Birding

Category

Invite migrating hummingbirds to your yard this fall

Invite a hummer to share your garden Hummingbirds live only in the Americas. Of the 338 species known, 16 are found in the United States and 3 occur in Florida. Black-chinned and rufous hummingbirds occasionally can be seen in Florida during the winter. The ruby-throated hummingbird is by far the most common hummer in the state. This feathered jewel is about 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) long and weighs as little as a penny (¼ ounce). Its name describes the most...

Singing a song for food

Feed me, I’m hungry! These hungry mockingbird chicks look hungry as Jacquee Markel of Dune Allen snapped this photo. Jacquee said every time she or her husband Kenny went near the nest, the babies would stick their beaks out looking for food....

Morrison Springs renovation complete

Popular park reopens PONCE DE LEON – A newly renovated Morrison Springs is now open to the public. The 161-acre park is well known in the area, and popular with divers and nature enthusiasts across the south. The project started in 2007 and includes a new separate boat launch area and parking. This separate launching area provides a safer environment for divers and boaters. There is approximately 575 linear ft. of boardwalks meandering through the ancient cypress trees, and span...

Earth Day at Topsail spelled fun for kids

Kids have fun learning at Earth Day celebration Lots of activities entertained and educated children on Saturday Apr. 18 as folks celebrated Earth Day at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. There were booths and programs that included storytellers, puppet shows, book readings and music. Nonie Maines of  Nonie’s Ark Animal Encounters educates the children on frogs. Nonie hosts “EVEntuers” and animal encounter parties. To learn more about Nonie’s Ark, go to noniesark.com. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service hosted bird...

E. O. Wilson Biophilia Center construction nears completion

Facility will provide extraordinary learning opportunities The long awaited $7 million dollar, 28,500 sq. ft. E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center has taken shape, with construction completion slated for June and grand opening in September. Developed by local conservationist, M.C. Davis on his 48,000-acre conservation land named Nokuse Plantation, the Center will offer students and visitors spectacular interactive exhibits which will offer a better understanding of the environment as well as educate on the importance of biodiversity, ecosystems, and to encourage conservation,...