Tagged: birds

John Weeks goes on a spring time journey. He takes us on a tour to the country side and examines wildlife in his favorite areas.

Weeks recounts a walk along Rice Pond and the interlacing of the sounds coming from various species of waterfowl. He also provides information regarding the colorful ensembles sported by different types of birds that were seen on the hike.

John Weeks discusses the influence of the moon on bird migration and reproduction. He explains how day length have been demonstrated to trigger reproductive cycles and stimulate hormone production.

John Weeks talks about the parallel between the operation of a wild thing and the function of a computer chip. Weeks makes the point that in both cases, a lot of what happens may be the result of stored messages or directives, as in the case of bird migration.

Weeks discusses watching wetland wildlife as a younger man and his growing interest in waterfowl. He talks in depth about the mallard and the interbreeding between the mallard and the black duck.

From birds using celestial navigation, to salmon using chemical sensors to "smell" their way home, John Weeks discusses the migration phenomenon of various species. Weeks notes that many migration patterns hold mysteries that are still unexplained.

John Weeks recounts the delicate choral movements that can be heard when listening to, what he calls, a "symphony" of bird sounds. He urges us to seek out the dawn and dusk choruses while they still ring out, before they fade away forever.

John Weeks discusses the appearance of young Screech Owls. Normally hatching in early June, by Independence Day these fuzzy small owls begin venturing out of the nest. Weeks explains the interesting (and often aggressive) life style of the Screech Owl and how to get a better view of these monogamous creatures.

Originally aired July 10, 1987.

John Weeks reflects on how hayfields have changed since his youth on the family farm. While the technology of haying has evolved dramatically, hayfields still serve as a home for a wide variety of wildlife.

Originally aired on June 17, 1988.

John Weeks explains that keeping an eye out for birds while driving can be both relaxing and informative. The power lines bordering highways provide an abundance of opportunities to sight beautiful birds. Bird watching in the car can be a good way to observe local nature without trekking through rough terrain.

John Weeks discusses the many unusual ways birds construct makeshift nests in the spring. Weeks shares stories of birds using "wildlife ad-libbing" to survive in inhospitable weather.

Every spring, a state Department of Environmental Conservation biologist drives along north country highways at dawn or dusk, stopping every so often to pull over and listen to the nature sounds.

She's listening for the distinctive “peent” of the singing American woodcock, a brown speckled bird a little larger than a songbird with a long, narrow beak for pulling earthworms out of the newly thawed ground.

John Weeks talks about the new blooming flowers and plants of spring and how to fully enjoy the start of the new season.

Originally aired on April 21st, 1989.

John Weeks talks about his experience with crows and great horned owls one day in the woods and the unique birds' reactions to each other's appearances.

Originally aired on April 25th, 1987.