Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center

2009-07-13T08:47:00.003-05:00

Week of July 6th - 12th

We welcomed MN STEP, Team Yes, Manitowoc School District, Spring Valley/Wykoff FFA, Cochrane/Fountain City FFA, ABLE/HCO, and the Austin Bank Program.

On Monday, Minnesota science teachers arrived at Eagle Bluff for a week of seminars as a part of MN STEP. Activities that they participated in were Bird Banding, Bird Hike, Trees & Keys, and East Treetops.

Team Yes also arrived on Monday for a two-day trip with their 7th - 9th graders. While they were here, they experienced East Treetops.

The Manitowoc School District came with their 7th - 10th graders along with School Forest Director (and former Eagle Bluff Naturalist Patty Maher) on Monday. They participated in Archery, Rock Climbing, Canoeing, East Treetops, and Ridge Oneota before leaving on Wednesday.
Spring Valley/Wykoff FFA came on Wednesday with their 10th-12th graders for a day of Group Challenges and East Treetops.

The 9th - 12th graders of Cochrane/Fountain City FFA came on Thursday for South Treetops.

ABLE/HCO arrived on Thursday for their visit until Friday. While they were here, they experienced Archery, Fire Safety, Safety Bingo, American Idol, Star Lab, Nature Walk, Dancing with the Stars, Nature Bingo, Butterfly Craft, Rock Climbing, West Treetops, Survivor, Bocce Frisbee, and the Raptor Program.

The Austin Bank Program came here on Friday morning for a Canoe trip down the Root River.
Phenology:

A Juvenile Broad-winged Hawk was seen. It had probably recently fledged its nest and is still dependant on its parents for food. See Photo by Jim Williams.
Barred Owls continue to call to each other.
Gray Treefrogs are still calling at night.
Compass Plants are starting to bloom.
Rattlesnake Master is beginning to pop up.
Monarch Caterpillars are munching on Milkweed plants.

Thought for the Week:
"Life is something you measure not in years but in precious moments and in how you value those moments."
Mubar

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
The Blue Jay

This Week's Question:
Where does Rattlesnake Master get its name?

2009-07-06T08:57:00.002-05:00

Week of June 29th - July 5th

We welcomed Prince of Peace Women's Retreat, Hormel Nature Center, Kathy Ready's Birding Group, and the Lund Family.

We hope that everyone had a HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!

On Tuesday, the Prince of Peace Women's Retreat arrived on Tuesday afternoon for a Nature Hike and dinner before leaving.

The 11 & 12 year olds from the Hormel Nature Center in Austin also arrived on Tuesday. They went up on East Treetops and then left the next morning.

Kathy Ready and her guests came for a birding hike on Thursday morning. During the hike they saw Gray Catbirds, an Indigo Bunting, Turkey Vulture, Chipping Sparrow, American Redstart, along with many others.

The Lund Family also arrived on Thursday for a morning of South Treetops.

Phenology:

Purple Coneflower is beginning to bloom.
Milkweed is in bloom.
Black-eyed Susan is blooming.
Eastern Bluebirds are beginning to lay their 2nd clutch of eggs.

Thought for the Week:
"To be human is to open our eyes to the simple and extraordinary beauty that is all around us."
David Krieger

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION:

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Tree Swallows fight for feathers in mid-air. No one knows exactly why, some think it is a form of play.

This Week's Question:
Besides the Indigo Bunting, what is another songbird that only appears blue because of the structure of the feathers?

2009-06-29T13:02:00.002-05:00

Week of June 22nd - 28th

We welcomed Stringwood, Camp Moon Hwa, MN Association of Soil & Water, Scheels Hunting & Archery University, John Marshall High School, Mayo High School, Camp Kingswood, and Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Stringwood is a camp for string instrument players such as Violin, Viola, Cello, etc. and their students arrived on June 14th. They spent two weeks at Eagle Bluff rehearsing and playing shows around Lanesboro.
Camp Moon Hwa brought their 7th-9th graders to Eagle Bluff on Tuesday and Wednesday. The groups went Canoeing and up on South Treetops.

The MN Association of Soil and Water arrived on Tuesday for a stay until Thursday. They gathered at Eagle Bluff to meet with each other.

Scheels Hunting and Archery University also arrived on Tuesday. Employees from the Scheels store stayed at Eagle Bluff until Friday learning about different bows in order to be able to sell them better.

John Marshall High School arrived on Thursday to take potential honor students on Treetops.

Mayo High School also arrived on Thursday to take potential honor students on Treetops.

Camp Kingswood brought some 4th-6th grade campers to Eagle Bluff to do some fishing.

The 7th-12th graders at Bethlehem Lutheran Church arrived on Friday and stayed until Sunday. They experienced Pioneer Life, Canoeing, and East Treetops while they were here.

Phenology:

Butterfly Weed is blooming. See picture above.
American Robins are feeding their second brood of young for the year.

Thought for the Week:
"We live for those fantastic and unreal moments of beauty which our thoughts may build upon the passing panorama of experience."
Rockwell Kent

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
When dragonflies are in their nymph stage, they live underwater and eat mainly mosquito larva. When dragonflies are in their adult stage, they live above water and eat mainly adult mosquitoes.

This Week's Question:
What birds fight over feathers in mid-air?

2009-06-24T08:59:00.002-05:00

Week of June 15th - 21st

We welcomed the Summer Transition Group, Cars-N-Credit, Ms. Hey Days, Dunwoody Academy High School, Eddy Family Reunion, and MOSP Workshop.

The 11th and 12th graders of the Summer Transition group arrived for a Sunday - Tuesday visit. While they were here, they were able to experience Archery, Group Challenges, Pioneer Life, and West Treetops.

Cars-N-Credit employees came to Eagle Bluff on Monday and Wednesday to do some team building and to challenge themselves. On Monday they participated in Group Challenges and on Wednesday, they went up on the East Treetops high ropes course.

On Tuesday, the pageant contestants for Hayfield's Ms. Hey Days arrived for a day of Group Challenges and East Treetops.

On Wednesday, Dunwoody Academy High School arrived with their 9th-12th graders for a trip until Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Canoeing, South Treetops, GPS Pathfinders, Pond Life, and Rock Climbing.

They Eddy Family Reunion arrived on Saturday and did South Treetops in the morning.

The MOSP Workshop was also held on Saturday. MOSP stands for Minnesota Odonata Survey Project and focuses on mapping out the different species of Dragonflies and Damselflies in Minnesota. Three new species were found for this county, including Hagen's Bluet damselfly.

Phenology:

Hagen's Bluet was found at Eagle Bluff - the first identified in this county! Photo above by Denis A. Doucet
Common Green Darners (a type of dragonfly) were seen mating and laying eggs in a pond.
Common Whitetails (a type of dragonfly) were seen flying around their territory.
Ebony Jewelwings (a type of damselfly) were found down by the river.
Stream Bluets (a type of damselfly) were also found down by the river.
Midland Clubtails (a type of dragonfly) were found by a pond.
Twelve-spotted Skimmers (a type of dragonfly) were caught near one of our ponds.
One of our Eastern Bluebird nest boxes has 4 babies that will probably fledge (leave) their nest this week.

Thought for the Week:
"Nature is our oldest and grandest home, older than language, grander than consciousness."
Scott Russell Sanders

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Barn Swallows make up to 1000 trips collecting mud for the purpose of building their nests with it.

This Week's Question:
What do dragonflies eat?

2009-06-15T09:35:00.002-05:00

Week of June 8th - 14th

We welcomed Longfellow Elementary, St. John's Lutheran, Central Intermediate School, Century College TRIO Program, Joy Laine Yoga, Outdoor Nature Seminar, and the Congregational Church UCC Youth.

On Monday, the 4th and 5th graders of Longfellow Elementary arrived for a stay until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Group Challenges, Fungus Among Us, Beginning Orienteering, Archery, Pioneer Life, and Treetops.

St. John's Lutheran arrived with their 7th-9th graders for a morning of East Treetops.

Central Intermediate School arrived on Wednesday with their 6th graders. They were able to participate in Minimum Impact Camping, Oneota, Rock Climbing, Animal Signs, Beginning Orienteering, and South Treetops before leaving on Friday.

The Century College Trio Program arrived with 7th and 8th graders on Wednesday. They took East Treetops, Stream Lab, Pioneer Life, Fungus Among Us, and Group Challenges before leaving on Saturday.

The Joy Laine Yoga group arrived on Friday and had a weekend of Yoga.

The Outdoor Nature Seminar was held on Saturday. The group canoed down the Root River.

The Congregational Church UCC Youth group arrived on Sunday morning. They went on the East Treetops course and then had some lunch afterwards.

Phenology:

In one of our Bluebird Nest Boxes, there are 4 baby Eastern Bluebirds. See photo by Jim Williams.
In another nest box, there are 7 Tree Swallow Eggs.
In yet another nest box, there are 7 House Wren Eggs.

Thought for the Week:
"I remember feeling connected with everything around me when I was a very small child. The trees, ski, and sun and all of Nature were not only friendly; they were in some way part of me, or I a part of them."
Gerald May

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Common Grackles allow ants to crawl on their bodies and secrete formic acid, possibly to rid themselves of parasites.

This Week's Question:
Barn Swallow males and females make nests out of mud. About how many trips do they make collecting the mud?

2009-06-08T08:48:00.002-05:00

Week of June 1st - 7th

We welcomed Bamber Valley Elementary, HOPE Community Academy, Kaposia Education Center, Riverway Learning Community, and the Redalen Wedding.

On Monday, the 5th graders of Bamber Valley Elementary arrived for a visit until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Archery, Oneota, Fungus AmongUs, Beginning Orienteering Pond Life, and Treetops.

HOPE Community Academy arrived on Wednesday with their 5th graders. They were able to participate in Beginning Orienteering, Stream Lab, West Treetops, and Insects before leaving on Friday.

Kaposia Education Center also arrived on Wednesday with their 6th graders for a visit until Friday. While they were here, they experienced Birds, Group Challenges, Treetops, and Rock Climbing.

Riverway Learning Community arrived on Thursday with their Kindergarten - 3rd graders for a day visit. They took Oneota and Mushrooms & More while they were here.

On Saturday, Justin Redalen and Kristina Bolin got married at Eagle Bluff. Congratulations to the happy couple!!

Phenology:

The first Common Grackle offspring have fledged the nest. See Photo by Jim Williams.
Young Eastern Bluebirds have also fledged the nest.
Wild Rose is blooming.

Thought for the Week:
"We live for those fantastic and unreal moments of beauty which our thoughts may build upon the passing panorama of experience."
Rockwell Kent

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Indigo Buntings are actually black; the diffraction of light through their feathers makes them look blue. This explains why males can appear many shades from turquoise to black.

This Week's Question:
What special relationship do Common Grackles have with ants?

2009-06-01T09:24:00.003-05:00

Week of May 25th - May 31st

Hopefully everyone enjoyed their Memorial Day Weekend! We returned to work on Tuesday to welcome Melrose-Mindoro Middle School, Pacelli Junior High, Harvest Prep Academy, Longellow School, Tomah Middle School, New City Charter School, and hosted Becoming an Outdoor Family.

On Tuesday, Melrose-Mindoro Middle School arrived for a morning of Treetops with their 7th graders.

Pacelli Junior High also arrived on Tuesday with their 7th and 8th graders. They were able to take Earth Exploration, Treetops, and Karst Geology before leaving on Wednesday.

The 5th - 7th graders of Harvest Prep Academy arrived on Tuesday as well for a visit until Friday. While they were here, the ladies were able to experience Karst Geology, Amphibians, Pond Life, Oneota, Insects, and East Treetops.

Longellow School arrived with their 5th graders on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Group Challenges, Animal Signs, Treetops, and Root River Hike before leaving on Friday.

Tomah Middle School also arrived on Wednesday with their 6th graders and stayed until Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Canoeing, GPS Pathfinders, Pioneer Life, Fungus AmongUs, Pond Life, and South Treetops.
New City Charter School arrived on Friday with their 7th and 8th graders. They were able to participate in Forest Ecology and East Treetops before leaving on Saturday.

Eagle Bluff was also a host to a Becoming and Outdoor Family weekend co-sponsored by the MN DNR. Families were able to participate in a variety of activities this weekend, including Air Gun/Laser Gun, Archery, Flora & Fauna Hike , GPS Pathfinders, Fly Fishing, Treetops, and Rifle Range.

Phenology:

Bobolinks were seen in the area. See photo above my Jim Williams.
Eastern Meadowlarks have been seen and heard in the area.
Trumpet Honeysuckle is blooming.
Wild Geranium was at its peak last week.
A Luna Moth was seen.
A Hummingbird Moth was seen.
Cow Parsnip is in bloom.
Elm Trees are in bloom.
Nannyberries are blooming.
Dames Rocket is blooming.
American Robins are fledging out of the nest.

Thought for the Week:
"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude, don't complain."

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
The "Goatsucker" name came from the fact that Common Nighthawks, Chuck-wills-widows, and Whip-poor-wills would fly around livestock at dusk to feed on insects swarming over the animals. It was once believed that they sucked milk from goats' udders and caused them to dry up.

This Week's Question:
What color is an Indigo Bunting?

2009-05-26T09:32:00.003-05:00

Week of May 18th - 24th

We welcomed Zion Lutheran School, St. Mary's School, Lanesboro Schools, St. Casimir's School, St. Benedict School, Cyber Village Academy, Horace Mann Elementary, Kenyon-Wanamingo Schools, and Cityview Performing Arts Magnet School.

On Monday, 7th and 8th graders from Zion Lutheran School arrived in the morning for South Treetops.

The 7th graders from St. Mary's School also arrived on Monday to spend the day on East Treetops and Group Challenges.

Lanesboro Schools arrived on Monday with their 5th graders for an overnight visit. While they were here, they were able to experience Root River Hike, Oneota, and East Treetops.

The 8th graders of St. Casimir's School arrived on Monday. They participated in Group Challenges, Canoeing, Fungus AmongUs, and South Treetops before leaving on Wednesday.

St. Benedict School also arrived on Monday with their 8th graders for a visit until Wednesday. While they were here, they took Canoeing, Group Challenges, Archery, Pioneer Life, and East Treetops.

Cyber Village Academy 8th graders also joined us for a Monday-Wednesday visit. They were able to participate in Group Challenges, Competitive Orienteering, South Treetops, and GPS Pathfinders.

The 6th graders of Horace Mann arrived on Monday as well. They were able to experience GPS Pathfinders, Pond Life, Karst Geology, Rock Climbing, Archery, Canoeing, Oneota, and South Treetops before leaving on Friday.

Kenyon-Wanamingo Schools arrived on Tuesday for their stay until Friday. While they were here, they participated in Minimum Impact Camping, Group Challenges, East Treetops, Canoeing, Amphibians, Stream Lab, Rock Climbing, Pioneer Life, Oneota, and Animal Signs.

The 4th-6th graders of Cityview Performing Arts Magnet School arrived Wednesday. They were able to experience Oneota, Insects, Group Challenges, Treetops, Birds, Pioneer Life, Archery, and Root River Hike before leaving on Friday.

Phenology:

A Tiger Swallowtail butterfly was seen around Eagle Bluff. See photo by Jim Williams.
A Giant Swallowtail butterfly has also been seen.
A Cicada Exoskeleton was found.
A Monarch was spotted.
Lightning Bugs have been seen.
Deer Ticks are out - don't forget to look for them!
Blue-eyed Grass is growing.
Solomon's Seal is blooming.
False Solomon's Seal is blooming.
Spiderwort is blooming.
Creamy Wild Indigo is blooming.
Nodding Trillium is in bloom.
Two Fawns were seen with a Doe.
American Toads have been heard calling and seen mating.
Green Frogs are starting to call.
Goslings have been seen on the Root River.
Common Nighthawks have been seen and heard.
Whip-poor-wills can be heard at night.
Common Yellowthroats are back and singing.
Yellow Warblers can also be heard singing.

Thought for the Week:
"Water is life for all species, for the living Earth, it must be cherished."
Kirkpatrick Sales

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
The Baltimore Oriole received its name from the fact that the male's colors resembled those on the coat of arms of Lord Baltimore.

This Week's Question:
Common Nighthawks, Whip-poor-wills, and Chuck-wills-widow are all part of the "Goatsucker" family. Where did the "Goatsucker" name come from?

2009-05-18T09:04:00.003-05:00

Week of May 11th - 17th

We welcomed Albert Lea High School, St. John Vianney, Kasson-Mantorville Intermediate, La Crescent Middle School, Plainview-Elgin-Millville, and Women in the Outdoors.

On Monday, the 11th and 12th graders of Albert Lea High School arrived for a day of Group Challenges and East Treetops.

The 6th graders of St. John Vianney also arrived on Monday for a visit until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Group Challenges, Animal Signs, Pioneer Life, and Pond Life.

Kasson-Mantorville Intermediate came to Eagle Bluff with their 5th graders for the first time this year. They participated in Oneota, Insects, Stream Lab, Animal Signs, Wildlife Ecology, Treetops, Archery, and Pond Life before leaving on Wednesday.

La Crescent Middle School arrived on Wednesday with their 6th graders for a three day visit. While they were here, they took Group Challenges, Karst Geology, Stream Lab, Amphibians, and Treetops.

The 5th graders of Plainview-Elgin-Millville also arrived on Wednesday and stayed until Friday. While they were here, they experienced Archery, Minimum Impact Camping, Pioneer Life, Animal Signs, and Treetops.

This weekend was also a Women in the Outdoors event where women spent the weekend at Eagle Bluff doing a number of different activities such as Beekeeping, Nature Hikes, Birding Hikes, Biking, Handgun/Shotgun Shooting, Treetops, Self Defense, Archery, Canoeing, Fly Fishing, Photography.

Phenology:

Spiny Softshell Turtles were seen along the Root River. See Photo Above.
Magnolia Warblers have been seen.
A Veery was seen.
Indigo Buntings are back in the area.
Antlers on White-tailed Deer are starting to grow.
Scarlet Tanagers are back in the area.
Poison Ivy is starting to grow.

Thought for the Week:
Let the rain kiss you
Let the rain beat upon your head with silver liquid drops
Let the rain sing you a lullaby
The rain makes still pools on the sidewalk
The rain makes running pools in the gutter
The rain plays a little sleep song on our roof at night
And I love the rain.

Langston Hughes

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
One of the biggest differences between a True Morel Mushroom and a False Morel (besides the False Morel being toxic) is that the stalk of the True Morel is attached to the bottom edge of the cap, while the stalk of the False Morel is attached to the top of the cap.

This Week's Question:
Where did the Baltimore Oriole get its name?

2009-05-11T09:00:00.002-05:00

Week of May 4th - 10th

We welcomed Randolph Heights Elementary, Lewiston-Altura Intermediate, Dike-New Hartford Junior High, Texas Roadhouse, Holy Childhood School, Transfiguration Catholic School, St. Hubert School, Workforce Development, Christian Heritage High School, and hosted a Mother's Day Brunch.

On Monday, the 5th graders of Randolph Heights Elementary arrived for a visit until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Oneota, Karst Geology, West Treetops, and Archery.

Lewiston-Altura Intermediate also arrived on Monday with their 5th graders. They participated in Root River Hike, Animal Signs, Pond Life, and East Treetops before leaving on Wednesday.

Also joining us for a 3-day visit were the 8th graders of Dike-New Hartford Junior High. While they were here, they took Pioneer Life, Canoeing, Forest Ecology, GPS Pathfinders, and South Treetops.

Employees of Texas Roadhouse visiting Eagle Bluff on Tuesday and Thursday to practice their shooting skills at our .22 Rifle Range.

Holy Childhood School arrived with their 6th-8th graders on Wednesday. They experienced Stream Lab, Wildlife Ecology, Amphibians, Rock Climbing, Canoeing, and Oneota before leaving on Friday.

The 6th graders of Transfiguration Catholic School also arrived on Wednesday and stayed until Friday. While they were here, they participated in Beginning Orienteering, Group Challenges, Stream Lab, and East Treetops.

Also arriving on Wednesday were the 7th graders of St. Hubert School. They took Group Challenges, Forest Ecology, Pond Life, and South Treetops before leaving on Friday.

Workforce Development arrived on Friday for a meeting.

Christian Heritage High School arrived on Saturday with their 9th-12th graders to go on South Treetops.

On Sunday, Eagle Bluff held a Mother's Day Brunch where about 250 people came out to celebrate the holiday.

Phenology:

A Chestnut-sided Warbler has been seen. See photo above by Jim Williams.
American Redstarts are back in the area.
Blue-winged Warblers are singing.
Indigo Buntings are still returning.
Black-throated Blue Warblers have been seen.
Black-throated Green Warblers have been spotted.
Spotted Sandpipers are in the area.
Solitary Sandpipers are in the area.
Cliff Swallows can be seen down by the river.
Bank Swallows can also be seen down by the river.
Tree Swallows are nesting in a Bluebird nestbox.
In one of our Eastern Bluebird Boxes, the Bluebird Eggs have hatched!
Marsh Marigolds are in bloom.
Eastern Towhees are singing.
American Basswood is leafing out.
Nodding Trillium is beginning to bloom.
Bellwort is in bloom.
Wild Geranium is in bloom.
Elderberry is in bloom.
Morel Mushrooms are coming up. YUM!
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have returned.
Baltimore Orioles are back.
Gooseberries are in bloom.
Nannyberries are also in bloom.

Thought for the Week:
"A society is great when old men plant trees knowing they will never sit in their shade."
Greek Proverb

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
The name “grosbeak” is from the French word grosbec and means “large beak.”

This Week's Question:
What are the differences between a Morel Mushroom and a False Morel?

2009-05-04T09:14:00.002-05:00

Week of April 27th - May 3rd

We welcomed Franklin Elementary, St. Patrick School, St. Joseph School, Cannon Falls Elementary, Grand Meadow Elementary, Central Intermediate School, and the Hommes/Craig Wedding Reception.

On Monday, the 5th graders of Franklin Elementary arrived for 3 days of fun. While they were here, they experienced Archery, Pond Life, Root River Hike, and East Treetops.

St. Patrick School also arrived on Monday with their 6th graders. They participated in Karst Geology, GPS Pathfinders, Wildlife Ecology, and South Treetops before leaving on Wednesday.

The 5th graders of St. Joseph School also arrived on Monday. They took Trees & Keys, Earth Exploration, Archery, and East Treetops before leaving on Wednesday.

Cannon Falls Elementary arrived on Monday with their 4th graders for a stay until Wednesday. While they were here, they experienced Birds, Pioneer Life, Beginning Orienteering, Insects, West Treetops, and Oneota.

The 6th graders of Grand Meadow Elementary arrived on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Wildlife Ecology, Karst Geology, Fungus AmongUs, and Rock Climbing before leaving on Friday.

Central Intermediate also arrived on Wednesday with their 5th graders for a trip until Friday. While they were here, they took Oneota, Pioneer Life, Minimum Impact Camping, Group Challenges, Earth Exploration, GPS Pathfinders, Treetops, and Wildlife Ecology.

The Hommes/Craig Wedding Reception was held at Eagle Bluff on Saturday Night.
Phenology:
There's quite a lot of Phenology this time of year, so I've split it up into groups.

Birds:

Eastern Towhees are singing. See above photo by Jim Williams.
There are Eggs in one of our Bluebird Boxes.
Ovenbirds (a type of warbler) are singing.
Ruby-crowned Kinglets are in the area.
Male Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are back.
Blue-winged Teals can be found in the Root River.
Yellow Warblers have returned.
Yellow-rumped Warblers have also returned.
Common Yellowthroats are back.
An American Woodcock was seen crossing the street with her offspring following.

Plants:

Blue Phlox is in bloom.
Eastern Shooting Star is in bloom.
Violet is in Bloom.
Trout Lily is in bloom.
There are buds on Nodding Trillium.
Virginia Bluebells are in bloom.
Fiddleheads are beginning to come up.
Jack in the Pulpit leaves are up.
May Apple is up and looking like umbrellas.
False Rue Anemone are in bloom.
Hoary Puccoon is in bloom.
Bellwort is in bloom.
Plums are in bloom.
Elm Trees are in seed.
Quaking Aspens are leafing.

Reptile and Amphibians:

Gray Treefrogs are calling.
Painted Turtles have been seen.

Insects:

Deer Flies are out and about.
Green Darner Dragonflies are flying around.
A Pearl Cresent was seen.
A Spring Azure was seen.
Ticks are also finding their way onto people.

Thought for the Week:
"Put yourself in a situation where you might fail and you will have more reasons to celebrate your success."
Unknown

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Chimney Swifts will bathe in flight by flying low over a body of water, touching the water with their chest and then shaking the water from their feathers.

This Week's Question:
Where does the term "Grosbeak" come from?

2009-04-27T08:47:00.004-05:00

Week of April 20th - 26th

We welcomed Holmen Middles School, Grand Meadow Elementary, Chatfield Elementary, Eagle Bluff Elementary, Root River Valley Earth Day Celebration, Earth Day Dinner on the Bluff, UMSORG, and GPS Nature Seminar.

On Monday, The 6th graders of Holmen Middle School arrived for a stay until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Archery, Minimum Impact Camping, Group Challenges, Insects, Fungus AmongUs, Root River Hike, GPS Pathfinders, Stream Lab, Treetops, and Animal Signs.

The 4th graders of Grand Meadow Elementary arrived on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Oneota, Stream Lab, Beginning Orienteering, Animal Signs, and West Treetops before leaving on Friday.

Chatfield Elementary brought their 5th graders on Wednesday for a stay until Friday. While they were here, they took Pioneer Life, Karst Geology, GPS Pathfinders, and West Treetops.

Eagle Bluff Eleementary from Onalaska, WI also arrived on Wednesday with their 5th graders. They were able to experience Archery, Oneota, Fungus AmongUs, Pond Life, Treetops, and Stream Lab, before leaving on Friday.

On Saturday, Eagle Bluff celebrated Earth Day in Lanesboro with the Root River Valley Earth Day Celebration. People arrived to make Rain Barrels, Flip-Flop Tomato Plants, Butterfly Feeders, and participate in other fun activities.

UMSORG arrived on Saturday to meet in the afternoon.

There were about 22 People at the GPS Nature Seminar on Saturday afternoon.

The Earth Day speaker and Dinner on the Bluff was a success! David Cavagnaro spoke about how to reap the benefits of gardening in your own backyard. David is the creator of The Pepperfield Project, which is dedicated to helping individuals of all backgrounds improve their quality of life through education programs that teaches them how to develop and enhance their relationship with food, cooking and gardening. Leading by example, the Project helps people experience the joy and satisfaction that comes with hands-on food preparation, gardening and other agrarian based skills. The speaker will begin at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will follow at 6:45 p.m.
Menu:
Rhu-tini - rhubarb infused martini with or without alcohol
Appetizer Skewers
Smoked Trout salad on a bed of spinach with maple balsamic vinaigrette
Herbed Pork tenderloin with a drunken wild mushroom gratin
Hearty vegetarian three bean salad
Wild rice
Fresh asparagus
Homemade bread
Lemon custard cake with rhubarb sauce

Phenology:

White-throated Sparrows have begun singing. Their song sounds like their saying "Old Sam Peabody-Peabody-Peabody." See photo above by Jim Williams.
Plantain leaves are up.
Wild Strawberry is in bloom.
Wild Ginger leaves are up.
A Garter Snake was seen.
Two Broad-winged Hawks were seen flying together and calling.
Chimney Swifts are back in the area.
We've gotten some much needed Rain.
There are some Baby Canada Geese on the Root River.
A large Dragonfly was seen flying around.
Ruby-crowned Kinglets were heard singing by the river.
Virginia Waterleaf is fully leafed out.
A female Wood Duck was seen flying into one of Eagle Bluff's Wood Duck boxes.
Northern Leopard Frogs are calling now.
The Green Frog Tadpoles have legs.
A Green Heron was seen near the Root River.
Wild Geranium leaves are up.
Jacob's Ladder leaves are up.

Thought for the Week:
"A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its own dimensions."
Oliver Holmes

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Brown Thrashers will strike and dive bomb anything they perceive to be a threat. They have struck humans and dogs hard enough to draw blood.

This Week's Question:
What bird from the above Phenology list will bathe in flight by flying low over a body of water, touching the water with their chest and then shaking the water from their feathers?

2009-04-20T08:48:00.003-05:00

Week of April 13th - 19th

We welcomed Tomah Middle School, Assumption Catholic School, Lyle School, LeRoy-Ostrander Schools, St. Jerome School, Southland Schools, Langford Coop, Peace United Church of Christ, Northern Lights Work Group, Cub Scout Den, and the Lanesboro Schools Awards Dinner.

On Monday, the 6th graders of Tomah Middle School arrived for a stay until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Birds, Pioneer Life, Root River Hike, GPS Pathfinders, East Treetops, and Pond Life.

Assumption Catholic School arrived for the day on Tuesday with their 7th graders to co on South Treetops and then experience Group Challenges.

The 7th graders of Lyle School arrived on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Pond Life, West Treetops, Amphibians, and Group Challenges before leaving on Friday.

Leroy-Ostrander Schools also arrived on Wednesday with their 8th graders for a trip until Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Wildlife Ecology, Group Challenges, East Treetops, and Stream Lab.

The 6th-8th graders from St. Jerome School arrived on Wednesday. They were able to take Pioneer Life, Beginning Orienteering, Amphibians, Archery, Animal Signs, Treetops, Group Challenges, Oneota, Fungus AmongUs, GPS Pathfinders, and Rock Climbing before leaving on Friday.

Southland Schools brought their 7th graders to Eagle Bluff on Wednesday for a stay until Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Oneota, Group Challenges, West Treetops, and Stream Lab.

Langford Coop brought their group of 7th-12th grade home-school students to Eagle Bluff on Friday and Saturday. They experienced Group Challenges and West Treetops.

The Peace United Church of Christ arrived on Saturday and went up on South Treetops.

The Northern Lights Work Group came to Eagle Bluff on Saturday to meet and plan for camp this summer.

The Cub Scout Den arrived at Eagle Bluff on Saturday for Rock Climbing and West Treetops.

On Sunday evening, the Lanesboro Schools Awards Dinner was held for the honor students from the local school.

Phenology:

Bloodroot is in full bloom. See above photo.
Sharp-lobed Hepatica is also blooming.
Spring Beauties can be seen in bloom.
Dutchman's Breeches are blooming.
Virginia Bluebell's are blooming.
Wild Leeks are coming up from the ground.
Wood Anemone is blooming.
Trout Lilies are growing, and their leaves are popping out of the ground.
The first Tomato is growing in our Greenhouse.
A Mourning Cloak Butterfly was seen.
Red-bellied Snakes are coming out of hibernation and can be seen.
A Leopard Frog was heard calling.
Bats are coming out at night and feeding on insects.
A Pair of Eastern Bluebirds have built a nest in one of our nest boxes.
Field Sparrows have begun singing.
Chipping Sparrows continue to sing.
Song Sparrows are also continuing to sing.
A Brown Thrasher was spotted.
Some Birds are Moulting and growing new feathers currently.

Thought for the Week:
"When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world."
John Muir

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Coyotes are the most vocal member of the dog family. Members of a coyote pack howl to keep track of one another and reunite packs that become separated.

This Week's Question:
What will a Brown Thrasher do to defend their nests?

2009-04-13T09:03:00.003-05:00

Week of April 6th - 12th

We welcomed St. Boniface School, Rushford-Peterson Schools, Schaeffer Academy, Bluff View Elementary, and Faribault Lutheran School.

The 6th - 8th graders of St. Boniface School came out on Monday for a day of Beginning Orienteering and Pioneer Life.

Rushford-Peterson Schools brought their 5th graders out to Eagle Bluff on Monday for a three day trip. They were able to experience Oneota, Forest Ecology, Earth Exploration, and East Treetops before leaving on Wednesday.

The 6th graders of Schaeffer Academy arrived on Tuesday for a visit until Wednesday. While they were here, they participated in Archery, Oneota, and South Treetops.

Bluff View Elementary also arrived on Tuesday with their 4th graders. They were able to experience Oneota, Animal Signs, Pond Life, Wildlife Ecology, West Treetops, and Beginning Orienteering before leaving on Thursday.

they 5th-6th graders of Faribault Lutheran School came to Eagle Bluff on Thursday for a day of Group Challenges and East Treetops.

Phenology:

A pair of Wood Ducks were seen perched in the trees. See photo by Jim Williams.
A Peregrine Falcon was see nin St. Paul.
A juvenile Golden Eagle was seen around Eagle Bluff.
There are Spring Beauties in bloom at a staff member's house.
Red Admirals (butterflies) can be seen flying around.
A Coyote was spotted outside of Harmony.
Spring Peepers continue to be heard calling.
Western Chorus Frogs are also still calling.
There is a nesting pair of Osprey in the Twin Cities.
Female Canada Geese are sitting on their nests.
Squirrels are gathering more leaves for their nests.
Sandhill Cranes have been seen and heard in the area.

Thought for the Week:

The Animist by Kristen Dierking
In April when the ground
inhales the yellow Sun and
the gross is suddenly sweet
and green and you find
yourself lying down and
rolling in it, you admit
that and animal lives
inside you.

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
White-tailed Deer is potentially responsible for the population decline of the Eastern Wood Pewee. In areas with a high-density of deer, the intermediate canopy is disturbed by browsing, affecting the foraging space of the Pewee.

This Week's Question:
What is the most vocal member of the (wild) dog family?

2009-04-06T09:33:00.005-05:00

Week of March 30th - April 5th

We welcomed St. Anne's School, Irving Pertzsch Elementary, Lisa's Scrapbook Group, and La Crosse City 4-H.

On Wednesday, St. Anne's School arrived with their 5th graders for a visit until Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Root River Hike, Oneota, Wildlife Ecology, and West Treetops.

The 5th graders of Irving Pertzsch Elementary also arrived on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Archery, Animal Signs, Pioneer Life, and East Treetops before leaving on Friday.

Lisa's Scrapbook Group arrived on Friday and scrap booked the weekend away!

La Crosse City 4-H also arrived on Friday and held some meetings and went on East Treetops before leaving on Saturday.

Phenology:

Spring Peepers are beginning to peep. They normally start calling in March for mates, but got a late start this year. See photo above.
Another amphibian we should have heard earlier is the Western Chorus Frog. We started hearing them last week.
Eastern Wood Pewees have returned to the area.
Wild Parsnip has started growing - watch out and don't get it on your skin!
Either Tundra or Trumpeter Swans were seen flying over Lanesboro.
Turkey Vultures were seen by the side of the road.
Dark-eyed Juncos are still here.
Killdeer are being heard in the area.
Northern Flickers have returned.
Someone found a Wood Tick on their clothes.

Thought for the Week:
"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song."
Chinese Proverb

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Answer to Last Week's Question:
The Eastern Phoebe was the first bird to be banded in North America. In 1804, John James Audubon used a silver thread attached to its leg to note when the bird would return each year.

This Week's Question:
What animal is potentially responsible for the population decline of the Eastern Wood Pewee?

2009-03-30T08:56:00.002-05:00

Week of March 23rd - 29th

We welcomed Saxentorp Tours, Cleveland Aerospace, Sturgis Family, and Associated Church.

On Monday, Saxentorp Tours, made up of Swedish farmers, arrived at Eagle Bluff to take a tour. Every year, Jerker Saxentorp sets up a tour of the Southeastern Minnesota area. While they were here, they also went up on East Treetops.

The 8th graders of Cleveland Aerospace arrived on Wednesday. They experienced Group Challenges, Karst Geology, Archery, and Treetops before leaving on Friday.

The Sturgis Family were at Eagle Bluff this weekend spending some time together and having dance parties.

Associated Church arrived on Sunday afternoon to go up on East Treetops.

Phenology:

American Woodcocks were spotted at Eagle Bluff. They were also heard calling as well as doing their mating dance. Their wings make a whistling sound during their mating dance. See photo above.
A Barred Owl was heard.
Chipping Sparrows have returned.
White-crowned Sparrows are passing through this area.
There are still some Common Redpolls in the area.
A Female Rose-breasted Grosbeak was seen at a bird feeder.
American Robins have been caught mating.
A Mink was seen on MN Highway 16 running towards the Root River.
Ten American Kestrels were seen from Prairie Du Chien, WI to Lanesboro, MN.
More Red-tailed Hawks are being spotted.
A Northern Harrier was seen.
Tree Swallows are beginning to return.
An Eastern Phoebe was heard.
Male American Goldfinches are beginning to get their breeding plumage.
A Great-crested Flycatcher was seen.

Thought for the Week:
"I would love to see the world survive its obsession with machines to see a day when people respect one another all over the world."
Margaret Murie

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Week's Question:
Beavers can live up to 24 years old in the wild.

This Week's Question:
What was the first bird to be banded in North America?

2009-03-23T08:50:00.004-05:00

Week of March 16th - 22nd

We welcomed the Fillmore County Schools Bully Training, Riverland Community College, Northern Hills Elementary, Zumbrota-Mazeppa Middle School, and Christ Lutheran Church.

On Monday through Wednesday, Bully Training was held for Fillmore County Schools.

Riverland Community College arrived on Monday with college students . They held meetings most of the time, but were able to go on East Treetops before they left on Tuesday.

The 5th graders of Northern Hills Elementary also arrived on Monday for a trip until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Archery, Winter Survival, Rock Climbing, and Pioneer Life.

Zumbrota-Mazeppa Middle School arrived with their 5th graders on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Oneota, Winter Survival, Pioneer Life, Orienteering, Trees & Keys, and Treetops before leaving on Friday.

The 7th-8th graders of Christ Lutheran Church arrived on Saturday to go up on Treetops.

Phenology:

Common Redpolls are still in the area. They are going to be flying back up north soon, so enjoy them while they're still here! See photo above by Jim Williams.
While in Prairie Du Chien, approximately 25 American White Pelicans were seen getting ready to land in the Mississippi River.
About 20 American Kestrels were seen, mostly on wires above fields.
Six Red-tailed Hawks were seen.
Four Bald Eagles were seen.
Five Turkey Vultures were Kettling.
Two Horned Larks were seen.
More of our staff as seen the Golden Eagle.
A Woodchuck was seen on Friday running across the road. Unfortunately the same Woodchuck was seen as roadkill this morning (Monday). Remember to brake for animals!
A Beaver was seen on the Root River.
Dark-eyed Juncos are still in this area.
Day Lillies are beginning to sprout.
There are Baby Calves in the fields.
Garlic Mustard is beginning to grow.
Wood Anemone has been spotted near our Maple ?Trees.
Honeybees are active.
A Red Fungus was found near some logs.

Thought for the Week:
"Live simply so others may simply live."
Gandhi

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Weeks Question:
Ruthie J is Correct! The Northern Cardinal is the most common state bird for 7 states. It is the state bird for Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina.

This Week's Question:
How long can Beavers live (in the wild)?

2009-03-16T09:03:00.002-05:00

Week of March 9th - 15th

We welcomed St. Helena Catholic School, CIG Training, Electric 8 Quilters, and SABS Quilters.

On Monday, the 7th-8th graders of St. Helena Catholic School arrived for a visit until Wednesday. While they were here, they were able to experience Group Challenges, Winter Survival, Wildlife Ecology, and East Treetops.

Some of the Eagle Bluff Staff participated in Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) Training through the National Association of Interpretation. Congratulations to the staff for passing!

The SABS Quilters and the Electric 8 Quilters had a wonderful weekend of quilting!

There are two special events coming up this week, the first is tomorrow, St. Patrick's Day, so don't forget to wear green (or go green)! and the other one is Friday, the First Day of Spring! Be sure with the changing of the season, to watch out for birds migrating back to the area, spring wildflowers popping up, leaves on trees, and mammals coming out of hibernation (or torpor); we'll be doing that here at Eagle Bluff, and we'll be sure to post them on the phenology section of our blog!

Phenology:

Sandhill Cranes were heard flying over our East Treetops course. See photo by Jim Williams.
A Golden Eagle has been spotted near our director's house.
There was a Sundog on Wednesday morning.
More Black-capped Chickadees are singing.
Red-winged Blackbirds are singing.
A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was spotted near our Discovery Center feeders.
Northern Cardinals are singing.
A Indigo Bunting Nest from last year was found close to one of our trails.
The Killdeer are back.
A Great Blue Heron was seen.
The Striped Skunks are out of torpor...and unfortunately hanging out a little too close to the road.
Eastern Bluebirds were see near one of our ponds.
More Cedar Waxwing flocks are in the area.
Common Grackles are back.
A Belted Kingfisher was also seen.
Trout Fishermen have been seen on the Root River.

Thought for the Week:
"Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush."
Doug Larson

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Week's Question:
During the long Arctic night, Common Redpolls sleep in snow tunnels to preserve body heat.

This Week's Question:
What bird holds the record for being the "State Bird" for the most U.S. states?

2009-03-09T09:23:00.004-05:00

Week of March 2nd - 8th

We welcomed Medford Public School, Academy of Saints Peter & Paul/St. Peter's School, Olson Middle School, and United Presbyterian Church. We also hosted the Eagle Bluff Adult Getaway Weekend, Eagle Bluff Maple Syrup Nature Seminar, and the Eagle Bluff Winter Wine and Wonder events.

On Tuesday, the 6th graders of Medford Public School arrived for a visit until Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Pioneer Life, Rock Climbing, South Treetops, GPS Pathfinders, and Winter Pond Lab.

They 6th graders of Academy of Saints Peter & Paul/St. Peter's School arrived on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Group Challenges, Pioneer Life, White Pond Lab, and East Treetops before leaving on Friday.

Olson Middle School also arrived on Wednesday with their 6th graders. They were able to experience Wildlife Ecology, East Treetops, Beginning Orienteering, and Animal Signs before leaving on Friday.

United Presbyterian Church arrived Friday night to have some group time and experience East Treetops before leaving on Sunday morning. With them was Dana Dafoe Butler, a former naturalist from Eagle Bluff!

The Eagle Bluff Getaway was this weekend, where adults came to enjoy massages, GPS Geocaching, Shooting at the range, Yoga, among other activities.

There was a Maple Syruping Seminar on Saturday where adults could come out to tap some maple trees and boil some sap off that had already been collected.

The Eagle Bluff Winter Wine and Wonder event was an event that featured a gourmet meal with different wines to sample. for Hors d'oeuvres, there was baked brie with apricot preserves and dried cherries served with toasted bagel rondo slices and a white sparking wine from Italy. For the salad a blood orange salad was featured consisting of Lolla Rosa, Radicchio, and Belgium Endive Petals tossed in Blood orange vinaigrette. Garnished with Opal basil, Kalamata olives, Asiago cheese and Blood orange segments and an Argentinian white made from a white grape and has hints from apricots and jasmine and flavors of pear and peach. The appetizer was Marinated Jumbo Shrimp wrapped in Panchetta and sage placed on Italian style couscous cooked in a seafood stock and thickened with lobster cream garnished with Arugala and a wine from from a white Albarino grape grown on the galacian coast of Spain. A strawberry sorbet was served to cleanse the palette before the main entree, where people chose from Roasted guinea fowl brushed with olive oil and Herbs de Provence served over Risotto simmered in stock garnished with mirepox, Filet of beef roasted, sliced and napped iwth a brown sauce with Shiitake mushrooms, or Stuffed zucchini Florentine on a nest of linguini with a dollop of roasted tomato and red pepper marinara and all of the entrees were served with root vegetables (beets, parsnips, carrots, and fingerling potatoes) slow roasted with veal stock and the wine selection was a Cabernet Sauvignon. Dessert was a Leaning Chocolate Tower of Pisa, a chocolate mousse filled pastry tower garnished with shaved dark chocolate and raspberries with a sparkling red wine that was chilled.

Phenology:

A Red-shouldered Hawk was seen around our Discovery Center and Dorm area. They are listed as a species of "Special Concern" in the state of Minnesota. See above photo by Jim Williams.
Two American Kestrels have been seen.
An Eastern Chipmunk was seen.
A Beaver was seen swimming on the Root River.
Some Red-winged Blackbirds are in the area and singing.
Some Raccoons have been seen that aren't looking very healthy.
There are quite a few Rough-legged Hawks between Lanesboro and the Twin Cities.
There was a Red-tailed Hawk at the end of the Eagle Bluff Driveway.
A Mouse was seen on barbed wire.
American Robins are returning.
35 Common Redpolls were seen under someones bird feeder.
There was a Bat flying around the office building last Friday at Eagle Bluff.

Thought for the Week:

The Summer Day

Who made the world?
Who made the swan, and the black bear?
This grasshopper, I mean-
the one who has flung herself out of the grass, the one who is eating sugar out of my hand, who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down-who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes.
Now she lefts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face.
Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away.
I don't know exactly what a prayer is.
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down
into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,
which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done?
Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?
by Mary Oliver

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Week's Question:
Crows, Ravens and Jays are in the Corvid family. They are all incredibly intelligent birds with the vocal ability to mimic other sounds, including words.

This Week's Question:
What is one way Common Redpolls use to preserve body heat?

2009-03-02T08:45:00.004-06:00

Week of February 23rd - March 1st

We welcomed Mayo High School, Pepin Area Schools, St. Alphonsus School, and hosted the Fillmore County SWCD Energy Fair.

On Monday and Tuesday, Mayo High School 12th graders came to Eagle Bluff for day trips. They were able to participate in Group Challenges and Treetops courses.

On Wednesday, Pepin Area Schools arrived with their 6th graders for their 3 day trip ending on Friday. While they were here, they were able to experience Oneota, Big Freeze, South Treetops, and Animal Signs.

The 7th graders of St. Alphonsus School also arrived on Wednesday. They were able to participate in Winter Survival, Wildlife Ecology, Beginning Orienteering, and East Treetops before leaving on Friday.

Over the weekend, the Fillmore County SWCD Energy Fair was held at Eagle Bluff. Topics that were covered were on-farm bio fuel production, energy conservation, small scale wind and solar energy initiatives, and more. The keynote speaker was Sarah Nettleton, author of "The Simple Home: The Luxury of Enough."

Phenology:

The first Turkey Vulture has been seen and it isn't even spring yet! See photo above by Jim Williams.
Virginia Opossum tracks were seen in the snow last week.
Clover was seen growing.
A Tufted Timouse was seen at our birdfeeders.
Willow Buds are beginning to open.

Thought for the Week:
"We cannot hold a torch to light another's path without brightening our own."
Ben Sweetland

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Week's Question:
Not only do the Blue-winged Warbler and the Golden-winged Warbler create the Brewster's Warbler when they mate, they also produce the Lawrence's Warbler.

This Week's Question:
What birds are in the Corvid family?

2009-02-23T08:42:00.004-06:00

Week of February 16th - 22nd

We welcomed Mable-Canton, Kenny Community School, Riverway Learning Center, and Oak Hill Montessorii.

On Monday we held our annual President's Day Ropes. Abut 12 people came to challenge themselves on our East Treetops course.

On Tuesday, the 6th graders of Mabel-Canton arrived for their visit. They were able to experience Animal Signs, Big Freeze, Winter Survival, and Valley Oneota before leaving on Thursday.

Kenny Community Schools also arrived on Tuesday with their 5th graders for their stay until Friday. While they were here, they were able to participate in Beginning Orienteering, Pioneer Life, Rock Climbing, Big Freeze, Birds, Winter Pond Lab, and East Treetops.

Riverway Learning Community arrived on Wednesday with 1st-3rd graders. They were able to experience Minnesota Mammals, Pioneer Life, Root River Hike/Art in Nature, and Rock Climbing before leaving on Friday.

The 4th - 6th graders of Oak Hill Montessori also arrived on Wednesday for a visit until Friday. While they were here, they were able to participate in Karst Geology, Trees & Keys, Rock Climbing, and Archery.

Phenology:

Two Rough-legged Hawks were seen last week. One was the Dark-phase that is commonly seen here and the other was a Light-phase. See photo above of a Light-phase Rough-legged Hawk by Jim Williams.
A male Ring-necked Pheasant was seen.
A pair of Mallards were seen on the Root River.
Common Mergansers were seen flying over the Root River.
A pair of Canada Geese were seen.
The Sun is rising before 7:00 am now.
On Friday evening we received 3 inches of snow - it's winter again!
In 2006, a woman in Indiana spotted what she thought to be a Hybrid of a Black-capped Chickadee and a Tufted Titmouse. After she reported it to a local bird bander where he caught it, banded it, and released it. He also confirmed that this was indeed a chickadee x titmouse hybrid. I realize that 2006 is three years ago, but I still think it's fascinating.

Thought for the Week:
"Tell me and I forget show me and I remember involve me and I learn."
Chinese Proverb

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Week's Question:
The name "waxwing" comes from the waxy red appendages found in variable numbers on the tips of the secondaries of some birds. The exact function of these tips is not known, but they may serve a signaling function in mate selection.

This Week's Question:
Which two birds mate and create the hybrid of Brewster's Warbler?

2009-02-16T10:01:00.002-06:00

Week of February 9th - 15th

We hope that everyone had a great Valentine's Day!

We welcomed Cedar Park elementary, DNR Parks & Trails, Holy Cross School, and Goodhue Elementary.

On Monday, Cedar Park Elementary arrived with their 5th graders. They stayed for the whole week and were able to experience Pioneer Life, Winter Survival, Wildlife Ecology, Treetops, Animal Signs, Beginning Orienteering, Rock Climbing, and Karst Geology.

The DNR Parks and Trails staff came to Eagle Bluff on Tuesday to hold some meetings.

The 6th graders of Holy Cross School came on Wednesday for a visit until Friday. While they were here, they were able to participate in Group Challenges, Winter Survival, Animal Signs, South Treetops, and GPS Pathfinders.

Goodhue Elementary school 4th graders also arrived on Wednesday. They were able to experience Pioneer Life, Trees & Keys, West Treetops, and Winter Survival before leaving on Friday.

Phenology:

Cedar Waxwings are in the area. See photo above.
A couple of American Robins were seen on our drain field.
Two Caterpillars were seen walking around.
A White-tailed Deer Stomach was found, but no body.
Raccoons are around.
Some Striped Skunks have been seen.

Thought of the Week:
"Go your own way in peace,
Water as you may:
Blessed is the path that you take
May love guide you on your way."
Anonymous

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION

Last Week's Question:
Well, Doc was right! The only month that can go without a full moon is February!
This Week's Question:
Where does the Cedar Waxwing get its name?

2009-02-09T13:40:00.002-06:00

Week of February 2nd - 8th

We welcomed Valley Crossing Community School, Root River Quilters, and hosted the Eagle Bluff Compasses Decoded Nature Seminar.

The 5th and 6th graders of Valley Crossing Community School arrived on Wednesday for a three day adventure. While they were here, they were able to experience Cross Country Skiing, Winter Survival, Pioneer Life, Snowshoeing, Trees & Keys, Animal Signs, and Treetops.

The Root River Quilters arrived on Friday and Quilted the weekend away!

We hosted our first Nature Seminar with the topic of "Compasses Decoded." Adults learned how to use a compass and then went out to one of our orienteering courses to experience them.

Phenology:

An Eastern Chipmunk was seen underneath a bird feeder last week. See photo above by Jim Williams.
Some Insects were flying around last week.
An American Robin was seen.
A Horned Lark was also seen.
There are some large White-tailed Deer Herds in the area.
Two Dead Bats were found on the sidewalk.
It's supposed to Rain today.
This evening there will be a Full Moon.

Thought for the week:
"Each moment of the year has its own beauty."
Ralph Waldo Emerson

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION:

Last Week's Question:
Doc had a good guess with 1999, but it was actually in 2007 that Punxsutawney Phil last predicted an early spring.

This Week's Question:
What is the only month that can occur without a Full Moon?

2009-02-02T13:43:00.008-06:00

Week of January 26th - February 1st

Happy Groundhogs Day!!!

Punxsutawney Phil may have seen his shadow, but we can still have plenty of fun outside in winter!

We welcomed Minnetonka Middle School East and Thomas Lake Elementary.

Minnetonka Middle School East made their first trip to Eagle Bluff with their 6th graders this year. They're a big school, so half of the students arrived for a Monday - Wednesday visit, while the other half came for a Wednesday - Friday. While they were here, they experienced Group Challenges, Oneota, Snowshoeing, and Treetops.

The 4th and 5th graders of Thomas Lake Elementary arrived on Friday for a visit until Sunday. While they were here, they were able to participate in Pioneer Life, Animal Signs, Treetops, Rock Climbing, Oneota, Trees & Keys, Birds, and Big Freeze.

Phenology:

A Merlin was seen by the birds feeders at our dorm. Photo above by Jim Williams.
Great Horned Owls and Barred Owls calling. This is the time when they will be called to find mates and to establish territories.
Canada Geese were seen by the side of the road.
Virginia Opossum tracks were seen.
It reached 45 degrees in Houston, MN.
Insects were seen outside.
The Honeybees were swarming on their hive this past Saturday.

Thought for the Week:
"Life is a process. We are a process, the universe is a process."
Anne Wilson Schaef

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION:

Last Week's Question:
Female Northern Cardinals will sometimes sing from their nest.

This Week's Question:
When was the last time Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring by not seeing his shadow?

2009-01-26T13:58:00.002-06:00

Week of January 19th - 25th

We welcomed Richfield Middle School, RCTC Upward Bound, Hastings Quilters, and F & M Bank Holiday Party.

On Tuesday, the 6th Graders of Richfield Middle School arrived for a week of fun. They were able to experience Group Challenges, Birds, Snowshoeing, Wildlife Ecology, Animal Signs, Trees & Keys, Treetops, Rock Climbing, and Oneota before leaving on Friday.

The 9th-12th graders of RCTC Upward Bound arrived on Friday afternoon and stayed until Saturday. While they were here, they participated in Snowshoeing, GPS Pathfinders, Archery, and Rock Climbing.

The Hastings Quilters were at Eagle Bluff over the weekend for a weekend of quilting!

The F & M Bank held their Holiday Party here on Sunday night.

Phenology:

A Blue Jay was heard mimicking a Red-tailed Hawk. (Photo by Jim Williams)
Two Tufted Titmice were seen near our dorm building.
Wild Turkeys were seen roosting in a tree.
A Northern Cardinal was seen on the side of the road.
A pack of Coyotes were heard near Eagle Bluff's Campus hunting a White-tailed Deer.

Thought for the Week:
"A snowflake is one of God's most fragile creations, but look what they can do when they stick together."
Anonymous

NATURE TRIVIA QUESTION:

Last Week's Question:
The San Andreas Fault moves about 5 cm each year.

This Week's Question:
What female songbird will sometimes sing from her nest to communicate with the male where to bring food?