Natural History 5/5

Haley Selen

Dec 16, 20161 min read

Cold Snap

We eased into December with some mild winter weather, but this week gave us a good reminder of our northern latitude. Red-tailed hawks...

Haley Selen

Dec 9, 20161 min read

Identity

In the spring of 2014, a young kestrel’s life was upended when he fell out of his nest and broke both wings. Luckily he was found and...

Haley Selen

Sep 30, 20161 min read

Field Trip to Hawk Ridge

During our Hawk Ridge field trip last week, participants enjoyed good views of sharp-shinned hawks, bald eagles, and Lake Superior. As...

Haley Selen

Sep 23, 20161 min read

Peregrine falcons in Wisconsin

These four chicks were banded this year at the Madison nest site. (Photo credit: Madison Gas and Electric Company) “Why might a raptor...

Haley Selen

Aug 19, 20161 min read

Preening

These are just a few of the tail, wing, and body feathers Aldo has molted this year. Aldo, our American Kestrel, has been very busy...

Haley Selen

Aug 12, 20161 min read

Picky eaters

Birds can be picky eaters just like some humans you probably know. Food preferences vary by species and the individual bird. Falcons, for...

Haley Selen

Jul 29, 20161 min read

False eyes

Sometimes even a kestrel needs time to relax after a busy day of work. Aldo had the opportunity to enjoy the view of Lake Namakagon after...

Haley Selen

Jul 22, 20161 min read

Staying cool

Aldo cools off after being misted with water. If we’re baking in the heat wave this week, the birds are feeling it, too. Feathers, so...

Haley Selen

Jul 15, 20161 min read

Eye color

When I first met Carson, our resident red-tailed hawk, I was fascinated by her eyes. The light grey iris was striking compared to the...