Picture of the Day for January 11, 2017

As the snow began to fall, something larger swooped down near my head before flying up to a large pine tree. This juvenile bald eagle’s head wasn’t as white as the snow yet as some brown still shows on its head.  Bald Eagles take about five and a half years to mature to the typical white head and tail and solidly dark chocolate brown body, legs and wing feathers of an adult. Immature Bald Eagles can spend the first four years of their lives exploring of vast territories and can fly hundreds of miles per day.

Juvenile Bald Eagle

Juvenile Bald Eagle

Picture of the Day for January 7, 2017

Some people are more adventurous than I am and will hike the frozen trail back (after the snowy forest roads) to see this waterfall in the winter when it creates a pretty ice formation. I prefer the 1.2 mile hike in the summer when it is warmer than subzero temperatures to see the seventy foot falls, including this last bend for the final drop.

Final Drop of Morgan Falls

Final Drop of Morgan Falls

Picture of the Day for January 6, 2017

The temperature overnight was colder than predicted so the birds have been busy coming to the feeders this morning to get some food to burn to stay warm.  Feathers, specialized scales on legs and feet, and fat reserves help birds survive the cold temperatures. They will also fluff feathers to create air pockets, catch some sun on clear days, huddle together while roosting and even shiver to generate more body heat.  But even with all these adaptations to stay warm, some birds will still succumb to frigid temperatures during severe winters.

Getting Fuel for the Cold

Getting Fuel for the Cold