Phenology
The American Heritage Dictionary defines phenology as “the study of periodic biological phenomena, such as flowering, breeding and migration, especially as related to climate.”
Where are the mosquitoes?
A few mosquitoes have been detected, but the usual spring hatch hasn’t occurred, says UW–Madison entomologist Phil Pellitteri. He credits the generally cool weather and early spring drought for that good news.
“Until there is some flooding, their eggs aren’t going to get wet, and if the eggs aren’t wet, they aren’t going to hatch. If we get 4 inches of rain and 80-degree temperatures, we’re in trouble,” he cautions. “They’ll start showing up within two weeks if that occurs.”
Wisconsin has 53 species of mosquitoes. The nastiest ones, including those that carry West Nile virus, breed in standing water. We can help keep their population down by frequently emptying or removing open outdoor containers holding standing water, replacing the water in bird baths and wading pools once a week, draining unused swimming pools, and making sure gutters aren’t clogged and holding water.
Migratory red admirals and painted ladies are among the first butterflies to be seen this month.
White-tailed deer fawns will be born in our area in May as well. A doe can give birth to a single fawn, twins or triplets. Their white-spotted reddish brown coats help to camouflage them during their first months. Fawns will lose their spots by October or November.
Some of the most colorful migrant birds are arriving, such as Baltimore (northern) orioles, scarlet tanagers, indigo buntings and rose-breasted grosbeaks. Their appearance coincides with the flowering of fruit trees. The sight of them can stop you in your tracks.
Most of us recognize the bright orange and black male Baltimore, but getting a glimpse of the black and white male rose-breasted grosbeak with his neon pink breast patch is an even rarer treat. The first time you observe a particular species, it is referred to as a “life bird.” It’s fun to keep a list of life birds, including where and when you first saw them.
The first ruby-throated hummingbirds have been spotted in the Madison area. Providing these little dynamos with hummer-friendly flowers, a water source and a feeder filled with sugar water will give them an incentive to spend the summer in your yard. (Four parts water to one part sugar, boiled until the sugar dissolves.)
Notice birds gathering nesting material. Chickadees have used our dogs’ hair clippings in their nests. A robin pulled the strings off our neighbor’s hockey net to weave into its nest. The 2-inch-in-diameter hummingbird nest is made of plant down, fibers and lichens, and is attached to a tree limb with spider silk.
If you’d like to learn how to identify birds with your eyes, ears, binoculars and a field guide, consider attending the Earth Partnership for Families event this Saturday (May 10) at the Arboretum from 5-7 p.m.
The crabapple trees in the Arboretum’s Longenecker Gardens should be in full bloom now, and the sweet scent of the lilacs will perfume the air by the weekend.
Take time to enjoy the wonders of nature this summer!
