#Meadow crane's-bill

[dansnaturepictures]

19/09/2023-Lakeside and home

Photos taken in this set are of: 1-4, 9 and 11. Views on my Lakeside lunch time walk with dogwood including red leaves, hawthorn berries and autumn leaves catching the eye on a damp and quite blustery walk. 5 and 6. A fairly late in the year field scabious in full bloom by the visitor centre which looked great. 7. Mini rose hips. 8. Hogweed looking prettily pink. 10. Some beautiful holly berries which mixed well with hawthorn by the Monks Brook Halt steam railway platform.

At Lakeside I also liked seeing Blackbird, Carrion Crow, Great Crested Grebe, Black-headed Gull, bee, ragwort, fleabane, chamomile, wild parsnip, evening primrose, marjoram, viper's-bugloss, meadow crane's-bills still going well and adding to the needed colour that the flowers and trees brought today, wood avens, dock, water mint, firethorn berries and it was nice to hear Chiffchaff. It was good to hear Blue Tit and see Black-eyed Susans at home today.

[leatherpearlslace]

[rherlotshadow]

summer path

[unkn0wnvariable]

Meadow Crane's-bill

A pastel blue flower of meadow crane's-bill, in the garden.

[photosbyjez]

Meadow Crane's-Bill -- FOTD Oct 31

Meadow Crane's-Bill -- FOTD Oct 31

Hi all 😃 My latest post for Cee’s FOTD. The Meadow Crane’s-Bill is part of the geranium family. Meadow Crane’s-Bill

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this press release from the Center for Biological Diversity:

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis today signed into law a bill to restore protections for wetlands and seasonal springs that have been left vulnerable to destruction since the U.S. Supreme Court’s Sackett decision gutted safeguards last spring. Colorado is the first state to enact legislation addressing the protection gap left for state waters by the Sackett decision.

Wetlands in Colorado are the primary habitats of more than 120 species, from the San Luis Valley’s sandhill cranes to northern leopard frogs. More than half of this essential wetland habitat has been lost since the 1800s because of draining, filling and excavating. The Sackett decision held, contrary to scientific evidence, that any wetland without a surface connection to a federally protected water did not warrant protection from destruction and harm.

“I’m grateful legislators and Gov. Polis stepped up quickly to restore essential protections for our state’s spectacular wildlife habitat,” said Alli Henderson, southern Rockies director at the Center for Biological Diversity. “Colorado’s swift approval of this bill shows true leadership and protects the beautiful wild places and crucial environmental functions that make our state a great home for wildlife, plants and people.”

Although wetlands make up less than 3% of the Colorado landscape, they play an outsized role in sustaining wildlife –– providing a home for 26% of the state's birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. Many more species depend on wetlands and seasonal streams for key portions of their life cycles.

“As climate change worsens the Colorado River megadrought, failing to restore protections for our irreplaceable wetlands and seasonal streams would have been a death sentence for a lot of wetland-dependent wildlife,” said Henderson. “Snow-fed streams, fens and wet meadows are obviously vital to our state’s biodiversity, but they also protect our communities’ drinking water and act as natural firebreaks. With this legislation, Colorado is leading the nation by implementing environmental policy grounded in science.”

Based on United States National Geological Survey’s Hydrography Dataset it is estimated that over two-thirds of Colorado’s waters are temporary in nature and do not have year-round flow. These waters, however, are vital to water quality, quantity and aquatic ecosystem health, contributing to downstream water flows and moving nutrients and sediments.

The law restores most of the federal protections that had been in place for decades preceding the Supreme Court decision and adopts the exclusions and exemptions that have worked for the regulated industries for decades.

[missgeckos-wildlife]

White meadow cranes-bill

Kananaskis. Alberta, Canada

[janjoycesmitz]

Music- rhythm and beauty ❤️⭐

"Night Mail"

by W.H. Auden (Wystan Hugh Auden)

(The rhythm of this poem is reminiscent of a train but it is also very reminiscent of a much earlier poem : " From a Railway Carriage" by R L Stevenson)

see under text of this poem

read by Jeremy Irons 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽⭐

This is the night mail crossing the Border, Bringing the cheque and the postal order, Letters for the rich, letters for the poor, The shop at the corner, the girl next door. Pulling up Beattock, a steady climb: The gradient’s against her, but she’s on time. Past cotton-grass and moorland boulder Shovelling white steam over her shoulder, Snorting noisily as she passes Silent miles of wind-bent grasses. Birds turn their heads as she approaches, Stare from bushes at her blank-faced coaches. Sheep-dogs cannot turn her course; They slumber on with paws across. In the farm she passes no one wakes, But a jug in a bedroom gently shakes. Dawn freshens, Her climb is done. Down towards Glasgow she descends, Towards the steam tugs yelping down a glade of cranes Towards the fields of apparatus, the furnaces Set on the dark plain like gigantic chessmen. All Scotland waits for her: In dark glens, beside pale-green lochs Men long for news. Letters of thanks, letters from banks, Letters of joy from girl and boy, Receipted bills and invitations To inspect new stock or to visit relations, And applications for situations, And timid lovers’ declarations, And gossip, gossip from all the nations, News circumstantial, news financial, Letters with holiday snaps to enlarge in, Letters with faces scrawled on the margin, Letters from uncles, cousins, and aunts, Letters to Scotland from the South of France, Letters of condolence to Highlands and Lowlands Written on paper of every hue, The pink, the violet, the white and the blue, The chatty, the catty, the boring, the adoring, The cold and official and the heart’s outpouring, Clever, stupid, short and long, The typed and the printed and the spelt all wrong. Thousands are still asleep, Dreaming of terrifying monsters Or of friendly tea beside the band in Cranston’s or Crawford’s: Asleep in working Glasgow, asleep in well-set Edinburgh, Asleep in granite Aberdeen, They continue their dreams, But shall wake soon and hope for letters,

And none will hear the postman’s knock

Without a quickening of the heart,

For who can bear to feel himself forgotten?

From a Railway Carriage

by Robert Louis Stevenson

Faster than fairies, faster than witches,

Bridges and houses, hedges and ditches;

And charging along like troops in a battle,

All through the meadows the horses and cattle:

All of the sights of the hill and the plain

Fly as thick as driving rain;

And ever again, in the wink of an eye,

Painted stations whistle by.

Here is a child who clambers and scrambles,

All by himself and gathering brambles;

Here is a tramp who stands and gazes;

And there is the green for stringing the daisies!

Here is a cart run away in the road

Lumping along with man and load;

And here is a mill and there is a river:

Each a glimpse and gone for ever!

From A Child’s Garden of Verses (1885)

[come-outside]

some photos i took on the dunes at beach A!

dunes are formed on beaches with a wide breadth; as the wind blows inward from the shore on sandy beaches, beach grasses such as matron will root in the loose sand and give it structural integrity. the sand will up the bank, crest the peak, and settle behind, building up dunes! the grass is crucial to this process.

you get a lot of variation in plant life depending on the stage of the dune — embryo dunes, mobile dunes, or fixed dunes, which transition into grassland typically.

the order of these photos goes, from first to last, from the dunes closest to the coast to those furthest away. they are in order:

semi-fixed dunes:

coltsfoot and … i think a form of restharrow? i am not sure! — coltsfoot gets its name from its hoof-shaped leaves. it is a flowering plant! none were flowering yet though.

bird’s-foot trefoil — another generalist, but i see it most along the coast. it is the larval food of the common blue butterfly!

fixed dunes:

bloody geranium — this gets its namesake from its new growths, which appear bright red!

ragwort — a generalist of a flower than can be found in most grasslands!

grassland:

white deadnettle — another generalist

hemlock — a generalist often found near path sides, as this one was. i believe it is hemlock rather than cow parsley due to the purple splotches on its thick stem.

dove’s-foot crane’s-bill (a geranium)

here are some other photos of the dunes that show a variety of other plants:

these were all taken in the semi-fixed to fixed dunes! we have in order:

goose grey and some more bird’s-foot trefoil

miniature daisies and mouse-ear hawk weeds

dandelion, hawks bit, common yarrow, and meadow pea!

there was so much to see on the dunes, and i definitely did not cover all of it. i believe a majority of the grass was marram grass. i also saw a lot of snail shells, and some sycamore trees were encroaching down the hill (although they weren’t doing great!)

the surrounding area is magnesium limestone that is unique to the northeast of england, meaning that the cliffs here are alkaline rather than acidic. it is also rich in calcium and, of course, magnesium — which gives us great potential for species richness and contributes to the uniqueness of our heritage coasts. most of our magnesium limestone comes in the form of dolomite!

[orrohbhutantravel]

Discovering the Rich Birdlife of Bhutan: Your Guide to Bhutan Birding Tours Packages

Bhutan, often referred to as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to conservation. Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is home to diverse ecosystems that host an impressive array of bird species, making it a premier destination for birding enthusiasts from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, France, and beyond. With its stunning landscapes ranging from lush valleys to soaring mountains, Bhutan offers an unparalleled experience for those looking to explore its avian wonders through expertly curated Bhutan birding tours packages from Orrog, your trusted Bhutan travel agency.

Birding Tours in Bhutan, Bhutan Birding Tour Packages, best birding tours in Bhutan, birdwatching trips in Bhutan, bird watching excursions in Bhutan

The Avian Wonders of Bhutan

Bhutan's unique geographical position and varying altitudes create a rich diversity of habitats, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The country is home to over 700 species of birds, many of which are endemic or endangered, including the elusive Black-necked Crane, which migrates to Bhutan during the winter months. Birding tours in Bhutan allow visitors to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats while enjoying the breathtaking scenery that the country has to offer.

Orrog's Bhutan birding birdwatching trips excursions are designed to provide an immersive experience, focusing on key birding sites that promise a rewarding journey. Whether you are an experienced birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Bhutan's birding tours are tailored to suit all levels of expertise, ensuring that every traveler leaves with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for Bhutan's avian life.

Popular Birding Locations in Bhutan

Phobjikha Valley: This glacial valley is famous for its wintering population of Black-necked Cranes. Visitors can enjoy watching these elegant birds as they dance and feed in the fields. The valley also hosts a variety of other species, including the Himalayan Monal and various pheasants, making it a must-visit location for birdwatchers.

Jigme Dorji National Park: Spanning over 4,300 square kilometers, this national park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The diverse ecosystems range from subtropical forests to alpine tundra, providing habitats for species such as the Bhutanese Blue Robin and the Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler. The park is also known for its stunning landscapes and opportunities for trekking tours in Bhutan.

Bumthang Valley: Known for its rich biodiversity, Bumthang is another excellent destination for birding. The region's mixed forests and open grasslands attract various bird species, including the beautiful Golden-throated Barbet and the remarkable Fire-tailed Myzornis.

Trongsa and Wangdue Phodrang: These areas are known for their unique bird species, including the Rufous-necked Hornbill and the Eurasian Woodcock. The forests surrounding these regions are home to a myriad of bird species that are waiting to be discovered.

Why Choose Orrog for Bhutan Birding Tours Packages?

Orrog is dedicated to providing unique and enriching travel experiences, ensuring that every aspect of your birding journey is taken care of. Our Bhutan birding tours packages are meticulously planned to include:

Expert Guides: Our birding tours are led by experienced local guides who have an intimate knowledge of Bhutan's birdlife and ecosystems. They are well-versed in the behaviors and habitats of various species, ensuring that you have the best chance of spotting your target birds.

Customized Itineraries: We understand that each traveler has unique interests and needs. Orrog offers customizable itineraries that allow you to focus on specific areas or types of birds, whether you are interested in endemic species or simply want to enjoy the natural beauty of Bhutan.

Cultural Integration: While birding is a primary focus, Orrog's packages also incorporate Bhutan's rich cultural heritage. Our tours include visits to historical sites, traditional festivals, and opportunities to engage with local communities. This integration allows travelers to appreciate Bhutan's diverse cultural activities alongside its natural wonders.

Sustainable Practices: Orrog is committed to sustainable tourism practices that respect the environment and support local communities. By choosing our birding tours in Bhutan, you are contributing to the conservation of Bhutan’s unique ecosystems and the livelihoods of its people.

Beyond Birding: Bhutan’s Cultural Experiences

Traveling in Bhutan is not just about observing its avian life; it’s also about immersing yourself in a culture that values happiness and spirituality. Bhutan cultural tours and cultural trips are integral to your journey, allowing you to explore the country's rich religious heritage and traditions.

Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, attend local festivals, and experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality. Whether participating in a Bhutan festival celebration, exploring the architectural beauty of dzongs, or enjoying the local cuisine, travelers will find that Bhutan offers a holistic travel experience that nourishes both the body and the soul.

Adventure Beyond Birding: Trekking and Hiking

For those looking to combine birding with adventure, Bhutan’s extensive trekking routes provide a perfect backdrop. Trekking tours in Bhutan take you through breathtaking landscapes, from lush valleys to high mountain passes, where birding opportunities abound.

Orrog offers Bhutan hiking and trekking experiences packages that allow you to explore remote areas while enjoying the sights and sounds of Bhutan’s rich wildlife. These treks not only provide stunning views but also bring you closer to the country’s unique flora and fauna, enhancing your birdwatching experience.

Planning Your Birding Adventure with Orrog

To begin your birding adventure in Bhutan, consider the following tips for planning your trip:

Choose the Right Season: The best time for birdwatching in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when migratory birds are present, and the weather is pleasant. Winter can be rewarding, particularly for those interested in the Black-necked Crane.

Select Your Package: Orrog’s Bhutan birding tours packages can be tailored to your interests and budget. Whether you prefer a short trip focusing on specific areas or an extensive tour covering multiple regions, we have the right package for you.

Prepare for the Altitude: Bhutan’s elevation can be significant, so it's important to acclimatize properly. Our guides will ensure that you have adequate time to adjust and enjoy your birding excursions.

Pack Accordingly: Bring along the necessary equipment, such as binoculars, a camera with a good zoom lens, and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. Comfortable walking shoes are also essential for trekking and exploring various birding sites.

Be Respectful of Nature: As you explore Bhutan’s incredible biodiversity, remember to practice responsible birdwatching. Maintain a safe distance from nesting sites, minimize noise, and leave no trace behind.

See more:-

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Cultural Tours in Bhutan, culture trips in Bhutan, cultural activities in Bhutan, Cultural Sightseeing Adventures in Bhutan, Religious Heritage Tours in Bhutan

[dansnaturepictures]

09/06/2023-Lakeside and home 

Pictures taken today in this set are of: 1. Some of the many dog roses and other roses enjoyed again today, a wealth of colour. 2, 4, 6, 8 and 9. Views on a sunny and scorching day, the weather really showed in the landscape I thought with brown grass and bright green vegetation. 3. Dazzling grass vetchling. 5. Some of a fair bit of bramble flower I enjoyed today. 7. Meadow crane’s-bill shining in the sunlight. 10. A Large Skipper I was thrilled to see again this evening. 

Two of my favourite birds the Buzzard at lunch time and Jay this evening were Lakeside bird highlights today, alongside seeing and hearing Song Thrush, Blackbird, Swift, Moorhen, Great Tit including hearing the pleasing trills and possibly seeing young and hearing Ring-necked Parakeet. It was a delight to follow a great number of Meadow Browns on the walks today, summer gems of the grass and harbingers of the season. Common Blue butterfly seen well, Emperor dragonfly, I believe a Black-tailed Skimmer dragonfly nearly flying into the adult Great Crested Grebes I saw with chicks as a post I did about this specifically today just now mentions and of course in a strong few weeks I’ve had for seeing them Swollen-thighed beetle were other insect highlights. Deliciously coloured alsike clover, a strong summer flower beautiful purple knapweed, yellow rattle, bird’s-foot trefoil, bird vetch, oxeye daisies, viper’s-bugloss, ragwort growing in a dry area by the steam railway station another heatwave image of the day, red valerian, hogweed, nightshade, dock, plantain and bird vetch were plant highlights. A gang of Woodpigeons on the roof out the back at one point, Collared Dove and Magpie together at one point with Magpie seen on the green out the front tonight too and Goldfinches were highlights at home today. 

My post about the Great Crested Grebes today: https://dansnaturepictures.tumblr.com/post/719674601461956608/09062023-great-crested-grebe-chicks-at-lakeside 

[langurecotravels]

Birding in Bhutan: A Quest for Feathers in the Dragon's Kingdom

For the avid birdwatcher, the world is a vast tapestry woven with vibrant feathers and melodic calls. But few destinations offer such a rich and diverse birding experience as the enigmatic kingdom of Bhutan. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a land where ancient monasteries pierce the clouds, vibrant prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and the calls of exotic birds echo through pristine valleys. Here, amidst the breathtaking scenery and rich cultural tapestry, lies a haven for those with a passion for avian life.

Eco travels , bird photography, Trashigang festival, cultural heritage, Thrumshingla national park

cultural holiday, Eco travels , bird watching, mammals, flowers

A Symphony of Feathers: Unveiling Bhutan's Birdlife

Bhutan boasts an incredible 770-plus bird species, a remarkable number for a relatively small country. This incredible diversity is a result of the country's varied topography – from sub-tropical jungles teeming with life to snow-capped peaks offering a unique high-altitude ecosystem. From the dazzling plumage of the Himalayan Monal pheasant to the prehistoric-looking Rufous-necked Hornbill with its impressive casque, Bhutan's skies are a constant source of wonder.

A Birder's Paradise: Unforgettable Encounters with Langur Eco Travels

Imagine waking up to the chorus of the Black-winged Cuckoo as the sun paints the snow-capped peaks with a golden hue. Picture yourself spotting the elusive Ward's Trogon flitting through a pristine forest or capturing the graceful dance of the Blood Pheasant in a high-altitude meadow. Birding tours in Bhutan with Langur Eco Travels (Bhutan Birding) make these dreams a reality.

Unveiling the Gems: Where to Find Bhutan's Avian Treasures

Phobjikha Valley: This glacial valley is a winter haven for the endangered Black-Necked Crane. Witness these majestic birds gracefully gliding across the valley or observe them at close quarters at the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre.

Jigme Dorji National Park: A haven for birdwatchers of all levels, this park boasts over 500 bird species. Trek through pristine forests, keeping your eyes peeled for the elusive Ward's Trogon or the stunning Bhutan Laughingthrush.

Bumthang Valley: Explore the serene farmlands and picturesque villages of Bumthang, where you might encounter the shy Rufous-bellied Woodpecker or the brightly colored Himalayan Griffon soaring overhead.

Trongsa and Punakha: These central Bhutanese regions offer diverse habitats, attracting a wide range of birds. Look out for the distinctive Himalayan Woodpecker, the acrobatic Spotted Laughingthrush, or the colorful Green-billed Magpie.

Beyond the Checklist: A Journey Through Bhutan's Culture

Birding in Bhutan with Langur Eco Travels is more than just ticking species off a list. We weave your birding adventure into the rich tapestry of Bhutanese culture, ensuring a truly holistic experience.

Immerse in Ancient Traditions: Visit magnificent Dzongs (fortress monasteries) like Punakha Dzong, architectural marvels steeped in history. Witness vibrant religious festivals and observe the serene practice of Bhutanese Buddhism.

Explore Charming Villages: Wander through quaint villages nestled amidst emerald valleys, interacting with the warm and hospitable Bhutanese people. Learn about their unique customs and traditions, and perhaps even try your hand at archery, the national sport.

Embrace Responsible Travel: Langur Eco Travels champions sustainable tourism. We prioritize responsible travel practices, minimizing our environmental footprint and ensuring the preservation of Bhutan's pristine landscapes for generations to come.

Crafting Your Dream Birding Adventure:

Whether you're a seasoned birder with a specific wishlist or a curious nature enthusiast seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Langur Eco Travels offers customizable birding tours in Bhutan to cater to all interests and skill levels.

Our tours typically include:

Experienced and knowledgeable Bhutanese birding guides with a deep understanding of the local avifauna.

Comfortable transportation throughout your journey.

Accommodation in charming guesthouses and eco-lodges, carefully chosen for their location and environmental practices.

Delicious Bhutanese meals, prepared using fresh, local ingredients.

Entry fees to national parks and other birding hotspots.

A Call to the Wild: Answer the Song of Bhutan's Birds

Bhutan beckons with its breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, and unparalleled birdwatching opportunities. With Langur Eco Travels (Bhutan Birding) as your guide, embark on a journey that will awaken your inner birdwatcher, enrich your soul with cultural experiences, and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact us today and let us craft your dream birding adventure in the mystical kingdom of Bhutan!

See more :-

bird watching, eco travels, eco -friendly tourism, nature tourism places, birding tour

cultural tours, eco travels, thunder dragon, adventurous, spiritual

birds of Bhutan, eco travels, bird photography, wildlife tours, Buddhism tour

Eco travels , bird photography, Trashigang festival, cultural heritage, Thrumshingla national park

cultural holiday, Eco travels , bird watching, mammals, flowers

[apophoto]

Some lovely meadow crane's bill (i think? )

[johnhallettphotography]

Blooming garden

With June just around the corner the flowers are blooming almost as well as the weeds are growing. Here are a few photographs from another early morning walk around the garden; Meadow crane’s-bill Geranium || © Average Images Oriental poppy Papaver || © Average Images Yellow daylily Hemerocallis liloasphodelus || © Average Images Siberian iris Iris sibirica || © Average Images Giant onion…

[chocobosdungeon2]

Geraniaceae Geranium pratense

Meadow Crane's-bill

Identification via Pl@ntNet

[photosbyjez]

Meadow Crane's-Bill -- FOTD Oct 29

Meadow Crane's-Bill -- FOTD Oct 29

Hi all 😃 My latest post for Cee’s FOTD. The Meadow Crane’s-Bill is part of the geranium family. Meadow Crane’s-Bill