THE NEW NATURE WALK BLOG BY MARLENE WALKER

NATURE HAPPENINGS Now that leaves have fallen and migrating songbirds have departed for their wintering grounds, what is there to see? Actually, I find this a very exciting time. While many birds have left, other species that breed in the arctic and boreal regions are now arriving for the winter or are stopping to rest as they continue their journey south. So, a few days ago, I saw several birds that I didn't recognize. I tried to photograph them but they were skittish and as I was facing the sun, it was difficult to get a shot. But, as always, I had my binoculars with me. When I returned home, I took out my bird guide and discovered that they were Snow Buntings in fall plumage. What a thrill to see these Arctic breeders!!!  Then yesterday at quite a distance, I saw a migrating duck. When I finally got a closer look, I identified it as a male Red-breasted Merganser, a boreal breeder heading south.  Why do I get so excited about these sightings? It is because these nature gems ...

NATURE'S TREASURES As I explore the natural world, I feel compelled to share my discoveries with a broad audience. Just as my involvement and appreciation of nature gives balance in my life, I hope to inspire others to find solace.  Observing, writing, photographing and sharing my passion for nature gives me great joy and satisfaction. With this in mind, I invite your comments and questions. Your input ignites my own creativity, ideas and furthers my research. Feel free to share. Thank you for following my blog. Yours in nature, Marlene Common Milkweed seeds erupting from pods Mat Euphorbia Polypore This fungus is fan-like Paper Wasp Nest

LATE AUTUMN WALK Exploring nature lifts my soul and finding unusual things is exciting. On one of my forays, I share what you see below.............. Interesting leaf pattern as it decays A chipmunk exploring my shoe Fungi come in a variety of sizes, shapes and patterns Lichen is the symbiotic relationship of algae and fungus Massive mushrooms in a decaying tree trunk  Tell-tale signs of a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker on this birch  

 AUTUMN'S SIGNATURE The singular beauty of a leaf or flower mesmerizes me. That's why I have always loved macro photography, viewing and photographing the small things in nature that many people don't see.  Today is MACRO THURSDAY.  Find something in nature that you previously missed.

 THE SOUNDS OF STILLNESS Silence and Stillness are compatible. To observe nature means being still, calm and allowing yourself to be aware of everything around you. The letters in the word S-I-L-E-N-T are the same letters as in the word L-I-S-T-E-N. Listening to nature and listening to others is really the same. Both allow us to hear nuances, intent and content. We get in touch with other people by 'really listening'. That includes non-verbal communication through the eyes. Even with face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, so much can be read in the eyes, even a smile. Today is LISTENING WEDNESDAY!!

 AUTUMN REVERIE The leaves are down, crunching and crackling beneath my feet. A few stragglers remain on the maples, golden dancers on bare branches, the sun shining through their translucence. Life and death are intertwined, as the dying leaves become the organic detritus that will nurture future growth. Even one leaf is the embodiment of beauty; a transient beauty to enjoy, cherish and appreciate. Have a good TUESDAY.