The Intriguing Sights of Summer

Story and photography by Dave Witherbee

There is so much to see in our natural world; colors, birds, flowers, critters, lovely patterns, and even pretty and interesting insects. To help you see as much as possible on your outdoor adventures, bring a camera, a nature app like iNaturalist, and a guide book such as the Audubon New England Field Guide, the creation of which happens to have been led by Concord resident, Peter Alden. The more we see and the more we learn, the more we want to know. When we are outside there are intriguing sights, even in our own yards.

We have to remind ourselves to look up if we want to catch sight of the Yellow Warbler.

If we look closely, we will see many things we once walked past, like this skipper moth.

Listen! If you have a few favorite birds, you might want to learn their songs and calls so that you notice them more often. Perhaps we will hear a pileated woodpecker like the one shown here hammering a hole in a tree. These striking birds not only find insects to dine on but create holes for many other birds and critters to nest in. Listen for their hammering and distinctive call.

Listen for the sounds of nature, such as those of the American bullfrog.

The swamp rose mallow, found in Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, does not need to be pointed out. It is seen by almost everyone who passes by. Look for it on the Concord River side of the lower compound in the latter part of summer.

Brighten your days by getting outdoors and soaking in the summer sights!