Where do we start?!? So much to observe and listen to when spring is springing all over!
 >>LISTEN<< Generally you will have to look to the higher branches of deciduous trees to see a singing Rose-breasted Grosbeak (male). We always check singing grosbeaks because the females sometimes sing, too, not a common occurrence among passerines. 5/30/15, Sterling A.Rawle photo |  >>LOOK<< Dragonflies are not always difficult to identify. This female Four-spotted Skimmer (Libellula quadrimaculata), common near bog-bordered ponds and acidic streams in central MA, shows off her striking wing pattern. Rutland, 5/23/15 A. Rawle photo |
 >>LOOK and WATCH PATIENTLY<< Much of butterfly-watching requires waiting for the subject to settle. It's doubly rewarding to encounter an unusual species. This Milbert's Tortoiseshell was an uncommon and early find in Hubbardston 5/17/15. |  Also unexpected was this Arctic Skipper 5/29 in Hubbardston.  |  >>LISTEN and PEER PATIENTLY<< It may take you a few minutes to locate a Common Yellowthroat (male), even though he is singing loudly and persistently. They will pop up to investigate from time to time, but usually they're in the low shrubs and undergrowth of wet areas and marshes. Rutland, 5/23/15 A. Rawle photo |
 >>LOOK<< You'll have to be observant and lucky to find a Wood Turtle--a Species of Special concern in Massachusetts-- laying eggs in a gravelly location with access to the "home" river. Rutland, 5/31/15 hikingcamera photo |  >>LISTEN and LOOK<< Gray Catbirds are secretive and tend to sing loudly from within the darkest depths of shrubbery. In early spring they are more likely to come out in the open so to better court a potential mate. Princeton, 5/16/15 A. Rawle photo |