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.

  • Like the Spring, I Have Returned

    This weekend, I set off to Chester Springs to check out some garden centers in hopes of finding some aquatic plants for a container water garden I have on my balcony. I found a Louisiana iris and spearwort plant to add to the equisetum (horsetail reed) and water hyacinth I already have.

    Here’s how it looks so far:

    Maker:0x4c,Date:2017-11-17,Ver:4,Lens:Kan03,Act:Lar01,E-Y,E-ver:20190214.5310204.002.000

    It doesn’t look like much now, but it should fill in nicely. I will try to keep you updated about my little water garden. The sponges are an experiment to see if birds will use them as landing pads to take drink. I hope to add some fish when the water warms up.

    While I was out, I ran across the charming Chester Springs Creamery at Milky Way Farm. They make delicious ice cream. Here is an impromptu panorama of part of the property:

    The lovely property at Chester Springs Creamery at Milky Way Farm.

  • 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 …

     

     

     

  • Farms of West Vincent Township

    Here are some shots from my trip around West Vincent Township in northern Chester County.

    This season’s hay has been baled.

    Peaceful scene of cattle on a hillside by a farm pond.

    I loved the slope in this shot.

  • Sunset Drive Through East Nantmeal Township

    I took advantage of a lovely evening to head out to East Nantmeal township hoping for some sunset views.

    A beautiful farm at sunset.

    Another view of the same farm.

    A farm pond at sunset.

    A farm on the hill in gathering darkness.

    I came back the next day for some daytime views. The hay has already been baled at this farm.

    A farm pond in the daylight.

    It seems Christmas trees are grown all over Pennsylvania, even in Chester County.

error: Content is protected !!