May
May Field Notes
Monthly Weather Review
Rainfall Total – 7.5 in
Highest Temperature - 93°F
Lowest Temperature - 40° F
Average Wind Speed – 7.1 mph
Monday, May 4
- Numerous turtles were observed throughout Thompson Creek during water quality sampling, indicating active use of the creek by aquatic wildlife.
- Two ducks flushed from the creek as CWF staff approached to collect samples.
- Three Great Blue Herons (Ardea herodias) were observed soaring overhead.
Tuesday, May 5
- A Pond Slider (Trachemys scripta) was spotted basking on a log at BJ's Pond, taking advantage of the warm spring sunshine.
- Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) was in full bloom, providing an important nectar source for native pollinators.
Thursday, May 7
- Two Eastern Box Turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) were seen making their way up the creek bank.
- Another turtle was observed crossing the road and was safely assisted across by CWF staff.
Tuesday, May 19
- An endoscope inspection of a bat box revealed several Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus), a species capable of consuming thousands of insects each night.
Thursday, May 21
- Clear skies and sunny weather provided ideal conditions for a day of fieldwork across the property.
Friday, May 22
- A Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) was observed perched atop the old metal silo, surveying the landscape below.
Monday, May 25
- A fresh group of interns arrived ready to gain hands-on experience in conservation and environmental stewardship.
Tuesday, May 26
- Heavy rainfall caused Thompson Creek to rise approximately 10 feet above normal levels.
- Fresh signs of North American Beaver (Castor canadensis) activity were observed near one of the game cameras.
- A native bumblebee was spotted visiting blooming Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa).
Wednesday, May 27
- A hammerhead flatworm, (Diversibipalium multilineatum), was observed on a tree near Thompson Creek. This non-native species is known for preying on earthworms.
- The annual Nightjar Survey was conducted after sunset to monitor populations of these elusive nocturnal birds.
Thursday, May 28
A crayfish, likely a member of the genera Favonius or Cambarus, was observed in Thompson Creek, where it contributes to nutrient cycling within the stream ecosystem.
Friday, May 29
- A Common Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) was observed moving beneath a tree near the creek, possibly searching for a suitable nesting site as egg-laying season approaches.
