Our Natural Aviary

Just outside the family room of our Columbia, Missouri, house, is a magnolia tree with an open maze of internal branches.  Unobstructed by leaves, it attracts perching birds and offers us a direct view of our avian visitors.  Indeed, movement within this central area often attracts my attention, even when I am otherwise occupied.

This convenient rest stop for avian visitors and residents has certainly accounted for more species identifications than any other location in our yard.  Just this afternoon, a tiny, female northern parula alighted in the magnolia, briefly foraging along a limb before flying off.  Yesterday, a Swainson's thrush, a common spring migrant on its way to Canada, stopped by, posing in the tree of several minutes.

A window on the great outdoors, especially with a feeder or a perching tree nearby, is an excellent way for new birders to become familiar with the many species that reside in or visit their yards; it is an especially valuable resource for those too infirm to explore outdoor habitats. 

Konza Prairie Biological Station

Though I have driven past it hundreds of times, I never looked into the history and management of the Konza Prairie Biological Station in the Flint Hills of eastern Kansas until today.  Owned by Kansas State University and the Nature Conservancy, this 3487 hectare reserve stretches across rolling tallgrass prairie, just north of Interstate 70.  Indeed, it protects the largest remnant of unplowed tallgrass prairie in North America.

Established in 1971 and significantly enlarged by the addition of the Dewey Ranch in the late Seventies, the Station is named for the Kaw or Kanza People, who occupied the region before they were forced out during the mid-late 19th Century.  The Konza Prairie is managed by the KSU Division of Biology with the primary goals of conservation, education and research; the latter includes ecologic, hydrologic and geologic studies, including the effects of periodic burning and ungulate grazing (cattle, bison or none).

The Station Headquarters is off McDowell Creek Road (north of I-70), where a trail provides access to the prairie ecosystem.  Information for this post was obtained from the Station's website; your financial support for their research is encouraged. 

Corruption on Steroids

We have known for some time that Trump's policies and deals with other countries have financially benefited himself and his family.  Now we learn that he has been publicly touting the success and value of American companies shortly after buying stock in those companies himself.

Of even more concern, Trump's loyal Department of Justice is creating a 1.776 billion dollar slush fund to pay out reparation to the President's allies who have been "falsely accused of crimes;" the latter group includes those who attacked our Capitol on January 6, 2021.

As one might expect, Republican Senators and Congressmen have declined to respond to this ongoing corruption.  The November midterms cannot arrive soon enough.  Hopefully, Impeachment will follow shortly thereafter. 

March in May III

Following a round of thunderstorms yesterday, it is chilly and raining in Metro Denver today, the product of an upslope flow behind the potent cold front.  High temperatures today will be in the 40s F and our overnight low is expected to fall into the 30s.

I would complain about the clouds, the rain and the chill but they are just what we need as we hope to recover from a prolonged drought and nearly snowless winter.  The thirsty plants on our Littleton farm are surely relieved by the March-like weather and are resident birds are as active and as noisy as usual.

This cool, wet interlude will last another day or two but it seems the stagnant weather pattern that brought us the drought has broken down.  Bring on an unrelenting Southwest Monsoon!

Addendum:  The title of this post reflects the fact that March-like weather is not uncommon in May along the Front Range urban corridor; the title has been used at least twice before over the history of this Blog. 

Boycotting Racism

Now that the Supreme Court has decimated the Voting Rights Act, Southern States are rushing to complete redistricting before the November elections.  In the process, they are eliminating the representation that black Americans have relied upon since the 1960s.

While public protests and journalistic outrage have developed and will continue, I would suggest that financial consequences will prove more effective.  Americans who support voting rights and fair representation might boycott States that disenfranchise their black citizens; in other words, we night decline to visit and spend our money in those States.  Even more effective would be the decision of the NBA, the NFL and other professional sports leagues to withdraw championships and special events from those Red States.  Finally, major corporations might decline to fund the campaigns of political parties and candidates that support racist legislation.

We can all do our part to voice our outrage; cancelling a vacation to Nashville or New Orleans is not a major sacrifice.  Donations to the ACLU and other human rights organizations should also be considered. 

Bovine Bathing

As summer-like heat builds across the Great Plains, bovine bathing is off to an early start.  Grazing comfortably on verdant pastures just a few weeks ago, cattle are now gathering at ponds and lakes, seeking relief from the heat and the biting insects.

Partly submerged, they are still tortured by flies around their head and neck.  Fortunately, local flocks of swallows take advantage of the insect swarms, filling their bellies and providing some relief for the cattle.  Yet, the swallows are not immune from attack either; as I witnessed today, prairie falcons may zero in on their flocks, hoping to pick off a swallow for lunch.

Beyond the drama at the cattle pools, I encountered a number of Mississippi kites over Hays, Kansas, my routine rest stop on the Plains.  Tomorrow I complete my journey to Colorado, where a cold front will produce near-freezing overnight temperatures early in the week; that same front is expected to ignite severe thunderstorms across the Great Plains and Midwest. 

Back from South America

Mississippi kites have returned to central Missouri after a winter in South America (primarily in southern Brazil and northern Argentina).  Usually migrating in sizable flocks, they begin to split up as they approach their summer range.

Despite their name, these kites are most abundant in the Southeastern U.S. and across the Southern Plains but some nest as far north as Iowa and Nebraska.  As I have reported in the past, they have become increasingly common in central Missouri in recent years; indeed, I saw two late yesterday afternoon.

These spectacular aerialists are best observed in the evening, when they swoop and dive to snare flying insects.  Should they land, usually in the tops of large shade trees, their whistling calls are frequently heard.  They'll stick around until September, when they begin their long journey back to the Southern Hemisphere.

See also: Whistling Kites 

Our Mystery Buckeye

Last summer, we found a small buckeye tree growing in one of our flower beds.  How it got there was uncertain but we assumed its seed had arrived in the feces of a deer and was then buried by a squirrel.  This spring, we learned more about the tree.

Early this month, red flowers appeared (photo).  Since our native buckeye species flower in the summer, this suggested the tree is a Eurasian import, known as a horsechestnut.  Furthermore, its opposite, palmately compound leaves have seven leaflets, typical of horsechestnuts; American buckeyes have five leaflets.  Finally, the red, upright flower clusters, indicate it is likely a red horsechestnut, a hybrid of a common horsechestnut and a red buckeye.

Whatever its exact classification may be, it is an attractive tree and a welcome addition to our flora.  Its presence demonstrates the value of establishing wild borders, allowing nature to determine their resident plants and animals.  Less expense and work for us and more natural diversity on the property.   

Playing the Piano

I "play the piano."  Indeed, I have been playing since the 1980s when we bought one for our kids' piano lessons.  I never took lessons myself and do not read music; this has made all the difference.

Having never endured the expectations of a piano teacher nor been confronted by a jumble of notes on a music sheet, I learned to play by ear.  As it turns out, that technique works over forty years and I enjoy my sessions whether I am playing established tunes or ones that I make up as I play.  Of course, I generally play when I am home alone, not wanting to burden others with my therapy.  The beauty of a piano, unlike many other instruments, is that it is sitting there in plain sight, waiting to be played; no preparation necessary!

As I have written in the past, art and music are, in my opinion, man's only gifts to this planet, just beginning to make up for all the damage we have done.  My piano sessions benefit only myself but I like to think they also enhance my appreciation for the talent and artistry of true professionals. 

Flashback Post LXXVI

On this Mother's Day, I have decided to repost my thoughts from May of 2010.  They seem especially relevant during this period of economic and political turmoil.  Happy Mother's Day to all who have taken up the awesome challenge of raising children and appeasing fathers.

See: Natural Peacemakers

Disappointed at Babler State Park

Always looking for new hiking locations, my wife and I visited Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, south of Chesterfield, Missouri, this morning.  Home to a pleasing Visitor Center and an Outdoor Education Center, its forested hills are accessed by paved roads that are popular with cyclists and which lead to a number of picnic areas, shelters and camping sites.  An equestrian trail also winds through the Park.

On the other hand, its hiking trails, while leading through mature deciduous forest, into glades and down to spring-fed creeks, are not well engineered.  Neither do they lead to any overlooks that might offer the visitor some perspective of the local topography.  After a night of rain, the soggy trails made foot travel difficult, if not treacherous, in some areas.

One might question why a naturalist, such as myself, would be disappointed by a lack of manicured trails, overlooks and other hiking amenities.  Were it a conservation area, wildlife refuge or nature preserve, my criticism would, indeed, be inappropriate; but, in my opinion, State Parks should encourage exploration beyond traditional human recreation sites and a safe, inviting, educational trail network best serves that purpose. 

 

A Catbird Soliloquy

 Late this morning and into the afternoon, a male gray catbird has been delivering a prolonged soliloquy of musical notes, calls and other harsh sounds from a shrub line in our backyard.  Of course, having just arrived from his wintering grounds, he is staking out his summer territory and trying his best to attract a mate.

Though he tends to remain hidden for much of the day, he does come out to search for insects in the grass before returning to his seemingly endless vocalizations.  Once he attracts a mate, a nest will be placed in the shrubbery and his soliloquies will eventually give way to the mewing sounds for which he is named.  By early autumn, his diet will shift to a mix of insects and berries and he will soon be off to the Southern U.S. or Mexico for the colder months.

Until then, this noisy but attractive summer resident is more than welcome on our property.  After all, like other insectivores, his service is far preferable to the use of toxic pesticides.

Avian Explosion at Eagle Bluffs

Now that this fabulous floodplain refuge has returned to its former glory and we are in the midst of spring, Eagle Bluffs was alive with birds this morning.  Indeed, on my two hour visit, I encountered 43 species, many of them summer residents.

Swallows (all five species), blue-winged teal, dickcissels and indigo buntings were most abundant.  Highlights included a pileated woodpecker,  American avocets, white-faced ibis and soras; the latter, usually best observed on cloudy, rainy days, were especially vocal and visible on this bright, May morning.  Eastern kingbirds and common yellowthroats were more numerous than I had expected and our common waders, great egrets and great blue herons, are gradually regaining their past summer populations.  Ironically, an immature bald eagle was the only raptor that I saw.

Though I had hoped to encounter black terns, a personal favorite, it is a bit early for those late spring migrants.  Nevertheless, my overall experience was more than rewarding and I'll continue regular visits whenever I'm in Columbia. 

A Snowstorm in May

It is not rare for snow to fall along the Colorado Front Range during the month of May.  An unruly spring jet stream, significant changes in elevation and the presence of a storm system crossing the Desert Southwest are the usual ingredients.

The current snow storm, which began yesterday, developed as a deep atmospheric trough (dip in the jet stream) allowed cold, Canadian air to drop southward along the Front Range while counterclockwise winds, around a low pressure center in New Mexico, pulled in Gulf of Mexico moisture from the Great Plains.  This upslope flow dropped two feet of snow in the mountains, a foot of snow in the foothills and rain changing to snow along the Front Range urban corridor.

This welcome moisture will likely have a limited effect on the State's drought and on Metro Denver's water shortage but it is surely welcomed by the regional flora and fauna.  Perhaps the greatest benefit of the storm will be to diminish the threat a wildfires across the eastern slope of the Front Range as the annual fire season gets underway.  Early and prolonged Southwest Monsoons and normal to heavy mountain snowpacks over the coming years are needed to end the drought. 

New Sheriffs on the High Plains

By early April, it is getting too warm for rough-legged hawks on the High Plains of the U.S. and they begin moving back to their Arctic breeding grounds.  There they will nest on rocky outcrops and feast primarily on lemmings as they raise their young.

In their absence, Swainson's hawks take charge on the High Plains, arriving from Argentina where they spent the winter.  Usually nesting in a solitary cottonwood tree, struggling to survive along a dry stream bed, these raptors prefer open country where their diet ranges from rodents to snakes to insects.  They will occupy the High Plains until early October, when the promise of a perpetual summer draws them back to Argentina, often traveling in large flocks.

Today, I observed several Swainson's hawks on our journey across the High Plains of Colorado and Kansas.  We'll spend the night in Hays and complete our roadtrip to Missouri tomorrow.  Details, if warranted, to follow. 

Racism Endures in America

Back in my college days, when we were protesting the Vietnam War, racism and, it seemed, most of our parents' generational beliefs, I imagined a better world, led by my liberalized generation.  Now, more than fifty years later, I acknowledge that little has changed.

The quest for wealth, power and superiority has poisoned my generation as well and a significant portion of American society retains the mysticism, racism, militarism and nationalism that existed back in the Sixties and Seventies.  Though we managed to elect a black President for two terms, the underlying racial hatred in our country surfaced throughout his years of leadership.

Now, led by a racist buffoon and subject to the whims of a far-right Supreme Court, civil rights are under attack.  Each ruling takes us farther back in time, to an era when all "minorities" were second class citizens.

See also:  The Nature of Racism and No Racist

Frustrated by Virga

Anyone who lives in an arid or semiarid environment is familiar with virga, precipitation that evaporates in dry air before reaching the ground.  Viewed from a distance, it resembles a curtain, hanging from the bottom of a rain or storm cloud but not extending down to the terrain below.

During our current drought along the Front Range, many of us check the local radar when rain is expected.  Watching the green or yellow blobs move toward and then over our neighborhood, we anticipate a downpour.  In many cases, however, we stay dry or receive only a light drizzle, a victim of virga.

This phenomenon is enhanced in Metro Denver when storms arrive from the south or west.  As the air descends from higher terrain, it warms up and dries out and precipitation evaporates as it falls into the lower, drier layer of the atmosphere. 

A Honey Bee Swarm

Yesterday, while wandering about our Littleton farm, I came across a large honey bee swarm (photo), having attached themselves to one of our piñon pines.  Its mass consisted of worker bees and a queen, waiting for scout bees to locate a new hive site.

A common event in the spring, this swarming splits the old colony and the remnant colony will attend to a virgin queen, which emerges from a cell in which an egg was laid by the original queen, prior to her departure.  Other virgin queens may leave the hive with small "cast swarms" of worker bees to establish their own colonies.

Swarms, such as the one I found, generally move on within hours or days, once the scout bees have collaborated and agree on a new hive location.  Fortunately, my wife and I are now the only part-time residents of the farm and we can easily avoid the swarm until it departs.  Since they are focused on their moving adventure, the swarm tends to be rather docile anyway. 

Tainted Gold

A disturbing article in the New York Times, released yesterday, describes the varied sources of gold used by the U.S. Mint.  Despite a law passed by Congress in 1985, which requires the Mint to use only American mined or recycled gold to produce its coins, that policy has been ignored.

In fact, much of the gold comes from illegal sources, some run by drug cartels and terrorist groups.  In such cases, environmental protection is nonexistent and workers are exposed to toxic debris.  A variety of other non-American sources are also revealed in the article.  Furthermore, the Times reports that this practice has occurred for decades, over the course of multiple Administrations.

As America's image across the globe takes a major hit from Trump's antics, we cannot deny the fact that our country has long abused the citizens of foreign countries in order to maintain our wealth and power.  What can the average American do to protest such behavior?  We might start by selling any gold coins or gold investments that we own and by not buying the Trump commemorative coins when they become available.

  

Egrets in Centerfield

Attending my grandson's little league game this past weekend, I was pleased to observe a quartet of snowy egrets, feeding in centerfield.  Common summer residents in Metro Denver, they were the first I encountered this spring.

These sociable birds usually nest in colonies, often in groves of trees along lakes or streams.  They feed on a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates as well as fish, amphibians, lizards, snakes and small mammals.  Come autumn, they will head for Mexico or for coastal areas along the Gulf of Mexico or the Baja Peninsula.

Lest readers be concerned about the egrets' safety during the ballgame, be assured that, in my grandson's age group, balls rarely reach the outfield.  Indeed, the ratio of walks to strikeouts generally determines the outcome of a game. 

Common Ravens

In North America, common ravens are found across Canada and Alaska, southward through the Appalachians and throughout most of the Western U.S.  Able to adapt to a wide range of habitats, these large, aggressive, hardy corvids are identified by their large size, thick bills, heavy build, diamond-shaped tail and deep, croaking calls.

Unlike their smaller cousins, American crows, which often move about in flocks, common ravens are generally observed alone or in pairs, often harassing hawks, owls and other perceived enemies.  Their diet consists of invertebrates, nestlings, eggs, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, carrion, food waste and berries; in other words, they are not picky eaters.  Nests are generally placed in conifers or on rock ledges.

Here in Colorado, common ravens are found throughout the mountains and western deserts and have, in my experience, become increasingly common along the Front Range urban corridor, likely taking advantage of roadkill, discarded food and other human handouts.

 

The Bear Creek Greenbelt

Bear Creek rises on the east face of Mt. Blue Sky (formerly Mt. Evans) and flows downward through alpine tundra, forests and meadows.  Below Evergreen, Colorado, it slices through its tortuous canyon in the foothills before rumbling onto the Piedmont, eventually joining the South Platte River.

Before the construction of the Bear Creek Lake Dam (1977-1982) to control flooding, Bear Creek, having also received significant flow from Turkey Creek, to its south, had produced a broad floodplain of wetlands, meadows and cottonwood groves through the west side of Metro Denver.  Once its flow was greatly diminished by the dam, that floodplain began to dry out and a large portion of it is now protected as a Greenbelt for walking, biking and nature study.

Of course, this flood-control project has had a significant impact on the floodplain itself, where the massive cottonwoods are gradually dying off and the wetlands have all but disappeared.  Human development and recreation have been the winners.  

FEMA and Looming Disasters

While spending billions on an unjustified war, Our Dear Leader has cut back on the funding of FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  This decision comes amidst the threats of climate change (a challenge that he and his Administration ridicule).

Currently, severe drought across the American West and the Southeastern States has set the stage for a destructive wildfire season.  Meanwhile, tornados and flooding have ravaged the Upper Midwest and the Atlantic Hurricane Season begins within a month.

As with most of the decisions he makes, Trump's policies boost his "strong man" image and benefit the wealthy class, those least affected by natural disasters.  After all, those loyal supporters readily donate to his personal projects (such as the planned ballroom and arch) that will define his legacy. 

Wind, Raptors & Drought

Meeting a friend at South Platte Park this morning, we were greeted by a strong and desiccating southwest wind.  As expected, this kept the songbirds huddled in the shrubs and thickets but it certainly appealed to the raptors.

During our visit, we encountered an osprey, two bald eagles (an adult and an immature), two turkey vultures and an American kestrel.  While the others were cavorting in the wind, the kestrel was having breakfast atop a bluebird box, much to the chagrin of tree swallows that were nesting there.  Double-crested cormorants and great blue herons seemed to enjoy the wind as well, catching a ride as they traversed the refuge.

But the most noticeable feature of the Park was the ongoing drought, which has significantly lowered water levels in the South Platte River and its adjacent lakes.  Indeed, I do not recall levels this low over the past three decades.  Though rain is forecast to arrive this weekend, it will take an early and long-lasting monsoon to produce a significant recovery along the Front Range. 

Getting Personal on Earth Day

On this annual Earth Day, many of us will attend gatherings, speeches, demonstrations or fairs to show our support for the welfare of our home planet; that is not enough.  Our commitment to the health of natural ecosystems must be personal.

We must ask ourselves if our recycling efforts are maximized, if we make every effort to eliminate the use of herbicides and pesticides, if we limit artificial irrigation and if we have naturalized our property to avoid the use of fertilizer and to provide natural nutrition sources for wildlife. 

Just as importantly, do we contribute to conservation organizations (such as those in the right column of this blog) that have the financial, legal and political clout to combat the anti-environmental fervor of the Trump Administration?  Will we support candidates who openly acknowledge the threat of climate change and who offer policies to combat pollution, excessive consumption and the degradation of natural habitat?  That is the very least we can do for Mother Earth. 

Majestic View Park

On this bright April morning, my wife and I visited Majestic View Park, in Arvada, Colorado.  Off 72nd Ave., between Wadsworth and Kipling, the 80-acre park offers a broad view of the Mt. Blue Sky massif and the adjacent Front Range Foothills.

Two miles of paved and earthen trails wind through the Park, which harbors open grasslands, riparian woodlands, a pond and a creek-side marsh (now undergoing restoration).  Red-winged blackbirds and blue jays were the most conspicuous residents this morning though we also saw a pied-billed grebe and a large garter snake on our walk.

Majestic View Park also has a Nature Center that offers educational programs throughout the year.  Though the Park is rather small, its scenery, its variety of natural habitats and its accessibility make it worth a visit for Metro Denver residents and visitors. 

Our Summer Tenants

According to the records on my eBird site, I have observed 98 avian species on our Littleton farm since May of 2016.  Almost all have been permanent residents, winter residents, migrants or seasonal visitors.  Only two summer residents inhabit the property.

Summer residents are birds that winter to our south, arrive in the spring, nest here and then return to their wintering grounds in the fall.  Our two summer tenants are northern house wrens and broad-tailed hummingbirds.  Since returning from Missouri yesterday, I have encountered one of each.

Soon, the cohorts of these pioneers will arrive and courtships will commence.  Nesting will occur and the families will grace our farm until October.  Among all the other species, these summer tenants tend to garner much of my attention.

Addendum: Some birders might suggest that I also include brown-headed cowbirds on my short list of summer residents.  However, they merely lay their eggs in the nests of other songbirds and do not actually raise their young or reside on the property.

Back in Dry Country

Driving back to Colorado this morning, the landscape was noticeably drier than usual from the High Plains westward.  None of the rivers (except for the South Platte) held water and the grasslands had browned out, an unusual appearance for April, one of the snowiest months along the Front Range.

Of course, the desiccated landscape reflects the unusually warm and snowless winter in this region.  The small amount of snow received from the most recent Pacific storm was not enough to make a difference and has already disappeared.  Here on our Littleton farm, the shrubs and pastures have held up well but our "lawns" are not the least bit green.  In addition, the recent hard freeze killed off the unfurling leaves in many of the trees but these should recover as the temperature rebounds.

Indeed, we expect warm, sunny weather for the next week; no rain is forecast until next weekend.  As always, the dry air has its benefits: cool nights and more tolerable daytime heat.  But we desperately need precipitation, in any form; perhaps May will bring a welcome change. 

Heading West

Following a stormy night in Columbia, we headed west this morning.  A steady north wind had brought down clear, cool, dry air behind the storm front, perfect for traveling.

Farther west, in eastern Kansas, plumes of smoke rose from the Flint Hills as the annual burning of grasslands was underway.  Designed to remove invasive plants and to nourish the pasturelands, one wonders about the carbon load released into the atmosphere.

And what wildlife did I encounter today (you might ask)?  Easy: turkey vultures, great-tailed grackles and dead raccoons.  But we did see thousands of cattle!  We'll complete our journey to Colorado tomorrow. 

Damage Watch

As a powerful Pacific storm system spun its way along the U.S.-Canadian border yesterday, its cold front stretched from the Upper Midwest to the Southern Plains, producing a broad swath of tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, large hail, high winds and torrential rain.

Millions of Americans, ourselves included, were glued to their TVs and computer screens, waiting to see if their community would be damaged or spared.  Even before this storm system arrived, severe flooding had developed in Wisconsin from storms deflected northward by the Southeastern ridge.  Here in Columbia, tornado sirens blared by mid evening as a twister passed just south and east of our city.

Meanwhile, on the back side of the system, cold air plunged southward, bringing snow to the Northern Plains and, finally, to the Front Range of Colorado.  As the storm pushes eastward in the coming days, its severity will diminish as its forward speed increases; nevertheless, more flooding and wind damage is expected before it heads out to sea. 

First Summer Sparrow

Enjoying the shady retreat of our front porch yesterday afternoon, I caught site of a small sparrow that was foraging on the street and intermittently flying up into a large sweetgum tree.  I knew it had to be a chipping sparrow (the first of the year for me) due to that behavior and I soon confirmed its identity with my binoculars.

Common across most of the U.S. during the warmer months (though generally absent on the Great Plains), these attractive and rather tame sparrows feast on both insects and seeds.  Their nests are placed in shrubs or low in trees (usually conifers) and two broods are typically raised each summer.  Come October they head to the southern tier of the U.S. or to Mexico for the winter.

Most sparrows that are encountered in Missouri are permanent or winter residents.  Chipping sparrows are an exception and it is always a pleasure to catch their arrival in the spring. 

The Southeastern Drought

Due to a persistent atmospheric ridge over the Southeastern U.S., storm systems arriving from the Pacific have been shunted across the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes and Northeastern States.  As a result, severe drought has developed within that ridge; indeed, much of Georgia and Florida are in extreme drought.

A stable jet stream arc, from the Southern Plains to the Ohio River Valley and across the Mid-Atlantic region has produced the ridge.  Within its dome, air is sinking and heating up, impairing cloud formation, negating precipitation and drying out the soil.  As one might expect, the incidence of wildfires has increased significantly.

Fortunately, a potent storm system is forecast to arrive within a week, displacing the ridge and bringing much needed rain to the Southeastern States.  An early tropical storm or two would be nice as well but an El Niño pattern in the Pacific is expected to dampen this year's Atlantic Hurricane Season; on the other hand, El Niños tend to produce more precipitation across the Southern U.S. 

Church & State

As the Trump Administration attacks the first American Pope for speaking out against the Iran War and following Trump's release of his image as Jesus Christ, many Republicans and Trump supporters have finally been critical of Our Dear Leader, acknowledging that he is not infallible after all.

Yet, many if not most of these critics back the influence of religion in public schools, including Bible study, posting the Ten Commandments and other means of ignoring the separation of Church and State.  While our Constitution is clear on this matter, the Republican Party has moved past any respect for that document.

Nevertheless, I suspect most Americans support freedom of and freedom from religion.  Politicians cannot and should not impose their personal faith on others.  Moral behavior should be expected of everyone but religious beliefs, however common, must not be enforced by our Government. 

Greenery Rising

Yesterday afternoon, as a steady south wind brought warm, humid air into central Missouri, I rescued our Beetle from the garage and headed for the country.  Escorted by turkey vultures, sailing along in the cloudy sky, I did not encounter many birds or mammals but I was taken by the greenery, ascending from the lush grass, through the shrub lines and into the trees.

Our recent warm, wet weather had produced the transition from winter browns to these many shades of green, the product of chlorophyll, the fuel of life on Earth.  Absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, green plants sustain our atmosphere, long threatened by the burning of fossil fuels.

Of course, the leaves themselves feed a wide variety of life forms, from microbes to insects to mammals, ourselves included.  Following the fickle weather of March, this explosion of greenery in April is always a welcome spectacle. 

The Space Race Endures

No doubt, most Americans were pleased with the emotional and uplifting comments of the Artemis II astronauts after they safely returned to Earth.  But the U.S. Government and American corporations did not spend billions of dollars for those platitudes or for more images of our Blue Planet from space.

As some commentators admitted on TV, establishing sites to recover valuable minerals from our natural satellite is the ultimate goal and we must out-compete China and Russia for choice locations.  In other words, real estate on the Moon will become increasingly important and contentious.

One would hope that governments have learned the value of international cooperation from our experience with the Space Station.  Having drawn our lines on Earth, it would be rewarding for humans to openly share the gifts that our Moon has to offer.

Faith & Trust

Faith is belief instilled by someone we trust.  As children, we trust our parents, thereby helping to ensure our own survival.  We also tend to trust other authority figures such as teachers, priests, ministers and close relatives.

Of course, over the years, we often come to learn that our trust was misplaced.  Those who instilled our beliefs are discovered to be fallible or worse.  Ironically, it is usually the rigidity of their beliefs that we most readily discard.  Their provincial attitudes, limited education and cloistered life often trigger our doubt.

Retained faith, on the other hand, is generally reinforced by fear or by an unwillingness to disappoint those we care about.  In the end, we must trust ourselves and formulate our own beliefs. 

Don Robinson State Park

On this mild April morning, my wife and I visited Don Robinson State Park in Jefferson County, Missouri.  Donated to the State by Mr. Robinson upon his death, its 800 acres are draped across the upper watershed of LaBarque Creek, a tributary of the Meramec River.

The Park is known for its Sandstone Canyons where outcrops of St. Peter Sandstone adorn the walls and underlie the streams (see photo).  This rock formation dates from the mid Ordovician Period, about 460 million years ago, when life had not yet crawled from the sea.  Outcrops of limestone and dolomite are also found in the Park which harbors an excellent diversity of foliage, including many rare plants.

During our visit today, we hiked a 3.2 mile loop through one of the canyons, enduring a steep climb in one area.  Though benches are not provided for those of us who often use them, there were plenty of logs and sandstone blocks along the trail which, in our case, were regularly appreciated.  We highly recommend a visit to this scenic and geologically interesting Park.

Reassuring Tunes

Per the National Audubon Society, nation-wide studies over the past few years have demonstrated a significant decline in U.S. bird populations, especially those that inhabit grasslands; waterfowl species appeared to be least affected but have recently decreased in number.  Habitat loss, pollution and severe weather events (courtesy of climate change) are among the most likely factors in this disturbing trend.

Aware of these studies, I was personally alarmed by the apparent dearth of white-throated sparrows in central Missouri this winter, especially in our neighborhood.  Usually among the more common winter residents in our region, these Canadians arrive in October and generally stay until mid April.

But as we approach their usual departure week, I have been heartened by the frequency of their homesick tune, ringing through our yard.  Perhaps my seasonal observations have been misleading but the study data is hard to ignore.  Soon, in response to the lengthening days (though seemingly to the warming weather) the white-throats, fond of chilly conditions, will head north to their homeland.

 

Fueling Addiction & Crime

Concerned about the exploding participation in Sports Betting, I published my feelings last year.  Now, Prediction Markets have broadened those concerns, encouraging addiction-prone individuals to bet on almost any upcoming event or decision in human society, in America or across the globe.

Available to those 18 years of age or older, these markets offer excitement, potential financial windfalls and alternatives to traditional employment and investment.  Of course, they also carry the risk of addiction, bankruptcy and criminal behavior, including insider trading.  Unlike regulated gambling, there appears to be minimal consumer protection or fraud detection in these markets.

Heavily advertised, Prediction Markets are said to democratize participation in political, economic and social decisions and are defended as a form of "crowd sourcing."  No doubt, as with other forms of gambling, appropriate warnings and numbers to call for counseling make the purveyors of these markets feel socially responsible as they rake in the proceeds. 

Impeach Trump!

After threatening genocide in Iran, losing a war that he initiated, openly backing a dictator in Hungary, repeatedly praising Vladimir Putin and expressing his intention to withdraw from NATO, Donald Trump cannot be allowed to remain President of the United States.  What more can he do before Republicans join the call for Impeachment?

Our Dear Leader was given a second opportunity to represent America and he has failed miserably.  We cannot let this incompetent and deranged narcissist enjoy any more time in the limelight.  He has destroyed the image of the United States across the globe and, in the process, crippled our own economy.

Democrats must initiate Impeachment proceedings and force Republicans to take a stand.  They will thereby have to demonstrate whether they are patriots or cowards.  We cannot wait until November. 

Watching for Summer Birds

It is that time of year when summer avian residents begin arriving from their wintering areas to our south; indeed, quite a few species have already been reported, though I have only observed tree swallows, eastern phoebes, pied-billed grebes and a scissor-tailed flycatcher (the first seen in Columbia this spring and the earliest I have ever observed one in Missouri, on April 3).

Though my success is clearly behind many local birders, the joy of observing new arrivals is always worth the effort.  Among the species already documented by others have been green herons, soras, a Virginia rail, northern rough-winged swallows, yellow-throated vireos, yellow-throated warblers and blue-gray gnatcatchers.

One need not travel to nature preserves to observe summer residents; in fact, many can be found in the average backyard.  Join the search and join eBird to report your sightings!  Your data will help to monitor the health of our avian populations.

Deception from Space

For many of us, the highlight of manned or unmanned space flights is the opportunity to observe our beautiful home planet from a distance.  Of course, the apparent tranquility on Earth is an illusion.

Since life first evolved in Earth's ancient seas, its tenacity has been tested by cataclysmic events and the ongoing process of geologic evolution.  Though we humans, relative newcomers on the planet, have benefited from large brains, our period of stewardship has been hampered by mysticism, racism, nationalism and a quest for wealth and power.  Natural ecosystems, the source of all life on our planet, have been threatened by human overpopulation, pollution, excessive consumption and relentless development.  Now, man-induced climate change challenges the welfare of all species, humans included.

So enjoy the glorious spectacle from space and try not to dwell on the realities of life on Earth.

Easter Eagles

Birding along the Missouri River on this sunny but cool Easter morning, I observed a pair of adult bald eagles, perched in a large tree along the swollen stream.  They were fitting symbols on this holiday of rebirth, having made a dramatic comeback from the widespread decimation caused by DDT use; large raptors were especially impacted since they are apex predators.

Of course, Rachel Carson has long been honored for calling attention to the indiscriminate use of that pesticide in her 1962 book, Silent Spring.  Though its use was finally banned in the United States in 1972, DDT was still employed for decades elsewhere and remains in use in some African countries today.

Proud of our decision to ban DDT, we Americans continue to use many other herbicides and pesticides that likely accumulate in our bodies, causing disease not yet associated with their presence.  See my recent post on Parkinson's Disease.

Crossing Soggy Farmland

Following another night of steady, sometimes heavy rain, I set out for the farmlands east of Columbia this morning.  There the soil was saturated and the drainage channels, recently desiccated, were free flowing streams; shallow lakes filled low points in the fields.

As one might expect, American robins were the most common birds, scouring the muddy landscape for invertebrates.  Birding highlights included red-tailed hawks, a lone wild turkey, a pair of wood ducks and a belted kingfisher.

Though cloudy skies, chilly air and a stiff, northwest wind were not terribly inviting, the soggy landscape was reassuring after our prolonged regional drought.  I'm sure the wild, farmland residents would agree.   

Glorious Rain

Over the past few days, we have received a copious amount of rain in Columbia, thanks to a slow moving storm system that has pulled up moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.  Since most of Missouri has been in a long term drought, the rain has been more than welcome.

During a break in the precipitation this morning, a friend and I visited Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area where the rain had significantly increased water levels; indeed, based on my past experience, they were above normal for early April.  Once again, blue-winged teal dominated the floodplain but we were fortunate to encounter a female bufflehead, 75 pied-billed grebes (well above usual counts for that species), two bald eagles and the first scissor-tailed flycatcher of the season; 23 avian species were observed during our two hour visit.

Thunderstorms and heavy rain are forecast to return tonight as the next Pacific storm drops in from the Northern Plains and intermittent periods of rain are expected over the coming week.  Perhaps our prolonged drought in central Missouri will finally be broken. 

Humans, Earth & Space

Watching the Artemis II Launch last evening, which will take four astronauts to the moon for the first time since 1972,  I surely admired the courage of those human explorers and the skills of the engineers who designed and constructed their modern space ship.

On the other hand, in this technological age, one wonders why the lives of humans must be placed at risk, however committed they might be to participate.  Can we not learn as much by launching unmanned and less expensive probes?  Can we not benefit as much from using high-tech equipment to unlock the mysteries of space and to utilize that knowledge to improve the lives of humans on Earth?

Finally, does our commitment to space exploration siphon funds from programs that might better serve humanity?  Indeed, the degradation of our home planet's natural ecosystems serves to justify the potential need to escape to the Moon, to Mars and beyond.  At this point in history, it seems far more likely that we humans will become extinct on Earth before we colonize space.

Addendum:  To date, the Artemis program has cost 93 billion dollars; yesterday's launch cost 4.2 billion dollars. 

Our Warm Weather Duck

As the water level continues to fall at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, the number of most duck species has fallen significantly.  An exception are blue-winged teal which usually begin to arrive in mid March and reach peak numbers by mid April.  I counted 750 of these warm weather ducks on the refuge this am (no doubt a conservative estimate).

Having wintered from the southern U.S. to northern portions of South America, blue-wings are the last ducks to appear in the spring and the first to migrate south in the fall, generally moving through Missouri in September and early October.

It is thus no surprise that the falling water level at Eagle Bluffs and our recent warm temperatures (expected to reach 80 degrees F today) have encouraged most ducks to depart for cooler, northern climes while blue-winged teal are perfectly content to feed in the shallows and bask in the sun.  By May, most will have moved on to the northern tier of the U.S. and across Canada.  One might suggest that they are more like humans than our other duck species. 

A Dramatic Rise in Parkinson's Disease

Those of us of a certain age are especially prone to review obituaries, anticipating the deaths of individuals who played an important role in our lives.  Of course, these persons may have been friends, politicians, musicians, performers, writers or other newsmakers and celebrities.

Lately, my perusal of the obits has turned up a surprising number of deaths from Parkinson's Disease.  In turn, a brief review of the literature revealed that it is now the fasting growing neurodegenerative disorder across the globe.  While advanced age (65 or over) and male gender have long been recognized as major risk factors, environmental pollutants, especially pesticides and herbicides, are thought to be playing a significant role in the dramatic rise in the incidence of this disease.

Indeed, Parkinson's Disease is most common in industrial regions of the globe and in areas where suspected chemical agents are regularly used (e.g. agriculture).  Our prolonged inattention to the potential effects of many chemicals and other pollutants, now accumulating in our environment and in our bodies, is responsible for many serious health problems in humans and in other animal populations.  

No Kings III

Having attended the first two No Kings rallies in Colorado, I joined my wife to attend the No Kings III protest in Columbia, Missouri, today.  The turnout was excellent but, in my opinion, the format could have been more effective.

During the first half of the rally, participants gathered to mill about, greet each other and listen to a series of speeches and musical performances.  In other words, we were reinforcing each other's commitment to dislodge Trump and his Republican apologists from office; the phrase "preaching to the choir" repeatedly came to mind.  When finally released to disperse along Broadway, in downtown Columbia, our varied messages were directed toward passersby, hopefully encouraging them to consider the varied negative consequences of Trump's second term.  Of course, signs referred to the Iran War, the atrocities of Ice thugs, the Epstein saga, the Administration's anti-science stance, Trump's disastrous economic policies and malignant narcissism and the failure of Republicans to reign him in and to protect our Democracy.

Despite the criticism expressed above, it was an honor to participate in No Kings III.  Hopefully, other rallies will follow until the scourge of Trumpism is but a fading nightmare in America.

Denver in Stage 1 Drought

Following a nearly snowless winter in Metro Denver and the lowest mountain snowpack in decades, Denver Water has declared a Stage 1 drought, encouraging residents not to start watering their lawns until mid May (at the earliest) and limiting that activity to two days per week.  Time will tell if those restrictions need to be increased.

Anyone who understands the ramifications of global warming and has witnessed the ongoing sprawl along the Colorado Front Range is not surprised that this water emergency has developed.  Though it might be a temporary drought with recovery through the spring, it is a clear warning sign that climate change will likely produce significant water shortages across the arid and semi-arid ecosystems of the American West.

Fortunately, rain and snow are forecast to arrive in the coming week but the long term risk of drought is significant.  One hopes that reduced "development" will be employed to meet the challenges of our warming climate. 

Seasonal Progress at Eagle Bluffs

On this sunny, warm morning at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, water levels had fallen but the absolute number of waterfowl had increased, especially for blue-winged teal.  Northern shovelers and American coot remained abundant while the number of gadwall had increased significantly.  Fourteen pied-billed grebes were observed and, to my relief, great blue herons seem to be returning to the refuge.

On the other hand, raptors were limited to turkey vultures, a red-tailed hawk and a lone northern harrier.  In addition, other avian residents remain rather sparse with the exception of northern flickers, crows and red-winged blackbirds.

Most rewarding were the sightings of a double-crested cormorant and a flock of American golden plovers, the first I have encountered this spring.  No doubt, the pace of new visitors and summer residents will pick up significantly in April and our long avian drought at Eagle Bluffs will finally come to an end.

 

Don Quixote Trump

Donald Trump, while not nearly as noble as his literary counterpart and backed by an entire political party rather than just Sancho Panza, is tilting at windmills again.  Offering to pay 1 billion of our tax dollars to cancel a wind farm off New England, Our Dear Leader has repeatedly demonstrated his disdain for green energy, especially wind power.

Preferring to bring back the coal industry and dedicated to maximizing our use of fossil fuels, he has withdrawn federal funding that was in place to encourage the production of electric vehicles and to facilitate solar, wind and geothermal projects.  Of course, he can count on his Cabinet and most Republican members of Congress for their active or passive support.

But as with Don Quixote, Trump's enemies are imaginary.  He has no knowledge of or interest in climatology and he only hires those who share his non-scientific, pro-oil view.  Having threatened the global oil supply with his ill-advised war in Iran, his Dulcinea may remain out of reach.   

Fish Crows in Columbia

Commonly observed along the Missouri River, especially during the warmer months, a small flock of fish crows flew over our yard in Columbia late this afternoon.  They were the first I have ever observed within the city limits.

Most abundant along coastal areas of the Southeastern U.S., fish crows have been expanding their range over the past decade or so, spreading inland along the major rivers.  There they forage across floodplains and nearby farmlands but seldom stray far from the streams, their marshes and their riparian woodlands.

Distinguished from American crows by their smaller size and distinctive "uh-uh" calls, it was their voice that caught my attention this afternoon.  Since we have owned a condo on Longboat Key, Florida, for many years, I associate their calls with that coastal location; apparently, we now own two properties within their range.  

More Lesser Scaup

Over the past 20 years, I have frequently encountered lesser scaup at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area during the spring and fall migrations.  However, they have generally appeared in rather small numbers, from single individuals or pairs to small flocks.

But this past weekend, I observed a flock of 40 lesser scaup, cruising on the deeper channel where they intermittently dove for aquatic vegetation or invertebrates.  Having wintered across the southern States and Mexico, they will head for Western Canada or the Intermountain West to summer and breed.

Often seen in large flocks during winter, mingling with other diving ducks, lesser scaup prefer larger lakes and reservoirs during migrations, choices not available at Eagle Bluffs where rather shallow pools dot the Missouri River floodplain.  Indeed, surface-feeding ducks, such as mallards, northern shovelers, gadwall, wigeon and teal generally dominate the scene. 

Flashback Posts LXXIV & LXXV

As March Madness unfolds and the brackets fill in, I am always reminded of two posts that seem especially relevant during the NCAA Basketball Tournament.  Though I have used them as Flashback Posts in the past, I have not placed their messages side by side.....until now.

See:  Advantage Underdogs and Rooting for Champions

The Kona Low

Severe flooding across Oahu, Hawaii, is the product of an unusually potent and persistent Kona Low.  The latter is a center of low pressure that typically develops northwest of the Hawaiian Islands during the winter months, sweeping tropical moisture across that archipelago from the southwest.

Held in place by an atmospheric trough (a dip in the jet stream), this "cutoff low"generally persists for a few weeks, producing a typical rainy season.  This year, the Kona Low developed relatively late in the winter but its strength and persistence has led to the torrential precipitation and record flooding.

Of interest, this atmospheric trough over the Pacific is tied to the persistent atmospheric ridge over the Desert Southwest, which has fueled the severe heat that is currently spreading eastward across the U.S.  Climatologists believe that both extremes demonstrate the effects of our warming climate.

A Dome of Summer Heat

Having produced record high temperatures across the Desert Southwest over the past few days, a ridge of high pressure is expanding eastward and will set records across much of the U.S.  Within this dome, air is sinking, heating up and drying out.

Unlike our usual summer heat waves, during which high humidities moderate the temperature and keep nocturnal lows relatively warm, this dry, desert heat will cause unusually high afternoon temperatures while permitting overnight lows to fall into the 40s and 50s F.

Here in Missouri, we will experience afternoon highs in the 80s F for the next few days with overnight lows in the low 50s.  Spring is just beginning and this taste of summer will fade quickly; on the other hand, this atmospheric dome may portend warmer springs as climate change progresses. 

Course Correction

Back in November of 2006, when I began writing blog posts, their subject matter was primarily focused on natural ecosystems, wildlife and conservation.  Before long, I drifted toward discussions regarding threats to our natural environment, including unbridled development, pollution and mysticism.

Early on, I could not have imagined that our own political system, led by an anti-science narcissist, would become the primary threat to the health of our society and the welfare of our planet's natural ecosystems.  Surely, in America, educated members of both political parties would not let this happen; after all, they have children and grandchildren who will suffer the consequences of such short-sighted policies.

Of course, my hopeful view of the future, based on the projected advance of science, has been derailed by the Trump Administration and by the Republican Party in general.  Now, twenty years later, a large percentage of the posts are focused on political threats to our freedom, our health and our commitment to conservation.  It is not enough to report on the wonders of nature when the welfare of or planet is under relentless attack. 

Freedom of the Press

Since the Republicans in Congress are unwilling to reign in the anti-democratic policies and actions of the Trump Administration, it has been up to the Judiciary and the Press to protect the rights of Americans.  Now, defying our Constitution, Brendan Carr, the FCC Chairman, has threatened to revoke the license of news organizations that report negative information about the Iran War.

Of course, those in the Trump Administration are focused solely on pleasing Our Dear Leader.  Their mission is to support and praise the opinions and actions of the King and, in their minds, truth is what Trump says it is.  Those who speak out against his deranged and dangerous decrees are thus considered to be enemies of the State.

Freedom of the Press is an essential element of our Democracy.  Efforts to control the news that we receive is just the latest and, in my opinion, the most disturbing step toward authoritarian rule.  

Dismantling Science

Among their many efforts to dismantle science, the Trump Administration now plans to shut down the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado.  Their reason, according to the Budget Director, is that the Center is the leading force behind "climate change hysteria" in America.

Of course, it is also in a Blue State with a Democratic Governor who King Trump does not like.  Having dramatically reduced funding for medical research and a wide variety of environmental programs, the Administration has set its sights on all forms of science though I suspect military technology will be spared.

As several early spring storm systems have brought tornadic thunderstorms as far north as the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes Region, formerly unheard of in early March, one would think that climate change deserves a great deal of monitoring and research.  Indeed, the latest storm is bearing down on the Mid-Atlantic Coast this morning and Washington DC lies within the high risk zone for tornadoes.  Perhaps a direct hit on the ballroom might change Our Dear Leader's point of view. 

Escaping the Interstates

Over the last 29 years, since moving to Columbia, Missouri, we have made hundreds of trips to St. Louis and beyond.  During that time, Warrenton, Missouri, was, from my perspective, nothing more than a congested exit along Interstate 70, its immediate roads lined with service stations, fast food joints and strip malls.

Then, yesterday, as we drove to Klondike Park in Augusta, we took the Warrenton Exit and headed south on Route 47.  Within a few blocks, the congestion disappeared and the makings of a pleasant, small town unfolded.  Another couple of miles took us across scenic, rolling farmlands and, ten miles later, we began to descend through the Missouri River Hills, quilted with cattle ranches, vineyards and wineries.  My image of Warrenton had changed dramatically.

Too often, we assess cities and towns from our efficient network of Interstates, judging them as we zip by at 70 mph.  Though these efficient highways often cross scenic landscapes as well, they do little justice to the appeal of human settlements and their associated natural environments.  In my opinion, we should escape our Interstates whenever possible.

See also: Detour to Blue Highways 

Klondike Park

A relatively small but fascinating park in Augusta, Missouri, Klondike Park is centered on an abandoned silica sand quarry.  Paved, gravel and earthen trails lead throughout the preserve, offering views of the quarry lake (bordered by white sand beaches and cliffs of silica), leading to rustic campsites, circling a wetland, crossing a forested hillside and climbing to bluffs that offer a sweeping view of the Missouri River Valley.

While the quarry site is especially unique, we encountered a pleasing mix of wildlife as well.  Chorus frogs called from the wetland shallows, eastern phoebes, just back from the south, sang their namesake tune from trees near the lake, turkey vultures sailed along the bluffs and a lone bald eagle soared overhead.

Though we chose not to climb a steep path onto the bluffs, we enjoyed our visit on this mild, sunny morning and encourage others to experience the beautiful geology.  Also of interest is the Park's Creative Arts Center; call ahead regarding its programs and hours of operation which vary through the seasons.  

The Grounding Movement

Down to Earth, a documentary that is currently available on Amazon Prime, summarizes the rise of the Grounding Movement, a theory that many, if not most, human maladies result from our having disconnected from the electro-chemical balance of Planet Earth.  Specifically, our electrical connection with the planet is disrupted by our use of shoes, work gloves, beds and artificial housing, among other modern conveniences of life and, as a result, we are no longer "electrically grounded."

Per this theory, the flow of electrons from the soil into our bodies is important in reducing inflammation, a destructive component of most forms of human disease.  The negatively-charged electrons neutralize free radicals that spawn inflammation and tissue destruction.  Reference is made to the use of soil contact by early human cultures to treat illness and to many personal testimonials from present day society.  A number of controlled medical studies are also cited.

Having trained for and practiced modern medical science, I am naturally skeptical of such simplistic theories.  In addition, I must point out that wild creatures and domestic livestock develop a wide range of diseases despite their constant contact with natural environments.  Nevertheless, I am well aware that we do not fully understand the many mysteries of our Universe and found the presentation to be fascinating.  An open mind is rarely misleading in medicine and a daily, barefoot walk in the grass is certainly more appealing than the regular use of anti-inflammatory drugs.  My thanks to my sister for calling my attention to this thought-provoking documentary. 

Roll Me Away

On my recent drive back from Colorado, I was listening to a stack of old CD mixes that I keep in my pickup.  Not remembering what tunes some of them contain, I was pleased and a bit emotional when Roll Me Away, by Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band, suddenly rose from the aging speakers.  Released in 1982, when we lived in Denver full time, it always stirs my feelings for the American West.

Indeed, the song is about choice, desire and the need for change, speaking to the lure of open spaces for many of us who grew up in the industrial Midwest.  Of course, reference to the freedom of a young hawk helps to solidify the power of the story.

A music person, I always associate songs with certain periods in my life and Roll Me Away evokes a time when family responsibilities were in a tug of war with personal preferences.  Most of us manage to compromise throughout the course of our lives but the flame of truth is never fully extinguished. 

In the Clash Zone

This morning, a potent cold front stretches from South Texas to Lake Michigan, bowing slightly to. the west.  The central low of the storm system currently swirls near Omaha, Nebraska.

Ahead of the front, warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico is streaming northward.  Here in central Missouri, we expect an afternoon high in the mid 80s F before colder, drier air pushes in from the northwest.  Strong thunderstorms with possible tornadoes and large hail will develop by late evening and continue into the morning hours; at least an inch of rain is expected.

This classic spring scenario, the product of an undulating jet stream, brings welcome moisture but a significant risk of flash flooding and destructive winds throughout the clash zone.  For many winter weary humans, it is the temperature drop of 30-40 degrees behind the front that is least welcome.  

Like the Good Old Refuge

When a friend and I arrived at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area early this morning, we were reminded of the fabulous wetland refuge that we knew before the recent man-induced drought.  Open water was extensive and hundreds of ducks fed in the shallows or dove in the deeper pools.

Northern shovelers dominated the waterfowl though most expected species were observed; the first blue-winged teal of the season were among them.  A pair of bald eagles were at their nest and American coot nodded their way across the central channel.  On the other hand, we did not encounter any great blue herons or hawks and few songbirds were seen.

Nevertheless, it was a pleasant and reassuring visit.  Migrant geese and American white pelicans have been reported at the refuge over the past weeks and the spring migration season is just beginning to unfold.  We'll be back on a regular basis to witness the annual spectacle and to immerse ourselves in this restored wetland ecosystem, 

Alaska Drilling Declined

As the Trump Administration demonstrates its disdain for science, specifically related to conservation and climate change, oil leases have been offered in ecologic-sensitive regions of Alaska, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.  Fortunately, to date, American oil companies have declined to bid for those opportunities.  This past week's sale, involving Cook's Inlet, did not elicit a single bid.

Citing the expense of drilling in those areas and an adequate supply of oil from other sources, these energy companies likely also sense the financial and political consequences of ignoring ecological responsibilities that will outlast the current Administration.

Indeed, as Trump and his cronies attempt to roll back decades of environmental progress, private companies understand that political disruptions are relatively brief and, thankfully, remain focused on long-term sustainability.  We must acknowledge the vital role that they play in our stewardship of the planet.  After all, they have grandchildren too. 

A Heart of Darkness

Heading east across the High Plains yesterday, my pickup was buffeted by strong, south winds from Goodland, Kansas, to Hays.  Since the air was warm and dry, no clouds raced across the deep, blue sky and I could not readily explain the cause of the intense wind.

This morning, as I continued eastward, those potent winds were still blowing and strands of clouds appeared overhead, all pointing toward the northeast.  These strands thickened and darkened as I entered more eastern regions of the Great Plains, indicating that Gulf of Mexico moisture was being drawn northward by the wind.

Then, as the highway climbed atop the Flint Hills of eastern Kansas, broad views unfolded to the north revealing dark skies that stretched across the horizon, topped by towering cumulonimbus clouds.  This was the heart of the pinwheel-like storm, beneath which heavy rain and probable hail were pelting the ground.  Quite a spectacle from a safe distance. 

Moisture Arrives

It is a cool, damp, gray day along the Front Range with snow in the mountains and scattered showers across the urban corridor.......just what we need after a warm, sunny winter.  Of course, a foot or two of snow would be even more welcome but we'll take whatever moisture we can get.

This isolated atmospheric disturbance is currently centered over the Colorado-Wyoming border, where some thunderstorms have developed.  Unfortunately, the respite won't last long and sunny, warm weather is forecast for the next couple of days.

March is the snowiest month in Metro Denver and we can only hope that this year's snowfall is at least average.  Then again, entrenched weather patterns often take a while to break down, leading to droughts or floods.  This is, after all, a semi-arid ecosystem even though the sprawling development suggests otherwise. 

The Death of Innocents

As the debate rages on regarding Trump's decision to attack Iran, the focus is on the rationale for war, the potential outcome of the conflict, the widening impact of the war, the effects of the conflict on the American and world economies and the unfortunate deaths of several members of the American military.  There is little or no mention of the deaths of innocent civilians in Iran and in other countries throughout the region.

Yet, a significant number of these deaths have occurred and will surely increase dramatically as the war continues.  Of course, as we saw in Gaza, many of the victims are children.  The swift, "clean" attack in Venezuela, in which no American military members were lost, killed at least 200 non-combatants.  The indiscriminate attacks of Russian drones on Ukraine have killed a large number of civilians, many of them children.

While politicians and military leaders direct our attention to the logistics and successes of the conflict, we eventually come to appreciate the tragic death of innocents that always results.  Unfortunately, their welfare is too often ignored during the rush to war. 

Flicker Season

Northern flickers are common residents and visitors on our Littleton farm throughout the year.  But, from mid February through early April, these large woodpeckers are impossible to ignore.

Whether there is two feet of snow on the ground or warm, sunny conditions grace the Front Range urban corridor, they respond to the lengthening daylight and to hormones surging through their bodies.  It is their mating season and their loud, hysterical calls echo across the farm, inviting a response from potential mates.  In concert, they drum on dead tree limbs or, more effectively, on metal downspouts and roof vents, alarming homeowners in the process.

This annual rite of early spring, however loud and unsettling, is a welcome development, especially after a long, cold winter.  Then again, March and April are among the snowiest months along the Front Range and the flicker rituals do not promise any noticeable change in the weather.  

Allies, Negotiations & War

Having survived into the 21st Century, one would think that we humans had learned to resolve our differences peacefully.  Unfortunately, that is not the case.

After breaking ties with most of our historic allies and having made only a half-hearted attempt at negotiations, King Trump has launched an attack on Iran, intent on dislodging the brutal regime of that country (and, of course, gaining access to its oil); Israel is our only co-participant.  Neither Congress nor our historic allies were consulted prior to the attack.

No doubt, Trump wants full credit for what he apparently expects to be a brief and successful campaign.  While few if any countries would mourn the downfall of the Iranian regime, most would surely have favored a unified economic and political effort to achieve that goal.  War should never be the first choice but Trump prefers to bask in the power that he wields.  

A Cackling Crew

Heading out to run a few errands this morning, I encountered a small flock of cackling geese on our property.  Significantly smaller, less noisy and far less aggressive than their larger cousins (Canada geese), cackling geese breed on the Arctic tundra of Alaska and Canada and are represented by four subspecies.

Unlike many of the Canadas, they are purely winter residents along the Front Range urban corridor and will soon head back to the Arctic.  On the other hand, they often mingle with their noisy cousins and are usually seen grazing with them on open grasslands or resting on one of our many lakes.

Perhaps this morning's crew needed a bit of solitude and I am pleased that they chose the relative seclusion of our farm.  They seemed unbothered by my presence and are welcome to hang out as long as they wish.  So far from their homeland, their visit is an honor. 

Dust Storm in Denver

Returning to Colorado for the first time in two months, I was greeted by a massive cloud of dust on the eastern edge of Metro Denver.  Strong WNW winds, which had triggered a red-flag warning, were picking up sand, dirt and grit from construction sites and plowed fields in that section of town, reducing visibility to a hundred feet or so.

While I moved into the slow lane and turned on my emergency flashers, others were unfazed by the dense cloud, racing along I-70 as if they have never heard of deadly pile-ups under such conditions.  Fortunately, to my knowledge, no accidents occurred.

Across the southern Metro Area, the winds were less intense, producing crystal-clear air on this sunny, warm day.  Upon reaching our Littleton farm, it was evident that our nearly snowless winter has left behind a dry, brown landscape; hopefully, our usual March and April snowstorms will materialize, offering vital moisture for this semi-arid ecosystem. 

The Final Spiral

 Most humans, at least in countries where health resources and decent nutrition are readily available, live into their sixties without developing life-altering illnesses.  By our seventies, however, disease and injuries occur with increasing frequency.

Once such events develop, their treatment and/or complications often lead to other health problems, an increasing burden on our aging bodies.  This clinical spiral may have a steep or gradual slope but the general course is likely to continue.  Modern drugs, many of which act by modifying our immune system, can produce remarkable benefits but their potential side effects may end up hastening our demise.

Indeed, how and if to treat certain conditions will often come down to a well-informed choice.  The quality of our life becomes an important consideration and the need to address end-of-life matters, including issues such as resuscitation, cannot and should not be ignored.  Clarifying our wishes in advance is a gift to those we leave behind. 

Complicated Pride

Throughout this year's Winter Olympics, there was a great deal of flag waving and cheering for the athletes of one's country.  While this undercurrent of national pride is generally appropriate, its outward expression may be complicated by the behavior and policies of that country's leadership.

This phenomenon was surely experienced by many Americans (fans and athletes) this year.  Proud of the skill, dedication and efforts of those who represented our country, we could not separate that emotion from the recoil induced by the actions and policies of the Trump Administration.  For many, this complicated pride was especially evident during the performance of our National Anthem, which, for some of us, has always been too militaristic.

This mix of pride and discomfort may also affect other aspects of our life, including family, social and business relationships.  Political, religious and philosophical differences often complicate those bonds as well. 

Northeast Blizzard

The storm system that raked the Midwest with tornadoes and dropped heavy snow across the Great Lakes region will move off the Atlantic Coast today, creating a classic Nor'Easter as its counterclockwise winds pull in copious moisture from the ocean.  Up to two feet of snow is expected from New Jersey to Boston and the high winds will produce blizzard conditions.

February is the peak month for Nor'Easters as gyrations in the jet stream trigger the fickle and rapidly changing weather of early spring.  The exact track of the storm determines the impact on coastal cities and the current forecast indicates that this one may be devastating, perhaps shutting down travel throughout the region.

Then again, all the snow and misery will fuel the conviction of the uninformed (and politically motivated) that global warming is a hoax, ignoring the fact that powerful storms and an energized jet stream are fueled by heat.  

February Tornadoes

While tornadoes are not uncommon in February across the Gulf Coast States, they are certainly unusual in the Midwest, where sufficient heat and humidity have historically been rare in the past.  Last evening, however, several tornadoes developed across Illinois and Indiana as a potent cold front swept in from the northwest.

Bloomington, Indiana, appears to have received most of the damage though the tornado watch extended from the Mississippi Valley to central Ohio.  Once again, our warming climate seemed to be at least partly responsible, both for the unusual February warmth and the potent storm that triggered the outbreak.  Now centered over southern Wisconsin, this winter storm is expected to produce heavy snow across the Great Lakes Region and New England.

Here in Missouri, we experienced the strong, northwest winds and dramatic temperature drop behind the front (from the mid 60s F yesterday afternoon to low 20s F this morning) but dodged the tornadic thunderstorms.  Several afternoons in the thirties will remind us that it is still February. 

Health, Politics & Environmentalism

The anti-science fervor of the Trump Administration threatens the health of Americans and the welfare of our natural environment.  Policies that eliminate restrictions on fossil fuel emissions, expand drilling and development within previously protected ecosystems, cutback funding for medical research and reduce support for childhood immunizations are among the most outrageous.

Of course, most of these political moves affect low-income citizens more than wealthy Americans who do not live in industrial areas and are able to benefit from modern medicine without the need for government assistance.

On the other hand, rolling back environmental protection affects the health of all humans and every ecosystem on the planet.  Pollution and climate change are never just local problems.  Vote Democratic in November!   

A Blackbird Spectacle

Yesterday morning, out on the farmlands east of Columbia, I came across a massive flock of blackbirds feeding in corn stubble along a graveled road.  To my surprise, it was only one of several massive flocks that I would encounter.

As I drove past them, the flocks would rise and fall in spectacular aerial displays, partly in response to a pair of northern harriers that were patrolling the fields.  Steady streams of blackbirds passed above my pickup, heading from one field to another.  Over a three mile stretch, I must have seen at least 30,000 of those noisy migrants.

Those close enough to identify from my truck were all Brewer's blackbirds.  This species breeds on the Canadian prairies and southward across the Northern Plains of the U.S; they winter throughout the Southern States and into Mexico.  Permanent populations are found along the West Coast and throughout the Intermountain West but, here in Missouri, they are purely migrants, often traveling in the company of grackles and other blackbird species. 

Local Topography

During my youth in Cincinnati, we lived near a large creek that led westward and downward through forest and then across open farmlands.  Though we often followed it for miles, I remember wondering where it eventually led.

When I grew older and became a bit more sophisticated regarding our local geography, I realized that the creek was one of many that flow into the Mill Creek Valley from the ridges that border it.  But that early curiosity fed a life-long interest in topography and how our modern landscapes came to be.  Indeed, over time, I became increasingly interested in geology and hydrology and cannot travel anywhere without paying attention to the streams and rivers that I cross.

Understanding the local geography also fuels attention to the varied ecosystems that characterize one's city or town and, of course, to the myriad of wild creatures that inhabit them.

See also: Wonderland

Snowpack Rescue

A series of Pacific storms will pummel the Cascades and Sierra Nevada for the next few days and  produce flooding along the West Coast.  Over the next week, the snow is forecast to spread throughout the Intermountain region, including the mountains of Idaho, the Great Basin, the Wasatch Front of Utah and the Rocky Mountain corridor.

Snowfall has been far below normal throughout most of the American West this winter, endangering its varied ecosystems and the water supply of its cities.  These storms are expected to significantly boost the mountain snowpack across that region, a welcome development as we approach March.

Of course, higher elevations of the West can generally expect more snow through the spring and peak snowmelt does not generally begin before mid-late May.  Hopefully, this vital recovery will continue until then. 

Trusting our Intelligence

Were it not for our large brains, we humans would surely have died out long ago.  Not physically equipped to match the speed and strength of African predators, we would never have left that Continent.

As it turned out, our large brains came to the rescue and we eventually spread across the globe.  In concert, the sophistication of our varied cultures increased and the Industrial and Technological Revolutions assured that we would take control of the planet, leading to both good and bad consequences.  Indeed, we may yet facilitate our own extinction.

Throughout this history, intellectual endeavors were challenged by mysticism and political expediency in their various forms.  It is imperative that we trust our intelligence and the scientific method that we learned to utilize in order to survive and thrive.  Modern efforts to ignore or debase science will hasten our demise; unfortunately, we will take most other species with us.

First Spring Storm

The latest Pacific storm, which gathered strength over the Four Corners region, is now spinning in western Kansas.  Ahead of its central zone of low pressure, southerly winds are sweeping Gulf of Mexico moisture northward into the Heartland.  This morning, rain is falling across all of Missouri and is expected to continue throughout the day.

Farther south, where the humidity and temperature are summer-like, thunderstorms are forecast to develop along the cold front.  Indeed, the Gulf Coast States, from Texas to Florida are under a severe thunderstorm watch, including the possibility of large hail and tornados, through the weekend.

Today's chilly rain is more than welcome in Missouri where drought conditions persist despite the heavy snow two weeks ago.  However much we receive will provide a temporary respite since warm, sunny weather is expected for most of the coming week. 

Writers & Artificial Intelligence

In order to "learn" facts and writing style, artificial intelligence "scrapers" have been unleashed across the internet and public blogs are among their most common targets.  Indeed, over the past couple of years, my page views have increased dramatically due to this technologic consumption.

The only means of disrupting this intellectual theft is to privatize your blog, negating its purpose.  While I am not particularly bothered by this development, one might expect some documentation of sources when AI content is produced.

On the other hand, true writers will not use AI to produce their own material.  We must write and our work must reflect our personal knowledge, experience and creativity.  Using technical shortcuts would be unsatisfying and disingenuous.  

Forgoing Luxury

During this era of political dysfunction and reduced funding for both national and international aid programs, it seems appropriate that those of us with the means to do so might redirect our relative wealth from personal spending to the needs of less fortunate populations.

While I am not a socialist, I do believe that we humans need to step up when our government fails to do so; less personal consumption and more philanthropy seems especially appropriate during the reign of King Trump.  Most of us would agree that we can lead perfectly comfortable lives without choosing to purchase "high end products" or take extravagant vacations.

Indeed, the joys of life are rarely related to the money that we spend to experience them.  On the other hand, a commitment to sharing our wealth is always satisfying.

See also:  The Cost of Extravagance 

Aging and Independence

We humans hope to live a long, healthy life but many, perhaps most of us, do not wish to outlive our independence.  Achieving that goal is not always successful due to illness but staying active and adhering to science-based lifestyle recommendations increase our chances.

Attention to visual and hearing deficits is especially important since a safe interaction with our environment and effective communication with our family and friends help to stave off accidents, a common trigger of deteriorating health in older individuals.  Since our ability to absorb essential nutrients diminishes with age, a healthy, well-balanced diet is very important; a daily multivitamin tablet makes sense but most longevity-enhancing supplements, advertised on TV, are of dubious value.

Finally, the importance of acknowledging one's limitations is too often ignored and independence may be threatened by an unwillingness to ask for assistance, especially when facing high-risk tasks.  Pride should never be the cause of an early demise. 

The Prestige Bowl

Today's Super Bowl, in California, is more than the NFL Championship Game.  It is the place to be seen for the wealthy and the well-connected.  No doubt, private jets have already arrived from across the globe.

While tickets are said to average $6000-$7000, celebrities, corporate executives and their guests shell out far more for the suites.  Leading up to the game, we have heard from many of those wealthy individuals, publicly affirming their intention (i.e. qualification) to attend the game and, perhaps more importantly, its social events.

The gladiators themselves are rewarded handsomely for their willingness to risk serious injury and, down the line, chronic traumatic encephalopathy while sports betting services encourage TV viewers to wager their hard-earned money on every aspect of the contest.  Enjoy the Greatest American spectacle!  I will pass.

The Dolomites

Those watching the Winter Olympics from Italy, may have heard that the skiing events are being held in The Dolomites.  This range, in northeast Italy, lies within the Southern Limestone Region of the Alps.

Most of the land that is now Italy became part of Northern Africa when the Tethys Sea opened, some 200 million years ago, separating Europe and Africa.  When that Sea closed, beginning 50 million years ago, Italy was Africa's leading point as it drifted northward and rammed into Europe, lifting the Alps and associated ranges in the process; marine sediments from the Tethys thus form the southern edge of the Alps.  In areas where the sediments were rich in magnesium, the limestone took the form of dolomite (calcium-magnesium-carbonate).

Dolomite is found in many limestone formations across the globe.  Of interest to those of us in Missouri, it is widespread in the Ordovician limestone of the Ozarks.

See also: Italy and Africa and Oil and the Tethys Sea

Flashback Post LXXIII

As the Winter Olympics get underway in Milan, Italy, I have decided to repost my sentiments from August, 2024.

See: Thoughts on the Olympics 

Journalism & Freedom

The founder of the largest book distribution system in the U.S. has reduced staffing at the Washington Post by 30%.  One would think that Jeff Bezos, who began his lucrative career by encouraging Americans to purchase and read books of all genres, would respect the importance of journalism in this highly politicized country and across the globe.

Unfortunately, one suspects that this mass firing is more of a political than a financial move.  Having purchased the paper that brought down Nixon, Bezos, among the most wealthy individuals in America, seems to be reluctant to demonstrate independence during the reign of another corrupt and power-hungry President.

What can be more important than an aggressive free press when our Democracy is threatened and human rights are under attack?  As a vital election approaches, this drastic decision is especially suspect and unfortunate.

Trump & Groundhog Day

Yesterday, Americans were subjected to the silly, annual rites of Groundhog Day.  I suspect most of us are more enamored with the film than the ritual; in that film, a TV weather man (Bill Murray) is forced to relive Groundhog Day until he becomes empathetic and is able to express love.

In modern-day America, we now wake up each morning to learn that Our Dear Leader has released another Presidential order, attacking, suing or degrading one of his presumed enemies or expanding the power of his office.  Trump has not and will not learn from his cruel, selfish behavior.  Extreme narcissism negates a happy ending for him or for our country.

Incapable of kindness, empathy or compassion, Trump will never leave office voluntarily.  A third Impeachment will likely be the only means of putting an end to our ongoing Groundhog Day.   

The Thaw Begins

After two weeks of frigid weather and a period of heavy snow, a thaw has begun in central Missouri.  Though overnight lows may dip below freezing, afternoon highs are expected to gradually climb over the next ten days.

Down at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area this afternoon, the amount of open water had increased, attracting a mix of gadwall, mallards, green-winged teal and ring-necked ducks.  Except for a northern harrier and a few members of the sparrow family, bird sightings were otherwise limited.

But the current forecast is reassuring, fortifying my conviction that February should be considered the first month of spring.  The birth of great horned owls, the nesting activity of magpie and crows, the northward migration of geese,  the drumming and hysterical call of flickers, increasing birdsong and the blooming of early bulb plants all signal the gradual change of seasons.  Following the extreme cold in January, the coming thaw will be especially welcome. 

Junco Road

Exploring one of my favored country roads on this sunny, cold morning, I only encountered five avian species.  But one of them, dark-eyed juncos, were especially abundant, foraging on and along the graveled road.

Small but hardy, these "snow birds" often fly up from the weedy borders of country roads as vehicles pass, their white outer tail feathers aiding identification.  This morning, as my pickup crawled past snow-covered fields, they were easy to observe as they scoured the gravel for windblown seed.  Most were of the slate-colored race, joined by some "Oregon juncos."  My conservative count for eBird was 125 along the 3 mile stretch of road.

Unlike our response to encountering large raptors in frigid winter weather, birders and suburbanites tend to pity small songbirds as they face the cold wind and snow.  But one need not worry about the gregarious juncos; they will head back to Canada or to the higher mountains before it gets too warm in the spring.