys kept me entertained while I ate dinner and one was even begging. He or She would run up to my feet and look up at me and run a few feet away until I gave it a chip. A Mourning Cloak was my camp company all afternoon. I did find a target species I was hoping to photograph. The Cardinal Flower is one of my favorite flowers. I love how red they are and they stand out from the rest. I can't forget the butterflies. Three species where feeding on minerals next to the river. I spotted them as I crossed a small bridge. It was so peaceful laying next to them with the river only a few feet away. Northern crescent, Summer Azure and one Viceroy. I am planning on going back again real soon.

Cardinal Flower

Pickerelweed

Lots of Pickerelweed

Mourning Cloak

Three in One Shot

Birds or No Birds

2011-08-06T18:29:00.001-04:00

I was hoping to get some images of Cedar Waxwings feeding today, but it never happened.

People showed up to fish and scared them away....so I ended up photographing other subjects. Like this beautiful dragonfly.

Halloween Pennant - Celithemis eponina - Male

I also found this Black Spruce seedling growing out of a stump.

I am planing on going back as soon as the weekend is over and trying to photograph the waxwings again.

The Hills

2011-08-04T21:57:00.000-04:00

After my visit with the doctor today I headed up to the hills. I hiked many miles and ate many berries.

Up and down the hills I hiked...stopping to eat blackberries of course. Been searching out locations for fall color and found some great places. Still a few months away, but you can see the change beginning. The last of the summer wildflowers are starting to fade.

I parked along this road

Deep in a valley

The Back Country

2011-08-01T20:29:00.000-04:00

I spent a few hours today exploring some new places. I hiked through many woodland meadows and shaded hardwood forests. I seen many species of butterflies, birds, dragonflies and even caught a glimpse of a badger. Seen two white-tailed deer and one beautiful buck in velvet. The meadows I found were loaded with midsummer wildflowers and many species of butterflies. I was able to take many wonderful images today...even though it was bright and sunny out. I will be going back to these places this fall when the trees are in color.

Back Roads

2011-07-28T20:34:00.000-04:00

This afternoon I drove North into the hills...

It was very humid walking around the meadows and forests, but worth it. There is going to be a load of blackberries this year. I had a great snack as I walked along.

Many butterflies and other insects filled the meadows. Wildflowers everywhere and staghorn and smooth sumac.

I seen many monarchs flying around this afternoon.

I really enjoyed exploring the new found meadows and the back roads today.

Forest Opening/Small Meadow

Country Road

Green frog...

2011-07-27T20:24:00.000-04:00

This green frog proved to be a challenge to get a shot of.

Yesterday I went to explore a new place that I have not been to in years. I found this cool water hole in a swamp that was loaded with mosquito's. I thought I had plenty of bug spray on, but they still tried to bite. Anyways I moved in slowly so I would not scare the frog away. It was muddy and it really smelled the closer I got. I lowered my tripod to ground level and started to shoot. I was able to get about 20 images when I made a wrong move and ended up in the water. Camera gear was fine, but my leg and boot were soaked in mud and other stuff. I guess it was to much for the frog and it dove under the water only to come up further in the middle. I was not going to wade in this mucky water. It was leech heaven....so I just headed on down the trail. The deer flies were even worse than the mosquito's. At least I came home with some nice images.

Bunchberries...

Just Plain Awesome!

2011-07-20T16:14:00.000-04:00

This is just plain awesome!

There is a pair of Twelve Spotted Skimmers that have been hanging around my garden and ponds. I knew I could get some shots of them using my 300mm. I have taken many over the last few days, but today this Male was kind enough to let me get close enough to use my macro lens. As I worked my way close I became very frustrated with the gnats buzzing my head. As I sat down he flew up and grabbed one right next to my ear. He then flew right back and landed on the perch he was using. I was now less than a foot away and began shooting. I moved in slowly and carefully and was at the end of the focusing range..only inches away. Suddenly he flew up and grabbed another one and landed on my head. I froze and he flew off back to his perch. It was than I noticed something on his leg. When I uploaded the images...I discovered it was a strand of my hair. I guess I'm loosing my hair in my old age....LOL. Anyways, he stayed there for about 20 minutes flying back and forth grabbing gnats from around my head. He landed on my arm once, but not for very long.

So it has been a very good afternoon.

Notice the strand of hair

What does it mean?

2011-07-18T19:57:00.000-04:00

What does photography mean to me?

I have given this some thought and it hit me today...

What it means to me is that I can share with others what I see through my eyes and lens. I don't care if it is perfect, because we live in a not so perfect world. Just sharing with others, images of the beauty that surrounds us is why I enjoy photography. So many things that we pass by everyday that holds some sort of beauty. I'm not out to try to impress people with my photos, but to share how I feel and what I see. Everyone sees different and has different thoughts about photography. It becomes so confusing sometimes...just in the last couple of days I realized that I am trying to hard to "Make" an image that I have lost the real reason I am doing this. After uploading the images and looking at them I noticed a big change. So I'm going to pursue this new discovery and see how it goes. I'm not perfect and my photography is not perfect, but at least I am enjoying something that means so much to me.

Butterflies and Grasshopper Love

2011-07-15T22:40:00.000-04:00

Been a great day! Lots of great images and many more to edit. Spent the morning and early afternoon in the meadow. Kind of warm, but well worth it. The meadow is alive and so beautiful.

I ended my day by going down to the pond and taking sunset photos and just enjoying the view. It's the weekend so lot's of people around.

Painted Lady enjoying shade under a fern.

Meadow in full bloom.

Painted Lady

Grasshopper Love

Mio Pond Sunset

Perfect Day!

2011-07-14T19:36:00.000-04:00

Spent the better half of the day in the meadow. many butterflies, dragonflies and other insects flying. Many wildflowers in bloom...it was perfect. I was able to photograph this mating pair of...

Aphrodite Fritillaries (Speyeria aphodite)

Not only was I able to photograph this species, but the one I was after for a few days finally let me get close. Close enough to use my macro lens. I found a spot where the butterflies where gathering and enjoying some kind of minerals. Must have been 30 or more feeding. I carefully crawled up to them and laid there and filled 2 0f my 4 gig memory cards up. I am so glad it was a hazy to partly overcast sky. The lighting was perfect for today's trip to the meadow. I guess good things come to those who wait.

Chasing Butterflies

2011-07-12T22:17:00.000-04:00

Today has been one of those days that are few and far between.

The last couple days I have been trying to get some photos of this hairstreak that has been eluding me.This morning I spotted it, but before I could even get close enough it flew away. I searched and searched, but no luck. I did see others, but they were just as fast. I think they were playing a game with me. So I came home and went back late this afternoon and had luck. After uploading all the images I took today...I can safely say I will be editing for the next month. I reviewed them quickly and I have many wonderful images. I'm so tired out that I passed up a great sunset tonight.

Coral Hairstreak - Satyrium titus

This is a new species that I can add to my life list.

Painted Lady

Still Humid

2011-07-11T21:13:00.000-04:00

I made it to the meadows for about and hour today. I went just to see if I cold get a few shots of this hairstreak I have been after. I seen three, but was unable to get any photos. I did however get a shot of this...

Twelve-spotted Skimmer

(Immature Male)

I'm planning on going back in the morning...should be a cooler day.

Way to Humid...

2011-07-09T18:47:00.000-04:00

I was out to the meadow for only a very short time this morning. It was just way to humid and with the sun beating down made for a not so fun time. Harsh lighting also, so I gave up and went home. I did however get a few shots of this beautiful Square-stemmed Monkey-flower. This is the first time I have ever seen this species and it is really cool looking. I'm going to try to get back out there maybe tomorrow afternoon...if it is not so hot. The wild bergamot is starting to bloom and by the looks of it will cover the meadow.

Mud Puddle

2011-07-08T10:14:00.000-04:00

Yesterday afternoon I explored a new area. Not far from the meadow is a recent clear cut. Most of the trees have started growing again and it is really thick. As I was following the old logging road I found three green frogs sitting in a mud puddle. At first I tried to get close using my macro lens, but they would not allow me to get close. So I used my 300mm with an extension tube. I laid down in the mud and started shooting. The light was harsh, but the puddle was shaded by the trees. I still had some harsh lighting to deal with so I moved around till I got the best lighting I could. The mosquito's were very thick, but with bug spray on they seemed to leave me alone. The frog was the target of some of the mosquito's. I spent one hour watching and photographing these three frogs. It was enjoyable watching them, but afterwards I looked a mess. My white shirt was covered in mud and I smelled even worse. I guess this just adds to the enjoyment of photography.

Long Hot Day!

2011-07-07T22:24:00.000-04:00

Let's see...where to begin?

This morning I went to explore a new place and it was great. Two frog species...many dragonflies and wildflowers. It also was hot and very humid. The ride home really tired me out, but at least I am loosing weight and it feels good. I have so many images to edit that it will take me weeks to sort through them. I have the moth sheet up and lights on...so I don't see much editing getting done tonight. Here are a few dragonfly photos I shot last evening.

Eastern pond Hawk Male

Eastern Pond Hawk Female

Dusky-clubtail Female

Dot-tailed White Faced Female

Wonderful day!

2011-07-06T20:34:00.000-04:00

I was bale to go to the meadows twice today. Once this morning and than late this afternoon. Both times were rewarding. Many dragonflies, only spotted a few butterflies. Lots of wildflowers blooming and soon the meadow will be covered in summer flowers. Both time sit was very hot, but it was worth enduring the heat. Drank plenty of water and used lots of bug spray.

Twelve-spotted Skimmer - Libellula pulchella - Male

Banded Hairstreak

Hairstreak

2011-07-03T20:08:00.000-04:00

Been staying around the house for the last few days. To much traffic and people to be out in the meadows and woods. I like to keep the places I go peaceful and really don't like it when someone sees me taking photos and stops and starts to ask questions and than later find out they picked the flowers or disturbed the subject I was shooting. To many people from the big cities think they can pick and take from the woods. So staying home till after the big holiday weekend is over. Plenty of subjects in my garden to photograph.

Banded Hairstreak

Red Poppy

Banded Hairstreak

In the Meadow

2011-06-30T19:58:00.001-04:00

It was hot in the meadow this morning. By noon I was roasting, but I was able to get some photos. Since the big weekend is close I will wait a few days to go back. This afternoon I was working in the garden and watching a Clear Wing Hummingbird moth feed. Love to watch these little moths.

Robber Flies

2011-06-29T21:19:00.001-04:00

Bee-like Robber Fly - Laphria thoracica

Well something about the meadow keeps pulling me back. I'm totally in awe at the insect and wildflowers I am finding this year. Today was no different. As I was shooting the daisies this very cool looking robber fly landed. It was my second look at one of these this year.

It was a perfect day out there and I was able to photograph many butterflies and other subjects. I will be going back in a few days to see what new is out there to discover.

Meadow Meets Forest

Rain!

2011-06-27T19:50:00.000-04:00

Well it is raining again today, but at least it is a warm rain.

As of today I have nine species of spiders in my yard and garden. I know I will find more and looking forward to it. the Golden-rod Crab Spider found a good hiding place and was waiting for some food when I found it today. Later this afternoon it had made a dinner out of a Rose Chafer. Score one for the spider...

Golden-rod Crab Spider

A favorite of mine has made a web and laid a clutch of eggs...

Six-spotted Orb Weaver

She will stay with the eggs until they hatch and than she will leave.

I also had a cool visitor to my garden today. This Eastern Pine Elfin stopped by to feed.

I will be keeping a close eye on the orb weaver and eggs.

A short visit

2011-06-26T20:47:00.000-04:00

I did a short visit to the meadows today...way to many deer flies.

However, I did get the photos I wanted at least enough to make me happy. The wildflowers are in full bloom and more blooming everyday. I plan on going back Tuesday if the weather is nice.

This Deptford Pink is growing every where and is so beautiful.

The Hare Bells are just starting to bloom.

The Ox-eye Daisies are in abundance. I love to sit in the middle of them and just take in the beauty.

I also added a new bird species to my life list today...

Blue-winged Warbler

Also one of the resident garden spiders...Six-spotted Orb weaver has a web and it's eggs on one of the lilac bushes. More on this in a later post.

Great Morning

2011-06-25T20:30:00.000-04:00

It was abit windy when I arrived to the meadows, but it was better than not going. I was able to photograph a mating pair of Common Green Darners.

Common Green Darner - Anax junius

They were not in the best spot to get a good background, but I still took the shot. It's not everyday when you can get this close to them. I also photographed a new species of moth that I can add to my life list.

Olive-shaded Bird-dropping Moth

I did photograph many other subjects and I am going back early in the morning in hopes to beat the wind.

Rain and Macro Again!

2011-06-23T22:27:00.000-04:00

It rained most of the day...and heavy. So I only got out a few times, but I did get a few nice shots.

Wet and Damp Day!

2011-06-22T21:14:00.000-04:00

Most of the day it rained and between rain showers and the storms the sun came out. I was able to get out and take some photos of the insects and other subjects around my garden. Had three red-spotted purples visit the mock orange bush today and one hummingbird moth. Many bees and other insects stopped by also.

A Little Visitor

2011-06-21T22:42:00.000-04:00

I was surprised to find the Bold Jumper Spider again today. Almost in the same place as I did before, but this time at the top of a Common Mullein trying to hide. I was only able to get a few shots before it jumped and disappeared again. Been raining on and off all day so did not get our side much. I did photograph some Clearwing Hummingbird Moths.

Last Day of Spring 2011

2011-06-20T20:40:00.001-04:00

Well Summer starts tomorrow and I'm ready for it.

Today I stayed around the house and did some gardening and spent a few hours around the yard taking photos. The Mock Orange Bush is in full bloom now and the bees and other insects are working it like crazy. It is buzzing with life and the smell form the flowers is so awesome. In the evening it blows in the window...such a sweet smell. Another one of my favorite butterflies stopped by to enjoy the sweet nectar.

The Red-spotted Purple

Also the Mossy Stonecrop is now in bloom and I plan on moving some of it to my rock garden. It adds a great color to the garden. It don't get tall, but sure is bright yellow.

The Bird'sfoot Trefoil is starting to bloom and it is another yellow flower that adds some beauty to the yard.

Birthday Images

2011-06-19T21:35:00.000-04:00

Well I turned one year older today...no big deal. I don't feel any different.

Anyways I went out to the meadow for a short time today and took a few images. Mostly I wanted to see what was blooming or what new insect species I could find. I ended up shooting mostly daisies today. I did locate another American Copper and took some shots of it. I will not be going back to the meadow for a few days, because I need to check on some other locations. So here is two images from the meadow.

This will be short

2011-06-18T19:30:00.000-04:00

Not much happened today...not up to speed today. I stayed around the house and photographed the insect life on the mock orange bush. Such a nice day, but when you don't feel good you must listen to your body.

Here are a few images form today...

Clearwing Hummingbird Moth

Mock Orange Flower

Bluebird Sky

New Spider Species

2011-06-17T18:59:00.000-04:00

Well after I got home from the meadow I uploaded all the images and as I was doing that I heard the hummingbirds raising a fuss by the feeder. So I went to have a look and on one of the feeder holes was this huge spider. I ran inside and grabbed my camera and when I returned it was gone. I knew it could not have gotten far, but to my surprise it was about 2 feet away sitting on a leaf. I set up my tripod and attached the camera with my 100 mm macro. I moved in slowly so I would not spook it, but as I got close it jumped at the camera lens. I was in awe as I watched this huge jumping spider raise a fuss. After about 5 minutes it settled down and I started to shoot. When I started to use flash it really raised a fuss. It would raise it's front legs and leap forward. After about 30 minutes it decided it had enough of me and the camera and leaped into the lilies. I lost sight of it and was happy to have this awesome encounter with a new species. The next step was to ID it...this proved a tad bit hard, because there are a number of jumping spider species. After a long search I found the species...

Phidippus audax (Bold jumper Spider)

This spider was 1/2 inches long.

Failed Sunset...

2011-06-16T20:59:00.000-04:00

I was hoping for some great sunset light tonight, but the clouds cleared in 30 minutes, so I came home to search for spiders in the garden. Tomorrow I am planning on going to the meadow again. I never get tired of going there...so much to see and photograph.

Black Berry Flowers

Not much to really write about this evening, but I did find a Male Six-spotted Orb Weaver.

Six-spotted Orb weaver

Return to the Meadow

2011-06-15T19:46:00.000-04:00

I went back to the meadow for the third day in a row and today was the best yet.

Six species of butterflies and 5 dragonfly species. Many birds singing and enjoyed the fresh taste of wild strawberries. YUM!!!

As I was photographing the berries I noticed some wild rose's near by and moved over to photograph them. So I moved my tripod and laid back on the ground and when I got up I realized I squished a bunch of berries on my white shirt. So I really got into photography today.

The first image is the wild rose before it opens.

This next image has some visitors.

Syrphid Flies enjoying the rose.

After I was done photographing the rose I moved back to a spot where I had seen two American Coppers the day before. So I sat down and watched, but nothing. So I walked around and one flew up and the chase was on. First I tried to use my macro lens to get close, but it would not have nothing to do with me getting close. So I attached a 36mm extension tube to my 300mm lens and was able to get a few decent shots. After about and hour it flew off and I could not locate it again.

Going to rain tonight and some tomorrow so I won't make it back out there until at least Friday. There is so much to photograph there and I still have not explored the full swamp and near by woods.

Beautiful Day!!

2011-06-14T20:31:00.000-04:00

It was a great day to be outside. I spent about 4 hours today in the meadows and swamps searching for subjects to photograph. Many species flying around and many wildflowers. I plan on going back again tomorrow...just can't get enough of the outside and the beauty of the wilds. I added a two new species to my butterfly list today. The Eastern Pine Elfin and Common Ringlet.

Common Ringlet

I hope to find them again and get some better shots. They are so hard to get close too...

Here are a few more images I took today.

Yellow Goat's Beard

Wild Columbine

Great Afternoon

2011-06-13T20:20:00.000-04:00

I spent a few hours in a swampy meadow this afternoon. Many dragonflies, butterflies and wildflowers. The only thing it was really windy, so I did not get many photos. I am planning on going back again tomorrow. Here are just a few I photographed...

Blue Flag Iris

Common Stretch Spider

Blue-eyed Grass

I'm Back

2011-06-12T19:35:00.000-04:00

Been a few days since I last posted anything.

Been busy with company and the weather has been nasty, so I have not got out and done much photography. I was able to get out in the yard this afternoon and do a bit of shooting. It is slowly warming up again, so I will be out shooting photos again. This first image is some sort of bee, but not sure what yet. Still working on trying to ID it.

This next image is one of my garden flowers that I have no idea what it is called. So trying to ID this also. It grows every year in a different location. This year it is growing in two places.

Time on the AuSable River

2011-06-08T20:56:00.000-04:00

Had a wonderful time on the river. We started Tuesday morning at 9:45 am from Chase bridge and floated down river to Rainbowbend State Fores Campground. It was awesome the first day...hot and sunny. Not many wildlife photos or scenery photos, because it was just way to hot and nothing look invited to photograph. However my Cousin Nick had a great time as well. We stopped and had lunch at the George Mason Chapel and went swimming to cool off. The bugs were very bad at the start, but got better as we floated on down river. Seen wildlife and many bird species. Today as we headed home it was just as fun. We ended our trip at 1:45pm at Campten Bridge on the Mio Pond. Here are a few images of Nick and coming soon will be a video of the trip.

Making Lunch at the Chapel

Coming down the steps at Conner's Flats

Preparing to swim at Conner's Flats

Having some fun at Rainbow Bend State Forest Campground

Relaxing while floating down the river below Parmalee Bridge.

A Few Days!

2011-06-06T22:19:00.000-04:00

Well all packed and ready to go. My Cousin Nick and I are heading out on a canoe trip soon so will be not posting for a few days, but if I get signal I will post updates on how the trip is going. Family will be checking on the cats while I'm gone. I know they will miss me... I really need this trip. Will have video and lots of images to share. Here is one image from yesterday...

Busy Day

2011-06-05T22:46:00.000-04:00

Going to be busy the next few days preparing for a canoeing trip. So I might not be posting as much. Anyways here are a few shots from today...

Golden-rod Crab Spider

Mating pair of six-spotted tiger beetles.

Spring Peepers

2011-06-04T20:33:00.000-04:00

Every evning when I water my garden the two peepers go crazy. They sing so loud you can hear them 3 blocks away. All night long they peep...just loving it. Did not get out and take many photos today. So I will make up for it this evening when I try and photograph the peepers and spiders again.

Now I am planning for a canoeing trip...happy happy joy joy!!!!!

Sunset

2011-06-03T22:51:00.000-04:00

Had a very busy day...

I decided to go get a few more shots of the Pink lady's Slipper.

I also spent a few hours doing some yard work and photographing around the yard. The rain Lilies are starting to bloom. I have the white kind and the are really beautiful.

The spiders are out and about and hungry. This Flower spider is making a meal out of this moth.

To end my day I went down to the pond in hopes of a great sunset, but the clouds moved in quick and was only able to get a few shots. Plus my new photo back pack came today and I love it.

New Life Bird...

2011-06-02T21:27:00.000-04:00

Golden-winged Warbler....new life bird.

Did some birding this afternoon with some friends...one new life bird made my day.

First we heard it's buzzy "zee bee bee bee"

Then the search was on. 5 minutes later we found the little guy singing from the lower branch of a pear tree. We all tried getting photos, but it flew deeper into the bush. We seen 58 species this afternoon...it was a great afternoon. Here are a few images from today...

Syrphid Fly

Flower Spider

Flesh Fly

No Photos Today!

2011-06-01T21:40:00.000-04:00

Windy is the only thing I can say about today.

We lost power for a few hours and limbs down everywhere.

So I worked on my images today until we lost power.

Here are a couple spider images...this same Golden-rod Crab Spider found a great spot to get it's meals. I watched this same spider for 4 days and it never ran out of prey. Flies, moths, bees lost there lives to this spider. I really enjoy spiders and watching them can be exciting. They are not always easy to find and sometimes I have to wait for them to move. My favorite spider that can be found in my garden is this spider that you see enjoying a good meal.

Windy Day

2011-05-31T20:31:00.000-04:00

Well it looks like we missed the storms today.

The wind today is very strong so made for photography a little difficult.

last night I had a great time chasing moths and other night flying insects.

Flower Spider

Common Spring Moth

Also you can watch some photo/video's on my You Tube Channel.

http://www.youtube.com/user/NaturesDetails?feature=mhum

Spider and Slipper

2011-05-30T20:42:00.000-04:00

A very warm day...

Well this morning I found this Running Crab Spider feeding on a Leaf Hopper in my garden. This is one of the 9 species of spiders I have in my garden. This species is my 3rd favorite of the local spiders.

This evening I rode down by the park and photographed some Pink Lady's Slippers. I counted 58 of them and decided to shot this one. I need to get some arm pads or where a longer shirt when I get this low to the ground. This one slipper has been growing in the same spot since 2005 when I first found it. They can live along time if they are not disturbed.

Six-spotted Tiger Beetle

2011-05-29T19:09:00.000-04:00

I spent most of the day chasing this beautiful beetle. I all most gave up, but just when I thought I would have to try another day one landed near my pond on a large rock. I put on a 36mm extension tube on my 100mm macro and placed my camera on my trusty tripod and moved in slow. Inch by inch I moved...I was in range and composed and fired away. Only shot 23 images before it flew off.

Heading out to a swampy place tomorrow in search of lady's-slippers and if I'm lucky will find the Ram's Head Lady's-slipper. I know they grow here in the county and the place I'm looking I have found them years ago. Another bike ride, but I enjoy it.

Wildflowers!

2011-05-28T20:27:00.000-04:00

I went out and searched for subjects to shoot, but did not have to look to hard. Wildflowers were every where. The warblers kept me company and so did the mosquito's. I shot over 8 gigs of images today and will have images to edit well into the summer and fall. I just picked out a few to post and share.

Wood Anemone

Pink Lady's Slippers

2011-05-27T20:37:00.001-04:00

In a few days the slippers will be in full bloom. This is the first time I have been able to get shots of them before they opened. I found close to 100 plants in this place they grow every year. After this big weekend I will go back and take some photos. Also going to check on some other flowers that grow near by. I'm very sore...bought a new Mountain Bike today to use as my transportation to get to my photo sites close to home. I guess it will be some getting used to again. It will be some great exercise...

More lilac's

2011-05-26T21:29:00.000-04:00

I just can't get over how many of the lilac buses are in bloom. I also could not resist getting out this evening to capture a few images. I'm so tired and wore out, but I thought I had better shot them while they are at there best.

Going to go check on some Lady-slipper's tomorrow.

Lilac's Everywhere

2011-05-25T20:46:00.000-04:00

This is the first year in a long time that I can remember so many lilacs blooming. All 15 bushes in my yard are in full bloom along with the 3 flowering almond bushes. All over town they are blooming and it is so beautiful. Just wish I could open my windows and get the scented breeze blowing in. Only 45 degrees out now and raining.

Flowering Almond

2011-05-24T21:07:00.000-04:00

All the Flowering Almond Bushes in my yard are in full bloom.

Going to be a cool night.

Another Peeper Show

2011-05-23T22:20:00.000-04:00

The peepers and tree frogs are really singing tonight. I just love to hear them, but they can be really hard to find and get close too. I have two by my pond and it takes me about 10 minutes to find them and even longer to get close enough for a good shot. All the lilac bushes are in full bloom now and as I set here and write this I can smell the scent from them blowing in the open window.

Part of my yard is covered in Pink Flock right now and it is so beautiful.

Going to go check on the Pink Lady Slippers tomorrow and the Clintonia.

Not One, But Two!

2011-05-22T20:38:00.000-04:00

Had a great surprise today.

While I was photographing a sneaky spring peeper another one hopped into the scene.

Do you see me?

Here I am!

Meet my Friend!

So now I have a very noisy yard. They are so fun to watch, but not easy to get close too. Going to give it another try again tonight to see if I can get some more shots of them. The apple trees are really beautiful this year. Now they are in full bloom.

The storm this afternoon produced marble sized hail that put a few holes in the rhubarb leaves.

Approaching Storm

More storms tonight...

Turkey Vultures and More!

2011-05-21T20:18:00.000-04:00

Woke up early this morning and started taking photos...first thing I went and photographed the apple blossoms.

Both trees are in full bloom now.

Than I went for a walk along the river and through a marshy swamp. Many warblers and this American redstart had to check me out.

Warblers were everywhere. I got an up close look at one beautiful warbler...a Magnolia and Chestnut-sided. They were so close I could not get a good focus on them. After I left the swamp I found these Turkey Vultures catching the morning sun.

What a beautiful Day!

2011-05-20T20:45:00.000-04:00

Warm and Humid sums up today.

I took many photos today and was busy all day and it is so nice to see the sun and blue skies.

The apple tree is almost in full bloom and spent some time chasing bumble bees and other insects as they fed on the blossoms. I also spent some time down on the ground with the honeybees as they fed on the dandelions.

Apple Blossoms

Blossom of the apple trees!

Mossy trunks all gnarled and hoary,

Grey boughs tipped with rose-veined glory,
Clustered petals soft as fleece
Garlanding old apple trees!

How you gleam at break of day!
When the coy sun, glancing rarely,
Pouts and sparkles in the pearly
Pendulous dewdrops, twinkling gay
On each dancing leaf and spray.

Through your latticed boughs on high,
Framed in rosy wreaths, one catches
Brief kaleidoscopic snatches
Of deep lapis-lazuli
In the April-coloured sky.

When the sundown's dying brand
Leaves your beauty to the tender
Magic spells of moonlight splendour,
Glimmering clouds of bloom you stand,
Turning earth to fairyland.

Cease, wild winds, O, cease to blow!
Apple-blossom, fluttering, flying,
Palely on the green turf lying,
Vanishing like winter snow;
Swift as joy to come and go.

Mathilde Blind

Little Brook

2011-05-19T20:02:00.000-04:00

There is this little brook that I like to go set by and just listen to the sounds of the forest. Some days like today I just can't focus on anything, so I head off to sit and think by this little brook. The sound of the water is so soothing and it calms me and helps me think.

Have you got a brook in your little heart,

Where bashful flowers blow,

And blushing birds go down to drink,

And shadows tremble so?

And nobody knows, so still it flows,

That any brook is there;

And yet your little draught of life

Is daily drunken there.

Then look out for the little brook in March,

When the rivers overflow,

And the snows come hurrying from the hills,

And the bridges often go.

And later, in August it may be,

When the meadows parching lie,

Beware, lest this little brook of life

Some burning noon go dry!

~Emily Dickinson

Slow Day!

2011-05-18T19:30:00.000-04:00

Today has been a gloomy and slow day, but I did get a better bird bath built. Still need a few flat rocks, but they seem to like it. The Merlin was back today, but did not get any lunch at my feeders today. They are such cool looking birds. The Apple Blossoms will be blooming in a few days. By this weekend they should be in full bloom...we just need a bit of sun.

Nice day....

2011-05-17T19:58:00.000-04:00

It was a nice day, but the wind was blowing out of the North East and made it a bit cold. I stayed around the house and did some gardening and watched the birds. I also was also able to watch a feeding bumblebee on the gooseberry flowers.

I did some changes to the bird bath so I could get some shots of birds taking a bath. A little change here and there and I got it almost right. This Yellow Bellied Sapsucker was really enjoying himself.

Even had a Rose-breasted Grosbeak stop by and grab some lunch today.

The White Crowned Sparrows were everywhere today. They loved the bird bath and even sang for me.

I would say it was a great day, but it ended on a sad note. While I was watching the birds feed a swift flying Merlin flew in and grabbed a White Throated Sparrow. I guess they have to eat too.

Also I have an UPDATE on Mommy squirrel. She is back with her young ones again, but to my surprise she has three of them.

Evicted Twice!

2011-05-16T19:24:00.000-04:00

I thought I had evicted mommy squirrel and her two little ones, but some how one of them did not leave. I had blocked up the hole and it was trapped till late this afternoon. It took me over an hour to chase this little one out. It had chewed a hole into the house boards and went into my attic. When I was trying to chase it out it slipped through the hole. So I blocked everything up and left an opening for it to leave. About an hour later I seen it climbing down the bush. So I rushed out and plugged the hole up. Mommy squirrel moved her other little one to the tree next door and this one seems to be on it's own. It did eat a bit at the feeder and than ran up a tree. I'm hoping mommy squirrel finds it...I'll keep watch. the Choke Cherry is in full bloom and the two Apple trees will be blooming in about 2 days time. I love photographing apple blossoms. Will keep an eye on the tree and as soon as they start I will be shooting away.

Evicted

2011-05-15T21:36:00.000-04:00

Well I had to evict mommy squirrel and her two young ones. I had no choice, they had made a bad mess of my eves and started chewing on the house. I feel bad, but she will find another home. I seen them running across the yard and up a large oak tree. Anyways it is going to get cold tonight and I hope it don't freeze to bad. I mostly took photos of the birds and squirrels at the feeders today. It was just to windy out and chilly for any good macro photography today. I covered some plants up and hope the rest make it. One question...where did our spring go?

Enjoying Lunch

Making a choice

I'm trying to eat it here...do you mind not taking my picture!

White Crowned Sparrow enjoying an afternoon bath.

Orange

2011-05-14T19:57:00.000-04:00

A sour bite!

Baltimore Oriole

Enjoying the orange

It rained all day and I sat and worked on images I took over the last few days. I set up a small tripod on my computer desk and placed my camera on it and took photos through the window of the feeding birds and squirrels. Mostly what I shot today was just the Orioles and squirrels feeding on oranges. It is really amazing how fast it greened up. Won't be long and I will be mowing the lawn, but will wait till the dandelions are done blooming.

Tulips

2011-05-13T21:47:00.000-04:00

My tulips are blooming and it sure makes my garden look better now. I spent the day around the house shooting bumblebees and spiders. It is getting that time of year when I spend hours outside. I also went for a walk down to the pond hoping for a great sunset, but it clouded over and so there was no show tonight. I did watch the Eagles and many species of ducks enjoying the evening. The greatest thing is I was able to get my censors cleaned today, so no more annoying dust spots. They may have been small, but really annoying.

Stormy

2011-05-13T13:15:00.000-04:00

It was really stormy last night and I for the first time tried to photograph lightning.

I was able to get a few shots, but nothing really good. I did get some other shots that were good.

My garden is really growing and I am working in it everyday. I am heading out to do some more photography this afternoon as soon as my batteries charge.

Trout Lily

Large-flowered Trillium

Lightning

Cloudy and Rainy day!

2011-05-11T17:47:00.000-04:00

I hung around the house today and did some yard work. It rained for a few hours, but i was still able to get some yard work done. I also took a few shots, but nothing to exciting. Did have a Nashville Warbler stop by for a quick drink from my smallest of ponds. Still have a few White Crowned Sparrows hanging around and 3 Baltimore Orioles. They sure enjoy the grape jelly and the squirrels also.

Lots of Rain!

2011-05-10T19:39:00.000-04:00

I woke to the sound of thunder this morning...lots of rain, lighting and thunder. I did get out for a walk today, but really found nothing worth photographing. It was just to windy to shoot flowers and I am not feeling well. This evening a Cottontail Rabbit was hanging around my yard. In a few days I am hoping to get back out there and shoot some more wildflower images. The good thing is it is going to warm up some more. On my walk today I heard and spotted many warblers and other spring migrants.

I also found this outhouse with a NO CAMPING sign over the door...weird place to put this sign.

Yelolow Trout Lily and More

2011-05-09T19:26:00.000-04:00

Well Mom and I went looking for moreals and found some. Enough for a meal...I gave her mine. The woods were full of flowers and singing birds. I love being out there, but since I was with Mom we only stayed long enough to find some moreals. I did get a quick shot of a Yellow Trout Lily. Not sure when I will get back up to the hills, but I have a few other places that are close by. I did some gardening today and weeding out my iris beds. Planted over 50 sunflower seeds and some other seeds. Everything is growing so fast. I only was able to take a few shots today, but sometimes other things come first.

Happy Days are here again...

2011-05-08T19:52:00.000-04:00

Today was so exciting that I am wore out.

I went down to the pond and watched a pair of loons and many other waterfowl. I took over 8 Gigs of images of wildflowers and other subjects. This afternoon I watched Baltimore Orioles coming and going at the orange feeders today. Spring is here and I'm enjoying it. Heading to the hills North of town tomorrow in search of wildflowers and moreals. I'm also starting to plan my first canoeing/camping trip of the year. About 2 more weeks and I will spend two days on the river and pond.

At Peace....

2011-05-07T22:14:00.000-04:00

This morning and afternoon I spent time laying on the ground with my Macro lens inches away from wildflowers. It was a wonderful day...warm and no wind. I found a place that has so many Round-lobed Hepatica's that the forest floor was nothing but color. Lavender, White, Pink, Light Blue, Dark Blue and Purple. I had so many choices in subjects that I really lost track of time. I plan on going back again tomorrow and try to get some more shots. I'm looking for something different...a new angle.

I really felt at peace today.

Spring is Here

2011-05-06T21:29:00.000-04:00

Well it looks like spring is here.

I was not feeling well today, so I stayed around the house and took a few shots. Watched the birds come and go and planted a few flowers. Sometime tomorrow I am planning on going out in search of subjects to shoot. Sorry this is another shot post, but not much happened today.

Spring Morning on the Mio Pond

Wet Spring Beauty

Wonderful Day!

2011-05-05T18:38:00.000-04:00

This morning I set out on a hike looking for subjects to shoot. Seen many species of birds, including 3 species of butterflies. It was just a beautiful day to be out walking. I took well over 300 images of wildflowers. Spring-beauties, Yellow Trout Lilies, Round-lobed Hepaticas and Trailing Arbutus. Depending how bad it rains tomorrow I am planning on going back to shoot the Hepaticas. I also finished up my third garden pond today.

Tailing Arbutus

Round-lobed Hepatica's

Spring-beauty Close-up

Wildflowers Everywhere!

2011-05-04T19:20:00.000-04:00

Well went out this morning with my Mom looking for Moreals, but I ended up shooting wildflowers. We found no Moreals, but the woods were covered with wildflowers. In the short time there I was able to get a few shots. Dutchman's-breeches, Spring Beauties and Yellow Trout Lilies covered the forest floor. The Trillium's are close to blooming. Going to be a good year for them. I also went out this afternoon and checked on some Round-lobed Hepatica's. They are almost ready to bloom...I did find a few in bloom, but the wind was blowing and it was hard to get a good shot. So I will go back in a day or two. They should be in full bloom by the weekend. Tomorrow I am going to another location and see what I can find.

Dutchman's-breeches

Round-lobed Hepatica

The background...

2011-05-03T18:12:00.000-04:00

It don't seem like I have been taking photos for 26 years. Not long after I bought my first SLR camera I met this guy one day. He was taking photos of a wood lily. I stopped and chatted with him and later my Mom yelled at me for talking to a stranger. Well that night at bingo my Mom sat down next to this same guy and his wife that she has known for years. The next day this guy took me under his wing as the saying goes and taught me everything he could about photography. He passed away a few years ago...but his teachings will remain with me forever. The one thing he always told me is watch your back ground. I watched him and learned...he would carefully remove dead grass and other things from behind the subject if it was possible. He never disturbed the subject if he could help it and never ever put the subject in jeopardy. He tried to frame the subject so the back ground was always clean and plain. He taught me so much and I still use those teachings today. The two images I'm sharing today is some of the teachings he shared.

The top image has a confused and distracting background. After I took the shot I knew I needed to make this subject stand out better, so I placed a piece of firewood behind the subject. I than cast a shadow on the wood and left the subject in the sunlight. The resulting image turned out just like I thought it would. He also taught me to use the smallest f stop as conditions would allow. I will always be grateful to him and will miss his humor and teachings.

Baby Fox Squirrel

2011-05-02T19:52:00.000-04:00

Last evening I discovered a young fox squirrel on the ground huddled in the leaves. It had fell out of the nest that is in the eves of my house. I tried to catch it and put it back, but it took off running and ended up a tree. The mother squirrel found it a bit later and tried to get the youngster back in the nest, but she dropped it. So the little one spent the night alone in a tree. This morning the mother tried again and dropped the little one again. So I climbed up on a ladder and removed a small covering that was blocking some of the hole she had found. Later she tried again and this time made it, so they are now reunited.

It has turned cool again and I'm so tired of this cool weather. I did see a Rose-breasted Grosbeak at the feeder today. The wildflowers that are growing in my yard never opened up today. I guess it was to cool for them.

Bloodroot

2011-05-01T19:24:00.002-04:00

Today was just wonderful. I have been busy all day...from garden work to watching the Bloodroot open to the warmth of the sun. I knew today they would open and I was right. As the sun warmed them they slowly opened up and revealed the beautiful white petals. They are so delicate and with the yellow centers makes them on my top 20 list of favorite wildflowers. When they first open the petals look like wet wax, but as the sun warms them they turn white. It took less than 5 minutes for them to open...it was worth watching.

The spring beauties are starting to bloom and in a few days the yellow trout lilies will be opening up. I plan on going for a walk tomorrow in search of wildflowers or whatever I find that catches my eye. It won't be as warm as it was today, but it will still be nice.

Minutes after opening

Minutes before opening

Opened

Sunny Day Macro!

2011-04-30T18:56:00.000-04:00

This morning and early afternoon was just grand. Sunshine and warmer temps.

Went looking for some moreals, but only found one. Just a bit to early yet...a few more days. The best thing about this morning was...I found a blooming wildflower. This species of flower is a new flower for me. The Carolina Spring-beauty is one I have over looked. They look so much like the common spring beauty that I just never paid attention to them. The Spring Beauty has narrow leaves and the Carolina broader leaves. Another thing about today is my Mom and I spent a few hours together. We both enjoyed the morning and she spotted the first Mourning Cloak Butterfly. Than this afternoon I photographed the Bloodroot before it blooms. A few more days and it will be in bloom. Yellow Trout Lilies are not far behind.

Carolina Spring-beauty

Bloodroot Flower Bud

Bloodroot Close Up

Just one of those days!

2011-04-29T20:40:00.000-04:00

I worked in the yard all day and when I was done for the day I tried to take some photos. At the time it was a good idea, but I was and am so tired and wore out I could not really focus on what I was doing. I did however get a few shots, but not really what I was after. It was a really nice day out and just being able to take some images of green leaf buds was enough for me. This morning I was able to get a few shots of water drops before they all fell off. I do think our spring is finally here. The Bloodroot and Spring Beauties are close to blooming. Tomorrow my Mom and I are going in search of Moreal mushrooms and I will also be searching for subjects to shoot. If we find any I will pick and take photos, but most likely will take photos.

Tired of Rain!

2011-04-28T21:43:00.000-04:00

I'm so tired of all the rain, but we do need it. The grass is really green now and the leaf buds are just waiting to explode. The weather forecast is calling for warmer temps...so at least that is good news. I was just going through some image files from last summer and I keep going back to this image. It is my favorite sunset photo from last year. This was taken near the overlook on the Mio Pond. The locals call it the backwaters...it is part of the AuSable River. The pond is held by the Mio Dam...it is the first dam on the AuSable River. There are 5 dams on the AuSable River...Mio, Alcona, Loud, Five Channels and Cooke. The river is a great fisheries and really enjoyable to float down. I will be doing some canoe camping trips this summer on the upper part of the river. I should say above the backwaters. This part of the river is truly beautiful.

More rain!

2011-04-27T20:19:00.000-04:00

Well another day of heavy rains, but now the sun is out and breezy.

I was able to get out and try to find that perfect drop, but no luck yet. I have been playing with my extension tubes. They are always fun to use...to see those things we over look. Anyways, today I took the two images you see below. Everything is really greening up and it looks so nice.

Rain and Macro!

2011-04-26T20:23:00.000-04:00

Been raining most of the day, but when it stopped I went out in the yard and did some macro shooting.

The lawn is turning green and buds on the lilacs are close to opening. I checked on the Bloodroot and it is growing quickly. Should have some blossoms next week. I really tried to find the perfect drop of water today, but none that I was happy with. Preparing the hummingbird feeders and putting them out in a few days. Been planting seeds in containers and getting ready for spring planting.

New Life

2011-04-25T20:23:00.001-04:00

It is starting to green up and life is starting to show.

Buds are opening and the green of new leaves are peaking out for the first time this year. I seen a jumping spider today...another good sign things are coming to life. The bloodroot is growing quickly and should be almost ready to bloom by late next week. It sure has been a long winter and I'm ready for spring.

Rose Leaf Buds

Gooseberry Leaf

Save or Delete

2011-04-24T19:02:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I keep all images I take...bad or good.

Like today I took 3 quick shots of a fast moving Brown Creeper. I see why they have that name...around and around the tree went the creeper. This little bird gave me a challenge, but I was only able to get 3 shots before it flew. Some days things work out and some days...like today it is a total flop. I had my settings on the camera set for macro shooting and forgot to change the settings. So I quickly changed lens and took the shot. I was so excited seeing a creeper that I did not even realize what my settings were. This don't happen very often, but when it does it can either be a good thing or like today... a bad thing. So I have decided to keep this image until I get a better one. I will file this image under.... (Not so good shots.)

I only see creepers a few times a year and each time they seem to elude me in getting any good shots. I noticed that the spring beauties and bloodroots are peaking through the ground. I also found some trailing arbutus with flower buds on them. It won't be long and the woods will come to life with flowers.

Lost and Found

2011-04-23T17:23:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I amaze myself...

I was going through some old image files from years ago. When I found this image of morning dew drops on some grass. It was my first attempt at shooting this kind of shot. Plus I was just getting used to a digital camera. The switch from slide to digital was easy, but learning all the buttons took some time. I remember this morning...I had just woke up and took the canoe out on the pond. I was paddling slowly along the shore when I found this image. I have also found many other images I have forgotten about.

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter!

Wildflowers and Bumblebees.

2011-04-22T19:02:00.000-04:00

I'm waiting for that day when I can sit down and look at wildflowers again. It has been a long winter and I need that refreshing sight. A forest full of flowers and the scent they produce is so calming. Most of the snow we got the other day is gone and I am happy about that. The feeders are full of birds again and I have filled the feeders twice today. Another thing I enjoy is watching the bumblebees work the flowers. I am really interested in finding the hive of the orange marked bumblebees that I have in my yard each year. Most bumblebees are marked with Yellow and Black. Rarely are they marked with Orange...as you can see in the blended image of two bumblebees.

I'm also dreaming of the day the forests are filled with wildflowers again.

A Sunny Day!

2011-04-21T18:40:00.000-04:00

It has been a sunny and warm day...46 degrees and the snow is melting.

Not only has it been a nice day, but the feeders have been busy all day. Seen the first Eastern Towhee this morning. Also had a Brown Thrasher again today. It won't be long and I will be out there looking for the long awaited wildflowers. I'm so tired of this snow and now that it seems to be warming up I am getting excited.

Eastern Towhee

Fox Squirrel

I am also changing my watermark...since my web site and all my other photo pages are connected I thought this would be better. I hope everyone has a great day and get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

Full Bird Feeders

2011-04-20T18:49:00.001-04:00

Ever since daybreak the feeders have been busy.

As soon as it got light enough I was shooting some photos of the feeding birds.

My favorite of the day was the Fox Sparrow.

Fox Sparrow

This lone Fox Sparrow was a challenge to shot...he stayed under the snow covered Mock Orange bush. Since it was still a bit dark out and heavy cloud cover I had to use a high ISO. Plus I only had one clear opening to get any shots. Now that all the snow is off the bush they have moved to another spot in the yard.

The Slate-colored Juncos were everywhere and are always fun to watch. The Juncos are fixed in membership and have a hierarchy. Aggression at feeders is expression of dominance. They also return to the same areas each winter. So, now that the snow is done falling and a warm up is on the way I hope to start seeing more spring migrants.

Slate-colored Junco

More Snow!

2011-04-19T19:40:00.001-04:00

Snow!

I wish it would make up it's mind...Spring or Winter.

I have had so many species of birds here today. Well over 100 species of blackbirds. Grackles, Cowbirds, Red-wing Blackbirds plus all the Juncos and other Sparrows. Even a Brown thrasher stopped by to get in on the smorgasbord of free food. It started snowing a few minutes past 3 pm. The light was fading as I sat at the open window trying to get a few shots of the feeding birds. I did get a few decent shots, but I will be up early in the morning trying again.

American Tree Sparrow

Slate-colored Junco

American Tree Sparrow

Slate-colored Junco