Author Archives: Lee

It’s Snowing!

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Cardinal by Aestheticphotos

Cardinal by Aestheticphotos

Change is coming to this blog. For one thing, it’s snowing! WordPress has given us some snow for a month or so. I turned it on. How else am I going to get snow down here in Florida?

I am also getting ready to start a new series about Birds in Hymns. It is amazing how many times they are referred to in the hymns we sing as we worship in song. My list of them is getting quite long. The music for them is available and now they can be attached. That “learning curve” has also helped me figure out how to attach the sounds of birds in my blogs.

I hope you will enjoy the new series. As things are figured out, it’s hoped that Lee’s Birdwatching Adventures Plus will only improve and glorify the Lord better.

Yours in Him,

Lee

P.S. Below is the first of the new series. Hope you enjoy it. Support pages are coming.

See ~ Wordless Birds

More ~ Birds in Hymns

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Birds in Hymns – His Eye Is On The Sparrow

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Birds in Hymns – His Eye Is On The Sparrow by Civilla D. Martin.

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

Based on Matthew 10:29-31

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Words: Civilla D. Martin, 1905.
Music: Charles H. Gabriel

Grasshopper Sparrow Singing (by Ray's Wildlife Photography)

Grasshopper Sparrow Singing (by Ray

“Early in the spring of 1905, my husband and I were sojourneying in Elmira, New York. We contracted a deep friendship for a couple by the name of Mr. and Mrs. Doolittle—true saints of God. Mrs. Doolittle had been bedridden for nigh twenty years. Her husband was an incurable cripple who had to propel him self to and from his business in a wheel chair. Despite their afflictions, they lived happy Christian lives, bringing inpiration and comfort to all who knew them. One day while we were visiting with the Doolittles, my husband commented on their bright hope fullness and asked them for the secret of it. Mrs. Doolittle’s reply was simple: “His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.” The beauty of this simple expression of bound less faith gripped the hearts and fired the imagination of Dr. Martin and me. The hymn ‘His Eye Is on the Sparrow’ was the outcome of that experience.

Civilla Martin
The next day she mailed the poem to Charles Gabriel, who supplied the music. Singer Ethel Waters so loved this song that she used its name as the title for her autobiography.”

(Quotes from Cyberhymnal.org)

His Eye Is On The Sparrow

Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heaven and home,
When Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Refrain

Savanna Sparrow Singing (By Ray)

Savanna Sparrow Singing (By Ray)

I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.

“Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Refrain

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to Him, from care He sets me free;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Refrain

Photos with permission of Ray’s Wildlife Photography

See also:
His Eye Is On The Sparrow (Video by a j mithra)

Most information from The Cyber Hymnal

See ~ Wordless Birds

More ~ Birds in Hymns

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Circle B Bar Reserve – Birdwatching 11/28/08

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Today my husband and I went to the Circle B Bar Reserve and here is a list of what we saw. We were there from about 9-11 am and it was clear and 54 degrees when we got there. It warmed up nicely and was a gorgeous day. My ID’s of some of these were greatly helped when we were joined by Reinier (one of the photographers I use -Wildstock) about half way through our birdwatching trip. The list below is from a report I made to ebird.

Number of species:     46
Black-bellied Whistling-Duck     35
Mottled Duck     5
Blue-winged Teal     10
Ring-necked Duck     2

Black-bellied Whistling Duck and Babies

Black-bellied Whistling Duck and Babies

Pied-billed Grebe     2
Anhinga     3
American Bittern     2
Great Blue Heron     10
Great Egret     5
Snowy Egret     3
Little Blue Heron     4
Tricolored Heron     5
Cattle Egret     10
White Ibis     25
Glossy Ibis     5
Roseate Spoonbill     6
Wood Stork     25
Turkey Vulture     5
Osprey     1
Red-shouldered Hawk     1
Red-tailed Hawk     1
American Kestrel     1
Purple Gallinule     1
Common Moorhen     5
American Coot     70

Snowy Egret Reflected

Snowy Egret Reflected

Limpkin     1
Sandhill Crane     4
Killdeer     20
Greater Yellowlegs     1
Lesser Yellowlegs     2
Wilson’s Snipe     2
Ring-billed Gull     1
Mourning Dove     1
Belted Kingfisher     2
Red-bellied Woodpecker     1
Eastern Phoebe     1
White-eyed Vireo     1
Blue Jay     1
Fish Crow     10
Tree Swallow     5
House Wren     1
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher     1
Northern Mockingbird     1
Pine Warbler     2
Palm Warbler     2
Boat-tailed Grackle     10

We definitely had a great time birdwatching today. Reminds me to be thankful for all the great and wonderful creation that God has created.

Psa 111:1-4 KJVR
(1) Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.
(2) The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.
(3) His work is honorable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth forever.
(4) He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

For other birdwatching trips to the Circle B Bar Reserve

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Happy Thanksgiving

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Tri-colored Heron by Dan

Tri-colored Heron by Dan

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our blog viewers. Today, here in the United States, we celebrate a tradition that has long been established (See below). We are thankful for each of you who stop by for a visit to Lee’s Birdwatching Adventures. So, from me (Lee) and Dan (My husband and photographer), we hope you have a blessed day and remember to thank God for all His bountiful blessings.

That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, And tell of all Your wondrous works. (Psa 26:7 NKJV)

Out and about - Lake Hollingsworth

Out and about – Lake Hollingsworth

We trust as you see all about you, you will see the wondrous works of God and give thanksgiving. Also, for the many blessings that we have every day. As for me, I am thankful for every day that I can be out birding. Many know that I have a slight problem with my legs as a result of back surgery and can’t always go as far or as long as other birdwatchers. My lists may not be as long, but I still enjoy seeing and hearing the birds that are there. I am still amazed seeing the mighty hand of God in the design and creation of each one. I am also thankful for my husband and the support and love he gives me. I am also very thankful for all the photographers who have given me permission to use their photos (See sidebar-Photographers). But, most of all, I am thankful for all the the Lord has done for me. He has saved my soul, loved me, kept me, supplied all my needs (and a lot of my wants), has reserved a mansion for me in Glory, and given me a great family, church family and friends.

From the History.com

Thanksgiving Proclamation

State of New-Hampshire. In Committee of Safety, Exeter, November 1, 1782 : Ordered, that the following proclamation for a general thanksgiving on the twenty-eighth day of November instant, received from the honorable Continental Congress, be forthwith printed …

STATE OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.
IN COMMITTEE of SAFETY,
EXETER, November 1, 1782.

ORDERED,
THAT the following Proclamation for a general THANKSGIVING on the twenty-eighth day of November [instant?], received from the honorable Continental Congress, be forthwith printed, and sent to the several worshipping Assemblies in this State, to whom it is recommended religiously to observe said day, and to abstain from all servile labour thereon.
M. WEARE, President.

By the United States in Congress assembled.

Another excerpt says:

Do hereby recommend to the inhabitants of these States in general, to observe, and request the several States to interpose their authority in appointing and commanding the observation of THURSDAY the twenty-eight day of NOVEMBER next, as a day of solemn THANKSGIVING to GOD for all his mercies: and they do further recommend to all ranks, to testify to their gratitude to GOD for his goodness, by a cheerful obedience of his laws, and by promoting, each in his station, and by his influence, the practice of true and undefiled religion, which is the great foundation of public prosperity and national happiness.

 

Circle B Bar Reserve – Future of Birdwatching

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Wilson's Snipe at Circle B by Dan

Wilson’s Snipe at Circle B by Dan

As many of you know, Circle B Bar Reserve is one of the premier places to bird watch here in Central Florida. I love going out there to see all the wildlife, now that it has re-opened.

I just found out that there is a effort to prevent hunting at the Circle B Bar Reserve here in Polk County, FL. I just can’t imagine that going on out there. They just built a really nice Nature Center for the Reserve. It is suppose to host classes about preserving our environment and the plants, animals and birds. Now, they want to possibly approve hunting. Please look at the following link, and then let your thoughts be known.

UPDATE – As of now the hunting has been stopped, at least until a referendum is voted on. The link below was about that debate, but I kept it there because it is a nice video about the Circle B.

Great Blue Heron at Circle B by Dan

Great Blue Heron at Circle B by Dan

Black-necked Stilt at Circle B Bar Reserve

Black-necked Stilt at Circle B Bar Reserve by Me

 

Interesting – Elephant Paints Elephant

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Thinking

I couldn’t resist this video. I know it’s not about birds, but this is truly amazing.

(8) But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
(9) With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.
(10) Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. (James 3:7-10 NKJV)

Interesting Things – Amazing Bird Migration

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Interesting Things from Smiley Central
Here is a Video from Creation Moments about bird migration that you might find interesting. Our amazing Creator continues to show His marvelous Omniscience.

Here’s Wikipedia’s information about the Manx Shearwater

Manx Shearwaters

Manx Shearwaters

See More “Interesting Things”

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Birds of the Bible – Review

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But now ask the beasts, and they will teach you; And the birds of the air, and they will tell you; Or speak to the earth, and it will teach you; And the fish of the sea will explain to you. Who among all these does not know That the hand of the LORD has done this, In whose hand is the life of every living thing, And the breath of all mankind? (Job 12:7-10 NKJV)
Since February, the different birds of the Bible were presented in random order. Here is a list of those birds, with their links, in alphabetical order. Hope this helps you find a particular bird easier. If this is being used as a review, try to visualize the bird before you click on the link. (Always the teacher)

Introduction to Birds of the Bible
Foundation #1
Foundation #2
Foundation #3
Foundation #4
Foundation #5

Pelicans Pelican Study
Pigeon
Quail
Raven
Sparrows I Sparrow II House Sparrows
Storks
Swallows
Swan
Swift
Vultures
Solomon’s Birds
Bird Idols
Thoughts on the Birds of the Bible Series
Favorites
None
For His Pleasure I, For His Pleasure II
Study Tips
Speckled Bird
Birds of the Bible – Paraiba, Brazil
Birds of the Bible – Niami, Niger, West Africa

Other Articles and Videos about Birds
Be Still And Know That He is God
Birds
Bird Feeder I
Clean vs Unclean
Deuteronomy 14:11-18 Visualized
God’s Care For Birds
Pacific Golden Plover
Under His Wing

Salute to Our Veterans

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Navy Emblem

U. S. Navy Emblem

Today is Veteran’s Day here in the United States and we would like to say “Thank You Very Much” for serving. Some have given their all and many of our living veterans are still carrying their pains and scars. Our thanks and prayers are with you as today you can celebrate that you have helped keep our country free. To those who are active now, our prayers are with you daily for your protection and wisdom as you serve our great country. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

U. S. Air Force Emblem

U. S. Air Force Emblem

Some may be wondering how I can do a Veteran’s Day tribute on my Birdwatching blog. Well, it’s easy.

1.   Many of the Units and Aircraft, Ships have a bird names, such as:

Marine Emblem

U. S. Marine Emblem

Eagles:  Screaming Eagles, Navy Eagles, Flying Eagles, Legal Eagles, Lone Eagle, War Eagle, Blackeagle, Raider Eagle, Strike Eagle, Eagle of the Sea, Echo Eagle

Falcons:  USS Falcon, F-16 Fighting Falcon Fanatics, White Falcons, Black Falcons, Blue Falcons, Red Falcons,

Hawks: Hawk Squadron, Sparrow Hawks, Bluehawks, Firehawks, Blackhawks, Seahawks, Nighthawks, Redhawks, Sabrehawks, Knighthawks, Warhawks, Phantomhawks, Tomahawks, Lady Tomahawks

Osprey: USS Osprey – MSCO28 and MHC51, USS American Osprey, USCGC Osprey

Coast Guard Emblem

U. S. Coast Guard Emblem

U. S. Army Emblem

U. S. Army Emblem

Bird: USS Frigate Bird, USS Surfbird, USS Blue Bird, USS Mockingbird, USS Blue Bird, USS Hummingbird, USS Kingbird, Air Force Thunderbirds, Screwbirds, USS Sunbird, Old Firebirds VA304

I am sure there are many other birds names that were used. If you know of others, please leave a comment with them. Thanks.

2.   Many of the Military Emblems have the Bald Eagle in them: Here is a link to the United States Military Emblems and their history.

3.   Dan, spent 30 years in the Navy, active and reserve, and retired as a Master Chief Gunnersmate. I spent about 2 years in the Navy reserve as a Radioman. Our fathers were both in the Military, as were many of our forefathers.

4.   Last of all, this is my blog and I can do what I want. Part of having the “PLUS” in the name, gives me the freedom to do as I see fit, as long as the Lord is honored.

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (2Ti 2:3-5 KJV)

Am I A Soldier of the Cross

Am I a soldier of the cross,
A foll’wer of the Lamb,
And shall I fear to own His cause,
Or blush to speak His name?

Must I be carried to the skies
On flow’ry beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize,
And sailed thro’ bloody seas?

Are there no foes for me to face?
Must I not stem the flood?
Is this vile world a friend to grace,
To help me on to God?

Sure I must fight, if I would reign;
Increase my courage, Lord;
I’ll bear the toil, endure the pain,
Supported by Thy word.

Birds of the Bible – Hen and Rooster

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This week’s Birds of the Bible brings us to the end of the specifically named birds of the Bible. Since February, I have tried to present a different bird each week. I have been given the privilege to continue on with non-specific named birds and to repeat birds with different facts on our church blog.

Our Hen and the Rooster or Cock are domesticated and most have seen and heard them. So, since they are so diverse, I am only going to cover the verses that relate to them. The hen or female chicken is very protective when she has her young about her. Under her wings she provides warmth, security, and love. Christ made reference to that fact when He had been talking to the “scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!” in Matthew 23 when He said:

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!  (Mat 23:37 NKJV)

The Lord wants to protect us and take care of us, and what a blessing it is when we let Him provide. Unfortunately, many did not let Him then or now provide the shelter and care only He can give.

Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” (Mat 26:34 NKJV)
Then he began to curse and swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly. (Mat 26:74-75 NKJV)

Most of us know the story of how Peter was so sure he would never fail the Lord and deny Him, but Christ knew that before that very night was over by the time the rooster would wake up and crow, what would take place. Peter repented and went on to be a great apostle the rest of his life. Did he ever slip and fall again, I’m sure he did, like those of us who are saved by grace. Just maybe, Peter remembered the Lord’s illustration of the Hen protecting her chicks and sought the protection, security, and love only Christ can provide.

Unknown Bird – Halloween Bird?

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Gary Bird?

Gary Bird?

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. (Col 3:17)

Last Friday evening (Halloween) our church, Faith Baptist Church, had a Fall Festival. They had “Trunk or Treat” for the kids to get goodies from. We went to see the activities and being a true birdwatcher, always on the lookout for birds, I came across an unknown bird. So, we got its picture. Now it could be a Gary Bird or a Halloween Bird, I am not sure. After looking through my many bird books at home, I could not find one like it. If anyone knows, please leave a comment.
It really was a great evening. We had other activities besides the trunks. One of our pastors, Pastor Pete, managed to get himself dunked many times.

Halloween Bird?

Halloween Bird?

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. (1Co 10:31)
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; (Col 3:23)

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Circle B Bar Reserve Grand Re-opening

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Wood Storks

Wood Storks

Yesterday, they re-opened the Circle B Bar Reserve and had a good time birding. I didn’t get more than about a quarter mile into marsh and back, but was able to ID 37 birds in about an hour and half. We got there at 8:30 and was able to park near the marsh. It was a one day only chance to park that close. In the future, we will have to park up by the new nature center and walk from there. That will present a problem for me since I have a walking problem.

The new nature center is very nice and they have provided classrooms and exhibits. This will help make a great setting for education and training. I was very impressed with it.

Here is what I was able to observe yesterday, mostly at the marsh: Black-bellied Whistling-Duck, Mottled Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Pied-billed Grebe , Anhinga, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Snowy Egret, Little Blue Heron, Tricolored Heron, Cattle Egret, White Ibis, Glossy Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Common Moorhen, American Coot, Limpkin, Sandhill Crane, Belted Kingfisher, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe, Blue Jay, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Boat-tailed Grackle. There were others I heard and saw that I couldn’t ID. It was not a good photography day. It was fully overcast.

Wood Stork

Wood Stork Just Landing

For other birdwatching trips to the Circle B Bar Reserve

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