Bobolinks and Butterflies at Byers Wood

It was a celebration of three years of conserving Bobolinks at Byers Woods in Ashland Ohio.

Male Bobolink singing, photo by Brian Zwiebel

The most sought-after stars of the day were the Bobolinks, but Eastern Meadowlarks and Savannah Sparrows were also welcomed.

Mark and Michelle Goodman stroll casually ahead, while buoyant Eastern Bluebirds and Tree Swallows graced the trails long the grassland and provided entertainment for all three groups of birdwatchers.

Hard to find Ohio Native plants were plentiful and Don Beam of Stucker Meadow has an enthusiasm for prairie plants that is hard to resist. He set out an impressive display of tried and true species!

Your blogger got caught sampling the Ashland County Park District's cook out lunch. These guys know how to grill the hot-dogs! (Kathy Mock incognito behind me...)

And this may well be the highlight of my day: a Striped Hairstreak! Check the diagnostic red cap above the blue cell on the hindwing, unusual vertical lines and an inset above the upper "tail." (What do you other butterfly-ers say?)

Thanks to everyone who came out to support us, and the GMAS volunteers who work at all these events: Mary Ellen, Su, Bianca, Marcia, Jean and Judy. It was great to partner with the Ashland County Park District for the third year in a row. The Bobolinks were "bubbling" over with joy and I especially appreciate all those friends and family who traveled distances to be with us. Thanks again, we hope to see you next year!