Birds, Wildflowers and Nature’s Van Gogh Heart

Hot Springs Mountain Trail Natures Van Gogh Heart

The sun shone brightly with only a sheer coating of clouds and the Robins where singing their greeting to the new day.  The Dead Chief Trail was resplendent, green leaves had begun to appear along the path. A cool green tunnel to begin my hike, it was magical. Again I spotted a pair of Blue Jays preparing a nest in a tall tree near the top of the second incline. Preparations for new life in the park were abundant.

Color filled the Short Cut Trail in tiny details often missed when we hike.  Beautiful layers of Rock, Moss and Lichen, a tiny gray striped fly and fallen leaves in jewel like colors. Treasures all waiting to be noticed.

When I reach the top I could see two large Nests under construction, I wondered who would be laying eggs there soon.  At the Pagoda a familiar face was waiting for me, a sweet Northern Mockingbird.  A brief hello and then off into the bushes for cover.  The 6 Crows, 1 Hawk and a Turkey Vulture were all on the prowl.  After I took my view shot a small Yellow-Rumped Warbler appeared, I was relieved when she flew away.  The grass below the Pagoda was beginning to change color as little purple flowers began to sprout along the edges by the Trail.

Here too along the Hot Springs Mountain Trail it was little details in the vastness of the forest. Sweet leafy  Nests, Lichen painted Rocks and a Gnarled Root with a Heart that made me think of Van Gogh.  Half way along the trail I met up with Jay (half of  the Lovebirds) he too was enjoying the sunshine before the next round of storms arrived.  The weather channel was predicting rain or snow for both Friday and Monday.  I of course was leaning toward snow.

Hot Springs National Park, AR Peak Trail Tufted Titmouse

I continued to hike the entire Hot Springs Mountain Trail Loop then over to the Peak Trail.  A lovely little surprise awaited me there, a beautiful Tufted Titmouse.  Barely visible in the tangled wood I felt blessed to have seen him/her hopping and feeding.  Near the bottom of the trail a lovely White-Throated Sparrow was nestled into the shimmering green leaves. I felt joyous as I left the park as I  thought of the preparation for new life.

Nature was renewing, regrowing and rejuvenating the forest.
Love to You All,
Lee

February 24, 2010 | Categories: Uncategorized | Tags: Arkansas Birds, Birds Nest, Blue Jay, Dead Chief Trail, Hiking Trails, Hot Springs, hot springs national park hiking trails, Nature Photography, Northern Mockingbird, Peak Trail, Photography, Squirrel, Tufted Titmouse, White Throated Sparrow, Yellow-rumped warbler | Leave A Comment »