SNN (ScrollingNetworkNews) ✿ ✿ Our Mel and Sydney returned to their nesting box with plenty of bonding occurring..but after 2.5 months of Sydney in the box from Dec 2013 to mid Feb 2014, the lack of prey gifts from Mel ( perhaps due to the severe and historic drought underway in California)and they have forgone the nesting process this year as many other raptors ✿ Compared to other owls of similar size, the Barn Owl has a much higher metabolic rate, requiring relatively more food. Pound for pound, Barn Owls consume more rodents – often regarded as pests by humans – than possibly any other creature. ✿ We remind viewers that sometimes owlets may not survive - the parents will dispose of things in "The Owl Way" -viewer discretion is advised, this is nature and the "Owl way". ✿ ~ ✿ “Animals, like us, are living souls. They are not things. They are not objects. Neither are they human. Yet they mourn. They love. They dance. They suffer. They know the peaks and chasms of being.” ― Gary Kowalski, The Souls of Animals ✿ Each species is a masterpiece, a creation assembled with extreme care and genius." ~ E.O. Wilson

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Five Ways to Make the Most of Extra Daylight

With Daylight Saving Time kicking in this weekend, many of us are looking forward to an extra hour of daylight in the days and months ahead. How do we make the most of this gift? Here are some thoughts.

1) Share the hour – Gather up friends and family and head out for an evening hike at a local park. Outdoor exercise is a great way to destress and unwind after a long day at work or school. To find nearby places where you can experience nature, search Nature Find.

2) Capture the moment – While you’re outside, why not try your hand at photography? Whether capturing the antics of backyard critters or your own kids’ smiles, you will gain a new perspective when you take the time to admire them through a camera lens.

3) Surround yourself with beauty – Create a haven for colorful butterflies and sweet sounding birds by providing food, water, cover and a place for them to raise their young. Not only will you help wildlife, but your garden will qualify to become an official Certified Wildlife Habitat® site.

4) Enjoy the nightlife – And, when the sun sets, the outdoor fun doesn’t have to stop! A fascinating array of nocturnal visitors including owls, bats and insects come out at night. You can even set up camp for a backyard adventure your kids will love.

5) Simply relax – Find your happy outdoor place and take some quality time to soak in the sights, sounds and smells that nature has to offer. You will emerge from the experience relaxed and refreshed!