The Eastern Phoebe Hummingbird - Critter 89

Wednesday, January 8, 2025
We saw the Eastern Phoebe Hummingbird quite early; the bird should migrate to our neighborhood around as soon as the end of February. 


Fig 01 - Perching, The Eastern Phoebee.

The best time to observe the Eastern Phoebe is about March, when peak migration from South (central) America to Southern Canada (North America), and stop by at our city, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

They may stay in our areas until late spring or summer, but very rare to be seen. The early migration for this year might be relate to severe weather at wintering grounds or lack of food sources.

The bird sounds like fee-bee. With “bee” slightly lower in tone. You can listen on the Merlin bird id app or the Audubon app. Probably available online as well.


Fig 02 - Cute little bird.

# Important postings:


Fig 03 - Seeds for wild birds, illustration only.

The bird might be attracted by our foods in the feeder. Our main food that is dried mealworms.

Moreover, in addition to the mealworms, we have both white and golden safflower, black oil sunflower seed, sunflower seeds with no shell, white millet, shelled peanuts, and suet nuggets.


Fig 04 - The Eastern Phoebe, calm

Have you heard the Eastern Phoebe Hummingbird sounds in nature?

## Previous postings:

The Roselle in the Yard - Gardening and Hobby 64

Saturday, January 4, 2025
Roselle with scientific name Hibiscus sabdariffa comes from warm regions and grow well in the tropical and subtropical temperatures. 


Fig 01 - The calyces of Roselle. 

Since our city has warm climate, we may find some of the Roselle flowers in our neighborhood areas.

As you might know that the plants have calyces which are red (light part) parts, not fruit of flowers. 

I don't know the benefits of calyces or never aware whoever consumed them in our neighborhood but reported by Southern University A&M College systems (2024, Roselle (Hibiscus Sabdariffa): A Functional Food) that Calyces could be used as jams, tea (beverages) and other purposes.


Fig 02 - Leaves and calyces 

Do you know about calyces of Roselle?

# Previous postings:

A Lonely White Parakeet - Critter 88

Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Parakeets are not native bird of our state, Louisiana. They come from other countries about hundred years ago


Image - A white parakeet

We saw a lonely white parakeet close by our neighborhood area. We believe it is a pet belongs to a neighbor.

This bird is one of popular pets in our city. People love this pet, based on internet resources, it is because of some reasons that are: 
- social bird
- colorful 
- small size
- could bring happiness 

Who interests with Parakeet may find it in the pet shops for adoption with reasonable price in the city.

Do you familiar with a White Parakeet?

# Previous postings:

The Homemade Cranberry Sauce - Food Variety 37

Tuesday, December 24, 2024
I believe there are no specific Cranberry Sauce in our state, Louisiana. Yes, Louisiana people have several names of its. 


Fig 01 - Cranberry Sauce.

Due to local influences or inspired, other names for Cranberry sauces in our state, Louisiana are:
1) Cajun spiced Cranberry sauce
- Spicy things up with cayenne pepper, onions, and garlic powder. Add some herbal such as thyme or oregano

2) Creole Cranberry sauce
- Achieve a savory flavor profile by utilizing Creole seasonings, a flavorful blend of herbs and spices.


Fig 02 - Fresh Satsuma

Tastes of Louisiana Cranberry sauces may also be influenced by seafood, sweet and savory balances.


Fig 03 - Cooking sauce

Three Flavors of Bougainvillea - Gardening and Hobby 63

Tuesday, December 17, 2024
 These photos from last Spring and Summer, the blooming seasons of Bougainvillea in our neighborhood areas.


Fig 01 - Yellow flowers, Bougainvillea

The Bougainvillea, originally from South America, has spread to many parts of the world. It is now commonly grown in tropical and subtropical areas. The flower is an adaptable plant that can be cultivated as:
- tree
- vine
- or shrub

These flowers may come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, red, orange, yellow, and even white.


Fig 02 - The red Bougainvillea.

We saw so many of these beautiful bougainvillea in Caribbeans. They come from high up in the mountains and flow all the way down to the sides on ground. That was an awesome thing to see!


Fig 03 - Purple/Pink flowers at neighborhood.

Which colors of Bougainvillea do you like the most?

# Previous postings:

The Virginia Rail - Critter 87

Tuesday, December 10, 2024
With all the chaos going on in the world today, we thought we would share something a little brighter and wonderful.


Figure - A Virginia rail

Look at who came to visit us. We passed right by this little visitor as We went to put some things in the recycle bin to be picked up.

We never saw it when we went out. It was when we went to close the door, and our eyes had gazed to the corner. The little bird lows and beholds just sitting there being unbothered and bothering no one.

There it is sitting on top of the flower. As I searched the bottom of my phone on the pics for what kind of bird it is, it is said it’s a Virginia Rail.

Strangely, this bird should be found in the areas such as wet meadows and freshwater marshes. So, lucky to have this bird, a Virginia rail as our visitor.

Have you seen this bird in your areas?

# Previous postings:

China Pink in the Garden - Gardening and Hobby 62

Tuesday, December 3, 2024
In our neighborhood, China Pink blooms in warmer months (Spring to early summer months) or around April to early June.


Image - Blooming of China Pink

China Pink has scientific name, Dianthus chinensis, and has several common names including:
- Pinks
- Indian Pink
- Rainbow Pink
- Sweet William

For vibrant blooms, China Pinks are ensured to receive ample sunlight. Consistent watering and fertilization will further support healthy growth and an abundance of flowers.

Where do you find China Pink (Dianthus chinensis)?

# Previous postings: