Signs of Spring...

As "Calendar Spring" approaches, I wistfully hope for actual Spring in the Adirondacks too. The signs that I look for are returning birds, the American Robins and Canada Geese. The Crocus and Snowdrops in small colorful clumps. The days becoming longer and skies bluer, the same signs most people look for too. However, there are probably a few differences too. My favorite Spring bird is actually the Turkey Vulture. I truly believe that Spring has arrived in the "North Country" when I see this amazing bird soaring high overhead. Turkey Vultures are sometimes referred to as "Nature's Garbage Men". Their heads are bald to facilitate eating carrion without getting "yucky" stuff in their feathers. In the heat of Summer to keep from getting too hot, they will urinate on their legs and should you get too close they will vomit on you. But, they soar like a ballerina on therms.