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“Critters”

March 21, 2011 by larrysmailart

  

Ring-necked ducks

     March is a great month for firsts.  This is a time when a number of “critters” reconvene back to good “ole” Pennsylvania to begin their annual courtship and mating cycles.  Although, a native, I noticed the first groundhog of the spring on March 7th. The little guy seemed slightly confused as it walked along a barren field of white. The snow was still a ground cover on that date. I guess the internal clock caused a stir and a time to see what is up at ground level. I have seen  several more since that date.

A true first of the year appeared for me on March 10th.  I heard that unmistakable call of the killdeer. That “misplaced plover” is a field bird , whereas most plovers are shore birds. The killdeer lays its eggs in sparse covered fields or barren areas.

    On March 16th, I needed to go to Dayton, Pennsylvania to meet a friend, Dana Gould,  and another gospel musician named Michael Coates. We are planning to do some gospel music at the Dayton United Methodist Church on April 2nd. I decided to go cross-country to see what wildlife would be available to observe. I took some horse photos too. I needed some reference detail for a painting.

   Turkeys! I saw a flock of about 20 birds in one area. Also, I saw a lone gobbler at about 200 yards. I could easily see his beard with the naked eye. At a water hole I saw a lot of geese and  about a dozen of a migrant known as te ring-necked duck. A handsome little duck! I saw the first red-winged blackbirds this day too.   

On March 18th while heading to a banquet of the Alamos Square at Frogtown I saw another flock of turkeys and a lone gobbler near Sherrett, PA. I heard my first spring peepers at dusk this day. I love to hear that little tree frog. My dad would always make sure I was aware of them as a young boy. They would be at a nearby pond.

  I would see a small flock of gobblers near Kittanning. This area is an annual siting place. I saw several great-blue herons this week and some squirrels too.We had some wonderfully pleasent weather as of recent. This allowed for some much needed yard work to be completed.    

Coltsfoot

Also, I have noticed the first coltsfoot flowers peeking out. Those yellow blossoms brighten the drab-colored forest floor.

Posted in Wildflowers, Wildlife | 1 Comment »

Allegheny River Backwater

March 15, 2011 by larrysmailart

    Boy, the time has flown past since my last blog. This is not because I was not involved in things. I just haven’t been active with my site. I have been playing  quite a bit of music. I played five times in seven days last week.  I have been doing some yard work too.

High water

   Today, however, I needed to drop the car off for inspection. I loaded up my walking stick (The Tost Stick was mentioned in a previous blog.) and started walking the railroad tracks on the west side of the Allegheny River.  The river has been high for weeks now due to snow melt-off and lots of rain.

Wood ducks

  The walk began walking the railroad tracks. The high water bordered the tracks and plenty  of waterfowl were present. I saw lots of geese and mallards. I saw one scaup, some mergansers and some wood ducks.

I didn’t go far when I decided to scale the steep embankment and walk parallel to the river. The steep river hills are always a challenge. To add more of a feat I would have to find passage across several steep hollows where beautiful spring-fed streams rushed over rocks towards their river destination.

View from the rocks!

   I climbed higher upslope when I noticed a rock outcrop extending out from the hill-side. My boyhood mentality overtook my maturity (A-hem) forcing a further climb to stand on those rocks to peer the valley and river. I wondered how many native hunters and /or warriors may have stood at this exact site to view the same area.

Beaver gnaw marks on oak

   Eventually, on this hike,  I needed to drop backdown  to the railroad tracks. That destination yielded one problem. Those tracks were cut out of the hill so few places were available to descend with ease. I ended-up using the walking stick as a third leg and carefully worked among rocks and trees to the tracks and my trek back towards West Kittanning.

Muskrat

 I saw plenty of waterfowl, one fox squirrel and a muskrat. Of course, there were plenty of various usual small birds here and there.

Posted in Hikes, Misc. Nature, Wildlife | 2 Comments »

Walkabouts

February 22, 2011 by larrysmailart

   I have been behind with some of my adventures. Last Friday, February 18th, I gathered myself up and headed for State Game Lands 247 between Skinall and Center Hill, Pennsylvania.  The day was very springlike with warming temperatures and plenty of birds-a-singin’.

I noticed a quick scurry among some downed-limbs when I saw the form of a chipmunk. This was the first sighting in a while. I later saw a couple at the house rushing to duck under my deck. Laurie and I enjoy watching them over the summer.

Turkey Tracks

    On northern and protected areas, some snow was still present. Here at one of these sites I noticed fairly fresh turkey tracks. I couldn’t say for sure if the birds left upon my approach or had been feeding earlier in the morning. I saw two deer too.

I saw a couple of firsts for the year this day. I saw three turkey vultures and some grackles. usually their announcements to the year in this area are around mid-March.

I found a dead 6-point buck and a mole. Questions began filling my mind as to the probable scenarios to their demise.

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Top of Pine Hill Road

   February 21st, President’s Day, witnessed another heavy snow in our area. The following morning a total of 10-11 inches of snow could be viewed on my deck and yard and driveway and roof!!! Laurie suggested a walk during the night hours during the snow. I quickly agreed and off we went walking about in the West Kittanning area. The falling snow made for some beautiful sights. Unfortunately, the winds were blowing steadily causing some chilled cheeks.  The following morning forced several hours plowing and shoveling the heavy accumulation. Regardless, this day brought out the warming sunshine and the cleared areas quickly began to melt. Spring is near!                                                                                     

Interesting photo

   The following morning, however, would bring a beautiful winter wonderland.

Female House Sparrow

Posted in Hikes, Misc. Nature | 2 Comments »

Furbearer Series

February 16, 2011 by larrysmailart

Last year I completed a painting series known as the “Big Game Series.” I immediately began planning and painting the  “furbearer series.” This group of paintings consist of four species of wildlife usually considered  part of the furbearers.  The four I selected to paint are the, ever popular, raccoon; the bobcat; the muskrat and the grey fox.

I hope you enjoy viewing these paintings. As before, I would like to hear  of any interests in publishing and/or distributing these four, as well as the previous mentioned ” big game series”. (see the August 9, 2010 blog or visit the wildlife section  of the web site.)

  “Scent In The Air-Grey Fox” depicts a grey fox crossing a log when suddenly  the aroma of ruffed grouse permeates the nostrils. The fox stops to check. A grouse is squatting beside the log hoping to remain undetected.

Scent In The Air- Grey Fox

   

 

 

 

 

“Cattail Waters- Muskrat” shows a muskrat hungrily eating vegetation on a summer day. A dragonfly hovers nearby to watch.                                     

Cattail waters- Muskrat

 

Snowy Ledge-Bobcat

   The bobcat is out surveying from its vantage point as the snow falls heavily. Two crows fly past heading for a roosting area. This painting is called, ” Snowy Ledge- Bobcat”.

A fascinating critter known as the raccoon deserves respect. Many years ago, I had to go through the rabies shots because I failed to respect the speed of these animals and was bitten on the hand. However, they are a beautiful mammal and “Streamside-Raccoon” is a painting depicting one of these critters along a stream in search of crayfish.   

Streamside-Raccoon

      

Sometime soon,  I wish to do a series featuring upland gamebirds. The ring-necked pheasent; the ruffed grouse; the woodcock and the mouring dove will, probably, be the species including with this series.

COPYRIGHT LAWS APPLY TO ART!

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Bob Bemben and Alamos Squares

February 12, 2011 by larrysmailart

Welcoming Bob

   Friday evening, February 11, 2011 the Alamos Squares at the Frogtown Wildlife Club hosted a surprise coming home party for one of their own.

Bob & Mary Bemben

 

Quiet moments

   Bob Bemben  had left for duty and missed the birth of his latest granddaughter. He sat for quite some time holding his precious little bundle…obviously quite happy to be home with her!

Bob upon taking the mic expressed his gratitude to all and especially to AMERICA. He spoke openly about the subject. Bob stated to not believe what you hear on much of the media shows. AMERICA, by far, is the best country in the world and we should never take this country for granted!!!  Words well said!    

Bob's family

   

Denny Steiner

  Throughout the evening , up to five squares, went through the motions of “western square dancing”. Local caller extraordinaire, Denny Steiner performed the calling during the festivities.  Sometime I am going to take him aside and “learn” him to call “more gooder”!                                

Eats and desserts were in abundance too. Homemade dishes and cakes!   Ummmm-Ummm- good!    

EATS!!!

                     

Swing her!

    We are all so happy to have Bob back on America’s soil and I know he feels the same. WE are proud of his accomplishments and yearn for a time when “war will be no more.”  Thank you Bob!

Posted in Uncategorized | 8 Comments »

Native American Room At the Museum

February 11, 2011 by larrysmailart

  The old “Indian Room” in the Armstrong County Historical Museum is finally nearing completion. Properly speaking, I should verify that first sentence to read: nearing a point in time where viewers may walk about and educate and inform themselves  concerning the native from this area of and surrounding Armstrong County,  Pennsylvania.  As stated within a previous blog entry, I expect items in this museum to change as more items become available. The building of the museum  is known as the “McCain House” and is located at 300 North McKean Street, Kittanning, Pa., 16201.                                                      

The map

Let's eat!

  The “Native American Room” will be open to the public sometime in April. The exact grand opening of the recently renovated upstairs hasn’t been determined as of date.  The military room and other rooms will, once again, be open to educate interested individuals of out local history.               

I painted a map on one section of wall depicting some of the early history of area, primarily just prior to the French & Indian War through the War of Independence.  I painted a few “Indian Style” illustrations on available wall space. It is hoped these little extras will add to the feel of the times. I have , also, placed birch tree parts; leaves; pine limbs, etc. to further add to that special woodland experience. Afterall, the Indians of Pennsylvania are often known as the “woodland Indians”.  

       

 

 

Posted in Historical | 4 Comments »

Odds & Ends

February 6, 2011 by larrysmailart

Quincy-our ferret

  Since my last blog many things have been going on.  I started and finished a painting for the Delaware Waterfowl contest. This is my first attempt to enter this contest. I began using the air brush and liked the effect this gave me. I, also, began a painting for their trout stamp contest. I placed in this contest a couple of years ago. Wish me luck. The “Gettysburg” painting is on hold for a brief time. An article in the Leader Times come March will feature my “ugly old puss” working on the painting.

   I have spent some preperation hours here and at the museum in Kittanning, Pennsylvania. I have been completing some projects for the “Indian Room” as well as painting some images on the walls. The opening is to be in April of this year. Many items are made in my basement and added at the museum upon completion.

Red-tailed Hawk at the house

   As I type this blog I am blessed to be able to watch two red-tailed hawks feeding on the deer ribs. (see December 17 blog)I have been having trouble getting quality photos of them. Earlier today, I took a number of photos. Most were blurred. I think I may need to have my eyes checked. The images appeared clear and crisp, but once observed up close on the computer screen I see very slight blurriness. I will include one here.

I spent Friday evening at the Armstrong County League of Arts. I went to observe their “Hoe-down” square dance and ended up playing guitar most of the evening.

Posted in Misc. Nature, Music, Wildlife | Leave a Comment »

Buttermilk Falls In Winter

January 30, 2011 by larrysmailart

Laurie turning away

   After church services, Laurie and I dressed for a winter hike and headed for the “Buttermilk Falls Trail”. This trail parallels Cowanshannock Creek in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. This section I am guessing to be about 3 miles both ways.  The creek is fast water pushed through very huge boulders. The waters hold bass; suckers; trout; carp….anything willing to swim up from the Allegheny River.

    The trail is encompassed with hemlocks and rhododendron plus big oak and wild cherry; beech and birch. Old coal mines from long, long ago are present higher along the hill. An old brick building, maybe I should say the remains of an old brick building, is set above the trail. A couple of bridges can be crossed to witness the creek or a rock-laden spring flow.                              

The deer were actively using the trail in search of fallen acorns. A lot of blood was present along one set of tracks. I wonder what may have happened to this deer to allow this much flow to occur. Coyotes? Fall over rocks? Regardless I hope the deer survives.

Buttermilk Falls in Ice

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Coyote Hunt-Hike

January 24, 2011 by larrysmailart

 

Steep river hills

   I enjoyed some exertion on a coyote hunt-hike this afternoon. I walked about the Limestone Run area of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania.  I did see some coyote tracks, but I failed to call any in to me. Most tracks were old, however, some may have been made the previous night. Coyotes are notorious for being travelers. Also, this is their “courting season”, so I suspect their distance of travel will increase as needed to find a “spouse”. I sat and called at three sites for about 15 minutes each. The time afield was primarily just a chance to get to the woods.   

Bedded deer

Birds went south!

   While walking along a noticed a  single turkey about 200 yards ahead of my approach. I correctly assumed more would be present.  Tracks and scratchings told me of a sizable flock. I peered over the hill and didn’t see any turkeys. Suddenly, the woods exploded with, at least, 25 turkeys. The birds were on a bench out of my sight. One bird glanced over and announced an escape. I manged to get one photo during the chaos. The photo was blurred.

"Porky" gnawings

   I found at two different sites porcupine tracks and trails. I searched hemlocks for any sight of one, but failed to locate a “porky”. They could have been in their holes as the trails all headed to holes and rocky outcrops.

Limestone Run was predominantly frozen over with a few exceptions.  I cautiously walked across iced over areas with success. The snow began to fall in earnest about 4:00 in the afternoon. What a beautiful sight!   

Limestone Run

Other critters I was blessed to see were one squirrel; a red-tailed hawk, another hawk I didn’t get to positively identify; many small birds and crows and 5 deer. I, also, saw some robins along the creek.

Posted in Hikes, Wildlife | 2 Comments »

Night-time Walk

January 20, 2011 by larrysmailart

    I told Laurie I had an urge to walk in the snow. I looked out the window and the landscape around the home looked beautiful from the freshly falling snow. We watched CSI and at 10:00 P.M. I bundled up and headed out the door for a walk of unknown destination. accompanying me on this trek was my wide-brimmed hat; a camera and my Tost Stick. Never heard of a Tost Stick? In simple terms it is a sassafras walking stick given to me by my friend Randy Tost. The handle has a section of leather that fits my hand well and I planned to, also, use it for stability for my camera.

  The night-time walk began the way I wanted it to… traffic was non-existent! I walked the entire length of Pine Hill Road in West Kittanning, Pennsylvania before crossing the Citizen’s Bridge over the Allegheny River. The walk continued into Kittanning before once again reversing the walk.

Citizen's Bridge at Kittanning

  I have mentioned in previous blogs about the beauty of a windless, snowy environment. I stopped more than once to listen and take in the solitude…the peacefulness.. and the quiet. These are seldom experienced in this area and I was “absorbing it all in” and totally enjoying the evening!

I returned home at midnight completely white from the snow. The only disadvantage of the hike was the fact that I had difficulty falling asleep. I felt invigorated from the 4 mile travel. I recommend this kind of walk to all. If you are fortunate to live in a rural area  the time out in the snow will be even more enjoyable. I used to do these walks  often in my younger days living in a more rural area of the county.

  As for photos, I had some success despite not using a tripod. The colors are beautiful. The amount of snow falling somewhat softened the images. 

Middle of the bridge

Posted in Hikes | 6 Comments »

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