Michigan Kim's photostream  

"Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go. "
~ William Feather

These are oak leaves that are hanging on to the branch despite having died months ago. There are other tree species that do this as well, and I've just found out that the word for it is "marcescence".

There are various theories as to the purpose of this interesting behavior, including that it may protect the tree from drought or temperature stress, or that it may keep animals from eating the buds. Whatever the reason, it must be part of the secret of their success.

This is apparently called British Soldier Lichen (Cladonia cristatella). A quick Google search turned up far more than I ever wanted to know about it, but I have to admit that what I read about lichens is interesting.

Did you know that a lichen is usually a composite of a fungus with an alga or bacterium? I sure didn't. This one has got to be one of the prettiest, don't you think?

I explored a new (to me) local nature center yesterday while counting birds for the Great Backyard Bird Count. This area with the boardwalk was just loaded with active birds. Too bad they weren't anything unusual though. Mostly chickadees, nuthatches, tufted titmice, robins, and nuthatches. I was hoping for an early warbler or two, but they apparently aren't fooled by our mild winter and are still relaxing down south. Smart little fellas.

I wish I'd had my wide angle lens with me today, but this worked out ok. Happy Fence Friday!

I so love this photo! This was taken in June 1983 when all three of us were graduating at the same time. Me from a 4-year college (on the left), my brother from high school, and my younger sister from a 2-year college. That's my dad in there with us; Mom was the photographer

Cartoon effect from iPiccy.com (looks like I may have found a new substitute for the almost-defunct Picnik)