Notes from the Field

One of the benefits of moving  to a new region of the country are the new species that you will encounter.  The black skimmer is one example. Black skimmers arrive in April and May, and lay their “clutch” throughout the summer. They are endangered where I live in part due to human disturbance as beach goers trample their nests. They do live in colonies from Sandy Hook – north of here – and Cape May -south of here- where there are more dunes. In Asbury Park we have lots of turtles and particularly the female Northern Diamond Back terrapin is in some cases still looking for warm high ground to lay her eggs. It is an annual rite of spring, but it continues through July. I have just heard of one diamond back female whose foot was injured and is now recovering in Red Bank Animal Hospital.

We humans have taken over all of the natural habitats of the animals and they must adapt to our way of living. I have learned from living in Dutchess County and growing up around animals to tread as carefully as we can. Open your eyes and you will see near the shore humpback whales, ospreys, turtles, all manner of birds, ducks, geese, swans, red knots, and, yes, of course sea gulls. There are also crows and many small mammals.

Never underestimate the intelligence of animals and birds, but be aware of their natural paths. As we contemplate the changes, drink in the quality of light and the feel of the air.  As Jane Goodall says “There is still a window of time. Nature can win if we give her a chance.”  This fall, Goodall will teach a Masterclass on Conservation and Nature.  You can listen to this on your computer or iPhone. Her writings on the survival of nature and animals can teach us so much.