Tag Archives: Photos

March 23rd Haldeman Island Hike

DOC LogoOn March 23rd the Duncannon Outdoor Club and Duncannon Appalachian Trail Community held another Haldeman Island hike with the great leadership of the knowledgeable Scott Bills, state games representative.  We have received many emails commending Mr.  Bills for his vast knowledge of waterfowl and other bird species.  It was a great learning experience, viewing 16 of the 20 species of waterfowl found on the island.

We also were honored with the presence of a male and female bald eagle on their massive nest.  Upon arrival we had a flock of Tundra Swan fly in formation overhead honking their way North to Canada.  Scott pointed out how gracefully a swan lands in the water.  There was hardly a ripple upon landing.

We hope to schedule another such event in the future, since we had such a great turnout and actually had to turn people away.  If you wish to be notified of another such event email dtakach@duncannonatc.org and your email address will be added to the Duncannon Outdoor Club email list to received hike notifications.

Vernal Ponds and Jefferson Salamanders Hike

DOC LogoIt was a great day, a little windy, but you couldn’t ask for better weather and trail conditions.  We even got to hike on moss!  Just the week before the trails were covered in snow and ice making footing very precarious.  The vernal  pond was not frozen over making observation easy with no sign that the Jefferson Salamander had been there.  It has not been quite warm enough yet for them to migrate.  We also stopped at the non-vernal pond and had a little discussion about toads and frogs.  There was a little excitement on the way back when one of the puppies got loose, but the kids made a mad dash and caught the dog. Continue reading

Feeling Blue? Try This…

Eastern Bluebird

Eastern Bluebird

The winter months in Pennsylvania can bring a joy to us all.  There are the snow covered mountains, icicles dangling from tree branches and icebergs floating down the rivers.  For some, a few months of this is more than enough and your mind begins to have “warmer” thoughts.  As the winter thaw has begun and spring is here to celebrate, you might consider the blue in your backyard, bluebirds!

The eastern bluebird is native to Pennsylvania but has the challenge of surviving among some non-native species.  This is where you can get involved and have the joy of watching these birds thrive in your own backyard. Continue reading