Spring has sprung early this year. Salmonberries are starting to bloom as are red-flowering currants, osoberry, skunk cabbage, alders and more. John Candy emailed in to remind us all to notice the alders coming to life. He says,”The male catkins are producing a big show right now but the equally elegant female flowers are just a few inches away and often go unnoticed.” See his photo above and then go take a look and see if you can notice these beautiful and subtle flowers on your own alders. Thanks John!

The latest bird news from Ed Swan: Gary Shugart found a Thayer’s Gull at the Tahlequah dock yesterday and the Yellow-billed Loon still in Tramp Harbor the day before.

Anne Bell saw a lone Sandhill Crane flying over on March 3. This species is still very rare, with under ten sightings from the island over the last 15 years.

Remember to visit our facebook page or join our facebook group where you can post your own sightings and photos. It’s a great forum for learning about all things nature on the islands and connecting with others who love it too!