I had a rare and special opportunity to see a Virginia Rail with a freshly hatched chick. Unlike some bird species where one parent does most of the work, Virginia Rails are cooperative biparental caregivers. Both adults will incubate the eggs, brood the young, feed the chicks, and guard the family.
Author Archives: Matthew
American Coot
A photogenic American Coot at Sandy Ridge Reservation, Lorain County Metro Parks.
Common Mergansers on the Cuyahoga River
There has been a nesting pair on the Cuyahoga River for several years now. Last year I saw the ducklings, but did not have my camera. This year I will try harder.
Gray Tree Frog
Only the second time I’ve ever spotted a tree frog. Can you imagine why?
Bald-Faced Hornet
Since they are considered to be a beneficial insect, I would probably have let this queen build her nest in peace. Except she was building it on my extension ladder.
Spring Moths
First-time photographs of two moths that I found in the backyard.
Cormorant Poop Tree
A tree used for nesting (and pooping) by many, many cormorants.
Sandy Ridge in April
Birding is good at Sandy Ridge Reservation in North Ridgeville.
Red Admiral
Wood Duck Shimmer
Iridescent rainbows on the feathers of this female wood duck at the Beaver Marsh / Ira Road Trailhead. Also, male wood duck close-up.