What Remains

Common Teasel.  North Arm Wildlife Trail,  September 2026 .

Generally, life is good.

The Empty Nest

 

North Arm Wild Trail, September 2026

This morning marked my return to the North Arm Wildlife Trail, a familiar stretch that had been off-limits for nearly two years.

I was heading toward the osprey nest, full of quiet anticipation. Approaching the nest brought a touch of disappointment—the nest stood empty. I had really hoped to catch even a fleeting glimpse of the birds today. Still, simply walking on the trail again was a gift in itself.

Generally, life is good.

 

Looking Again. The High Fashion of Nature

Farmington Bay WMA, September 2024

Those long, delicate plumes (called aigrettes) almost drove Great Egrets to extinction in the late 1800s for ladies' fashion, leading to the birth of the modern conservation movement—and the National Audubon Society itself.

Generally, life is good.

Looking Again. Great Egret is Hunting

 

Farmington Bay WMA, September  2024

For a moment, the egret seemed to disappear into the darkness—leaving only its white feathers, its watchful eye, and the quiet swamp behind.

Generally, life is good.