Having grown up near the Bluffs and having spent countless childhood hours playing near them, I always look forward to a visit.

Today, the first thing that I heard was the call of a Yellow-rumped Warbler. This is one of the less obvious warbler calls and takes much experience before you can be sure of what you are hearing. It is a dreamy “see-see-see-soo-soo-soo”.

None of the following photos from this day shows the yellow rump but the white throat is diagnostic.

I also saw or heard Red-necked Grebe, Hairy Woodpecker, Gray Catbird, American Robin, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Black-throated Green Warbler, American Goldfinch and White-throated Sparrow here.

Birds that I was able to photograph:

Some botany:

Colourful Beetles:

NATURE POETRY

Now the bright morning-star, Dayes harbinger,
Comes dancing from the East, and leads with her
The FlowryMay, who from her green lap throws
The yellow Cowslip and the pale Primrose.
Hail, bounteousMay, that dost inspire
Mirth, and youth, and warm desire!
Woods and Groves are of thy dressing;
Hill and Dale doth boast thy blessing.
Thus we salute thee with our early Song,
And welcom thee, and wish thee long.

Song on a May Morning,John Milton, 1645

Miles Hearn