Beth's Patch ~ On the Beach & In the Air

Forester's Tern

We had a storm early today and this is the view after the storm.

Feeding off what few horseshoe crab eggs there are on the beach are Semipalmated Sandpipers and Ruddy Turnstones.  Sadly, it's been too cold for the horseshoe crabs to come in and spawn which has caused an issue with the migratory shorebirds.

Beth's Patch ~ White-crowned Sparrow

White-crowned Sparrow ~ Yard bird #113

Beth's Patch ~ Monarch

It's always exciting when I see the first Monarch Butterfly of the year in my yard.  Here it's getting out the Common Milkweed.  Will she lay any eggs?  Sadly, not this time.

Beth's Patch ~ Gray Catbird

The Gray Catbird's are really enjoying the oranges I put out every day for them.

Beth's Patch ~ Sunset

Cape May County, NJ ~ Eastern Pine Elfin

Beth's Patch ~ Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly Eggs

Several days ago I saw a Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly nosing around the leaves of the bush.  Today I went out to check for eggs and was delighted to find some.

Close-up of an egg

Nummy Island

Tri-colored Heron

Tri-colored Heron

Whimbrel