Early Spring

Signs of an early spring at Gault: blooms on the wild plum tree (Prunus mexicana) on the lane (photo forthcoming), and a snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina). I was investigating the presence of a handful of turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) milling about the creek near the bridge, and noticed the decomposed remnants of an unidentified small mammal (opposum-sized) laying partially submerged on the edge of the creek. It was possibly a victim of the recent high water event. I was trying to identify it when I noticed movement beneath it in the water. Snapping turtles are 'vultures' of the underwater world, and this one was scavenging a meal. Unfortunately, I was only at the site to check on the pumps today, and I left my camera at home. Maybe the meal will last a few more days...

The Identified Taxa list has grown with the addition of a bird list compiled in 2008-2009 mainly by Byron Stone, with contributions from Jeremy Russell and Mike Rogan. Also, check out the screech owl pic by Clark Wernecke on the Birds page.