What’s going on within the Conservancy as we move into fall?

The Bluebird nesting season has officially finished for this year. For the 2020 breeding season, the number of fledged birds included 59 bluebirds, 39 tree swallows, and 5 wrens from twenty nesting boxes.

During September, look for migrating warblers and several other bird species as you enjoy the Conservancy. Top viewing locations include the Ravine and the Oak Savanna. For the best results, bring your binoculars and silence your phone.

Prairie Update

The prairies are sure to dazzle visitors this time of year. The goldenrods and native sunflowers are now in bloom and radiate a golden hue in the early morning and evening hours. As the month goes on, the delicate purple blooms of the asters will start to fill in. If you take a closer look, there should be several types of insects making a living off the nectar these plants produce.

Insects

The most noticeable insect species this time of year are monarch butterflies and large predatory dragonflies. Both of these insects are migratory, and the prairies provide an ample source of food for them as they head south. If monarchs fascinate you, be sure to sign up for the Monarchs Habitat and Migration Talk on Monday, September 14 via Zoom.