Author Archives: The Common Wanderer
Unkenreflex
The first time I saw a newt on the trail doing this, I thought it was dead and that a cyclist had run it over and its little body had just flattened out and curled up at the ends. … Continue reading
The Lookout
The hummingbirds are at it already. Tonight, as I was reading out on the porch, I could hear them buzzing by on their sorties. They really are awfully competitive. One of the males found the highest leaf on the topmost … Continue reading
In Search of Rattlesnakes
I spent the day today wandering through the woods of Rutland County with members of Vermont Fish and Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy. We were looking for rattlesnakes. There are only two known populations in Vermont and their exact locations … Continue reading
Golden Hour
It’s so pretty at this time of year, I can hardly take it!
Posted in Uncategorized
3 Comments
Ruby-throated Return
The hummingbirds are back! Sitting on the couch a few hours before sunset, trying to get a moment to rest while Ollie bounced around in front of me, trying to get me on my feet to go for a walk, … Continue reading
Watch Your Step
Another thing that happens after the rain: the salamanders come out! Last night and this morning, on my walks in the woods, the red efts were everywhere! I love seeing these little critters. But having them all out on the … Continue reading
After the Rain
After the rain, the trillium bow their heads. Everything is greener. The world is fresh and new and smells like wet leaves. And things that were once invisible are now in plain view. The cobwebs look like spent seeds at … Continue reading
Nature Red in Tooth and Claw
Out for a typical walk in the woods, I heard a commotion just as I was about to load Ollie, wet and muddy, into the car for the ride home. As I looked up, a small hawk flew into a … Continue reading
Jack is Back
One of my favorite ephemeral flowers is making its annual appearance in the forest. I love Jack-in-the-pulpit!
Bitten
Well, it was bound to happen sooner or later, given the amount of time I spend walking in the woods. I got my first tick bite tonight. Tried to brush some dirt off the inside of my knee as I … Continue reading
