Signs of Summer
June brings a new wave of activity and growth to the Preserve as spring transitions into early summer. Tree Swallows, Violet-green Swallows and a Western Bluebird pair are tending to nests and the first few nestlings have already arrived.
Migratory birds like Swainson’s Thrush, Western Wood-Pewees, and Cedar Waxwings can be seen and heard around the Preserve as they return to nesting habitat. And flowers like Woolly Sunflower, Western Columbine, and Sickle-keeled Lupine now dot the prairie. As birds raise their young and wildflowers peak, June is a wonderful time to experience the preserve.
An Unexpected Visitor
Native to the Middle East and parts of Asia, this striking bird is called a Chukar wandered in from of the caretaker’s cottage this past week. It may be a naturalized wild bird or an escapee. Efforts were made to see if it may have belonged to a neighboring property, but before long it flew off on its next adventure.
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Forterra owns and stewards the Morse Wildlife Preserve, collaborating with Morse Force volunteers for land management and maintenance.
morsewildlifepreserve@gmail.com
25415 70th Avenue East
Graham, WA 98338
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