Kip’s Comments - February 17, 2026 — LadagePhotography.com

Nature News -

Today’s post features several topics.

Indicators of Spring - I did see and hear a small flock of red-winged blackbirds this morning. For some, the arrival of red-winged blackbirds is their sign of a pending springtime. I will go with that!
Since our avian neighbors have done so well the past days providing hints of a warmer season, I thought I would check for an over-achiever wildflower that might have popped up in the warm weather. So far I have struck out. But, I did find two crimson cup fungi showing their colors.
Sad news for the eagles in our area… A friend of mine notified me of a dead adult bald eagle within gliding distance of a huge nest visible from Highway 63. From what we can surmise, the eagle may have been attracted to a whitetail deer skeleton and probably was hit by a passing vehicle. I will watch the nest to see if there is any activity. My gut feeling is not good for this season.
Very Concerning News - Each of us should read and consider the impacts of this situation - An aquifer supplying water to three growing communities is losing water quantity faster than it can be replaced. Water is a finite asset. We must treat is as such. Check out this article. Running Out of Drinking Water