Wood Frogs

Spring is definitely in the air for these two love frogs!!   While clearing away leaves near the driveway, this pair appeared in the driveway.  They were probably headed for the stream or small pond in the wetland area.  My thanks to Bridget for seeing them hoping down the driveway.




The Wood frog is the state amphibian of New York.
Similar to other northern frogs that hibernate close to the surface in soil and/or leaf litter, wood frogs can tolerate the freezing of their blood and other tissues. Frogs can survive many freeze/thaw events during winter if not more than about 65% of the total body water freezes.
Wood frongs are one of the first amphibians to emerge for breeding right when the snow melts, along with Spring Peepers.

White Blaze on Deer's Snout

Today we had a group of 5 deer stop by the property.  On one of the deer she has an unusual white blaze on her snout.  Of all the deer that have come by the property this is the first time we have seen this marking.  One of her young also has a slight white marking on her snout.

Two Young Bucks Having a Scuffle

We've had many bucks in the yard this year.  These 2 were having a scuffle while our ladies were feeding.

Pileated Woodpecker

Just at the edge of the woods, at a dead tree, this Pileated Woodpecker spent a great deal of time pecking away looking for insects.   


See Video:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHRl1FQfQQc&context=C33080f1ADOEgsToPDskLLYig02rikKZQMXZaXa6Oq

Enjoying a Little Pumpkin Dessert

Cider and Apple eating a chopped up pumpkin.   The three youngsters showed no interest.

And Another One!!

Another Buck Looking at the Ladies

We've had some nice big bucks in the yard this year.  This one was checking out Pie and Pumpkin this morning.