Month: February 2026

Bald Eagle Sighting

We had quite a surprise yesterday at Umstead State Park. A bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was gathering some brush for its nest as we walked by Reedy Creek Lake. We noticed it when it took off from across the lake. Luckily, it landed on a tree for a brief moment. It was just long enough… Continue reading Bald Eagle Sighting

Cherry Blossoms

The cherry blossoms are here! Star magnolias are also blooming this week.

Field Report- February 20, 2026

What’s happening on the trails this week? We’ve had some rain and some warmer temperatures for the last few days. The trees and plants are waking up and changing quickly. There aren’t too many flowers out there yet. I’m still seeing henbit, hairy bittercress, common chickweed, common groundsel and dandelions. Leatherleaf mahonia is in full… Continue reading Field Report- February 20, 2026

Red-Winged Blackbirds

Red-winged blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) are a common sight around wetlands. In the summer, you might see one or two near a small retention pond in your neighborhood. Once you know their song, you can’t miss them. This winter, I have had three occasions where an entire flock of red-winged blackbirds was hanging out on the… Continue reading Red-Winged Blackbirds

Safety on the Greenways

What’s happening on the Shiloh Greenway this week? New mile markers! Every 0.1 mile will be marked with a painted star on the pavement. Much like highway mile markers, this will help if there’s an emergency on the trail. First responders will quickly be able to locate the area where they need to be.