2010 May 28 « Hike Our Planet – Lee Hiller Nature Photography

An Old Friend Returns and Baby Birds

Hot Springs Mountain Trail Spiderweb Disc

Promenade Northern Mockingbird Baby

I decided to get an earlier start this morning and I head directly up to the Dead Chief Trail and connect with the Short Cut Trail. An old friend reappears as I begin the incline of the Short Cut Trail, with each step they call out to me. I look and climb, excitement fills my heart when I look up at a long dead Tree. Wings Spread embracing the Tree is my friend a Red-bellied Woodpecker. I called out and they turn to looked my way and then hug the Tree again. We had a lovely conversation and I feel so thankful to see them.

At the top of Hot Springs Mountain I carry the elation of see my dear friend who followed be through the Forest all winter. The Trail is lush and Green from the previous nights rain and with each breeze the Trees share the droplets coating their Leaves. Glistening up ahead is an amazing Spiderweb, it looks as if they are creating a vinyl LP. Weaving a silver thread musical masterpiece. Nature’s creatures are inspired to great artistry. To my side I spot another beautiful red top Fungus pushing it’s way into view. I am in awe of how the Forest Fungi fight through the to the surface.

When I cross over to the the west side of the Hot Springs Mountain Trail signs of last nights rain is everywhere. Soggy paths with standing water and Wildflowers drenched with rain. I connect with the Honeysuckle Trail and then head down the Floral Trail. As I near the bottom a I look up in the leaves and see a sweet Tufted Titmouse.

I head to Fountain Street and then the Promenade to cut across the park to the Post Office. On the Promenade I can see a lovely Squirrel on the Tufa Terrace high is a Tree nibbling on leaves. It leaps though the branches and down to where I am walking. A female Cardinal is in the shade of a large Tree, a couple with a dog go past and she flies up into a nice green leafy Tree.

As I near the exit to the Park I see a Northern Mockingbird sitting on the handrail ahead of me. She appears to be waiting for me, I am about to see a wonderful sight. What she shows me is her babies tucked safely under a bush. They are so gorgeous, fluffy and curious. What came next was flight school, Mom took her babies on to the hospital and one by one each flew across to a nearby Tree. I am so excited, I can’t wait to bring Rick back later to see it for himself…

Later Rick and I did return to see “Flight School” and this time there was both Northern Mockingbird and Sparrow Babies. Nature blesses us in so my ways!

Open your eyes to what Nature is trying to show us.
Love to You ALL!
Lee

PS the Big Beautiful Hibiscus was on Central Avenue outside the Antique Store.