Bethpage State Park Ecology

Did you know that the last week of October is International Bat Week?  Yes! This time every year, the biology world gathers to raise awareness about bats, as they are  often thought of as the most misunderstood mammal.Why? Well, these furry little creatures are prevalent in everything from Halloween decor to pop culture (good and evil: think Batman but also Dracula), but rarely in the spotlight for their distinctive traits, ecological significance and ecosystem services. Bats are so much more than what they get credit for!  First off, bats are the only mammal with true flight. Other mammals, such as the flying squirrel might come to mind, but are only gliders not true fliers. Bats have specialized anatomic features to allow for flying; flexible wings and agile joints help them move their bodies like a webbed hand. Its almost as if these creatures row through the air the same way we use our hands to swim in water.This makes them even more acrobatic in the air then bir...

  Ever hear of the expression " No rain, no flowers "?  Well its been raining for days and days and days so one could expect that Bethpage State Park will most likely have a summer of healthy, flourishing greens and gardens! Although, one does not need to wait all that long to witness the benefit of rain and the joy of nature... Focus your attention and you will notice that a vast amount of wildlife thrive when it pours. What seems like a rainy gloomy day for us humans is a positive and productive day for other species!  One group of animals I'm thinking of in particular is the birds! Captured on the left is two male Red-Winged Blackbirds. I had to laugh while photographing this scene because one of the birds had the expression of someone relaxing in a pool. To say so, is not much of a stretch either. Just as humans enjoy a dip in the pool to cool off, so do birds when there are puddles around! Pine Warbler talking a break!        Beyond just...