Walkin' With the Birds

"Screech"
-Red Tailed Hawk

This morning I went to the park and walked from there to the Nature Center, a little ways further, and back again. All-in-all just over an hour's walk and maybe a little over four miles' distance. It was very nice, though I probably should have put on a bit of suncreen before I left the house. The thing is, too, that it's starting to feel like fall. Friday we had a cool front, thanks in part to the monster storm the night before, and it I couldn't help but think that it was the beginning of the end. Today the thought came back to me. It's starting to smell like fall down by the river, among the trees.

Fall is my favorite time of year. Forget spring, fall is the time of year I associate with new beginnings. The seasons are changing, it's the beginning of the new school year, and a time for seeing old friends again.

This morning I was lucky enough to spot an osprey, with a small fish in its talons, no less, during my walk. It flew over the river then almost right above me, before flying back and disappearing. Then, on my way back I heard a red tailed hawk and spotted it in a nearby tree. Among the Raptor Center folk, I was never the best at spotting birds of prey, but I do alright sometimes.

Seeing the birds this morning made me think of the Mikis (Mississippi Kites) I've been hearing all around my neighborhood. They've got a pretty distinctive call, a kind of high pitched Ki-kee, and every now and again I'll even get a look at one. I like that they're around, and that I know it.