The Greatest Organism of Them All

We need more of these.  Period.  STAY GREEN.

Creepers are Lurking

Parthenocissus quinquefolia.

 

Or the Virginia Creeper.  Whichever one you prefer.  I made this post bolder, because that it what this plant is.  People don't realize that this plant is not only very ugly looking, but its berries are toxic and poisonous.  To point out this plant, look for the 5 leafs around the stem.  It can grow on walls, poles, pretty much anything.  Growing to about 3 centimeters, this little guy can pack a punch if you are not careful.  We got this outside of my backyard, near a forest.  Check it out!

Eastern Gray Squirrel's day at the park

Sciurus carolinensis

I found this little feller hanging around at a park near my house. I managed to snap this picture moments before he ran away. Boy was I lucky! These squirrels enjoy eating seeds, fungi, tree bark, and various nuts. These little guys live in dense forests and suburban neighborhoods alike. While they may look adorable, they are able to team up with others to take down their predators.

American Crow on the prowl

Corvus brachyrhynchos

It took me a few tries to get close enough to take a photo, but it has easily paid off. These birds can be found almost throughout North America. This all-black bird is especially common within the United States. Being omnivorous, crows eating a wide range of foods including seeds, eggs, fish, grains, and nuts. They are often found scavenging for food in landfills. Crows will often stay within a family of 15 or so for a few years, and they will help each other out during that time.

Musclewood to the rescue!

Carpinus Caroliniana

When I first saw this Musclewood in my neighbor's back yard I just knew I would have to photograph it. After receiving a few odd glances from my neighbors due to me having forgotten to change out of my bathrobe, I decided it would be best to take my picture quickly and leave. The tree is native to eastern North America. Because the wood is heavy, it is often used for tools, walking sticks/canes, and even longbows.

The graceful swimming of Canadian Geese

Branta canadensis

I was lucky enough to see one of these today at Burke Lake. It is a shame I didn't have my video camera with me, I would have loved to film this breathtaking creature. It is too hard to resist watching these birds, and I spent a whole ten minutes gazing at it (all you bird lovers out there know what I'm talking about). They can be found throughout Canada and northern United States. They mostly eat grains and vegetation, but on rare occasion will eat insects and small fish. Canadian Geese are monogamous, meaning they will stay with one partner for their entire lives.

Common Buckeye

Junonia Coenia

I spotted this beauty earlier today as I was leaving the house. I felt almost mesmerized by it's majestic movement. Common Buckeyes can be found in sunny, open areas. They feed off of leaves from various plants. When they become adults, they are very well camouflaged.