Camouflaged

White-throated Sparrow, first winter plumage

The snow has melted again, the ground is not yet green and the brown earth appears barren and bleak in this early spring season. Dead grass, twigs and leaves that have dried out in the spring wind crunch under foot. Where are the bright birds on conspicuous branches and perches?

Pine Siskins on the path

Stop and listen, hear the scritch, scratch of something in the brush. Look and see the little birds foraging for seeds and bugs.

Mourning Cloak butterfly

Wings flutter upwards from the ground and a "dead leaf" comes to life to escape your next step. These wings have stayed hidden through the long, cold winter and now seek the warmth of the sun.

Nesting Canada Goose

Stand at the water's edge and watch the ducks and geese swimming on the surface. Take time to notice the nest in the old stump where eggs are quietly warmed and guarded.

Look for the bright birds on conspicuous branches and perches and you may miss what is at your feet;- the shy, the hidden, the camouflaged treasures of nature.