The (Not so) Rural Pennsylvanian

  • In Search of the Black-bellied Whistling Duck

    I recently traveled into Lancaster County to check out reports of the presence of the black-bellied whistling duck. This duck species is generally found in the southern United States and rarely comes into Pennsylvania. However, this summer these ducks seem to be making an appearance in the northeast.

    The birds were reported as continuing at Woods Edge Park. When I initially arrived, I couldn’t spot them. Thank goodness for the arrival of some more experienced bird watchers with spotting scopes. The birds were soon easily spotted.

    Here is a picture of our quarry:

    The elusive black=bellied whistling duck, the star of our show.

    I also checked out some of the other wildlife. I, of course, missed the photo of the osprey diving for its lunch. There were some heron opportunities.

    Great blue heron. I also missed the shot with a fish in its beak.

    There were lots of turtles around the pond.

    This one is relaxing solo.
    Some prefer a Spring break atmosphere for sunbathing.
    This one just seems lost. Maybe it is looking for the ducks.

    Woods Edge Park is a lovely compact park and makes a great place for a picnic or a spot of bird watching if you’re ever in Lancaster County.

    The pond at Woods Edge Park.
    The lovely marshy area opposite the pond.

  • Back to Linvilla Orchards

    Fall is one of the most popular times of year at Linvilla Orchards in Delaware County. The charming Halloween and fall decor, hay rides, food and activities are fun for the whole family (and school groups). The fresh produce, pies and apple cider donuts are particularly recommended.

    Fantastic pumpkin carving is on display.

     

     

    The decorative displays have a story book theme.

     

     

     

     

    The colorful displays of pumpkins and gourds are very tempting.

     

     

     

     

    Linvilla’s critters are out ready to welcome visitors.

     

     

    And because I’m obsessed with Christmas trees …

     

     

     

  • Calves, calves everywhere …

    On a trip to Locust Lake State Park this spring, I cam a across a farm with quite a few new additons to their cattle herd. Here are a few shots plus a bonus pic.

    Mother and child.

    A frisky calf.

    Bonus nuthatch nest from a tree in my campsite at Locust Lake.

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