The Moon is Crossing Between the Sun and the Earth. What are the animals doing?
Let's seize the moment and dive into the cosmic spectacle - a celestial event that won't grace our skies again until August 2026! Let’s go out and experience it. Living in New Hampshire puts me in a fortunate position. Nevertheless, I'm poised in a prime spot to witness the breathtaking allure of the eclipse. Meanwhile, my friends from Atlanta have embarked on a journey to Waco, Texas. One among them, an avid astronomer, is intent on immersing himself in the complete totality of this astronomical marvel.
Scientists ask, “What do the wildlife do during a solar eclipse?” This question came from scientists in 1932 when they called for people to share their observations. If you are interested in observing wildlife during the eclipse, you may notice the nocturnal birds become active: owls hooting, wild turkeys roosting (they are often in my trees from dusk until early dawn), pigeons returning to their cotes (I’m getting frillback pigeons once I build a cote for them.) Maybe your bird feeders become vacant of their frequent visitors, flowers close up, or your outdoor kitties come for dinner.
I’m certainly planning to be on the lookout for the wildlife around me. I’m hoping to see THE eagle. I say THE because I wonder if I see the same one each time. As I was driving across the bridge that crosses the stream, the eagle appeared in front of the car, with it’s huge wingspan (up to seven and a half feet) it seemingly guided me along the road until it diverted to fly over the lake. What a majestic sight. I always think of Duncan when I see an eagle.
For those inclined to share their observations with a wider audience, there's an opportunity to contribute to iNaturalist - an esteemed platform that unites biologists, naturalists, and enthusiasts alike in documenting the rich tapestry of biodiversity. I myself have recently joined its ranks, spurred by my passion for butterflies. With a few clicks, I can explore a treasure trove of sightings, not only of New Hampshire's vibrant butterfly population but also a myriad of other natural wonders.
I’m heading to my son’s mountain top farm where a group of kindred spirits await to experience the solar eclipse. About 15 people made up of young families are coming for a viewing and a potluck, including Daniels’ famous brisket. Everything is still covered with several inches of snow, but the viewing will be awe-inspiring.Already the azure hues of blue birds hover around their houses, so I’ll keep an eye out for their behavior.
As for fencing, I won’t be too focused on that, even though I won’t be able to dismiss the ice damage done to Daniel’s fence a couple of weeks ago.
What do you need from me to make your decision to install a fence easier? We have an extensive catalog of deer, sheep and goat, and wildlife fencing. Check out our website for details or call Terry at 978-486-3116 to learn more.
Warm regards,
Debbie Page
CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (True! That’s 131 years owned and run by our family)