Following a week of hot, humid weather and severe thunderstorms, relatively cool and dry air has invaded central Missouri. Though flooding persists along the Missouri River and other large streams, one can now more fully appreciate the flora and fauna of a Midwest spring.
Sitting on our deck this evening, I saw and or heard at least 20 bird species, dominated by squadrons of chimney swifts that zoomed across the clear blue sky; joining them were turkey vultures, sailing overhead, and an occasional common night hawk, identified by their white wing patches and distinctive calls. Backyard visitors included ruby-throated hummingbirds, gray catbirds, cedar waxwings and a least flycatcher among more common residents, all seemingly enjoying the cool respite as much as I was (at least until a Cooper's hawk appeared).
One location on our property has definitely benefited from the recent soupy weather and heavy rains: the compost bin. Fueled by the heat and humidity, uncountable invertebrates are now swarming over the yard and kitchen waste, feasting on the plant material and creating a future supply of nutritious compost. The external atmosphere may have become more appealing to humans but the tropical conditions within that bin is ideal for those recyclers.
Sitting on our deck this evening, I saw and or heard at least 20 bird species, dominated by squadrons of chimney swifts that zoomed across the clear blue sky; joining them were turkey vultures, sailing overhead, and an occasional common night hawk, identified by their white wing patches and distinctive calls. Backyard visitors included ruby-throated hummingbirds, gray catbirds, cedar waxwings and a least flycatcher among more common residents, all seemingly enjoying the cool respite as much as I was (at least until a Cooper's hawk appeared).
One location on our property has definitely benefited from the recent soupy weather and heavy rains: the compost bin. Fueled by the heat and humidity, uncountable invertebrates are now swarming over the yard and kitchen waste, feasting on the plant material and creating a future supply of nutritious compost. The external atmosphere may have become more appealing to humans but the tropical conditions within that bin is ideal for those recyclers.
