SPARROWS RETURN - An immature White-throated Sparrow is one of the first Sparrows back scratching on the patio.

WORTH THE STRETCH - A male Red-bellied Woodpecker has to stretch to reach seeds low in the feeder.

MAGIC CARPET - The trail to the beaver pond is covered with fallen leaves. There are several benefits to wildlife from leaf litter on the forest floor. Besides shelter and winter insulation for insects, amphibians and reptiles, birds forage through leaf litter for food and leaves build soil health as they decompose.

EYES IN THE BACK OF ITS HEAD? - A Barred Owl looks over its back at me before flying off. While Owls cannot turn their heads all the way around - they can turn 270 degrees - three quarters of a complete turn around.

