Past sightings of Wildlife all around Landen
Landen's Lower Farm Pond by Carol
We want to thank our Lifeguard Staff for keeping us safe this season.
Woodfield Pool !!!
9/5/2022 Before they all leave for the season, Joyce and I just wanted to say Thanks for putting up with us. Before we know it the pool will close for the season and we will be sad. It was nice to see so many of our neighbors on the last day.
I'm glad I got to thank all our Lifeguard Staff for watching over us and our neighbors and being so nice. I'm trying to remember all their names so be patient with me. Special thanks to Alex, Mary, Chloe, Sara, Bella, Madelyn, Marissa, Ella, Cooper, Seth, Sydney, Justin, Owen, Colin, Lillie & Mackinzie.
I love our neighborhood and this pool ! I don't know how I make it year after year from Fall to Spring without this pool.
I'm glad I got to thank all our Lifeguard Staff for watching over us and our neighbors and being so nice. I'm trying to remember all their names so be patient with me. Special thanks to Alex, Mary, Chloe, Sara, Bella, Madelyn, Marissa, Ella, Cooper, Seth, Sydney, Justin, Owen, Colin, Lillie & Mackinzie.
I love our neighborhood and this pool ! I don't know how I make it year after year from Fall to Spring without this pool.
Total Lunar Eclipse happening Nov 8th
Lunar Eclipse
11/6/2022 I have heard we will be having a Total Lunar Eclipse starting at 4:00 AM. Tuesday morning of the election day. They say the best time to view is around 6:00 AM. This will be the last one until 2025.
Labor Day Landen Lakefest & Fireworks this evening
Fireworks !!!
9/4/2022 Joyce and I went up to the lake to watch the Landen LakeFest and Fireworks ! This was the second year we have seen them on the lake. They were SPECTACULAR !
We also enjoyed seeing all the wildlife coming to the lake this evening before the fireworks started.
We counted 65 Mallard Ducks, 4 Canadian Geese, 3 Great Blue Herons and I'm pretty sure we had an owl fly in front of us.
We also enjoyed seeing all the wildlife coming to the lake this evening before the fireworks started.
We counted 65 Mallard Ducks, 4 Canadian Geese, 3 Great Blue Herons and I'm pretty sure we had an owl fly in front of us.
I think the cat got stung
Boozie (Joyce's Cat)
7/15/2021 Joyce sometimes lets her cat (Boozie) out the family room window and we sometimes get a fly trapped inside and trying to get out. I thought this was the case this evening when all of a sudden...Boozie WAPPED something and immediately jerked her paw back and moved away from the still alive species of some smaller type of wasp. She turned her paw over and licked the pads several times and then rested and soon was back up and moving around like normal. I have never seen a dog or cat get stung by a bee, wasp or hornet before. While out walking your dog, do you think they are that conscious of the presence of Honey Bees in the clover or on the dandelions and side step them ?
The Old Areostar Van is gone
My old 1997 Ford Areostar Van and Poke Boat. (all gone now)
12/21/2021 A very sad day for me as the Goodwill Tow Truck loaded my old friend onto its bed and pulled away. I had owned Areostar Vans since 1989. Now all I have are the good memories I had with them.
The first one lasted over 8 years with over 175,000 miles until it was totaled in an accident. The longest time I had one was the 1997 that I had for 23 years with over 254,000 miles. I bought the 1996 as a third owner. IT was 25 years old when the transmission went out on it. Very sad day.
The first one lasted over 8 years with over 175,000 miles until it was totaled in an accident. The longest time I had one was the 1997 that I had for 23 years with over 254,000 miles. I bought the 1996 as a third owner. IT was 25 years old when the transmission went out on it. Very sad day.
Labor Day Flyover by a B-25 Mitchell Bomber
B-25 Mitchell Bomber
9/6/2021 While at the pool for the last time this season, Joyce and I saw what I think were at least two, maybe three B-25 Mitchell Bombers flyover, maybe on their way home from the Cleveland Airshow. In any event, it was very cool to see them and feel lucky to have seen them. Jane reported seeing one of them too.
This was the same type bomber that was used in the Dolittle Raid when they took off from the decks of our aircraft carriers in the Pacific to bomb Japan after Pearl Harbor and Midway.
This was the same type bomber that was used in the Dolittle Raid when they took off from the decks of our aircraft carriers in the Pacific to bomb Japan after Pearl Harbor and Midway.
Flyover by a B-24 Liberator Bomber
B-24 Liberator Bomber
6/27/2021 While at the pool, Joyce and I saw a B-24 Liberator Bomber from the WWII era. The Liberator and Mitchell look very similar, but the Liberator has four engines, and the Mitchell only has two.
Flyover formation by the local Warbirds
A formation of Warbirds, maybe out of Cincinnati
7/3/2022 Today we saw a formation od the Cincinnati Warbirds (I think out of Lunken Airport). A bunch of us were at the pool when they flew over.
STORYTIME Wildlife when I was growing up!
A Disney wildlife scene
I was thinking back to the days when I was growing up, over on the west side of Cincinnati in Bridgetown, Ohio. I had a great childhood, played outside as long as the weather would let us and thought we had everything the outdoors could offer. We lived in a newer neighborhood on a cul-de-sak where two creeks merged and ran over the property line of a 100-acre farm. The creek and the farm were our playground.
We didn't have any Oak, Hickory or Walnut Trees in our neighborhood, all we had were Maple Trees.
Every now and then we might see an Opossum, some chipmunks and on one extremely cold winter's night a gray squirrel curled up with it's tail curled over its head and spent the night on my bedroom windowsill, when I was a kid.
We had the usual collection of backyard birds, if you put out a feeder to attract them. If you didn't put out a feeder you might only see Robins and hear the occasional Blue Jay. But once a feeder was put up you'd see Goldfinches, Chickadees, Cardinals, Blue Jays and Tufted Tit Mice feeding together.
In the creeks we would see and catch crawdads, tadpoles, frogs, Garter Snakes and minnows and we'd find tons of fossils in the creek bed.
We never saw anything like a raccoon, duck, deer, heron or geese. We never even saw evidence around our neighborhood that any existed. No road kills, or overturned garbage cans or tracks in the sand around the creek. We never heard a duck quack or a goose honk as they flew over the neighborhood. We didn't have such things, so we never missed them or even thought much of it. We would find such wildlife like this in far off lands like Indiana and Kentucky.
As I grew up my parents would take me camping in these far-off lands and I would see and hear their presence and loved the experience. So much so, I wanted to be a Park Ranger when I grew up. I wanted to work in the outdoors and protect the wildlife and the woodlands they lived in. One ranger told my parents I should go into forestry. When I looked into the forestry program, they explained I would be figuring board feet of trees for the paper-pulp and lumber industry. This wasn't what I was all about ! I didn't want to cut trees down...I wanted to save them. You might say I was a tree-hugger.
Fast forward 20 years and I find myself living in Landen, with a small stand of trees behind our house, that we affectionately call "The Woods", surrounded by all kinds of wildlife that I had only seen in books or maybe a Disney Wildlife Feature on NBC, some Sunday Night, back in the olden days.
I can't explain the thrill I felt the first time I heard a flock of geese honking in the middle of a cold winter's night, winging their way south or maybe just to lay over on Landen Lake to catch their breath before continuing on their journey. Or maybe it was when I heard Great Horned Owls hooting in the early morning hours or a pair of raccoons squabbling over territory or a morsel of food or something? At the age of sixty six, I finally heard the yappings of Coyotes near our house. They didn't sound like the coyotes I had heard on old cowboy movies but I finally heard them.
The weekend we moved into Landen, some 32 years ago, I had to go to work early that next morning and as I was driving out of the neighborhood for the first time, I was greeted by a pair of White-Tail Deer, crossing Simpson's Trace at the hiking trail, casually. They stopped and turned to look at me as if to say, "Good Morning, welcome to Landen!" They were so majestic !
All the times I took my kayak out on the lake and the things I'd see, I'm so thankful for. All the sunrises and sunsets, the herons, so many species of ducks and other waterfowl, Little Brown Bats, Bald Eagles, White-tail Deer, and even the Canadian Geese ! I've caught many species of fish in Landen Lake and surrounding ponds, seen all kinds of turtles and snakes and lots of other species of birds that stop over here on their way north or south. I find it all incredibly fascinating and think myself lucky to have witnessed it all, so far. I wonder if the residents of Landen know how lucky they are to have this incredibly diverse collection of wildlife living within the boundaries of Landen and in our own backyards. Did you know we have over 100 species of birds, including songbirds, waterfowl and birds of prey, that have been seen by me and fellow neighbors, just around Landen.
For the most part I try to leave nature the way it is and help out when I can. I've created this website to help my fellow neighbors know what kind of fish and wildlife is around here and what benefits they provide. Now days I don't get out as much as I use to, so I rely on our neighbors and what they see, hear and photograph and send me to update the site. Thank you all !
Written & experienced by J.Scott Keniston
A WARNING from ODNR With this Arctic Blast coming, keep your doors shut.
A Field Mouse
As our temperatures drop this winter, some critters may want to try coming inside where it's warmer.
The ODNR asks us not to use poisons on these critters. Once they ingest the poison, they too may end up poisoning others that would feed on them, such as Eagles, Owls, Hawks, Vultures, Crows Foxes & Coyotes, not to mention the possibility of your own dog or cat.. ODNR suggests using traps instead. Squirrels, some species of Bats and Flying Squirrels are a few that like to winter over in your attic. Chipmunks may find and feed on any poison left around the outside of the house.
Mice will come in anywhere they can. You or your pet may hear them scurrying around in the ceiling or walls. Some may find their way into your dryer vent hose.
The ODNR asks us not to use poisons on these critters. Once they ingest the poison, they too may end up poisoning others that would feed on them, such as Eagles, Owls, Hawks, Vultures, Crows Foxes & Coyotes, not to mention the possibility of your own dog or cat.. ODNR suggests using traps instead. Squirrels, some species of Bats and Flying Squirrels are a few that like to winter over in your attic. Chipmunks may find and feed on any poison left around the outside of the house.
Mice will come in anywhere they can. You or your pet may hear them scurrying around in the ceiling or walls. Some may find their way into your dryer vent hose.
Welcome Winter ! The shortest day of the year. I can't wait till Spring!
12/21/2022 At 4:48 PM this evening the Winter Soltice takes place.
Karl Maslowski, Wildlife Photographer from Cincinnati
Karl Maslowski
12/11/2022 Karl Maslowski is a name I was never familiar with, but his photography and films were. I had no idea he was from Cincinnati or that he helped create the 1800 acre
Cincinnati Nature Center.
I never knew it was a lot of his films we watched on the Disney, Show, on Sunday nights, back in the day.
One thing they said in the PBS Documentary I watched was how he helped people discover wildlife in and around their own backyards.
I can identify with that type of learning and try to promote the same idea thru my site.
Cincinnati Nature Center.
I never knew it was a lot of his films we watched on the Disney, Show, on Sunday nights, back in the day.
One thing they said in the PBS Documentary I watched was how he helped people discover wildlife in and around their own backyards.
I can identify with that type of learning and try to promote the same idea thru my site.
WARNING Tornadoes, coming early this season... Are you prepared ?
Tornadoes in the dark
Normally, the Ohio Tornado Season begins in April and goes till July (as it overlaps with Hurricane Season). This season seems to have started with February and now into March. Pay attention to the Weather Alerts and listen for the Severe Weather Sirens.
Do you have a plan for your family if one should come while you're home ?
It has been my experience that the majority of tornadoes occur in the early evening, overnight, and wee hours of the morning.
Visit my Preparedness Page on this site for more helpful suggestions, so you can be better prepared.
Click here for WCPO Weather updates
http://www.wcpo.com/subindex/weather
A Tornado Warning is when one has been sighted in your area and you need to prepare yourself incase one ends up in your neighborhood.
A Tornado Watch is when conditions are right for tornados to form.
Do you have a plan for your family if one should come while you're home ?
It has been my experience that the majority of tornadoes occur in the early evening, overnight, and wee hours of the morning.
Visit my Preparedness Page on this site for more helpful suggestions, so you can be better prepared.
Click here for WCPO Weather updates
http://www.wcpo.com/subindex/weather
A Tornado Warning is when one has been sighted in your area and you need to prepare yourself incase one ends up in your neighborhood.
A Tornado Watch is when conditions are right for tornados to form.
Recent Bald Eagle sighting around Landen
A Bald Eagle in flight by Ryan
5/7/2023 My favorite nephew, Steve, says he has seenan adault Bald Eagle flying up the lake recently.
The males and females are identical in plumage. The female is slightly larger than the male...slightly. I don't know if we could tell which is which ? They mate for life and build their nest together, taking turns hunting for food and caring for the young ones. After hatching the young eagle's beak is black-ish. After three months in the nest they take their first flight. Their beak is already starting to turn yellow-ish. These young eagles molt once a year and by the fifth year they molt into their adult plumage and are sexually mature. Once they establish a territory and find a mate they will build a nest that can be as wide as ten feet. Many years ago I saw my first juvenile Bald Eagle flying over the lake. The Eagle was adopted as the United States iconic symbol in 1782.
The males and females are identical in plumage. The female is slightly larger than the male...slightly. I don't know if we could tell which is which ? They mate for life and build their nest together, taking turns hunting for food and caring for the young ones. After hatching the young eagle's beak is black-ish. After three months in the nest they take their first flight. Their beak is already starting to turn yellow-ish. These young eagles molt once a year and by the fifth year they molt into their adult plumage and are sexually mature. Once they establish a territory and find a mate they will build a nest that can be as wide as ten feet. Many years ago I saw my first juvenile Bald Eagle flying over the lake. The Eagle was adopted as the United States iconic symbol in 1782.
Piliated Woodpecker in our backyard
A Piliated Woodpecker
5/2/2023 As I sat in my chair, watching the Downy Woodpeckers, Blue Birds and Nuthatches coming in to feed on our suet cake, then came a Northern Flicker and very soon a Piliated Woodpecker flew to a Hickory Tree and watched and pecked from afar.
The Piliated Woodpecker is the largest of the Woodpecker species around these parts of the country.
The Piliated Woodpecker is the largest of the Woodpecker species around these parts of the country.
Red Breasted Mergansers seen on the lake
A pair of Red-breasted Mergansers
5/22/2023 Andy said he saw another Red Breasted Mergansers, floating around on the lake today, up by the Gazebo
Rough-winged Swallows seen at Landen Lake
A pair of Rough-winged Swallows by Jane
5/9/2023 Today, Jane saw and identified a pair of Rough-winged Swallows. This is a new species to add to our landen bird species total.
Yellow Rumped Warbler seen at the creek today
A Blackpoll Warbler
5/14/2023 I got an email from Jane, saying see had also seen and heard a Blackpoll Warbler while sitting out on the patio.
Warblers are small birds from South and Central America that fly thousands of miles to Northern Canada to the edge of the Arctic Tundra to breed in the 24 hours sunlight, with little or no preditors and all the insects they can gorge themselves on. We get to see or hear about them as they pass thru Landen.
Turkey Vultures seen in Woodfield
A pair of Turkey Vultures by Jane
5/29/2023 I just saw few Turkey Vultures, near the corner of Wildwood and Greenhaven, in Michael's frontyard. I couldn't see what they were feasting on.
They only feed on the dead. No feathers on their head since they stick their head inside the dead carcasses to feed.
They may be ugly, but they have their place in the "Circle of Life".
They only feed on the dead. No feathers on their head since they stick their head inside the dead carcasses to feed.
They may be ugly, but they have their place in the "Circle of Life".
The Honey Bees are out!
Honey Bee
5/ 5/2023 Anne Dean came over to drop off a Sympathy Card today. While I held the door open, a little brown Honey Bee came in for a visit. I opened the door again and let him out.
In an article I wrote in Landen Living, back in the summer of 2010, I recognized the return of our little brown honey bee. We were visiting the Krohn Conservatory at the time and walking around the green space along their cement pond. That is when I saw the Little Brown Honey Bee, stopping at clover bloom after clover bloom, collecting nectar and spreading pollen.
As crazy as some people think I am, true to form, I knelt down and asked the bee out loud, where he had been ? Someone near by commented that a mite was responsible for their decline in numbers over the years.
I remembered when I was a kid, I never wore shoes or socks as I ran the neighborhood and our local creek. From time to time I would step on a bee and get stung and I was then and still am allergic to bee stings but this was never a cause for me to get upset with the bees.
This was all before the age of perfect lawns and lawn care companies with their chemical applications to businesses and residential areas of all kinds.
As our yards became devoid of clover and dandelions, we seemed to lose our little bee and no one really paid any attention.
Recently I have noticed a return of the bees. I'm noticing that even in well kept yards, patches of clover are springing up and with the clover there are bees.
Now is it that the chemical applicators have changed their brew and the new batch doesn't kill off clover or what ? In the fall I see more and more bees when the Seedum gets it's purple flower. I don't know if there are any local beekeepers around here but I know there are some out on Westchester Rd. and others up on Rt 741, towards Lebanon. If these new bees aren't from a beekeepers hive, I wonder where their natural hive might be? We need the honey bee and I'm glad to see them back, even if it is only in small numbers. Hopefully their numbers will grow. More and more people are letting their yards go back to nature to support the bees. Dandelions and clovers are springing up in hope that this will benefit the bees and their numbers will grow.
In an article I wrote in Landen Living, back in the summer of 2010, I recognized the return of our little brown honey bee. We were visiting the Krohn Conservatory at the time and walking around the green space along their cement pond. That is when I saw the Little Brown Honey Bee, stopping at clover bloom after clover bloom, collecting nectar and spreading pollen.
As crazy as some people think I am, true to form, I knelt down and asked the bee out loud, where he had been ? Someone near by commented that a mite was responsible for their decline in numbers over the years.
I remembered when I was a kid, I never wore shoes or socks as I ran the neighborhood and our local creek. From time to time I would step on a bee and get stung and I was then and still am allergic to bee stings but this was never a cause for me to get upset with the bees.
This was all before the age of perfect lawns and lawn care companies with their chemical applications to businesses and residential areas of all kinds.
As our yards became devoid of clover and dandelions, we seemed to lose our little bee and no one really paid any attention.
Recently I have noticed a return of the bees. I'm noticing that even in well kept yards, patches of clover are springing up and with the clover there are bees.
Now is it that the chemical applicators have changed their brew and the new batch doesn't kill off clover or what ? In the fall I see more and more bees when the Seedum gets it's purple flower. I don't know if there are any local beekeepers around here but I know there are some out on Westchester Rd. and others up on Rt 741, towards Lebanon. If these new bees aren't from a beekeepers hive, I wonder where their natural hive might be? We need the honey bee and I'm glad to see them back, even if it is only in small numbers. Hopefully their numbers will grow. More and more people are letting their yards go back to nature to support the bees. Dandelions and clovers are springing up in hope that this will benefit the bees and their numbers will grow.
Night Hawks over Montgomery Hills today.
A Night Hawk on the wing
5/15/2023 Jane saw a Night Hawk flying overhead today while talking with a neighbor.
I remember neighbor Steve hearing and recording a Whippoorwill calling outside his house last year. Night Hawks and Whippoorwills are in the same family and both are insect eaters but I can't say I've ever seen a Whippoorwill in flight. Plus, I've never heard the sound a Night Hawk makes. Although the Night Hawk name suggests this is a bird or prey, they aren't. The only thing they prey on are insects in the evening hours.
I remember neighbor Steve hearing and recording a Whippoorwill calling outside his house last year. Night Hawks and Whippoorwills are in the same family and both are insect eaters but I can't say I've ever seen a Whippoorwill in flight. Plus, I've never heard the sound a Night Hawk makes. Although the Night Hawk name suggests this is a bird or prey, they aren't. The only thing they prey on are insects in the evening hours.
Greater Scaups back on the lake today
A pair of Greater Scaups
5/17/2023 Jane saw some Greater Scaup on the lake today, but couldn't get a picture.
With more and more people paying attention and discovering the wildlife around here, reporting their findings and sometimes even getting lucky enough to get a picture has really paid off.
Thanks for all your help and enthusiasm and contributing to this site.
With more and more people paying attention and discovering the wildlife around here, reporting their findings and sometimes even getting lucky enough to get a picture has really paid off.
Thanks for all your help and enthusiasm and contributing to this site.
Cooper's Hawks seen around Landen
A Cooper's Hawk perched
5/12/2023 I saw a Cooper's Hawk sitting in a frontyard on Irwin Simpsom this morning. I looked like it had snagged something to eat and was maybe preparing to fly off iwith its catch.
Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Osprey and Cooper's Hawks all have yellow eyes. Turkey Vultures, Barred Owls, American Kestrels, Red-tailed and Red Shouldered Hawks all have black eyes. I wonder why that is?
Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Osprey and Cooper's Hawks all have yellow eyes. Turkey Vultures, Barred Owls, American Kestrels, Red-tailed and Red Shouldered Hawks all have black eyes. I wonder why that is?
Cormorant seen on lake
A Cormorants on the lake
5/10/2023 Today, Jane saw a Cormorants on lake.
Cormorants don't have the oils in their feathers like all the rest of the local water fowl. If they don't get out of the water to dry their feathers they will sink and drown.
If you look out on the water and see one, you might think it's a duck at first but if you look closely, you'll notice what a low profile they present on the surface with usually only their neck, head and back above water and they dive and swim a good distance to fish.
Cormorants don't have the oils in their feathers like all the rest of the local water fowl. If they don't get out of the water to dry their feathers they will sink and drown.
If you look out on the water and see one, you might think it's a duck at first but if you look closely, you'll notice what a low profile they present on the surface with usually only their neck, head and back above water and they dive and swim a good distance to fish.
Spotted Sandpiper seen along the shoreline of the lake
Sandpiper along the shoreline
5/17/2023 I saw a Sandpiper bobbing and weaving along the rocks near the Landen Lake Boat Ramp this morning.
I have noticed in past years there are usually a few of them that stay for the entire season. They are harder to see as they run along the rocks on the shoreline, stopping and bobbing along, in their camouflage.
I have noticed in past years there are usually a few of them that stay for the entire season. They are harder to see as they run along the rocks on the shoreline, stopping and bobbing along, in their camouflage.
Red-Winged Blackbirds in our backyard
Three of my favorite colors on the Red-Winged Blackbird by Jane
5/18/2023 Jane saw and photographed a Red -winged Blackbird around the lake today. Her pictures can be seen in the Newest Wildlife Gallery.
I like hearing their Taaaa-wheat call and see their flash of color in their wings.
I like hearing their Taaaa-wheat call and see their flash of color in their wings.
Swainson Thrush seen and heard around Montgomery Hills
A Swainson Thrush
5/14/2023 Jane saw this Swainson Thrush in her backyard.
Yellow Warblers seen again today
Yellow Warbler
5/6/2023 I just got an email from Andy saying he has seen more of the Yellow Warblers today while out walking, down below tha dam in what he is calling "the Gorge".
1 saw a posting by the Ohio State Parks talking about these birds being seen around Ohio now. Andy is very good at identifying them. He gets out almost everyday and seems to be more of a Bird Watcher than me. Today he told me he saw several of these Warblers while walking around the lake. I don't know if they are just laying over before continuing northward or what ? I'll add another species to the list. This maybe the 94th species seen around Landen. ..even if it is a transit bird.
Tree Swallows seen at the lake
A beautiful looking Tree Swallow
5/5/2023 I was using my scope this afternoon to checkout any waterfowl on the lake and only managed to see many of the Tree Swallows flying in my view. They are very fast and never seem to land when I have my scope out.
Gray Catbird heard, tracked down and seen in Landen
The Gray Catbird
5/6/2023 This week Andy has seen many species of birds around Landen. The Gray Catbird is one of the species seen. Then, last year, Jane saw one fly into her front bush and start mewing like a cat and making a clucking sound.
I need to look this bird up and hear what its song sounds like. Andy said he could hear it the past couple morning and finally tracked it down and spotted it to confirm it was indeed a Gray Catbird.
I need to look this bird up and hear what its song sounds like. Andy said he could hear it the past couple morning and finally tracked it down and spotted it to confirm it was indeed a Gray Catbird.
Swifts flying around the Lake
A Chimney Swift
5/6/2023 Andy has noticed some Swifts flying over the lake today.
I had never seen one but found pictures of them and they seem very small and remind me of a cross between a Night Hawk, a Whippoorwill and a Barn Swallow. Flying very fast, catching insects and scooping water from the surface of the lake as they fly. They also build similar nests as the afore mentioned species, to raise their young.
I had never seen one but found pictures of them and they seem very small and remind me of a cross between a Night Hawk, a Whippoorwill and a Barn Swallow. Flying very fast, catching insects and scooping water from the surface of the lake as they fly. They also build similar nests as the afore mentioned species, to raise their young.
Yellow Rumped Warbler seen at the creek today
Yellow Rumped Warbler
5/6/2023 I got an email from Andy today, saying he had seen a Yellow Rumped Warblers down in the gorge below the dam where Simpson's Creek continues.
Warblers are small birds from South and Central America that fly thousands of miles to Northern Canada to the edge of the Arctic Tundra to breed in the 24 hours sunlight, with little or no preditors and all the insects they can gorge themselves on. We get to see or hear about them as they pass thru Landen.
Boat-tail Grackles are coming back to Landen
Grackles around the lake. by Jane
5/6/2023 Jane was out today but didn't see much but she did get another good shot of a Grackle
A New Species at Landen...A Nashville Warbler
A Nashville Warbler
5/6/2023 While walking the gorge, below the dam, Andy heard a Nashvill Warbler. He never could see it but has an App for identifying birds on his phone. This makes 122 species of birds around Landen.
Snapping Turtles are coming up and seen around the Islands
A Snapping Turtle crossing the street
5/1/2023 Steve saw one of our local Snapping Turtles up today. Perhaps he saw it in the pond behind his house.
Beware of our local Snappers. If you see one crossing a street, I wouldn't try to pick them up. They're heavier than you think. Their neck is longer than you think and can reach back for the unexpected bite and those hands and feet are huge with large, non-retractable claws. They know where they're going as long as you don't run over them and leave them alone to find their seasonal nesting area.
Beware of our local Snappers. If you see one crossing a street, I wouldn't try to pick them up. They're heavier than you think. Their neck is longer than you think and can reach back for the unexpected bite and those hands and feet are huge with large, non-retractable claws. They know where they're going as long as you don't run over them and leave them alone to find their seasonal nesting area.
Box Turtles sould be coming out around Landen
A Box Turtle by Andy
4/10/2023 Shannon says Box Turtles lay their eggs in June and July like all other species of turtles around here. The way to tell a male from a female is the bottom of their shell. If it is concaved, it's a male. If it's convexed, it's a female.
A NOTICE FROM THE ODNR
Don't relocate a turtle and don't take them home! Most turtles have home territories and if moved they will continuously search to get back to it and will sometimes stop eating.
- If you need to help a turtle across the road, please be safe and take them to the side of the road they were facing. Check for cars and other hazards and make sure you are visible to others on the road. If it's too busy, you can call your local law enforcement to assist.
A NOTICE FROM THE ODNR
Don't relocate a turtle and don't take them home! Most turtles have home territories and if moved they will continuously search to get back to it and will sometimes stop eating.
- If you need to help a turtle across the road, please be safe and take them to the side of the road they were facing. Check for cars and other hazards and make sure you are visible to others on the road. If it's too busy, you can call your local law enforcement to assist.
A Hooded Warbler seen & heard around Landen
A Hooded Warbleer.
5/6/2023 While sitting out on heer back patio, Jane could hear a Hooded Warbler and see it but couldn'tget a photo of iti.
Red-eared Slider Turtles out sunning today!!!
A Red-eared Slider came out to sun today by Carol
4/27/2023 Joyce and I saw a couple of Red-eared Slider Turtles on the branch. jammed into the overflow at the Landen Deerfield Park.
A Blue Gray Gnatcatcher seen & heard around Landen
A Blue Gray Gnatcatcher
5/6/2023 While walking the gorge, below the dam, Andy also saw a Blue Gray Gnatcatcher in the top of one of the trees, down there. This makes one hundred and ninteen species of birds seen around Landen.
Osprey seen fishing at the lake
An Osprey with a Shad in its talons by Jane
4/12/2023 Jane was up at the lake today while the Osprey was fishing. If you look closely, yoou'll see a Shad in its talons. She got another photo of it flying away and you can see the fish better. I'll post it later.
I've always loved the Osprey because they are easy for me to identify with their dark brown or black and white plumage and mask over its eyes.
I've always loved the Osprey because they are easy for me to identify with their dark brown or black and white plumage and mask over its eyes.
Painted Turtles are starting to come out to sun again
Painted Turtles out for a sun today by Jane
4/22/2023 Today, Joyce and I saw a bunch of the Painted Turtles sunning along the shoreline of the pond, in the park.
The Bumble Bees seen already this season
Bumble Bee
4/19/2023 While watching our backyard birds from the family room, I can't help notice seeing a Bumble Bee taking advantage of these warm days and flying all around.
An Eastern Towhee spotted in Landen again
An Eastern Towhee
4/16/2023 Today, Andy reports seeing an Eastern Towhee, somewhere around Landen, while out for a walk. He sure can hear them and identify them, huh?
Ruby Crowned Kinglet seen in Landen
A Ruby Crowned Kinglet
4/13/2023 While out today, Andy saw a Ruby Crowned Kinglet. His first ever. This makes one hundred and twenty one species of birds seen in Landen
A report of a Possum with Joey's in Landen
A Possum and Joey by Diana
4/19/2023 Sara saw a Possum and her Joeys maybe in Woodfield. Next a dead one was seen dead on Columbia Rd. Shannon said it was dead but didn't see any dead babies. Sometimes you have to look inside the pouch to see if they are inside.
Possums like woodland areas with water near by and feed on a variety of items including lots of insects and even better, they eat lots of ticks, including up to 4000 Lime Disease carrying ticks. Typically nocturnal, they can be seen sometimes in early evening and morning, coming out of or going back to their sanctuary. In the wild they may only live 1-2 years and are solitary except when breeding. They may breed twice in a season having anywhere from 4-8 young (called Joeys). They are not a danger to you. When threatened they may bare their teeth and hiss but don't normally attack. A Possum's body temperature is too low to support diseases like rabies.
Possums like woodland areas with water near by and feed on a variety of items including lots of insects and even better, they eat lots of ticks, including up to 4000 Lime Disease carrying ticks. Typically nocturnal, they can be seen sometimes in early evening and morning, coming out of or going back to their sanctuary. In the wild they may only live 1-2 years and are solitary except when breeding. They may breed twice in a season having anywhere from 4-8 young (called Joeys). They are not a danger to you. When threatened they may bare their teeth and hiss but don't normally attack. A Possum's body temperature is too low to support diseases like rabies.
A Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly seen today
Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly
4/14/2023 Today Jane saw a Tiger Swallowtail Butterfly on her porch but her cat chased it awaw before she could get a picture of it.
A Clouded Sulphur Butterfly seen all around Landen
A Clouded Sulfur Butterfly
4/14/2023 While we were out for our drive today, we drove over to Carridge Gate and I saw one of these Clouded Sulfur Butterflies flying across the street, by the stables.
Brown Thrasher seen again
Brown Thrasher
4/16/2023 Andy is truly a Birder ! The stuff he sees is amazing. He has seen a Brown Thrasher again.
The Gang of Three American Crows seen again
The Gang of Three, American Crows
4/12/2023 Andy said he saw the 'Gang of Three Crows", sitting in a tree making a big commotion. Then he saw two more crows in another tree, close by. I'm guessing they didn't take to the intrusion by the other two Crows.
Two seasons ago, the gang of three Crows were giving one of the Eagles a hard time in a tree over on Landen Cove Drive, that has now been cutdown.
During the exchange between the two species I was hearing some different language from the Crows beside their usual Caw, Caw Caw ! There was sort of a clucking sound and then a Trrrrrrrr-ing . Then the Eagle would scream at them but it was mostly the Caw, Caw, Caw we heard.
Two seasons ago, the gang of three Crows were giving one of the Eagles a hard time in a tree over on Landen Cove Drive, that has now been cutdown.
During the exchange between the two species I was hearing some different language from the Crows beside their usual Caw, Caw Caw ! There was sort of a clucking sound and then a Trrrrrrrr-ing . Then the Eagle would scream at them but it was mostly the Caw, Caw, Caw we heard.
Coots visit the lake today
A Common Coots on the water
4/6/2023 Jay sent me an email this morning with a photo he took of an American Coot, he saw on the lake. His photo is in the NEwer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
Coots are divers and hunt for fish.
They show up every year and I like seeing them when they take off from the water. Their feet aren't webbed like a duck or goose. They are three toed and need to run across the surface of the water to obtain proper speed for lift off. In other parts of the country where they and Bald Eagles are plentiful, juvenile Bald Eagles prey on Coots because they're easy targets.
Coots are divers and hunt for fish.
They show up every year and I like seeing them when they take off from the water. Their feet aren't webbed like a duck or goose. They are three toed and need to run across the surface of the water to obtain proper speed for lift off. In other parts of the country where they and Bald Eagles are plentiful, juvenile Bald Eagles prey on Coots because they're easy targets.
A Chipping Sparrow identified here in Landen
A Chipping Sparrow
4/12/2023 Andy has also identified a Chipping Sparrow while out for his walk the other day.
A lot of the Sparrow family look alike to me. I'd have to see them together to see if I could figure out one from the other.
A lot of the Sparrow family look alike to me. I'd have to see them together to see if I could figure out one from the other.
Dragonflies seen over the lake today
A Dragonfly
4/11/2023 Joyce and I were over by the tennis courts by the lake and saw several Dragonflies flying over the water, in front of us. Bill saw them too but doesn't care for their presence.
Dragonflies have six legs but can only use them to land...not walk. They have to fly to each new location. They are not harmful.
Dragonflies have six legs but can only use them to land...not walk. They have to fly to each new location. They are not harmful.
Ruddy Ducks seen on the lake today
A Ruddy Duck
4/7/2023 Joyce and I saw a pair of the Ruddy Ducks on the lake today. They stayed separate from the Blue-wing Teal Ducks.
Yellow Throated Warbler seen in Landen
A Yellow Throated Warbler
4/12/2023 Andy emailed me saying he had walked down into the gorge, below the dam and heard a Yellow Throated Warbler and had correctly identified it with an App on his phone. This makes one hundred and eighteen species of birds around Landen.
Blue Wing Teals on the lake today
A pair of Blue Wing Teal Ducks by Jane
4/7/2023 While out today we saw ten of the Blue Wing Teal Ducks on the lake. Last year they were seen a month later.
A Juvenile Red-tail Hawk seen around Landen
Juvenile Red-Tail Hawk by Ryan
4/7/2023 While out for daily drive around Landen, I did see the Red-tail Hawk again. It was sitting in the top on one of the trees we usually see the eagles in, along the north shore. I watched it sit there for sometime. When I turned my head and looked back, it was gone.
Earlier this month, I received email from Ryan with new photos taken around Landen. One was of this Juvenile Red-tail Hawk, successfully fishing at the lake. A lot of us have never seen or heard of this species fishing...but then we never knew ducks, geese, herons and seagulls ate snails either.
Earlier this month, I received email from Ryan with new photos taken around Landen. One was of this Juvenile Red-tail Hawk, successfully fishing at the lake. A lot of us have never seen or heard of this species fishing...but then we never knew ducks, geese, herons and seagulls ate snails either.
Blue Birds haven't been seen for five days, in our backyard
An Eastern Blue Bird
4/6/2023 Sitting in my chair last night, in front of the window where our feeders are hung, I saw a Blue Bird, still coming to feed.
I now know they are insect eaters, mainly but here they are feeding on the suet I had out and seeds that drop on the ground from our other feeder.
I guess Blue Birds aren't migratory. No species would come back to Ohio in January. We just don't see them very often. Sometimes years between reported sightings.
I now know they are insect eaters, mainly but here they are feeding on the suet I had out and seeds that drop on the ground from our other feeder.
I guess Blue Birds aren't migratory. No species would come back to Ohio in January. We just don't see them very often. Sometimes years between reported sightings.
Juvenile Bald Eagle seen at the lake
A Juvenile Bald Eagle by Ryan
3/28/2023 Mark emailed me, he had seen a juvenile Bald Eagle flying up the lake this morning. I saw it too and hoped it would land in the tree on Landen Cove Drive but it kept flying.
For those of us that lift our eyes to the skies and along the horizon of treetops, to see these magnificent Birds of Prey, we should consider ourselves extremely lucky for being able to go out for a walk, bicycle ride or a drive and seeing all we see.
I would suggest buying and carrying a small pair of binoculars or a monocular for you next walk or ride around Landen and the lake.
For those of us that lift our eyes to the skies and along the horizon of treetops, to see these magnificent Birds of Prey, we should consider ourselves extremely lucky for being able to go out for a walk, bicycle ride or a drive and seeing all we see.
I would suggest buying and carrying a small pair of binoculars or a monocular for you next walk or ride around Landen and the lake.
A Pie-billed Grebe seen on the lake today
A Pie-billed Grebe
4/2/2023 Andy reported seeing a couple of Pie-billed Grebes mixed in with the Northern Shovelers, while out for his daily walk.
I never knew Grebes needed to run on the water to achieve liftoff for flight, like a Coot does.
Male, Pie-billed Grebes, get the stripe around their bill during mating season.
Grebes eat small fish, insects and crawdads. Mostly found up north but fly south for the winter. Grebes aren't often seen in flight. They are good swimmers with the use of their lobed feet.
I never knew Grebes needed to run on the water to achieve liftoff for flight, like a Coot does.
Male, Pie-billed Grebes, get the stripe around their bill during mating season.
Grebes eat small fish, insects and crawdads. Mostly found up north but fly south for the winter. Grebes aren't often seen in flight. They are good swimmers with the use of their lobed feet.
Eastern Phoebe visits Landen again
Eastern Phoebe
4/2/2023 Andy is truly a Bird Watcher ! He spots so many different species living within or maybe just visiting Landen...I am just in awe! Lately he has spotted a species that has been seen here before but again this past week. The Eastern Phoebe is another one he has seen this past week and reported to me so I can update the site.
Northern Shoveler Ducks seen on the Lake today
A pair of Northern Shoveler Ducks
4/2/2023 Andy and Julie were out earlier and saw a flock of Northern Shovers on the lake.
White-throated Sparrow seen around the lake today
White-throated Sparrow
4/2/2023 Andy is truly a Bird Watcher ! He spots so many different species. Today he spotted a White-throated Sparrow while out for his walk.
Common Loon seen on the lake
A Common Loon on the lake
3/312023 About a month earlier than we saw them last year...Joyce and I were our this afternoon and all of a sudden she said, "there's a duck." I grabbed my scope and looked where she was pointing. Then she said it dove underwater. I waited and when it caame up, I saw that it was a Loon.
Loons wail or tremolo back and forth to each other. Only the male yodels.
The pair mate for life. Their legs are set so far back on the body making it awkward for them to walk. You will either see them on the water, flying or on the nest. They are divers and feed on fish, insects and crawdads mainly. As you can see in the photo their legs are far back and feet look like swim fins on a scuba diver. I imagine this gives them good speed under water.
Loons require a long running take offs for flight like the Coots and Grebes.
Loons wail or tremolo back and forth to each other. Only the male yodels.
The pair mate for life. Their legs are set so far back on the body making it awkward for them to walk. You will either see them on the water, flying or on the nest. They are divers and feed on fish, insects and crawdads mainly. As you can see in the photo their legs are far back and feet look like swim fins on a scuba diver. I imagine this gives them good speed under water.
Loons require a long running take offs for flight like the Coots and Grebes.
A New Species visits the lake today
More Horned Grebes by Jane
3/28/2023 Jane has done it again and has photographed a new species of waterfowl on Landen lake. This is a Horned Grebe, fishing.
From what I looked up about all species of Grebes, there is no different plumage between male and females. Their plumage changes for wintertime only. Other photos, taken by Jane can be seen in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery. They show a mix of Horned Grebes transforming from winter plumage to normal plumage for the rest of the season.
This species may have been blown out of their normal region after the high winds from last week.
From what I looked up about all species of Grebes, there is no different plumage between male and females. Their plumage changes for wintertime only. Other photos, taken by Jane can be seen in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery. They show a mix of Horned Grebes transforming from winter plumage to normal plumage for the rest of the season.
This species may have been blown out of their normal region after the high winds from last week.
Goldfinches spotted in Hunter's Pointe
A Goldfinch
3/28/2023 Bryan and Andy are both reporting seeing Goldfinches already in their full, yellow plumage, over in Hunter's Pointe and Strawberry Hill..
Muskrat seen around the Landen Lake
A Muskrat swimming
3/26/2023 Bill says he has also seen Muskrat swimming around at Sailboat Pointe.
Mink, kill Muskrats and take over their dens. The Circle of Life, I guess!
The ODNR says this about Muskrats...
Muskrats are ecosystem engineers who play an important role in maintaining openings in densely vegetated marshes. They can swim at speeds of up to 2-3 MPH and build distinctive “houses”; conical piles of cattails in standing water.
Mink, kill Muskrats and take over their dens. The Circle of Life, I guess!
The ODNR says this about Muskrats...
Muskrats are ecosystem engineers who play an important role in maintaining openings in densely vegetated marshes. They can swim at speeds of up to 2-3 MPH and build distinctive “houses”; conical piles of cattails in standing water.
Ring-Necked & Scaup Ducks seen on the lake
A Ring-necks Duck
3/25/2023 Joyce and I saw maybe a dozen or more of the Ring-neck Ducks on the lake. Out in the middle of the lake with the high winds creating white-caps on the water. Jane has seen them too and took this photo of them.
We haven't had a report of Ring-Necks since November of 2022.
We haven't had a report of Ring-Necks since November of 2022.
A Red Fox seen at Sailboat Point
A Red Fox in its den
3/26/2023 Today, we ran into Bill, as he was leaving the Island Rec Pickleball Courts. He reported seeing a foxes den under the dock area /pool at Sailboat Pointe.
Daffodils are up
More and more Daffodils in bloom
3/11/2023 Despite the cooler overnight temperatures, the Daffodils are keeping their heads up and still opening.
As we drove around Landen this afternoon, you just can't help seeing quite a few Daffodils already up and opening since February, all around Landen. Ours are up and most are open.
As we drove around Landen this afternoon, you just can't help seeing quite a few Daffodils already up and opening since February, all around Landen. Ours are up and most are open.
More Mink sighted at Sailboat Pointe
A male Mink
3/26/2023 After talking with Bill, yesterday, he said he had also seen three Mink, around the walls of the coves at Sailboat Pointe.
Ring-billed Seagull spotted at the Lake today
Ring-billed Seagull in flight
3/12/2023 Today Joyce and I saw a Ring-billed Seagull sitting on the overflow, down by the dam.
Joyce loves watching the Seagulls soar and gleam in the sunlight when they turn. She wishes she could fly with them.
Who remembers Gertrude & Heathcliff ?
Joyce loves watching the Seagulls soar and gleam in the sunlight when they turn. She wishes she could fly with them.
Who remembers Gertrude & Heathcliff ?
Five Domestic Ducklings have a new home
Five domestic ducklings sunning on a windy day by Jane
3/29/2023 These Domestic Ducklings have been rounded up and taken to a farm, where they will live out their days with chickens and alike.
Greenery is coming up !
Forsythia is blooming !
3/11/2023 Joyce and I noticed more Forsythia Bushes starting to bloom. Plus the Daffodils, Buttercups and Iris are starting to come up.
I'm seeing buds on our Lilac Bushes and tiny leaves sprouting. I'm really seeing little tips of green leaves coming out on the Honeysuckle. I love Honey suckle, it's the first to get their leaves in the Winter/Spring and the last to fall in the Fall. It keeps Landen greener longer !
It's not surprising to notice different species of flowers starting to emerge this winter. You might start seeing Crocus and Hosta coming up or Daffodils, Buttercups and Seedum. For those of you that take walks, jog or take the dogs out, you may have noticed this already.
I'm seeing buds on our Lilac Bushes and tiny leaves sprouting. I'm really seeing little tips of green leaves coming out on the Honeysuckle. I love Honey suckle, it's the first to get their leaves in the Winter/Spring and the last to fall in the Fall. It keeps Landen greener longer !
It's not surprising to notice different species of flowers starting to emerge this winter. You might start seeing Crocus and Hosta coming up or Daffodils, Buttercups and Seedum. For those of you that take walks, jog or take the dogs out, you may have noticed this already.
A Red-bellied Woodpecker seen
A Red-bellied Woodpecker by Jane
3/5/2023 Jane emailed me and sent this photo of saw this Red-bellied Woodpecker as she walked around Landen.
Red-shouldered Hawk heard today
A Red-shouldered Hawk, in flight by Ryan
3/11/2023 As I opened the car door, up at the park, I could hear the calls of the Red-shouldered Hawks calling back and forth to each other, but I couldn't see them.
Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Osprey and Cooper's Hawks all have yellow eyes. Turkey Vultures, Barred Owls, American Kestrels, Red-tailed and Red Shouldered Hawks all have black eyes. I wonder why that is?
Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Osprey and Cooper's Hawks all have yellow eyes. Turkey Vultures, Barred Owls, American Kestrels, Red-tailed and Red Shouldered Hawks all have black eyes. I wonder why that is?
Lots of Robins sighted at Landen Deerfield Park
An American Robin by Ryan
3/10/2023 While driving around today Joyce and I saw a whole herd of Robins grubbing in the field, over at Landen-Deerfield Park.
Spring isn't here yet but it's getting closer.
I guess some Robins don't fly south for the winter. Some just stay well hidden.
Spring isn't here yet but it's getting closer.
I guess some Robins don't fly south for the winter. Some just stay well hidden.
A Summer Tanager in Landen
A Summer Tanager
3/5/2023 We can add another bird to our list of different species seen around Landen. Jane saw this Summer Tanager over in Montgomery Hills today. As close as I can count, I think we have 117 species of birds that either visit or stay in Landen.
Backyard Coyotes seen
A Backyard Coyote sunning
3/2/2023 We met Darryl at the Mason Community Center yesterday. He told us that he lived in Sailboat Pointe and had a Coyote laying in the sun, in his backyard, just fifteen feet off his deck. The Coyote seems to do this periodically.
I know there are arguments about the Coywolf theory, but truth be told they say there is like 1% of Wolf blood in these Coyotes but that would still mean somewhere down the line they had to have mated with a Wolf...way back when ! Our Coyotes don't look like the scrawny Coyotes you see out west. Ours seem bigger and healthier. Just my opinion.
I know there are arguments about the Coywolf theory, but truth be told they say there is like 1% of Wolf blood in these Coyotes but that would still mean somewhere down the line they had to have mated with a Wolf...way back when ! Our Coyotes don't look like the scrawny Coyotes you see out west. Ours seem bigger and healthier. Just my opinion.
Keeping the feeders full for the Backyard Birds
A male Cardinal
2/16/2023 I had to fill my feeder and replace the suet cake for the birds today.
Hooded Mergansers on the lake again today
A pair of Hooded Merganser
2/18/2023 Jane and Jan saw three Hooded Mergansers.
Joyce and I saw four of them a couple days ago. Two males and two females diving for fish on this windy but warm sunny day. They were in between the Gazebo and Sailboat Pointe.
Joyce and I saw four of them a couple days ago. Two males and two females diving for fish on this windy but warm sunny day. They were in between the Gazebo and Sailboat Pointe.
A Mocking Bird has been seen around Landen again
A Mocking Bird
3/5/2023 I was reading my email this morning and Jane reported seeing a Mocking Bird , around her home in Montgomery Hills. I haven't seen or heard one around here since last May
A while ago, Joyce and I were out for our afternoon drive when a Mocking Bird flew up and sat on the driver's side rear view mirror on my van! And then flew off !
A while ago, Joyce and I were out for our afternoon drive when a Mocking Bird flew up and sat on the driver's side rear view mirror on my van! And then flew off !
A Possum on her porch
A Possum on her porch by Jane
2/9/2023 Jane feeds a stray cat, over in Montgomery Hills. When she went to look out to see if the cat had finished the food, she had left, she saw this fluffy Possum, feeding from the bowl. She brings the bowl in once the cat has finished but tonight the Possum got them before it finished, I guess.
They like woodland areas with water nearby and feed on a variety of items including lots of insects and even better, they eat lots of ticks, including up to 4000 Lime Disease carrying ticks.
They are not a danger to you. When threatened they may bare their teeth and hiss but don't normally attack. Possums body temperature is too low to support diseases like rabies.
They like woodland areas with water nearby and feed on a variety of items including lots of insects and even better, they eat lots of ticks, including up to 4000 Lime Disease carrying ticks.
They are not a danger to you. When threatened they may bare their teeth and hiss but don't normally attack. Possums body temperature is too low to support diseases like rabies.
Dark-eyed Juncos are still out
Dark-eyed Junco
2/3/2023 I am just amazed we are still seeing the Junco, even on days with milder temps. They have been coming in since before Christmas and no snow. Every day we are still seeing them on our deck. Today there were five on the ground, picking up fallen seeds.
We usually don't see them until it snows, in past years, living here but they have been here feeding since Thanksgiving.
We usually don't see them until it snows, in past years, living here but they have been here feeding since Thanksgiving.
Belted Kingfisher heard at the lake
A male Belted Kingfisher on the left and a female Belted Kingfisher on the right.
2/7/2023 Joyce and I were out around the Island Clubhouse when I herad the call of a Belted King Fisher. I didn't see it but their call is very distinctive.
We usually hear them more than we see them. It's special to me to actually see one.
The Belted King Fisher is a fish-eating bird. It calls out as it leaves it perch and dives for its prey.
We usually hear them more than we see them. It's special to me to actually see one.
The Belted King Fisher is a fish-eating bird. It calls out as it leaves it perch and dives for its prey.
Groundhog Day, Six more weeks of Winter
A Groundhog
2/2/2023 They say we are going to have six more weeks of Winter. Ironically, that is when Spring starts anyway.
The Groundhog is the largest in the rodent family in this part of the country. Although it's called a Groundhog, it is capable of climbing trees and looking out over its domain.
The Groundhog is the largest in the rodent family in this part of the country. Although it's called a Groundhog, it is capable of climbing trees and looking out over its domain.
Freahwater Mussels or clams in the Lower Farm Pond
Freshwater Mussels
1/10/2023 I was wetting a line off the Island Rec Clubhouse Bridge, when I turned and began casting my line into the Lower Farm Pond. As I reels in my line I noticed an opened freshwater mussel shell in the clear, sandy shallows. I had seen live mussels there years before. It's all part of the circle of life to know we have muskrats and mink that will eat these when they can.
Escargot, anyone?
A pair of Mallard hens feast on Trap-door Snails as the lake is being lowered by Jane
1/11/2023 All the ice has melted and the level of the lake is up but not to normal pool. It seems a lot of the local waterfowl are feasting on Trap-door Snails. Ducks, Seagulls and Herons so far. I haven't seen any of the Eagles or Osprey feeding on them yet.
Sandhill Cranes flying over the lake today
Sandhill Cranes flying over Landen
12/27/2022 Andy got out for a walk around the lake today around 11:30 AM and heard a huge flock of Sandhill Cranes flying south, overhhead.
I have heard they are on the endangered list but we keep seeing more flocks. Maybe they're coming back like the eagles?
The ODNR tells us the Sandhill Crane is among the oldest living species of birds, dating back 2.5 million years. Today, it is an endangered species in Ohio.
Sandhill Cranes, like some of our more recognized avian species .like, Canadian Geese and Cardinals, mate for life. They have been known to stay together for twenty years. Perhaps the most unique characteristic of the Sandhill Crane is its tendency to dance. Although an integral part of their courtship, they can be seen dancing any time of the year. The dance of the Sandhill Crane includes many quick steps around each other, wings half spread with an occasional leap into the air up to eight feet off the ground. Part of this ceremony includes bowing toward one another. Outside of its occurrence during courtship in the spring, researchers are unclear as to why this behavior continues throughout the year. Maybe they are teaching their young how to do it ? Dance Lessons !
Squirrel's Nests are easily seen in Fall & Winter
A Squirrel's Nest
1/2/2023 Where do Squirrels sleep? While some maybe lucky enough to find a hollow in a dead or dying tree, to call home, others have to build their homes, called dreys. They may be called Tree Rats by some, but they are pretty good engineers and builders of structures that can stand up to high winds and proved shelter and warmth throughout the Winter months.
By assembling a collection of sticks and twigs intertwined in a crotch of several branches of their selected tree, they then stuff and line the nest with leaves to create an insulating and maybe waterproof barrier to sleep and bare their young.
By assembling a collection of sticks and twigs intertwined in a crotch of several branches of their selected tree, they then stuff and line the nest with leaves to create an insulating and maybe waterproof barrier to sleep and bare their young.
New species of Seagull. This is a Herring Gull.
New Seagull by Ryan
12/21/2022 Ryan took this shot of a Seagull, flying around the lake recently.
Jane and another of my sources have identified it as a Herring Gull. I'm still waiting for the ODNR to check back. The ODNR concurs, it is a Herring Gull
Jane and another of my sources have identified it as a Herring Gull. I'm still waiting for the ODNR to check back. The ODNR concurs, it is a Herring Gull
Who hibernates around here ?
A Black Bear up a tree
What animals, reptiles and amphibians hibernate in our neighborhood ?
Does anyone remember the Black Bear Cub that was found sleeping in the bucket of a front-end loader at that little Loveland Park, across the street from what use to be the Rozzi Fireworks property, so many years ago ? I always wondered where its mother was? Was it left there alone? If it (the cub) was still around it should be loading up on carbs and getting ready to hibernate in a hollow log, cave or even dig a hole to winter over in. Black Bears will eat as much as they can, sometimes gaining 30 pounds a week. Their bodies live off those fat stores all winter long.
Chipmunks gather food and store it in their burrows but unlike the bears, they have to wake up and eat very couple days. Their borrow entrances are blocked off and the holes go down below any frost line.
Squirrels aren't normally any kind of a hibernator but in the Winter of 2022, we experienced an Arctic Blast for the Christmas weekend with temperatures at 30 degrees below Zero with the wind Chill. During this time, the squirrels did not come out to feed at all. This is the first time I have ever seen this happen.
Water Turtles bury themselves in mud at the bottom of the lake, creek, drainage ditch or pond and no longer need to breath air. Their systems now absorb oxygen thru their skin around the mouth and neck. They too gorge themselves on food before hibernating and live off the stored fat during the winter months. We learned that Painted Turtles stay out longer in the Fall and come out earlier in the Spring than the other species around here.
Frogs like water turtles will live beneath the water and ice, in a mud layer and absorb oxygen thru their skin. Their heart rate slows to a point where they sleep throughout the Winter months.
Box Turtles dig holes in the ground and cover over the opening and live off the food stores they consumed before beginning their hibernation.
Toads will be covered in dirt and leaves for insulation. Their heart rate slows and they also sleep through the Winter months.
Groundhogs are another hibernator that stays in its' burrow and sleeps all winter long. Except for the supposed Groundhog Day when they come out of their hole and determine whether or not Spring will be early or 6 more weeks of Winter. I have seen columns of steam (from warm breath) rise from a groundhogs hole on freezing cold days. It is so thick it's like seeing smoke coming out of a chimney.
Our little Brown Bats from Ohio most times migrate south for the winter but others stay in Ohio and find caves to hibernate in. Our bats cannot survive temperatures below 50 degrees. We never see their migration because they fly at night.
Snakes will occupy hollow logs or burrows of other animals to hibernate in. They also eat plenty before the winter months and store fat to survive the hibernation period of winter. Their heart rate slows, body temperature drops and they need less oxygen. They may look for a rocky den that has a layer of dirt over the top to add insulation to the den. Hundreds of snakes may den up in a larger den.
Skunks, Possum, Raccoon & Flying Squirrels don't necessarily hibernate but they will den up and sleep during periods of extreme cold. When the weather warms back up some, they will come out and forage throughout the Winter months.
Birds flying South for the Winter Not all but most Robins, Grackles & Starlings will fly south for the winter months. Hummingbirds, Thrashers, King Birds, Red-Winged Black Birds, Swallows and I even suspect some Turkey Vultures seem to head to the warmer climates of North and Central America too. I can only guess the smaller species like Finches, Warblers, Towhees and Phoebes also head south. Most ducks and geese fly south but more and more our own Landen Flock seems to stay on the lake year round.
Does anyone remember the Black Bear Cub that was found sleeping in the bucket of a front-end loader at that little Loveland Park, across the street from what use to be the Rozzi Fireworks property, so many years ago ? I always wondered where its mother was? Was it left there alone? If it (the cub) was still around it should be loading up on carbs and getting ready to hibernate in a hollow log, cave or even dig a hole to winter over in. Black Bears will eat as much as they can, sometimes gaining 30 pounds a week. Their bodies live off those fat stores all winter long.
Chipmunks gather food and store it in their burrows but unlike the bears, they have to wake up and eat very couple days. Their borrow entrances are blocked off and the holes go down below any frost line.
Squirrels aren't normally any kind of a hibernator but in the Winter of 2022, we experienced an Arctic Blast for the Christmas weekend with temperatures at 30 degrees below Zero with the wind Chill. During this time, the squirrels did not come out to feed at all. This is the first time I have ever seen this happen.
Water Turtles bury themselves in mud at the bottom of the lake, creek, drainage ditch or pond and no longer need to breath air. Their systems now absorb oxygen thru their skin around the mouth and neck. They too gorge themselves on food before hibernating and live off the stored fat during the winter months. We learned that Painted Turtles stay out longer in the Fall and come out earlier in the Spring than the other species around here.
Frogs like water turtles will live beneath the water and ice, in a mud layer and absorb oxygen thru their skin. Their heart rate slows to a point where they sleep throughout the Winter months.
Box Turtles dig holes in the ground and cover over the opening and live off the food stores they consumed before beginning their hibernation.
Toads will be covered in dirt and leaves for insulation. Their heart rate slows and they also sleep through the Winter months.
Groundhogs are another hibernator that stays in its' burrow and sleeps all winter long. Except for the supposed Groundhog Day when they come out of their hole and determine whether or not Spring will be early or 6 more weeks of Winter. I have seen columns of steam (from warm breath) rise from a groundhogs hole on freezing cold days. It is so thick it's like seeing smoke coming out of a chimney.
Our little Brown Bats from Ohio most times migrate south for the winter but others stay in Ohio and find caves to hibernate in. Our bats cannot survive temperatures below 50 degrees. We never see their migration because they fly at night.
Snakes will occupy hollow logs or burrows of other animals to hibernate in. They also eat plenty before the winter months and store fat to survive the hibernation period of winter. Their heart rate slows, body temperature drops and they need less oxygen. They may look for a rocky den that has a layer of dirt over the top to add insulation to the den. Hundreds of snakes may den up in a larger den.
Skunks, Possum, Raccoon & Flying Squirrels don't necessarily hibernate but they will den up and sleep during periods of extreme cold. When the weather warms back up some, they will come out and forage throughout the Winter months.
Birds flying South for the Winter Not all but most Robins, Grackles & Starlings will fly south for the winter months. Hummingbirds, Thrashers, King Birds, Red-Winged Black Birds, Swallows and I even suspect some Turkey Vultures seem to head to the warmer climates of North and Central America too. I can only guess the smaller species like Finches, Warblers, Towhees and Phoebes also head south. Most ducks and geese fly south but more and more our own Landen Flock seems to stay on the lake year round.
Hornet's Nest can be easily seen this time of year
A Hornet's Nest.
12/6/2022 Not to be confused with a Squirrel's Nest, made of leaves and sticks, the Hornet's Nest is made up of a paper-like material they create and fashioned in an almost egg-shape nest and hung from tree branches. Joyce and I have seen one near the corner of the path between the Island Rec Clubhouse and the Upper Farm Pond Path. It is my understanding that the hornets vacate their nest every season and rebuild new, the next season.
I have one that is over forty years old hanging on display in one of our spare bedrooms.
I have one that is over forty years old hanging on display in one of our spare bedrooms.
The lake is being lowered, little by little
Mark & a fishing buddy out fishing today. Photo by Jane
12/2/2022 We were out driving around today and noticed the level of the lake is lower. The creek below the dam is flowing.nicely. I'll keep an eye out for kayakers out fishing in these milder temperatures.
Mark reported last week that the water temperature is 42 degrees.
Mark reported last week that the water temperature is 42 degrees.
This is a Flying Squirrel...my prime suspect.
Flying Squirrel
12/5/2022 I knew Flying Squirrels were around here (we had them in our birdfeeder before) but I never knew their numbers in population were greater than those of their Gray and Red Squirrel cousins. We hardly ever see them because they're nocturnal (come out at night). Smaller and tamer then their cousins, you can almost pick them up with your hands out of a birdfeeder they might be feeding out of. I found this out from a ODNR post about Wildlife.
Joyce suffers with Alzheimer's and is afraid of the dark, therefore we close our shades when it gets dark, and I can't see what might be happening at the small seed feeder I have hanging right outside our family room window.
I suspect our local Flying Squirrels are the culprits in the amount of food missing from the feeder in the overnight hours. Our nighttime temperatures are still mild enough for them to be active. They are not glutenous like their gray and red, squirrel cousins. They eat some and leave and share with their other family members.
Joyce suffers with Alzheimer's and is afraid of the dark, therefore we close our shades when it gets dark, and I can't see what might be happening at the small seed feeder I have hanging right outside our family room window.
I suspect our local Flying Squirrels are the culprits in the amount of food missing from the feeder in the overnight hours. Our nighttime temperatures are still mild enough for them to be active. They are not glutenous like their gray and red, squirrel cousins. They eat some and leave and share with their other family members.
Learn what to lookout for in the woods
Common Poison Ivy in it's fall colors
When Fall shows up, Poison Ivy turns red. The cooler temperatures make hikers want to get out more. Maybe do some hiking or biking on well worn paths or paved trails or maybe taking old deer trails through the woods. Whatever your pleasure is, it's good idea to be aware of your surroundings and know what to look for and stay away from. With everything turning to it's Fall colors, this is what Poison Ivy can look like. Easily identifiable by it's 3 leaf pattern. If Honeysuckle bushes are removed, I have heard that Poison Ivy will grow in its place.
Great Horned Owl heard this morning
A Great Horned Owl in the hollow of a tree
11/6/2022 I was pleasantly awakened this morning by the hooting of a Great Horned Owl. I listened to it hoot from 5:15 to 5:45 AM.
Thier mating season begins in October and November. Trying to find a suitable mate and nest building will begin. They are the first to bare their young in January or February to give their young the longer winter nights to perfect their hunting skills.
You'd think we could find one of their nests around here with all the hooting that has been done around Woodfield and Hunter's Pointe. I haven't found one yet!
Thier mating season begins in October and November. Trying to find a suitable mate and nest building will begin. They are the first to bare their young in January or February to give their young the longer winter nights to perfect their hunting skills.
You'd think we could find one of their nests around here with all the hooting that has been done around Woodfield and Hunter's Pointe. I haven't found one yet!
Another Sighting of a Monarch Butterfly
Monarch Butterfly
11/6/2022 Two weeks ago we saw a Monarch Butterfly at Landen Deerfield Park. Today Jane and Jan saw another one flying around the lake. I wonder if this is some indication of a milder winter?
Tree Frogs heard tonight?
A Tree Frog
11/5/2022 I was outside last night, trying to coax the cat in. When I stopped calling her and listened for her meows, I heard nothing but a few Tree Frogs sounding off. I said to myself, this is November...but it was 75 degrees today. I guess nobody is ready to give up on Summer yet.
Enjoying our Backyard Birds
A Nuthatch by Jane
10/29/2022 Jane sent this picture of a Nuthatch preparing for Winter..
I took down the hummingbird feeder and put out the seed and suet feeder for the rest of our Backyard Birds. I also brought our bird bath onto the back deck and filled it. The birds seem to love it all.
I must sound simple-minded, but I could watch them come into the feeders all day long.
Nuthatches, Downey Woodpeckers, Blue Jays, Chickadees, Tit Mice, Cardinals, Mourning Doves and Wrens. I'm filling the feeder with sunflower seed and we have not been bothered with Purple Finches yet. We have had our first Blue Jay, Northern Flicker and Red-winged Blackbirds come in to feed from the seed feeder.
I took down the hummingbird feeder and put out the seed and suet feeder for the rest of our Backyard Birds. I also brought our bird bath onto the back deck and filled it. The birds seem to love it all.
I must sound simple-minded, but I could watch them come into the feeders all day long.
Nuthatches, Downey Woodpeckers, Blue Jays, Chickadees, Tit Mice, Cardinals, Mourning Doves and Wrens. I'm filling the feeder with sunflower seed and we have not been bothered with Purple Finches yet. We have had our first Blue Jay, Northern Flicker and Red-winged Blackbirds come in to feed from the seed feeder.
Starlings focking south
Starling flocking
10/15/2022 Jane said she saw thousands of Starlings flocking together today.
Large numbers of Geese at the park recently
Canadian Geese coming in for a landing on the surface of the pond at the park.
10/3/2022 Joyce and I were over at the park today and saw many of the local flock coming in for a landing on the surface of the pond before beginning their afternoon feeding and preening. They kept coming in different size groups and moving out of the way for others to land.
In the past I've noticed how the goose parents communicated with their young, and even though they didn't have their adult voices yet, the goslings were trying to imitate their parents' calls. It was like a morning roll call was being performed and each of the young responded when their name was called. Once the roll call was taken the word was given for "TAKE OFF" and the family was airborne and made short flights across the lake. Then the roll call was taken again and they would fly back across the lake. To the casual listener, this might just sound like a bunch of noisy geese that awakened you from your nightly slumber, but I'm telling you, this was fun to watch and gave me a better understanding of what was really happening.
Each morning the flights got longer and longer, now flying the length of the lake and finally making ever increasing, large circles around the lake and then doing their landings on the water. If you listen closely, you can hear the difference between the voices of the parents and the voices of their young. When they first started their landings, after a longer flight, you could see and hear one parent at the head of the "V" formation, calling out flight instructions...and then the other parent would be at the back of one of the lines of the "V" answering the call. As they got closer and closer to the surface of the lake, the calls and answers became more rapid. Finally, they'd touch down and glide to a stop and huddleup. A little swiming, prenning of feathers and eating might be in order before starting the afternoon flight.
By the Labor Day Weekend, all of the families of geese were gathering together and taking off in larger formations. The juvenile geese were getting their more mature voices (but could still be distinguished from the adults). The roll call would begin and the different, united squadrons of geese were cleared for take off. Within minutes the surface of the lake was void of any geese. Their flights were lasting for a couple hours now. Upon their return to the lake, you could see that they were breaking down into groups of twos and maybe there would be one group of three if there was an odd number of geese in the squadron. Now paired down into smaller groups, they would take turns leading the flight and calling and answering the flight and landing instructions before making their landings.
I don't know if these families of geese will stay on the lake for the winter or if they'll fly south but their parents have trained them well for the flight ahead of them.
In the past I've noticed how the goose parents communicated with their young, and even though they didn't have their adult voices yet, the goslings were trying to imitate their parents' calls. It was like a morning roll call was being performed and each of the young responded when their name was called. Once the roll call was taken the word was given for "TAKE OFF" and the family was airborne and made short flights across the lake. Then the roll call was taken again and they would fly back across the lake. To the casual listener, this might just sound like a bunch of noisy geese that awakened you from your nightly slumber, but I'm telling you, this was fun to watch and gave me a better understanding of what was really happening.
Each morning the flights got longer and longer, now flying the length of the lake and finally making ever increasing, large circles around the lake and then doing their landings on the water. If you listen closely, you can hear the difference between the voices of the parents and the voices of their young. When they first started their landings, after a longer flight, you could see and hear one parent at the head of the "V" formation, calling out flight instructions...and then the other parent would be at the back of one of the lines of the "V" answering the call. As they got closer and closer to the surface of the lake, the calls and answers became more rapid. Finally, they'd touch down and glide to a stop and huddleup. A little swiming, prenning of feathers and eating might be in order before starting the afternoon flight.
By the Labor Day Weekend, all of the families of geese were gathering together and taking off in larger formations. The juvenile geese were getting their more mature voices (but could still be distinguished from the adults). The roll call would begin and the different, united squadrons of geese were cleared for take off. Within minutes the surface of the lake was void of any geese. Their flights were lasting for a couple hours now. Upon their return to the lake, you could see that they were breaking down into groups of twos and maybe there would be one group of three if there was an odd number of geese in the squadron. Now paired down into smaller groups, they would take turns leading the flight and calling and answering the flight and landing instructions before making their landings.
I don't know if these families of geese will stay on the lake for the winter or if they'll fly south but their parents have trained them well for the flight ahead of them.
A Red Spotted Admiral Butterfly seen by the Island Rec
A Red Spotted Admiral Butterfly by Linda
9/7/2022 Today I saw this species of butterfly over by the Island Rec Cllubhouse. It's a Red Spotted Admiral Butterfly.
My friend Linda saw one today on their farm in Harrison. This is the picture she took of it.
My friend Linda saw one today on their farm in Harrison. This is the picture she took of it.
Barred Owl seen recently
A Barred Owl in flight at night
9/4/2022 I think we saw a Barred Owl fly in front of us, while viewing the fireworks this Labor Day Weekend. We haven't had a sighting of a Barred Owl since December of 2019.
A Rock Pigeon sighted around the lake
A Rock Pigeon
9/5/2022 Brady was out kayaking on the lake yesterday and spotted a Rock Pigeon flying down along the north shore tree-line. We don't see them around here that often. I figured any that ventured into Landen would be picked off by local hawks foxes or maybe cats.
This species of pigeon can be found in many different colors and patterns.
This species of pigeon can be found in many different colors and patterns.
A pair of Clarks Grebes visiting the lake again
Clark's Grebes
8/29/2022 Jane was out today and saw a pair of Clarks Grebes, on the water.
Back in February of 2019 we saw a single Clarks Grebe near the boat ramp. This isn't their range. They are supposed to be out west.
They are probably migrating and will only spend the night before winging their way south.
Back in February of 2019 we saw a single Clarks Grebe near the boat ramp. This isn't their range. They are supposed to be out west.
They are probably migrating and will only spend the night before winging their way south.
I think I saw Grasshoppers out today.
Grasshopper by Steve
8/19/2022 We saw quite a few Grasshoppers flying or jumping around the sidewalk by the Island Rec Clubhouse, during our drive today.
Steve got this shot of a Grasshopper. They make pretty good bait for fishing. There are lures that look like them and splash on the surface for Bass action.
NEW Species discovered in Landen
A Gray Rat Snake
8/9/2022 Andy has discovered another new species within Landen. It's the Gray Rat Snake. Their colorations vary. I don't know if it is an age-related thing, with their coloration or not?
Shannon says it's the same species she has as a host snake in her local presentations. ODNR says we also have Black Rat Snakes in this area. I thought I had seen Black Rat Snakes here but now I question myself.
I'll have to read up on this species and report more.
Andy's picture is in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
Shannon says it's the same species she has as a host snake in her local presentations. ODNR says we also have Black Rat Snakes in this area. I thought I had seen Black Rat Snakes here but now I question myself.
I'll have to read up on this species and report more.
Andy's picture is in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
Still Hearing Cicadas around Landen
A Dog Day Cicada
9/8/2022 I think we were over at the stables in Carriage Gate and could hear a lot of Cicadas making their noise.
We get this type of Cicada every year. You hear them every summer. I've heard their noise can reach 18 decibels. Some call these songs, other call it buzzing. Only the male of the species makes the noise and it is either a sound of alarm or for mating purposes. Generally, they began emerging during the third week of June. This is the last week of July and I just heard my first one..
We get this type of Cicada every year. You hear them every summer. I've heard their noise can reach 18 decibels. Some call these songs, other call it buzzing. Only the male of the species makes the noise and it is either a sound of alarm or for mating purposes. Generally, they began emerging during the third week of June. This is the last week of July and I just heard my first one..
Great White Egret seen near the boat ramp
Great White Egret
8/8/2022 I saw the Great White Ergret today, after I received an email from Jane with photos of it and a Great Blue Heron fishing near each other, late last week. Her photos are in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
Upon further research I found the best way to distinguish between the two similar species, are their legs. Herons have pale legs while the Egret has black legs
Upon further research I found the best way to distinguish between the two similar species, are their legs. Herons have pale legs while the Egret has black legs
Smelling a Striped Skunk around Landen?
Striped Skunk
8/9/2022 We went out for a late drive around Landen to watch the sun set, over by the boat ramp parking lot. As we sat there with the windows rolled down on the Escape and the engine turned off. I could smell essence of Skunk in the air. Too bad Joyce isn't able to smell or taste anymore. We didn't see any Road Kill on our Journey so I have to think there might have been some sort of natural altercation in the woods, along Simpsons Creek.
Over my 30 plus years living in Landen, I have only seen one live Striped Skunk in the area of Landen. I have seen two road kills in those years and smelled one recently and that is it! I was wondering if any of our neighbors had seen any skunks as they drive, walk or hike around Landen?
I was wondering if there were any sightings behind Strawberry Hill, around Carriage Gate, or in the woods along the creek on the Mountain Bike Trails ?
We don't see or hear about sighting very often, but we know they're around Landen. They are pretty illusive. I have heard the biggest population around here is in the 23 Acre Woods in Woodfield.
Personally, I like the smell.
Over my 30 plus years living in Landen, I have only seen one live Striped Skunk in the area of Landen. I have seen two road kills in those years and smelled one recently and that is it! I was wondering if any of our neighbors had seen any skunks as they drive, walk or hike around Landen?
I was wondering if there were any sightings behind Strawberry Hill, around Carriage Gate, or in the woods along the creek on the Mountain Bike Trails ?
We don't see or hear about sighting very often, but we know they're around Landen. They are pretty illusive. I have heard the biggest population around here is in the 23 Acre Woods in Woodfield.
Personally, I like the smell.
NEW Species discovered in Landen
An Eastern Wood Peewee
8/9/2022 Andy has discovered a new species within Landen. It's the Eastern Wood Peewee. He has seen and heard it.
I'll have to read up on this species and report more.
I'll have to read up on this species and report more.
A Wood Thrush heard in Landen today
A Wood Thrush
8/13/2022 I received an email from Andy today, saying he heard a Wood Thrush in the Strawberry Hill neighborhood.
It may come here in the warmer months but they winter in the heavy woodlands of the tropics.
Cicada Killer ID
Cicada Killer, slightly larger than actual size.
8/7/2022 I haven't seen any Cicada Killers yet...have you?
According to the ODNR they come out and hunt what is called the Dog Day Cicada, this time of year.
Typically, they fly low to the ground, about a foot or less off the ground. They do actually kill Cicadas and drag their lifeless bodies to their burrows.
We have seen them many times before on the grassy knoll, over looking the Woodfield Pool. They aren't aggressive towards humans unless they are attacked by something or someone stepping on them or running over them with a lawn mower or something.
Keep in mind I don't swing at them when they fly around me. This would cause them to get defensive and sting. They are considered wasps but many call them hornets. 2-3 inches long with bold, black & yellow markings and a hard body that isn't easily crushed by swatting them. Try not to bother them and they won't bother you.
According to the ODNR they come out and hunt what is called the Dog Day Cicada, this time of year.
Typically, they fly low to the ground, about a foot or less off the ground. They do actually kill Cicadas and drag their lifeless bodies to their burrows.
We have seen them many times before on the grassy knoll, over looking the Woodfield Pool. They aren't aggressive towards humans unless they are attacked by something or someone stepping on them or running over them with a lawn mower or something.
Keep in mind I don't swing at them when they fly around me. This would cause them to get defensive and sting. They are considered wasps but many call them hornets. 2-3 inches long with bold, black & yellow markings and a hard body that isn't easily crushed by swatting them. Try not to bother them and they won't bother you.
Indigo Bunting sighted in Strawberry Hill
An Indigo Bunting
8/6/2021 Andy has seen several Indigo Bunting (part of the finch family, I believe), during his walks, lately, in the woods.
I have only seen a couple of them in the 30 plus years we have lived here and they visited our backyard and were sitting in or on our feeders at the time of my sighting.
I have only seen a couple of them in the 30 plus years we have lived here and they visited our backyard and were sitting in or on our feeders at the time of my sighting.
Katydids, Crickets & Tree Frogs fill the night with sound
A Katydid
7/24/2022 I do hear a lot of Katydids, mixing in some crickets and tree frogs. But the Katydid is the dominant sound I hear in the night. They are not often seen but always heard. They seem to turn off their sound between 3:00 -4:00 AM.
NEW Species The hardly ever seen & rarely ever heard Screech Owls live in Landen
Juvenile Bald Eagle in flight
8/2/2022 Joyce and I went to the Tech Free Tuesday event over at Landen Deerfield Park and saw a live Barred Owl, a male, Red-tail Hawk and a Screech Owl. You can tell by the photo that they aren't very big at all. I thought they screeched very loudly, like we saw and heard in the movie Cousin Vinny but it turns out they hardly make a sound and are rarely seen. I think it looks like a miniature Great Horned Owl. It was so neat to see these Birds of Prey up close and learn about them and found out they are here in Landen.
I saved a Carpenter Bee from drowning today
A Capenter Bee, drying off before flight
8/8/2022 While at the pool I noticed and watched as a Carpenter Bee got too close to the water and fell in.
I put the back of my hand under it and lifted it gently out of the water and allowed him the time necessary to fully dry itself off on my fingertip, before flying off.
You'll notice in the photo they have many, tiny little hairs on their body and legs. It takes them longer to get all that hair dry before they can fly. The weight of the wet hairs prevents them from being able to fly.
The Wasps are easier to save. Their bodies are void of hair and almost as soon as you elevate them from the water, they are ready for take off !
I put the back of my hand under it and lifted it gently out of the water and allowed him the time necessary to fully dry itself off on my fingertip, before flying off.
You'll notice in the photo they have many, tiny little hairs on their body and legs. It takes them longer to get all that hair dry before they can fly. The weight of the wet hairs prevents them from being able to fly.
The Wasps are easier to save. Their bodies are void of hair and almost as soon as you elevate them from the water, they are ready for take off !
This is called Eclipse Molting of a Mallard Drake Duck
This Mallard Drake looks a bit worse for wear... by Jane
7/17/2022 No, this Mallard Duck is not diseased... Jane saw this Mallard Drake and wondered if it had oil on it or not? I wondered if it had been attacked by another animal and surrvived ?
It turns out this Mallard is molting. Jane researched the topic and found out this is exactly what they look like when molting. The article went on to say these ducks become very reclusive during this phase of replacing old feathers with new ones...and yet she was able to get this photo and others seen in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
It turns out this Mallard is molting. Jane researched the topic and found out this is exactly what they look like when molting. The article went on to say these ducks become very reclusive during this phase of replacing old feathers with new ones...and yet she was able to get this photo and others seen in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
Saw a Black Swallowtail Butterfly at the park
Black Swallowtail Butterfly
7/23/2022 While we were out for our drive today, we drove over to Landen Deerfield Park to the Butterfly Garden and saw a single Black Swallowtail Butterfly.
I have heard the Monarch Butterfly population is down 75% and they don't know why. The Monarch Butterfly is now considered ENDANGERED!
I wonder if this is the same with other species of butterfly?
I have heard the Monarch Butterfly population is down 75% and they don't know why. The Monarch Butterfly is now considered ENDANGERED!
I wonder if this is the same with other species of butterfly?
No Copperhead Snakes around Landen
Copperhead Snake
For years it seems like I hear somebody say they or their kid saw a Copperhead Snake either down at the River or at the lake and ponds around Landen.
Even the ODNR says no proof of them around here has ever been verified. I sent Steve's photo in to the ODNR and they immediately identified it as a Lake Erie Water Snake.
They are colored alike but the head and eyes are different. Copperheads have the Pit Viper shaped head and the Water Snake doesn't.
Even the ODNR says no proof of them around here has ever been verified. I sent Steve's photo in to the ODNR and they immediately identified it as a Lake Erie Water Snake.
They are colored alike but the head and eyes are different. Copperheads have the Pit Viper shaped head and the Water Snake doesn't.
Wolf Spider & babies at the pool
Female Wolf Spider with her babies on her back
7/16/2022 A Wolf Spider was in the rings of the Lap Lane divider, with her babies all over her back.
I didn't bother her but watched for two hours, waiting to see if she would swim over the edge. She didn't.
I didn't bother her but watched for two hours, waiting to see if she would swim over the edge. She didn't.
An American Kestrel seen from Woodfield Pool
An American Kestrel (Sparrow Hawk)
7/7/2022 I couldn't see the coloring but based on size, shape and speed, I'd have to say I saw an American Kestrel streaking over the Woodfield Pool parking lot and into the trees lining the creek.
The Sparrow Hawk is the smallest bird of prey known to me in this area. It's been during my lifetime that they changed its name to the American Kestrel. I still call it a Sparrow Hawk. I've seen them hoover like a hummingbird, over something like a mouse or a snake before making its dive for the kill.
The Sparrow Hawk is the smallest bird of prey known to me in this area. It's been during my lifetime that they changed its name to the American Kestrel. I still call it a Sparrow Hawk. I've seen them hoover like a hummingbird, over something like a mouse or a snake before making its dive for the kill.
Little Mole swimming in Woodfield Pool without a visitors pass
A Mole swimming in the big pool at Woodfield
7/30/2022 We went to the pool today to enjoy the refreshing waters, after cutting the grass....finally ! After I was in the pool a while, I noticed something dark, trying to get over the lane line, into the lap lane. It was too big to be a spider. I got closer and found out it was a little, common, mole that digs up our yards.
I picked it up out of the water. It was soaked and clumbsy. Not normally balancing on a finger but use to being on land and digging, for a living. I handed it off to Addison, and she released it into the grass between the pool and tennis courts.
I picked it up out of the water. It was soaked and clumbsy. Not normally balancing on a finger but use to being on land and digging, for a living. I handed it off to Addison, and she released it into the grass between the pool and tennis courts.
A Soft Shell Turtle laying eggs today
A female Soft-Shell Turtle lays her eggs in the mulch by Jane
7/9/2022 While out for her walk, Jane saw this Soft-Shell Turtle laying her eggs in the mulch near the Island Rec Tennis courts. Steve saw it too.
I've never seen the egg laying season last so long!
Their shell is soft and flexible. You can see it ungulate as they run to water in panic mode.
I've never seen the egg laying season last so long!
Their shell is soft and flexible. You can see it ungulate as they run to water in panic mode.
Zebra Swallow-tail Butterfly sighted
Zebra Swallow-tail Butterfly
7/6/2022 Shannon was leading a youth group at Landen Deerfield Park today and saw a Zebra Swallow-tail Butterfly over by the Wildflower planter. More and more flowers are blooming, and the butterflies and bees are loving it.
A Lesser Green Heron over Woodfield
Lesser Green Heron in flight
6/23/2022 I saw a Lesser Green Heron flying over the tree tops along the creek while hanging out at the pool today.
Herons are usually solitary when fishing and get quite agitated when others (herons or people) get to close.
A Snapping Turtle out in Hunter's Pointe
A Snapping Turtle, found in the middle of Meadow Dr. by Wendy
6/13/2022 Wendy saw this Snapper in the middle of Meadow Drive and used a snow shovel to scoop it up and maybe drag it over closer to the creek by the green space. Hopefully, that was where it was heading when Wendy found it.
I would think it was too late in the season for a Snapper to be going out to lay her eggs when others around Landen have already had theirs hatch.
I would think it was too late in the season for a Snapper to be going out to lay her eggs when others around Landen have already had theirs hatch.
A Baby Snapping Turtle out sunning in Landen
A Baby Snapping Turtle, by Steve
6/12/2022 Steve got all kinds of photos of wildlife today. He got 3 of 4 species of babies that have hatched, headed to the lake and are on their own now.
The only species not seen are the baby Painted Turtles. None of us had even seen any of the Painted Turtle females laying eggs but we know they must be there somewhere.
The only species not seen are the baby Painted Turtles. None of us had even seen any of the Painted Turtle females laying eggs but we know they must be there somewhere.
Baby Soft-shelled Turtles seen
A baby Soft-shell Turtles sunning by Steve
6 /12/2022 Steve was out today and saw a lot on his walk. He got this photo of a baby Soft-Shell Turtle sunning on the rocks today.
When they run you see why they are called Soft Shelled. Their shells ungulate when they run into the water when scared.
When they run you see why they are called Soft Shelled. Their shells ungulate when they run into the water when scared.
Baby Red-eared Slider Turtles out sunning today
A Baby Red-eared Slider Turtle sunning on a rock by Steve
6/12/2022 The baby turtles are hatching and heading towards the lake to hopefully live out their days.
Steve was out for a walk in nature around the lake and took many pictures of what he was seeing. This Baby Slider was sunning on a rock today.
Joyce and I were out today and saw some of the babies too.
Notice the red stripe along the side of its head.
We used to buy these as a kid from Woolworth's and set up a special bowl with gravel, a rock to climb up on and a palm tree to try and make it feel more at home. I loaded mine in a wagon and took it for a walk. I've always been crazy !
Steve was out for a walk in nature around the lake and took many pictures of what he was seeing. This Baby Slider was sunning on a rock today.
Joyce and I were out today and saw some of the babies too.
Notice the red stripe along the side of its head.
We used to buy these as a kid from Woolworth's and set up a special bowl with gravel, a rock to climb up on and a palm tree to try and make it feel more at home. I loaded mine in a wagon and took it for a walk. I've always been crazy !
BEAVER in Landen ?
A North American Beaver
6/1/2022 Well, one Beaver has been sighted by several neighbors including myself. Ronny got video of it but I can't post video on the site. When we saw it, it was in the Upper Farm Pond near the Island Rec Clubhouse.
Watch your trees !
If this Beaver establishes a teritory and we get too close to it, the Beaver will slap its broad tail on the water and scare you, half to death if you didn't know what it was. They are very fast swimmers and like to eat the tender green leaves and bark of trees they cut down.
Watch your trees !
If this Beaver establishes a teritory and we get too close to it, the Beaver will slap its broad tail on the water and scare you, half to death if you didn't know what it was. They are very fast swimmers and like to eat the tender green leaves and bark of trees they cut down.
A Red-eared Slider Turtle laying eggs
A female Red-eared Slider is laying her eggs
5/22/2022 While out for a walk today Steve got this picture of what looks like a Red-eared Slider Turtle laying her eggs.
A Red-eared Slider Turtle has a ridge down the middle of it's shell. Just in case you can't see it's head and see the patch of red on either side.
A Red-eared Slider Turtle has a ridge down the middle of it's shell. Just in case you can't see it's head and see the patch of red on either side.
Albino Squirrel sighted in Hunter's Pointe
A white squirrel by Matt
5/28/2022 Matt posted this photo of the white squirrel crossing the street where all the curb work is being done.
Squirrels typically live in leaf nests called drays or the hollows of an old tree called a den. I see a number of leaf nests but not enough to support the number of squirrels I see around Woodfield. I don't think that many of our existing trees are hollowed out by insects or diseased.
Squirrels typically live in leaf nests called drays or the hollows of an old tree called a den. I see a number of leaf nests but not enough to support the number of squirrels I see around Woodfield. I don't think that many of our existing trees are hollowed out by insects or diseased.
Common Tern seen flying around the lake
A Common Tern (male)
5/19/2022 We were out for our afternoon drive and pulled in by the Island Rec Clubhouse and I thought I saw a Seagull flying around and pointed it out to Joyce. I grabbed my scope, only to discover it was actually a Tern. We haven't seen a Tern here in a lot of years but he was flying up and down the lake several times and landed in with a the "Usual Suspects" ( local ducks) but I guess it didn't care for their company.
My first time seeing an Eastern Kingbird
An Eastern Kingbird
5/21/2022 I saw my first Eastern King Bird over on the fence of one of the horse pastures in Carriage Gate this afternoon. I had never seen one in person... only in pictures.
Andy reported seeing his first Eastern Kingbird of the season a couple weeks ago, while walking around the lake.
It's a handsome looking bird. About Robin size and part of the flycatcher family of birds. I thought this was maybe only a transit bird but more are being seen around the lake during the summer months.
They never drink water. Getting whatever moisture they need from insects and fruit. They do migrate but I think we see some staying around here at least for the Spring and Summer months.
They eat small frogs too. Catching them, bashing them to death on their perch and swallowing them whole.
Andy reported seeing his first Eastern Kingbird of the season a couple weeks ago, while walking around the lake.
It's a handsome looking bird. About Robin size and part of the flycatcher family of birds. I thought this was maybe only a transit bird but more are being seen around the lake during the summer months.
They never drink water. Getting whatever moisture they need from insects and fruit. They do migrate but I think we see some staying around here at least for the Spring and Summer months.
They eat small frogs too. Catching them, bashing them to death on their perch and swallowing them whole.
Mulberries are forming in the trees
Mulberries forming and ready to ripen by Steve
5/22/2022 As Spring continues on, we see the Mulberries forming in the trees. It won't be long until they ripen and the wildlife of all kinds will be going crazy for the berries. Birds of all kinds, squirrels, chipmunks, deer and even fish if the tree over hangs the lake and the berries drop into the water.
We had a Mulberry Tree in our backyard and a Mocking Bird would try to keep all the other types of wildlife from eating the berries.. It never worked but he kept trying.
We had a Mulberry Tree in our backyard and a Mocking Bird would try to keep all the other types of wildlife from eating the berries.. It never worked but he kept trying.
A Cape May Warbler also seen at the creek today
A Cape May Warbler by Brady
5/2/2022 Also in the email from Brady, he said he also saw a Cape May Warbler today, down in the gorge below the dam where Simpson's Creek continues. He said he was out after it rained and perhaps there were more bugs out that these warblers feed on.
There is a dead Snapping Turtle in the Lower Farm Pond
A dead Snapper in the Lower Farm Pond
5/8/2022 I had heard several neighbors tell me about the dead Snapping Turtle in the Lower Farm Pond. Eric showed me a photo on his phone and Steve posted this photo on facebook. Joyce and I went over today and saw it for our selves.
In the Spring the males of the species will have territorial disputes with other males and fight to the death. They try drowning each other or literally ripping the others throat out. Then you might see a dead body floating the next day. To the victor goes the females for breeding rights.
Solitary Sandpiper seen in the creek, below the dam
A Solitary Sandpiper in the creek by Brady
5/2/2022 Brady has been hiking and bird watching at the creek, in the gorge , below the dam again. This time he has seen and photographed a Solitary Sandpiper, different from the Spotted Sandpipers we usually see around the lake.
A Wood Duck seen below the dam
A pair of Wood Ducks
4/30/2022 Brady just emailed me and said while hiking on the trails below the dam (in the woods along the creek) he spotted a Wood Duck. This is the first reported sighting I know of. They are hard to mistake with their array of colors, patterns and highlights. Plus, that Darth Vader like helmet is unmistakable !
I remember the first one I saw. My friend said it wasn't a duck... he said ducks can't sit in a tree. Well....Wood Ducks can !
They will take to a nesting box if provided. Either nailed to a post or tree, near water.
I've seen them down at Sharon Woods before and often wondered why I never saw any on Landen Lake. Turns out I was looking in the wrong place.
A Northern Parula seen at the creek today
A Northern Parula
5/2/2022 I got an email from Brady today, saying he had also seen Northern Parula down in the gorge below the dam where Simpson's Creek continues. He said he was out after it rained and perhaps there were more bugs out that these warblers feed on.
A Black-bellied Whistling Duck seen at Landen Lake
Black Bellied Whistling Ducks
4/28/2022 Ronny was out fishing yesterday and saw this type of duck near the dam in the northeast corner of the lake. Andy Identified it as a Black-bellied Whistling Duck. The ODNR has not responded to my email for confirmation of the species and rarity to this area.
This species of duck isn't found much further north than Mexico or the southern parts of Texas. It's main range is Central and South America.
Jane sent me a link that also said, much like a Wood Duck, this species adapt well to nesting boxes attached to a post or tree, near water.
I think we have 108 different species of birds, waterfowl & Birds of Prey that live in or visit Landen annually.
Pileated Woodpecker sighted in Woodfield again
Pileated Woodpecker on the stump by Shay
4/30/2022 While out a walk today Shay noticed a Piliated Woodpecker in a Black Locust Tree and on several stumps. She says she always hears them but this was the first time seeing one.
Shay & Rindy's pictures are posted in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest of the North American species.
Shay & Rindy's pictures are posted in the Newer Wildlife Photo Gallery.
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest of the North American species.
Tennessee Warbler seen around the lake
A Tennessee Warbler
4/11/2022 Andy was out for his walk around the lake and could hear a Tennessee Warbler. He is quite a bird watcher. He saw one just about this same time last year.
Saw a Wasp while out today
Paper Wasp
4/18/2022 While out for a drive around Landen today I had my window down for a little while and didn't realize that when I rolled it back up, that a wasp was trapped inside with me. We chatted a bit and I rolled the window back down for it and he flew off, unharmed.
Most people HATE Wasps! They don't know why they exist, other than to cause us harm and annoy us.
Some Fun Facts about Wasps... there are 65 species (globally) that are considered Social Wasps but there are 75,000 species that borrow underground and are considered Solitary (unless the nest is disturbed).
Wasps are predators and feed on spiders and caterpillars and the like for protein. (good for gardeners) By the end of their season, the insects they feed on can't be found and they look for sugary substances like our food and drinks to provide them with energy and nutrition they need.
Wasps are also pollinators. Maybe not as much as Honey Bees and Bumble Bees but they do lend a hand in the pollinating process and even more in areas where bees aren't as abundant.
Wasps do not attack unless threatened. If you swing at them, swat them or they get between you and your clothing and you move...that is taken as a threat and they will probably sting you. Sit still, don't swing at them. If they do get between your clothing and your skin, if you can stand it, sit still and allow them the time needed to find their way out. If you get to close to their nest, you pose a threat to their home and to defend it they will swarm you and sting you possibly many times.
Another thing to note about Wasp's as we move towards Fall and the temps cool down is that they become docile and you may notice this in their flight. They will fly slowly and land on things to seemingly rest including us. You may find them in the house barely moving. I don't know if they're preparing to die or looking for a place to winter over. I have read they only use a nest for a season and other wasps will not take a constructed nest over. The Queen is kept safe but it sounds like the others die off. I'm not sure about that.
Most people HATE Wasps! They don't know why they exist, other than to cause us harm and annoy us.
Some Fun Facts about Wasps... there are 65 species (globally) that are considered Social Wasps but there are 75,000 species that borrow underground and are considered Solitary (unless the nest is disturbed).
Wasps are predators and feed on spiders and caterpillars and the like for protein. (good for gardeners) By the end of their season, the insects they feed on can't be found and they look for sugary substances like our food and drinks to provide them with energy and nutrition they need.
Wasps are also pollinators. Maybe not as much as Honey Bees and Bumble Bees but they do lend a hand in the pollinating process and even more in areas where bees aren't as abundant.
Wasps do not attack unless threatened. If you swing at them, swat them or they get between you and your clothing and you move...that is taken as a threat and they will probably sting you. Sit still, don't swing at them. If they do get between your clothing and your skin, if you can stand it, sit still and allow them the time needed to find their way out. If you get to close to their nest, you pose a threat to their home and to defend it they will swarm you and sting you possibly many times.
Another thing to note about Wasp's as we move towards Fall and the temps cool down is that they become docile and you may notice this in their flight. They will fly slowly and land on things to seemingly rest including us. You may find them in the house barely moving. I don't know if they're preparing to die or looking for a place to winter over. I have read they only use a nest for a season and other wasps will not take a constructed nest over. The Queen is kept safe but it sounds like the others die off. I'm not sure about that.
A Field Sparrow spotted in Landen
Field Sparrow
4/2/2022 Andy identifies another species of bird in Landen. This time he sees a Field Sparrow.
A Brown Creeper spotted in Landen
Brown Creeper
4/2/2022 Andy is amazing with his knowledge of birds and the sightings. This Brown Creeper looks to be the size of a House Wren or maybe smaller but not as small as a hummingbird.
Bufflehead Ducks on the lake again
A pair Bufflehead Ducks
3/30/2022 Andy and Mark both saw eleven of the Bufflehead Ducks on the lake today.
Golden Crowned Kinglet seen around the lake today
A Golden Crowned Kinglet
3/30/2028 I got an email from Andy today, saying he had seen and got up close and almost personal with a Golden Crowned Kinglet. This is yet another sparrow-size bird seen here in Landen. We have over 100 different spieces of birds, Waterfowl and Birds of Prey that either stay here in Landen or at least pass by during their annual migration to and from the north.
A Great White Heron !
A Great White (Blue) Heron
3/23/2022 This morning Mark texted me that he was looking at a White Heron. Some say the Great Blue Heron has morphed to white. We have seen them before...many years ago. Melissa reported seeing them and Steve actually got photos of them, that I still have posted in the Past Sighting Page.
I hope we see it again so we can see what color its legs are? It says a Great White Egret looks just like this but has black legs.
I believe I had seen an egret at Landen Lake, many years ago, when I was fishing out of my kayak.
I hope we see it again so we can see what color its legs are? It says a Great White Egret looks just like this but has black legs.
I believe I had seen an egret at Landen Lake, many years ago, when I was fishing out of my kayak.
The horses are out to pasture at the stables
Joyce and a couple of the horses kept at the stables in Carriage Gate by Nancy
3/20/2022 The horses were out in their pastures again today.
I took Joyce over with her bag of carrots in hand as she was feeding this pair pictured, the stable owner came out and asked that we not feed the horses anymore.
I took Joyce over with her bag of carrots in hand as she was feeding this pair pictured, the stable owner came out and asked that we not feed the horses anymore.
Downy Woodpecker, a daily visitor
Downy Woodpeckers
2/17/2022 Since I put the suet out this winter the Downy Woodpeckers are regular visitors to our backyard.
Look Bambi, the water's STIFF !!!!
Animal tracks in the snow out on the Upper Farm Pond
1/31/2022 Today Jane sent me photos she had taken around the lake and shots of a lot of animal tracks in the snow, out on the ice. This could be a set of Deer tracks on the right and Fox tracks closest to the bridge to the Island Rec Clubhouse.
Remember the Fish frozen in the ice last Winter ?
Gizzard Shad frozen in the ice
1/11/2022 The lake is totally frozen over but I'm not seeing any shad frozen in the ice yet.
I was reposting this in anticipation of the lake freezing maybe by the end of the week.
Today the lake is almost completely frozen. I wasn't able or didn't see any Shad frozen in the ice yet.
Folks had seen a lot of the Gizzard Shad frozen in the ice last winter... Eagles and Seagulls fed on them when times were hard !
Since our quick little freezing over of the lake, there had been reports of seeing many fish frozen in the ice. We have also seen our local Bald Eagles, Ring-billed Seagulls and Belted King Fishers feeding on these smaller fish. The fish are Gizzard Shad and they are the only species that I know of that the juvenile fish stay too close to the surface and get frozen in the ice as it forms.
I was reposting this in anticipation of the lake freezing maybe by the end of the week.
Today the lake is almost completely frozen. I wasn't able or didn't see any Shad frozen in the ice yet.
Folks had seen a lot of the Gizzard Shad frozen in the ice last winter... Eagles and Seagulls fed on them when times were hard !
Since our quick little freezing over of the lake, there had been reports of seeing many fish frozen in the ice. We have also seen our local Bald Eagles, Ring-billed Seagulls and Belted King Fishers feeding on these smaller fish. The fish are Gizzard Shad and they are the only species that I know of that the juvenile fish stay too close to the surface and get frozen in the ice as it forms.
A Striped Skunk
A Striped Skunk
11/5/2021 Not around Landen but all around the surrounding areas there is evidence of Skunks out and about and some getting hit by cars this past week. I have not seen or smelled any sign of them so I guess our Landen Skunks must be lucky.
Once I saw a roadkill on Socialville Foster coming from Strawberry Hill going into Chestnut Landing. I know they are in the 23 Acre Woods in Woodfield and over at Kingswood & Landen Deerfield Park and perhaps by the Water Treatment Station.
Once I saw a roadkill on Socialville Foster coming from Strawberry Hill going into Chestnut Landing. I know they are in the 23 Acre Woods in Woodfield and over at Kingswood & Landen Deerfield Park and perhaps by the Water Treatment Station.
Landen Lake must be happy & healthy
Bryozoan as identified by Shannon
10/26/2021 Steve and his wife Barbara were kayaking when Steve saw this and took it's picture. Ronny was out on his boat and he saw it too.
I showed Shannon the photo and she identified it as a Bryozoan. I'm attaching a link she provided with more explanation of what it is, what is means and what benefits it may have.
What’s A Bryozoan? :: American Sport Fish
I showed Shannon the photo and she identified it as a Bryozoan. I'm attaching a link she provided with more explanation of what it is, what is means and what benefits it may have.
What’s A Bryozoan? :: American Sport Fish
Spotted an Eastern Comma Butterfly today
Eastern Comma Butterfly
9/19/2021 The things you see when you sit and watch what is happening around you ! I saw my first Eastern Comma Butterfly up at Landen Deerfield Park by the SPLASH PAD in the grassy area. Joyce was playing in the sprinklers and I got out my scope to take a closer look ati. Now I have made a positive ID and am proud to post this sighting.
Is Aquadic Primrose starting to show again ?
Aquadic Primrose along the shoreline of the ponds
8/26/2020 It looks like Aquadic Primrose has begun to emerge along the Rip Rap (rocks along the shoreline) by the Island Rec Tennis Courts.
I thought I could see it growing across the lake near the bridge closest to the Gazebo. I had my spotting scope with me and was looking from across the lake.
I thought I could see it growing across the lake near the bridge closest to the Gazebo. I had my spotting scope with me and was looking from across the lake.
Brown Headed Cowbird seen in Landen
A Brown Headed Cowbird by Jane
5/15/2021 Jane saw a Brown Headed Cowbird in the Spruce Tree in her front yard today.
Named the Cowbird because they use to follow the herds of buffalo and then herds of cows, searching for seeds and actually sitting on the backs of the buffalo or cows and picking insects off them. They were quite nomadic, roaming the plains with the herds and use to lay an egg in the nest of some other bird species and let them raise their young. Since the herds are no longer around, I wonder if the latest generations have adapted and are building their own nests or if they still rely on others to raise their young ?
Named the Cowbird because they use to follow the herds of buffalo and then herds of cows, searching for seeds and actually sitting on the backs of the buffalo or cows and picking insects off them. They were quite nomadic, roaming the plains with the herds and use to lay an egg in the nest of some other bird species and let them raise their young. Since the herds are no longer around, I wonder if the latest generations have adapted and are building their own nests or if they still rely on others to raise their young ?
A Rufous Sided Towhee seen in Landen
A Rufous Sided Towhee
5/15/2021 Andy sighted one or two of these Rufous Sided Towhees while out for his walk this past week.
I have no idea where they come up with some of these names like Towhee ? This brings our Landen Bird Count to 99 different species.
I have no idea where they come up with some of these names like Towhee ? This brings our Landen Bird Count to 99 different species.
Palm Warbler seen at the lake
Palm Warbler
4/26/2021 Andy gets out almost everyday and seems to be more of a Bird Watcher than me. Today he told me he saw several of these Palm Warblers while walking around the lake. I don't know if they are just laying over before continuing northward or what ? I'll add another species to the list. This maybe the 94th species seen around Landen. ..even if it is a transit bird.
Nuthatches enjoyed by neighbors around Landen
A White -Breasted Nuthatch
4/14/2021 James reports having the White-Breasted Nuthatches coming back to his yard this season.
It is probably Joyce's favorite species. She likes how it walks down the tree trunks and feeds upside down when getting seed from the feeder in our yard.
It is probably Joyce's favorite species. She likes how it walks down the tree trunks and feeds upside down when getting seed from the feeder in our yard.
Frogs coming out this morning
A Leopard Frog (amphibian) in our pond
4/7/2021 I went out pretty early this morning to feed the birds and when I walked out to the feeder, I could see a Leopard Frog sitting peacefully on a pile of rocks I made for the fish to hide under in our west pond.
Shay reports having a Bull Frog in their pond. We believe they are both females.
The way I understand it, the males of the frog species are the croakers not the females. She has been in our ponds for years now. No other visible or audible to mate with...only her.
Shay reports having a Bull Frog in their pond. We believe they are both females.
The way I understand it, the males of the frog species are the croakers not the females. She has been in our ponds for years now. No other visible or audible to mate with...only her.
Broad-winged Hawk sighted in Landen !!!
Broad-winged Hawk in flight
3/20 2021 I am pretty darn positive I was seeing a Broad Wing Hawk flying around us at the lake this afternoon. The first thing I noticed was the nearly white under parts of the wings and the heavy dark band at the wing s edges.
Not since 2018 when Lynn saw one and had the ODNR confirm it have I seen or heard of one being sighted but this is what I was seeing with the use of my spotting scope and it flying near us. It almost flew right over us at the boat ramp.
Not since 2018 when Lynn saw one and had the ODNR confirm it have I seen or heard of one being sighted but this is what I was seeing with the use of my spotting scope and it flying near us. It almost flew right over us at the boat ramp.
See a BALD EAGLES NEST ? REPORT THE LOCATION TO ODNR
A Bald Eagles sitting in the nest. Look how massive that nest is! Photo by Bruce
Now that the leaves are coming off the trees, we might be able to spot the nest of a Bald Eagle.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources wants our help in locating any Bald Eagle Nests around our area. I've been looking for years (in my limited way) and can't find a thing. If you've seen one, let me or them know.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources wants our help in locating any Bald Eagle Nests around our area. I've been looking for years (in my limited way) and can't find a thing. If you've seen one, let me or them know.
Canvasback Ducks spotted on the lake
Canvas back Ducks on the Lake
2/14/2021 Andy was out today and spotted a couple Canvasback Ducks visiting the lake. We haven't seen them for a while.
Open water getting smaller and smaller on the lake
The opening to the water gets smaller by Andy
2/19/2021 Andy was out today and took this photo of the ever shrinking opening in the ice on The Lake of Landen. The ice has encircled the Gazebo. If you look closely you can see a line of ducks and geese lining the edge of the ice and in the water. Hundreds of Canadian Geese and Mallard Ducks are occupying any open water around here these days, rather than flying south for the winter.
The only other open water would be the creek. Last year one of the Great Blue Heron's fed in the creek almost all winter.
The only other open water would be the creek. Last year one of the Great Blue Heron's fed in the creek almost all winter.
The Landen Flock (Canadian Geese & Ducks)
A few Canadian Geese winging their way across the frozen lake by Jane
1/23/2021 We sat in our regular spot overlooking the frozen lake and watching all the ducks and geese around the only opening on the water. We enjoyed seeing the geese taking off and flying low over the surface of the ice like shown in Jane's photo to the left but sometimes they landed on the ice and slid into each other which was hilarious !
Joyce and I counted between sixty and seventy geese. We did see AFLAC and three seagulls. The ducks were so close together on the ice I couldn't get an accurate head count but there were a lot. The last time I was able to count them, I counted ninety seven. I'd say that is probably pretty close to what was out there today.
At one point there were so many ducks and geese that stayed on Landen Lake year round that the ODNR came in and netted like four to five hundred of them for relocation to a southern state I think I heard. Trying to get them use to other Mallards and their migratory habits, seasonally.
Joyce and I counted between sixty and seventy geese. We did see AFLAC and three seagulls. The ducks were so close together on the ice I couldn't get an accurate head count but there were a lot. The last time I was able to count them, I counted ninety seven. I'd say that is probably pretty close to what was out there today.
At one point there were so many ducks and geese that stayed on Landen Lake year round that the ODNR came in and netted like four to five hundred of them for relocation to a southern state I think I heard. Trying to get them use to other Mallards and their migratory habits, seasonally.
Anyone ever see a Natural Bee Hive around Landen ?
Little Brown Honey Bee swarm or hive?
Recently I had posted about a possible Bee Hive discovered in The Trails but I don't think it turned out to be a Honey Bee Hive. There were comments on the posting about having it destroyed or moved that concerned me. I have always wondered where our local Honey Bees go at the end of their busy day ?
I do remember a few years ago someone in The Trails reported a Swarm of Honey Bees but by the time I got over there to see it they had moved on. Which is typical for a Swarm of Bees.
I would love to see a real hive here in Landen. You know they have to be going somewhere close by, right?
Remembering Summertime in Landen 2020
Hummingbird Moth sighted
Hummingbird Moth
8/23/2020 Bryan spotted a Hummingbird Moth in their backyard in Hunter's Pointe. I've never seen one in real life and didn't know we had them around here. Learn something new everyday !
Salamander sighted on Stoneboat
A common Salamander of Ohio
7/26/2020 I received a message from Steve saying his wife had seen a black lizard on their deck. I researched it as much as I could and figured she had either seen a Salamander or a Skink. I sent an email to the ODNR and they responded saying it had to be a Salamander. We do have a 5 lined Skink in this area but they say you can't miss the neon blue tail for accurate identification.
Could Bob White Quail be around Landen?
A Bob White Quail
2/9/2020 While walking around the lake today, Andy not only spotted four Bald Eagles flying over the lake but he thinks he also heard the call of the Bob White Quail as he was near the "Pocket Park" on Simpson's Trace and South Cove. You might want to keep your ears tuned in and listen for the Bob White call as you walk around Landen these days. Let me know if you hear the Bob White call. It sounds like they're calling Bob, Bob White or just Bob White.
I've been thinking about it and I'm wondering if one of our neighboirs in South Cove might be raising quail? It's not unheard of.
I've been thinking about it and I'm wondering if one of our neighboirs in South Cove might be raising quail? It's not unheard of.
Whippoorwills in Landen too !
A Whippoorwill perched on a tree branch.
2/10/2020 After posting Andy's hearing of a Bob-White Quail around Landen Lake, Steve remembered having a few recordings he had gotten around his yard back in 2017. One of them was of a Whippoorwill. In the same family as the Common Nighthawk but smaller. Sitting as seen in the photo to the left during the day, it flies in the evening and night time hours catching insects to eat. I'm waiting impatiently to hear what else he has recorded ?
Colorful Landen Fall of 2019
The Great 2019 Simpson's Creek Flood photos by Amanda, Kathleen, Jason, Heather, Melissa, Shannon, Patrick & Kyle...so far
Fall has Fell but the colors were wonderful in 2018
Pretty impressive photos of our Fall colors in 2018. Thanks to all our neighbors for allowing me to post them here.
July 2018 I have decided to sell my kayaks and buy a row boat to fish Landen Lake from. I have a 17.5 foot long Folbot 2 man Ocean Kayak (foldable). This is a European design like what British Commando's used in WWII. It weighs about 70 pounds and travels well on a roof-top luggage rack at highway speeds. Lots of storage fore and aft for weekend trips Asking $700.00.
Next I have a 10 foot long roto-mold plastic 1 man kayak in yellow and white. It weighs about 45 pounds and has some storage for gear for day trips. Asking $150.00.
I also have an 11 foot long fiberglass 1 man kayak made by the Phoenix Corp POKE BOAT, weighs 20 pounds and can take up to a class 3 rapid. I designed the camo pattern paint job on the deck. Great for hunting or fishing. Plenty of storage fore and aft for weekend trips Asking $500.00
Next I have a 10 foot long roto-mold plastic 1 man kayak in yellow and white. It weighs about 45 pounds and has some storage for gear for day trips. Asking $150.00.
I also have an 11 foot long fiberglass 1 man kayak made by the Phoenix Corp POKE BOAT, weighs 20 pounds and can take up to a class 3 rapid. I designed the camo pattern paint job on the deck. Great for hunting or fishing. Plenty of storage fore and aft for weekend trips Asking $500.00
Kyle sent me photos of his Son Logan and best friend Diesel from their fishing excursion in Simpson's Creek, behind the Woodfield Pool area. In all my years I have only seen minnows in this creek. They caught Largemouth Bass, Catfish and a pretty good size Snapping Turtle. Good job guys ! I can't help wonder if these fish have traveled up stream during the high waters or if they escaped from Long Cove and are traveling down stream?
First Wooly Worm of the season
Wooly Worm photographed by Ken at Kingswood Park
11/25/2017 Ken saw and photographed a couple of Wooly Worms yesterday at the recently reopened Kingswood Park. It's coloration shows we should expect a milder winter this season. Channel 9 Weather has been telling us this for a month now but the Wooly Worm confirms it for me!
With all this Arctic air flowing down over us, I'm wondering if the Wooly Worm's predictions are going to hold up?
With all this Arctic air flowing down over us, I'm wondering if the Wooly Worm's predictions are going to hold up?
Outdoor feeders bring in local wildlife
Sharpie the cat taking turns with Rocky the Raccoon at the feeding bowl.
Lynn puts a feeder out for her cat but says they also have raccoons and possum visiting the feeder as well. Sometimes they all eat together and other times they take turns and share. I think this is cool ! I have put peanut butter and jelly jars out for the raccoons to clean before and by the next morning they're as clean is if you had washed them out yourself !
I threw out a peanut butter jar for our little friends to enjoy one of these nights !
I threw out a peanut butter jar for our little friends to enjoy one of these nights !
Cinnamon Teals on the lake this morning
Cinnamon Teals
8/31/2016 As I was sitting in my van this morning, tying on a different fishing lure, I noticed a small group of ducks flying over the lake and circling and finally landing.
Once on the water they tried to mix in with the Mallard population. But the Mallards weren't having anything to do with them and quickly separated from the smaller ducks.
Luckily I always carry my spotting scope with me for just such an emergency. I checked them out very carefully and once I finished fishing and back at home, I looked them up in my bird guide. It turns out they were Cinnamon Teals. A new species to visit the lake.
You can definitely tell they're smaller and their wings beat more rapidly in flight as you watch them. If you want to see all the different species we've seen around Landen, click on the link http://wildlifeoflanden.weebly.com/whats-in-your-backyard.html
Once on the water they tried to mix in with the Mallard population. But the Mallards weren't having anything to do with them and quickly separated from the smaller ducks.
Luckily I always carry my spotting scope with me for just such an emergency. I checked them out very carefully and once I finished fishing and back at home, I looked them up in my bird guide. It turns out they were Cinnamon Teals. A new species to visit the lake.
You can definitely tell they're smaller and their wings beat more rapidly in flight as you watch them. If you want to see all the different species we've seen around Landen, click on the link http://wildlifeoflanden.weebly.com/whats-in-your-backyard.html
Black Crowned Night Herons have returned
Black Crowned Night Heron
6/28/2014 Jack, from Shorewalk, reported seeing a Night Heron around the lake the night before.
Red Headed Ducks join the gang on the Farm Ponds
2/23/2014 Steve reported seeing Red Headed Ducks mingling with the Mallards & the Ring Necked Ducks. I've seen them there in past years but haven't seen them yet this season.
White & Blue Heron together in the trees
Great Blue & White Heron in the tree
5/12/2013 I finally got out on the lake today and saw 2 of the 5 reported Great Blue Herons in the white phase, that Melissa told me about.
Here is a picture Steve sent of a White & Blue Heron in the same tree. Thanks for the picture Steve ! Looks Great !!!
Here is a picture Steve sent of a White & Blue Heron in the same tree. Thanks for the picture Steve ! Looks Great !!!
Great Blue Herons in a white phase
4 White Herons in the trees
5/7/2013 Steve was the first to contact me and tell me about seeing either a White Egret or a Great Blue Heron going thru a white phase. Then Melissa told me there were 5 of the White Herons seen on the beach at Sailboat Pointe. This evening Marilyn sent this picture showing 4 of the 5 roosting in the trees along the back of Landen Cove. Thanks for the info and pictures y'all !!!
No new sightings of the young black bear.
Black Bear Cub
Loveland Police haven't heard any reports yet of the young Black Bear that was seen in Symmes Park and resident's backyards in November 2010. He ought to be waking up soon. Black Bears go thru what is called "Walking Hibernation for the first couple weeks after they wake up in the spring. During this time, their bodies get back to normal and their eating habits increase. If you see a young black bear, call the local police. Loveland Police 583-3000 or Deerfield Township Police 925-2525.
But, Aint He Cute ?
But, Aint He Cute ?
Circle of Life
Matt & Marilyn Berman wrote in saying, Enjoyed reading your article in Landen Living. We've also enjoyed the green belts, and all the nature Landen has to offer. But we never expected to see this while gardening a few years back.
It was my wife (Marilyn) who heard leaves rustling while gardening. She looked down to see the mantis walking with her catch, and the hummingbird was still flapping its wings. She ran in to get me, and by the time I got out there with camcorder (and found the thing), the female had been mounted. Turns out mantis' don't scavenge, and at least with this species, hummingbirds are on the menu. Never would have thunk it.
"This is Tenodera Aridifolia Sinensis, the Chinese Mantis. It is the largest and strongest mantis in the world. Maximum length approaches 5.5 inches, and the female is easily capable of tackling mice, hummingbirds, small snakes, etc. They make great pets, as they are very docile around anything that doesn't look like food. I had a pair years ago. The female of this species seemed reluctant to eat her mate, even when she was hungry. They simply avoided one another aside from mating."
It was my wife (Marilyn) who heard leaves rustling while gardening. She looked down to see the mantis walking with her catch, and the hummingbird was still flapping its wings. She ran in to get me, and by the time I got out there with camcorder (and found the thing), the female had been mounted. Turns out mantis' don't scavenge, and at least with this species, hummingbirds are on the menu. Never would have thunk it.
"This is Tenodera Aridifolia Sinensis, the Chinese Mantis. It is the largest and strongest mantis in the world. Maximum length approaches 5.5 inches, and the female is easily capable of tackling mice, hummingbirds, small snakes, etc. They make great pets, as they are very docile around anything that doesn't look like food. I had a pair years ago. The female of this species seemed reluctant to eat her mate, even when she was hungry. They simply avoided one another aside from mating."