New York is home to an impressively diverse array of natural habitats. The Empire State’s various ecoregions run the gamut from the beaches and marshes of Long Island to the grasslands and high peaks near the Canadian border. The Adirondack Mountains are perhaps the wildest, most distinct region of the state, representing the southern edge of the boreal forest biome … Read More
Arizona Birding Adventures, Part 2
It was difficult to leave Portal behind after the fantastic experiences I enjoyed while exploring the Chiricahuas. I’d seen so much in such a short period of time that even if the remaining days of the trip were completely birdless I would still consider the vacation a success. Of course, the second half of my visit to southeastern Arizona turned … Read More
Arizona Birding Adventures, Part 1
The last time I visited Arizona was the first time I visited Arizona. During the summer of 2005, my family embarked on one of our most ambitious cross-country camping trips, driving through the Rockies from New York to California and returning by way of the desert southwest. Our time in the state was focused on visiting the National Parks: Grand … Read More
Florida Bike-birding: Ocklawaha Prairie Restoration Area
Today I got the bright idea to take a mid-morning bike ride. I’ve been wanting to check out a big wetland complex that I have been eyeing on google earth. But given that the loop trail around the complex is 10.5 miles (the “Levee Trail”), I wanted to have time to take my bike. The Ocklawaha Prairie Restoriation Area is a 2,500 … Read More
Florida Winter Butterflies
Most people are living in an icy winter wonderland, where no butterflies would dare to fly. But down in Florida, it stays warm enough that quite a few species are able to survive the winter. When I was down in Florida for the past 12 days I was able to find quite a few species. Most people know I love … Read More