July 15, 2017

We observed on 7/13 that the Lark Sparrow that established a nest in the northeast corner of our carport has had four hatchlings. We believe this is the same bird that had a nest in the southwest corner of the carport and had at least one successful fledgling last month.

The three Eastern Bluebird hatchlings apparently fledged successfully from Nestbox Delta on or about July 9. We cleaned out the nest box but don't really expect a new nest. In the meantime, there are four hatchlings in Nestbox Charlie. Two of the hatchlings appear to shoving the other two out of the way, so it's wait and see to find if all four will fledge.

The last two days, Patrick has used a new Swisher rough cut trail mower to mow in two areas: about 3/4 of an acre at the front of the property and about 1/2 acre in what will eventually be Acre 20 to cut down the King's Ranch Bluestem in the expectation that the silver bluestem will take over. The Swisher is towed by our ATV and cuts as well, or better, than the brush hog used this spring by the man we hired to mow.

We renewed our family membership in the Native Prairies Association of Texas.

On Wednesday, July 12, we took a tour on the Vanishing River Cruise up the Colorado River at Lake Buchanan. We saw Redwing blackbirds, a considerable number of Great Egrets, and some nice scenery.

Posted on July 15, 2017 09:23 PM by dracowildlife