One of the most interesting butterflies found in our area is the beautiful and fancy in a non-fancy sort of way Juniper Hairstreak. Widely distributed across the United States this butterfly is often seen in old fields, bluffs, barrens, juniper and pinyon-juniper woodlands, and cedar breaks. This one was photographed feeding on biscuit root along the base of a cliff that had several areas of Juniper growing. The male will sit all day upon the ends of juniper branches to attract a female.
A short but sweet visit with Mrs. G…the Evening Grosbeak. We ran across her perched upon a limb of a local tree where she gave us that who’s here glance…
and proudly proclaimed hello there my name is Mrs. G.
A quick little move from right to left…
and with a telling glance that, enough is enough, she swiftly ascended the tree and vanished from sight.
Yes, Sparrows can be a handful, but when they come out in the open and give you good view that handful becomes a fistful.
We welcome back a Chipping Sparrow as they sit quietly as we pass by one a early morning walk. While this morning they were silent we typically are greeted by their song this time of year.
A beautiful Lark Sparrow forages for the tiniest of sprouts springing forth from between this rocky soil.
Ushered by their beautiful wren-like song we were luck enough to observe this Lincoln’s Sparrow enjoying the first rays of early morning light.
While out in the grasslands a Vesper Sparrow sang it’s lovely song.
Our annual photographic homage to one of our favorite spring flowers the Glacier Lilly.
We follow their progressive blooming form the edge of the foothills up high in the mountains seemingly ushering in spring in each progressive life zone.
Beautiful from afar…
as well as up close.
A small group of Eared Grebes patrolling the waters on a nearby reservoir as they migrate north towards their breeding grounds. I guess it’s those cinnamon red-hot eyes that give them such an intense look as well as their alert posture but they sure look like a tough lot to me.
According to the All About Birds website eared Grebes spend 9-10 months of the year flightless. This is the longest period of flightlessness of any bird species capable of flight. Beautiful Birds and always a pleasure to observe.
A Bald Eagle doing a bit of acrobatic aeriel dental care without a net.
A short article posted at the Audubon Society’s website suggests that there is more to this commonly observed activity than meets the eye.
The Western Kingbirds have made their return to the area gracing the fence posts and barbed wire along quiet county roads. Sallying out in search of insects then returning to their perch. Patiently waiting and intently searching for their next meal. Beautiful colors, some bright, some subtle, and a wonderful sight on a drive sown a quiet road.
A few weeks back we began to see the Chipmunks scurrying around the area. After spending the winter in their dens and absent from sight they are a welcome addition to the late spring-summer population of area residents. Quietly going about their business and cute as a button to boot. Welcome back Chippie.
A male Evening Grosbeak adds a splash of color to the local trees in much the same way those early spring flowers are adding a bit of color to the ground below.
The Brown Jay is and conspicuous bird to say the least. We found a flock moving through the trees and calling loudly while foraging for a morning meal this day.
This bird deftly plucked the last berry from a leafless branch and quickly devoured it before moving along with the rest of the boisterous flock to find another meal.
nature has no boss 
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