Nature Notes

On April 16, 2004 the Westborough News (later part of the Village News) started carrying a column known as Nature Notes prepared by Annie Reid and Garry Kessler on behalf of the Westborough Community Land Trust (WCLT). The column outlasted those newspapers. As of 2022, new columns are republished on the website of the Community Advocate. Nature Notes columns continue to feature striking photography and commentary to describe wild plants, fungi, and animals that people might see while walking the trails throughout Westborough and neighboring towns.

Annie and Garry were awarded the WCLT 2004 President's Award for contributing their talents, especially in nature photography and writing, to the growth and vitality of WCLT. The couple's love of nature motivated them to explore Westborough’s woods for more than 40 years, including many walks with their two daughters and now their grandson.

For anyone who missed a column or wishes to review previous columns, we present here all the Nature Notes articles. Use the following indices to find articles of interest:

Nature notes by date of publication

Nature notes by month of publication

Nature notes by common name of flora and fauna

Nature notes by scientific name of flora and fauna

Nature notes by category




Nature Notes by Scientific Name

family Tettigoniidae
Katydid
Katydid songs of summer
August 26, 2016
genus Russula
Red russula
Red russulas and mushroom season
October 15, 2021
Halictidae family
Sweat bees
Green bees
October 14, 2023
order Collembola
Springtail
Snow Fleas
April 7, 2017
Acanthis flammea
Redpoll
Visiting redpolls lingering in town
March 29, 2013
Accipiter cooperii
Cooper's hawk
Watch for Cooper's hawks
March 18, 2016
Accipiter striatus
Sharp-shinned hawk
Watch for Cooper's hawks
March 18, 2016
Acer plantanoides
Norway maple
Think spring, think maples
April 10, 2015
Acer rubrum
Red maple
Think spring, think maples
April 10, 2015
Acer saccharinum
Silver maple
Think spring, think maples
April 10, 2015
Acer saccharum
Sugar maple
Think spring, think maples
April 10, 2015
Actitis macularia
Spotted sandpiper
A Mill Pond bird is Mr. Mom
July 24, 2009
Adelges tsugae
Hemlock woolly adelgid
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Aesculus hippo-castanaum
Horse-chestnut
Persistence of the American chestnut
October 16, 2015
Aesculus pavia
Red buckeye
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Agelaius phoeniceus
Red-winged blackbird
Who's who in those big flocks of blackbirds?
November 2, 2018
Return of the red-wings signals spring
March 23, 2007
Aix sponsa
Wood duck
Make way for ducklings
June 9, 2006
Wild ducks on our ponds
March 31, 2006
Albizia julibrissin
Mimosa
Silktree
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Alces alces
Moose
Moose in Westborough
October 7, 2016
Alliaria petiolata
Garlic mustard
Pull out invasive garlic mustard
April 19, 2013
A new invasive in town
June 1, 2007
Alsophila pometaria
Fall cankerworm
Moths in winter
December 18, 2009
Alypia octomaculata
Eight-spotted forester moth
Noticing local day-flying moths
July 25, 2023
Amanita bisporigera
Mushroom, destroying angel
Beware of the destroying angel in the woods
October 11, 2013
Amanita muscaria
Fly agaric
Fall is mushroom season
October 15, 2004
Amanita virosa
Mushroom, destroying angel
Beware of the destroying angel in the woods
October 11, 2013
Amblyomma americanum
Lone star tick
Tick check season – for 3 local ticks
July 5, 2024
Ambrosia artemisiifolia
Ragweed
Late-summer sneezing
August 20, 2004
Ambystoma jeffersonianum
Jefferson salamander
Visitors to our vernal pools
March 17, 2006
Ambystoma laterale
Blue-spotted salamander
Vernal pool season
March 21, 2022
Special concern for blue-spotted salamanders
March 28, 2008
Visitors to our vernal pools
March 17, 2006
Ambystoma maculatum
Spotted salamander
Vernal pool season
March 21, 2022
Visitors to our vernal pools
March 17, 2006
Ambystoma opacum
Marbled salamander
Visitors to our vernal pools
March 17, 2006
Amorphophallus titanum
Corpse flower
Titan arum
Corpse flower & local relatives
August 15, 2023
Anas platyrhynchos
Mallard
Return of the mallards
February 15, 2008
Make way for ducklings
June 9, 2006
Anax junius
Green darner dragonfly
Migrating dragonflies
October 10, 2008
Andropogon scoparius
Little bluestem grass
Grass appreciation
November 30, 2018
Anemone nemorosa
European windflower
Watch for wildflowers in Westborough
April 25, 2008
Anemone quinquefolia
Windflower
Watch for wildflowers in Westborough
April 25, 2008
Anisoptera
Dragonflies
Dragons and damsels
July 18, 2008
Anoplophora glabripennis
Asian Longhorned Beetle
Think spring, think maples
April 10, 2015
Asian Longhorned Beetle at Westborough's Border
March 23, 2012
Antigone canadensis
Sandhill crane
Something different - a sandhill crane
May 19, 2017
Apios americana
Groundnut
The edible groundnut
September 23, 2011
Apis mellifera
Honeybee
Honeybees in winter
March 9, 2007
Apocynum androsaemifolium
Spreading dogbane
Candy-cane stripes visible in the summertime
July 23, 2010
Aquilegia canadense
Columbine
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Aquilegia canadensis
Wild columbine
Wild columbine spring
June 20, 2014
Archilochus colubris
Ruby-throated hummingbird
Nesting Hummingbirds
July 11, 2014
Westborough's tiny winter bird
February 23, 2007
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Archilochus colubrus
Hummingbird
Cardinal flower attracts hummingbirds, butterflies
July 22, 2005
Ardea alba
Great egret
Big Birds in white on our shores
September 1, 2011
Ardea herodias
Great blue heron
Nesting Herons
April 26, 2022
Our annual dance of spring
March 26, 2021
Big Birds in white on our shores
September 1, 2011
An owl in the nest
April 1, 2005
Great Blue Herons at Mill Pond
April 30, 2004
Argiope aurantia
Common garden spider
Common garden spider
September 27, 2019
Arisaema triphyllum
Jack-in-the-pulpit
Corpse flower & local relatives
August 15, 2023
Land of Swamps
May 28, 2004
Asclepias syriaca
Milkweed
July is butterfly season
July 14, 2006
Milkweed and butterflies in our meadows
July 8, 2005
Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly weed
July is butterfly season
July 14, 2006
Atropa belladonna
Belladonna
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Aythya collaris
Ring-necked duck
Ring-necked ducks diving in our ponds
December 4, 2015
Baeolophus bicolor
Tufted titmouse
How birds stay warm on a cold winter's day
February 25, 2011
Basilarchia archippus
Viceroy
Butterfly disguises in late summer
September 4, 2009
Look-alike butterflies
July 13, 2007
Milkweed and butterflies in our meadows
July 8, 2005
Time for pussy willows
March 5, 2005
Benthamidia florida, Cornus florida
Dogwood
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Betula lenta
Birch, black
Wintergreen under the snow
January 21, 2005
Betula papyrifera
Paper birch
The first butterfly of spring
April 29, 2005
Bombus
Bumblebee
Honeybees in winter
March 9, 2007
Bombycilla cedrorum
Cedar waxwing
Early birds get the dried fruit
March 3, 2006
Bonasa umbellus
Ruffed grouse
June is a month for baby birds
June 15, 2012
Branta canadensis
Canada goose
Canada geese overhead
December 9, 2005
Bubo virginianis
Great horned owl
Valentine's Day for Skunks
February 9, 2007
Bubo virginianus
Great horned owl
An owl in the nest
April 1, 2005
Buddleia davidii
Butterfly bush
A most unusual moth in town
August 11, 2006
Buddleja davidii
Butterfly bush
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Bufo americanus
American toad
Songsters with warts
May 7, 2010
Buteo jamaicensis
Red-tailed hawk
Valentine's Day for Skunks
February 9, 2007
Red-tailed hawks overhead
November 12, 2004
Butorides virescens
Green heron
A Trip to the Shore
August 17, 2022
Fish-baiting green herons
September 30, 2005
Callophrys henrici
Henry's elfin
Elfins are small brown butterflies of spring
May 17, 2013
Callophrys hesseli
Hessel's hairstreak butterfly
Westborough's Atlantic White Cedars
February 4, 2005
Callophrys niphon
Eastern pine elfin
Elfins are small brown butterflies of spring
May 17, 2013
Caltha palustris
Marsh-marigold
Marsh-marigolds in our streams and swamps
April 20, 2007
Calvatia craniformis
Skull-shaped puffball
Puffballs in the grass
October 14, 2005
Calvatia cyathiformis
Pasture puffball
Purple-spored puffball
Vase puffball
Puffballs in the grass
October 14, 2005
Calvatia gigantea
Giant puffball
Puffballs in the grass
October 14, 2005
Campsis radicans
Trumpet creeper
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Canis latrans var
coyote
Coyotes Are Nearby
November 4, 2016
Capsicum
Peppers
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Cardinalis cardinalis
Cardinal
Cardinal's song means spring is coming
February 4, 2011
Carduelis tristis
Goldfinch
Goldfinches and summer's thistles
August 25, 2006
Carduelus pinus
Pine siskin
Pine siskins visit Westborough this year
November 16, 2012
Carpodacus mexicanus
House finch
House finches at the feeder
October 15, 2010
Castanea dentata
American chestnut
American Chestnut update
June 25, 2023
Persistence of the American chestnut
October 16, 2015
Castanea mollissima
Chinese chestnut
Persistence of the American chestnut
October 16, 2015
Castor canadensis
Beaver
Beavers get busy
November 27, 2009
Cathartes aura
Turkey vulture
Airborne clean-up crew returns
April 8, 2011
Cedrus lebani
Cedar of Lebanon
Westborough's Atlantic White Cedars
February 4, 2005
Celastrina ladon
Spring azure
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
Celastrina ladon neglecta
Summer azure
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
Celastrina neglecta
Summer azure
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
Celastrus orbiculatus
Oriental bittersweet
An invasive decoration
December 12, 2008
Celastrus scandens
American bittersweet
An invasive decoration
December 12, 2008
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Button bush
A Trip to the Shore
August 17, 2022
Certhia americana
Brown creeper
Brown creepers on bark
July 19, 2019
Ceryle alcyon
Belted kingfishers
Belted Kingfishers Dive and Burrow
October 12, 2007
Chamaecyparis thyoides
Atlantic white cedar
Westborough's Atlantic White Cedars
February 4, 2005
Charadrius vociferus
Killdeer
An act that is hard to miss
July 28, 2017
Chelidonium majus
Celandine
Wildflower, weed, or invader?
May 9, 2008
Chelone glabra
Turtlehead
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Chelone lyonii
Pink turtlehead
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Chelydra serpentina
Snapping turtle
Snapper Sightings in Westborough
August 7, 2009
Watch for painted turtles
July 9, 2004
Chimaphila umbellata
Pipsessewa
Prince's pine
Ancient evergreens under the snow
February 17, 2006
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum
Daisy
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum
Ox-eye daisy
Daisy Days
July 22, 2016
Chrysemys picta
Painted turtle
Cardinal flower attracts hummingbirds, butterflies
July 22, 2005
Watch for painted turtles
July 9, 2004
Cichorium intybus
Chicory
Blue and edible chicory on the roadside
September 18, 2009
Cicindela repanda
Tiger beetle, common shore
Spot tiger beetles on Westborough trails
September 20, 2013
Cicindela sexguttata
Tiger beetle, six-spotted
Spot tiger beetles on Westborough trails
September 20, 2013
Clemmys guttata
Spotted turtle
June is the month for turtles
June 26, 2020
Clethra alnifolia
Sweet pepperbush
Sweet pepperbush rewards pollinators
August 27, 2021
Coccyzus americanus
Yellow-billed cuckoo
A year for cuckoos
June 23, 2017
Coccyzus erythropthalmus
Black-billed cuckoo
A year for cuckoos
June 23, 2017
Colaptes auratus
Flicker
Northern flicker
Flicker: A woodpecker that pecks the ground
April 24, 2020
Woodpeckers in Westborough's Woods
January 26, 2007
Colias philodice
Clouded sulphur butterfly
Where are all the butterflies?
September 24, 2021
Colletes inaequalis
Cellophane bee
Cellophane bees emerge from underground in early spring
April 8, 2016
Conopholis americana
Squawroot
Pine cone, corn cob, or parasitic plant?
May 22, 2015
Contopus virens
Wood-pewee
The wood-pewee's lasting song
September 4, 2015
Coprinus comatus
Shaggy mane mushroom
From shaggy mane to inky cap
October 6, 2006
Coptis groenlandica
Goldthread
Golden threads along the ground
April 23, 2021
Coptis trifolia
Goldthread
Golden threads along the ground
April 23, 2021
Coragyps atratus
Black vulture
Black vultures are newcomers to our region
April 20, 2024
Cortinarius iodes
Viscid violet cort
Mushroom season brings colors & curiosities
September 14, 2012
Corylus americana
American hazelnut
Hazelnuts in odd husks
August 12, 2011
Corylus cornuta
Beaked hazelnut
Hazelnuts in odd husks
August 12, 2011
Cryphonectria parasitica
Chestnut blight
Chestnut blight fungus
American Chestnut update
June 25, 2023
Persistence of the American chestnut
October 16, 2015
Cuphea ignea
Cigar plant
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Cyanocitta cristata
Blue jay
Blue Jays harvest acorns
October 14, 2011
Cygnus olor
Mute swan
Lovely and controversial swans
November 10, 2006
Cypripedium acaule
Moccasin-flower
Pink lady's slipper
Pink lady's-slipper
Wild orchids in our woods
May 24, 2022
September's wild orchid
September 16, 2005
Westborough's Pink Lady's-Slippers
May 14, 2004
Danaus plexippus
Monarch butterfly
Look-alike butterflies
July 13, 2007
Milkweed and butterflies in our meadows
July 8, 2005
Daucus carota
Queen Anne's lace
The queen of July's field wildflowers
July 27, 2018
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Dendroica coronata
Yellow-rumped warbler
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Feasting on poison ivy
November 7, 2008
Dendroica discolor
Prairie warbler
Prairie warblers sing a catchy song
April 29, 2016
Dendroica palmarum
Palm warbler
Palm warblers pass through
October 16, 2009
Dendroica petechia
Yellow warbler
May brings yellow warblers to Westborough
May 23, 2008
Dendrolycopodium obscurum
Princess pine
Ancient evergreens under the snow
February 17, 2006
Dermcentor variabilis
American dog tick
Tick check season – for 3 local ticks
July 5, 2024
Didelphis virginiana
Opossum
Our local marsupial
May 3, 2019
Digitalis purpurea
Foxglove
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Diphasiastrum digitatum
Ground cedar
Ancient evergreens under the snow
February 17, 2006
Dissosteira carolina
Grasshopper
Grasshopper season
August 22, 2014
Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Bobolink
Bobolinks: Long distance travelers
June 18, 2010
Dolichovespula arenaria
Common aerial yellowjacket
Amazing wasp nests
August 21, 2020
Dolichovespula maculata
Bald-faced hornet
Amazing wasp nests
August 21, 2020
Draba verna
Whitlow grass
Dryocampa rubicunda
Rosy maple moth
Pink moths?
September 12, 2014
Dryocopus pileatus
Pileated woodpecker
Pileated woodpeckers in our forests
March 27, 2020
Dryopteris intermedia
Evergreen wood fern
Fancy fern
Intermediate wood fern
A lacy, evergreen fern in our woods
November 13, 2015
Dumetella carolinensis
Catbird
The catbird in the catbird seat
June 29, 2007
Elaeagnus umbellata
Autumn olive
Native and invasive fall colors
October 30, 2009
Epifagus virginiana
Beechdrops
A curious fall plant
October 2, 2009
Epipactis helleborine
Helleborine
Wild orchids in our woods
May 24, 2022
Equisetum arvense
Horsetail
Strange stems of April
April 17, 2009
Erethizon dorsatum
Porcupine
Prickly porcupines
February 17, 2017
Esox niger
Chain pickerel
Ice fishing flourishes on Westborough's ponds
February 28, 2014
Eubranchipus
Fairy shrimp
Vernal pool season
March 21, 2022
At home in Westborough's vernal pools
March 14, 2008
Eupatorium maculatum
Spotted Joe-Pye-weed
Spotted Joe-Pye-weed in purple landscapes
September 2, 2005
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Boneset
Old-time bitter medicine
September 26, 2008
Euphydryas phaeton
Baltimore checkerspot
Baltimore checkerspot butterflies and gypsy moths
July 24, 2015
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Everes comyntas
Eastern tailed blue
Butterfly disguises in late summer
September 4, 2009
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
Fagus grandifolia
American beech
Local beech trees in winter
February 15, 2024
Fraxinus americana
White ash
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Fuchsia
Fuchsia
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Galerucella calmariensis
Purple loosestrife beetle
A good beetle comes to town
August 21, 2009
Galerucella pusilla
Purple loosestrife beetle
A good beetle comes to town
August 21, 2009
Gaultheria procumbens
Checkerberry
Wintergreen under the snow
January 21, 2005
Gavia immer
Loon
Loons in Massachusetts
May 27, 2016
Gentiana clausa
Closed gentian
Flowers that never open
October 1, 2004
Geranium maculatum
Wild geranium
Wild geraniums are native to the area
May 27, 2005
Glaucomys volans
Flying Squirrel
Squirrel tales
February 18, 2005
Glaucopsyche lygdamus
Silvery blue
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
Goodyera pubescens
Downy rattlesnake-plantain
September's wild orchid
September 16, 2005
Tiny orchids of August
August 5, 2005
Gratiola aurea
Golden hedge-hyssop
A Trip to the Shore
August 17, 2022
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald eagle
Bald eagle fly-overs
August 1, 2014
Hamamelis virginiana
Witch-hazel
Witch-hazel flowers for Halloween
October 29, 2004
Hemaris diffinis
Snowberry clearwing moth
Noticing local day-flying moths
July 25, 2023
Hemaris thysbe
Hummingbird clearwing
Hummingbird clearwing moth
Noticing local day-flying moths
July 25, 2023
A most unusual moth in town
August 11, 2006
Hemidactylium scutatum
Four-toed salamander
An ancient and useful moss
April 29, 2011
Hemitrichia serpula
Pretzel slime mold
Slime molds are odd sights in the woods
December 6, 2013
Hibiscus syriacus
Rose of Sharon
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Hirundo rustica
Barn swallow
Barn swallows are back
May 21, 2023
Houstonia caerulea
Little bluets
Our region’s little bluets
May 19, 2024
Hyla crucifer
Spring peeper
Tiny frogs herald springtime
April 14, 2006
Hyla versicolor
Gray treefrog
Listen for treefrogs
July 3, 2009
Hylocichla mustelina
Wood thrush
Sounds of summertime: Wood thrush
July 3, 2015
Hypericum perforatum
St. Johnswort
Cardinal flower attracts hummingbirds, butterflies
July 22, 2005
St. Johnswort on the roadside
June 25, 2004
Hypomyces lactifluorum
Lobster mushroom
Orange mushroom pimple
Lobster claws on the path
October 28, 2005
Icterus galbula
Baltimore oriole
Baltimore orioles make hanging nests
July 6, 2018
Ilex verticillata
Winterberry
Winterberry in our wetlands
November 26, 2004
Impatiens capensis
Orange jewelweed
Orange spotted Jewelweed
Spotted touch-me-not
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Jewelweed is ready to pop
September 3, 2004
Impatiens glandulifera
Purple jewelweed
Purple touch-me-not
Jewelweed is ready to pop
September 3, 2004
Impatiens pallida
Pale touch-me-not
Yellow jewelweed
Jewelweed is ready to pop
September 3, 2004
Ipomoea quamoclit
Cypress vine
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Iris pseudacorus
Yellow flag iris
Yellow iris
Yellow iris: Attractive but invasive
June 7, 2013
Wild iris in the woods
June 11, 2004
Iris versicolor
Blue flag iris
Wild iris in the woods
June 11, 2004
Ixodes scapularis
Black-legged tick
Deer tick
Tick check season – for 3 local ticks
July 5, 2024
Junco hyemalis
Dark-eyed junco
Junco
Enjoy the winter juncos
February 7, 2014
Westborough's tiny winter bird
February 23, 2007
Juniperus virginiana
Eastern red cedar
Early birds get the dried fruit
March 3, 2006
Westborough's Atlantic White Cedars
February 4, 2005
Junonia coenia
Buckeye
Watch for buckeyes
August 25, 2017
Justicia brandegeana
Shrimp plant
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Kalmia angustifolia
Sheep-laurel
A sheepish laurel
June 10, 2005
Kalmia latifolia
Mountain laurel
A sheepish laurel
June 10, 2005
Lanius borealis
Northern shrike
Northern shrikes - songbirds or raptors?
March 15, 2019
Lanius excubitor
Northern shrike
Northern shrikes - songbirds or raptors?
March 15, 2019
Lanius ludivicianus
Loggerhead shrike
Northern shrikes - songbirds or raptors?
March 15, 2019
Lantana camara
Shrub verbena
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Larus delawarensis
Ring-billed gull
What are seagulls doing in town?
March 8, 2013
Leucanthemum vulgare
Ox-eye daisy
Daisy Days
July 22, 2016
Lilium canadense
Canada lily
Wild Canada lily
July 16, 2021
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Limenitis archippus
Viceroy
Butterfly disguises in late summer
September 4, 2009
Look-alike butterflies
July 13, 2007
Time for pussy willows
March 5, 2005
Linaria vulgaris
Butter-and-eggs
Butter-and-eggs for beauty, not breakfast
September 17, 2004
Lindera benzoin
Spicebush
Good things from spicebush
April 28, 2006
Lithobates catesbeianus
Bullfrog
Bullfrogs in our ponds
September 7, 2007
Lithobates palustris
Pickerel frog
Frogs at our feet
August 13, 2010
Lithobates pipiens
Leopard frog
Frogs at our feet
August 13, 2010
Lithobates sylvaticus
Wood frog
Vernal pool season
March 21, 2022
Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal flower
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Cardinal flower attracts hummingbirds, butterflies
July 22, 2005
Lonicera sempervirens
Trumpet honeysuckle
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Lophodytes cucullatus
Hooded merganser
Wild ducks on our ponds
March 31, 2006
Lumbricus terrestris
Earthworm
Earth stirs in March
March 19, 2010
Lycaena phlaeas
American copper butterfly
Late butterflies
October 26, 2007
Lycogala epidendrum
Wolf's milk slime
Slime molds are odd sights in the woods
December 6, 2013
Lycoperdon perlatum
Gem-studded puffball
Puffballs in the grass
October 14, 2005
Lycoperdon pyriforme
Pear-shaped puffball
Puffballs in the grass
October 14, 2005
Lycopersicum esculentum
Tomato
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Lycopodium digitatum
Ground cedar
Ancient evergreens under the snow
February 17, 2006
Lycopodium obscurum
Princess pine
Ancient evergreens under the snow
February 17, 2006
Lygaeus kalmii
Milkweed bug
Milkweed and butterflies in our meadows
July 8, 2005
Lymantria dispar
Gypsy moth
Baltimore checkerspot butterflies and gypsy moths
July 24, 2015
Lymantria dispar dispar
Gypsy moth
What's eating our trees?
July 15, 2016
Lynx rufus
Bobcat
Adaptable but shy bobcats are our neighbors
August 21, 2024
Lythrum salicaria
Purple loosestrife
Return of the red-wings signals spring
March 23, 2007
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
A most unusual moth in town
August 11, 2006
Invasion of the Purple Loosestrife
August 6, 2004
Manduca quinquemaculata
Tomato hornworm
A most unusual moth in town
August 11, 2006
Manduca sexta
Tobacco hornworm
A most unusual moth in town
August 11, 2006
Mantis religiosa
European mantis
Insect eaters of insects
October 27, 2017
Marmota monax
Groundhog
Spring begins in February
February 5, 2010
Martes pennanti
Fisher
Fishers make a comeback
November 1, 2013
Matricaria discoidea
Pineapple weed
The many senses of pineapple weed
June 6, 2011
Matteuccia struthiopteris
Ostrich fern
Big Ferns Unfurl
May 25, 2012
Medeola virginiana
Indian cucumber root
Indian cucumber root – a shy wildflower
June 18, 2021
Megascops asio
Screech owl
Who's out there?
February 26, 2010
Melanerpes carolinus
Red-bellied woodpecker
Red-bellied woodpeckers are thriving
March 13, 2022
Woodpeckers in Westborough's Woods
January 26, 2007
Meleagris gallopavo
Wild turkey
It's time to talk turkey
November 18, 2005
Melospiza melodia
Song sparrow
Song sparrow singing celebrates spring
April 18, 2014
Mentha arvensis
Wild mint
The minty month of August
August 15, 2008
Mephitis mephitis
Skunk
Signs of Spring in February
February 19, 2021
Valentine's Day for Skunks
February 9, 2007
Mergus merganser
Common merganser
Mergansers: December's ducks
December 10, 2010
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass
Ice fishing flourishes on Westborough's ponds
February 28, 2014
Microtus pennsylvanicus
Meadow vole
A common but seldom seen creature
December 1, 2017
Microtus pinetorum
Woodland vole
A common but seldom seen creature
December 1, 2017
Mimulus ringens
Monkey-flower
Wet summer brings monkey-flowers
August 9, 2013
Mimus polyglottos
Northern mockingbird
Local mockingbirds sing & mimic for mates & territory
March 16, 2024
The catbird in the catbird seat
June 29, 2007
Misumena vatia
Goldenrod spider
Late-summer sneezing
August 20, 2004
Mitoura hesseli
Hessel's hairstreak butterfly
Westborough's Atlantic White Cedars
February 4, 2005
Mniotilta varia
Black-and-white warbler
A warbler that comes in black and white
May 29, 2020
Molothrus ater
Brown-headed cowbird
May brings yellow warblers to Westborough
May 23, 2008
The catbird in the catbird seat
June 29, 2007
Monarda didyma
Beebalm
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Monotropa hypopithys
Pinesap
Strange plants of summer
August 1, 2008
Monotropa uniflora
Indian-pipes
Strange plants of summer
August 1, 2008
Cardinal flower attracts hummingbirds, butterflies
July 22, 2005
Ghostly Indian-pipes by the path
July 23, 2004
Morpho peleides
Blue morpho
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
Mustela vison (formerly)
Mink
Wild minks in the woods
November 8, 2019
Mycorrhiza
Fungus-root partnership
Strange plants of summer
August 1, 2008
Myodes gappen
Redbacked vole
A common but seldom seen creature
December 1, 2017
Neovison vison
Mink
Wild minks in the woods
November 8, 2019
Nerodia sipedon
Northern water snake
Our local snakes are nothing to fear
June 22, 2022
The Number 2 Snake in Town
October 24, 2014
Nicotiana
Tobacco
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens
Red-spotted newt
A surprising salamander
August 29, 2008
Nymphaea odorata
Fragrant water-lily
Fragrant water-lilies linger on local ponds
September 12, 2008
Nymphalis antiopa
Mourning cloak
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
The first butterfly of spring
April 29, 2005
Time for pussy willows
March 5, 2005
Odocoileus virginianus
White-tailed deer
Winter marks return of deer-watching season
December 14, 2007
Oenothera biennis
Common evening primrose
Evening blossoms in the day
September 22, 2006
Ondatra zibethicus
Muskrat
Our diving muskrats
April 3, 2009
Operophtera bruceata
Bruce spanworm
Moths in winter
December 18, 2009
Operophtera brumata
Winter moth
Moths in winter
December 18, 2009
Oryctolagus cuniculus
European rabbit
The tale of the cottontail rabbit
June 23, 2006
Osmunda cinnamomea
Cinnamon fern
Big Ferns Unfurl
May 25, 2012
Osmunda claytoniana
Interrupted fern
Big Ferns Unfurl
May 25, 2012
Osmunda regalis
Royal fern
Big Ferns Unfurl
May 25, 2012
Otus asio
Screech owl
Who's out there?
February 26, 2010
Panax trifolius
Dwarf ginseng
A dwarf in the woods
May 30, 2014
Pandion haliaetus
Osprey
Ospreys return to Mill Pond
April 11, 2008
An owl in the nest
April 1, 2005
Panellus stipticus
Night light mushroom
Green-glowing Mushrooms
December 2, 2016
Papilio canadensis
Canadian tiger swallowtail
Tiger swallowtail butterflies
July 22, 2011
Papilio cresphontes
Giant swallowtail
Watch for this new butterfly
July 19, 2013
Papilio glaucus
Eastern tiger swallowtail
Tiger swallowtail butterflies
July 22, 2011
Papilio polyxenes
Black swallowtail
Black swallowtail caterpillar
A caterpillar's life
August 10, 2007
From caterpillar to butterfly
July 27, 2007
Papilio troilus
Spicebush swallowtail
Good things from spicebush
April 28, 2006
Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Virginia creeper
Virginia creeper and other autumn reds
October 5, 2012
Parus bicolor
Tufted titmouse
How birds stay warm on a cold winter's day
February 25, 2011
Passer domesticus
English sparrows
House sparrow
Watching house sparrows
February 19, 2016
Bluebirds in Westborough
May 26, 2006
Pectinatella magnifica
Bryozoans
Jelly ball animals
Moss animals
The case of the mysterious jelly balls
September 21, 2007
Penicillium chrysogenum
Blue-green mold
In the fridge
February 10, 2023
Penicillium notatum
Blue-green mold
In the fridge
February 10, 2023
Penicillium rubens
Blue-green mold
In the fridge
February 10, 2023
Penicillium rubrum
Blue-green mold
In the fridge
February 10, 2023
Phalacrocorax auritus
Double-crested cormorant
Black birds on Mill Pond are double-crested cormorants
May 1, 2015
Phasianus colchicus
Ring-necked pheasant
Fall's wild pheasants
November 15, 2022
Pheucticus ludovicianus
Rose-breasted grosbeak
A birdfeeder beauty
June 15, 2018
Pholiota aurivella
Onion-bagel mushroom
Mushroom Season
September 16, 2016
Photinus
Fireflies
See local fireflies at dusk
June 9, 2024
Photuris
Fireflies
See local fireflies at dusk
June 9, 2024
Phragmites americanus
American phragmites
Invasive phragmites and a native butterfly
September 25, 2015
Phragmites australis
Phragmites
Invasive phragmites and a native butterfly
September 25, 2015
Phyciodes tharos
Pearl crescent butterfly
Pearl crescent butterflies
July 4, 2008
Phytolacca americana
Pokeweed
Pokeweed for the birds
September 24, 2010
Picoides pubescens
Downy woodpecker
Woodpeckers in Westborough's Woods
January 26, 2007
Picoides villosus
Hairy woodpecker
Woodpeckers in Westborough's Woods
January 26, 2007
Pieris rapae
Cabbage white butterfly
A common fall butterfly
September 28, 2018
Pinicola enucleator
Pine grosbeak
Pine grosbeaks come to Westborough
February 8, 2013
Pinus strobus
Eastern white pine
Whose woods are these? A tribute to white pines
December 12, 2014
Pipilo erythrophthalmus
Towhee
A bird in decline
September 3, 2010
Piranga olivacea
Scarlet tanager
Scarlet tanagers in our forests
June 12, 2015
Plantago lanceolata
Plantain
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Plethodon cinereus
Redback salamander
WCLT's wildlife sightings page
March 18, 2011
Poanes viator
Broad-winged skipper
Invasive phragmites and a native butterfly
September 25, 2015
Podophyllum peltatum
Mayapple
Mayapple: a rare May wildflower
June 7, 2019
Poecile atricapilla
Black-capped chickadee
Chickadee
The season for baby birds
June 12, 2009
State bird speaks
February 13, 2009
Poecile atricapillus
Black-capped chickadee
The famous red-breasted nuthatch
November 9, 2007
Polygonia interrogationis
Question mark butterfly
Spotting butterflies in the fall
October 18, 2019
Polystichum acrostichoides
Christmas fern
Christmas fern in the woods
December 10, 2004
Pontederia cordata
Pickerel-weed
Pickerel-weed grows in the shallows
August 3, 2012
Popillia japonica
Japanese beetle
An invasive rose
June 15, 2007
Porzana carolina
Sora
Secretive marsh birds
June 28, 2013
Procyon lotor
Raccoon
Raccoons share our natural environment
November 5, 2010
Prunus
Chokecherry
Wild cherry
Wild plum
July is butterfly season
July 14, 2006
Pseudacris crucifer
Spring peeper
Tiny frogs herald springtime
April 14, 2006
Pterourus troilus
Spicebush swallowtail
Good things from spicebush
April 28, 2006
Pyractomena
Fireflies
See local fireflies at dusk
June 9, 2024
Pyrrharctia isabella
Isabella tiger moth
Woolly bear caterpillar
Woolly bears and winter
January 20, 2006
Quiscalus quiscula
Common grackle
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Who's who in those big flocks of blackbirds?
November 2, 2018
Rallus limicola
Virginia rail
Secretive marsh birds
June 28, 2013
Rana catesbeiana
Bullfrog
Bullfrogs in our ponds
September 7, 2007
Rana clamitans
Green frog
Bullfrogs in our ponds
September 7, 2007
Rana pipiens
Leopard frog
Frogs at our feet
August 13, 2010
Rana sylvatica
Wood frog
Vernal pool season
March 21, 2022
Visitors to our vernal pools
March 17, 2006
Signs of spring: Wood frogs and vernal pools
April 16, 2004
Regulus calendula
Ruby-crowned kinglet
Westborough's tiny winter bird
February 23, 2007
Regulus satrapa
Golden-crowned kinglet
Westborough's tiny winter bird
February 23, 2007
Rhexis virginica
Virginia meadow-beauty
Look for local late-summer beauties
September 10, 2023
Rhododendron catawbiense
Catawba rhododendron
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Rhus copalllinum
Shining sumac
Winged sumac
Sumac Season
August 30, 2019
Rhus glabra
Smooth sumac
Sumac Season
August 30, 2019
Rhus hirta
Staghorn sumac
Sumac Season
August 30, 2019
Rhus typhina
Staghorn sumac
Sumac Season
August 30, 2019
Rhus vernix
Poison sumac
Sumac Season
August 30, 2019
Robinia hispida
Bristly locust
A pretty but prickly escaped shrub
May 29, 2009
Robinia pseudoacacia
Black locust
A pretty but prickly escaped shrub
May 29, 2009
Rosa multiflora
Multiflora rose
An invasive rose
June 15, 2007
Salix
Willow
The first butterfly of spring
April 29, 2005
Salix discolor
Pussy willow
What's the first wildflower of spring?
April 9, 2010
Time for pussy willows
March 5, 2005
Salvia elegans
Pineapple sage
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Salvia guaranitica
Giant blue sage
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Sambucus nigra canadensis
Elderberry
Elderberries for wildlife
July 24, 2020
Satyrium calanus
Banded hairstreak
Seeing Small Butterflies
July 13, 2012
Satyrium liparops
Striped hairstreak
Seeing Small Butterflies
July 13, 2012
Satyrium titus
Coral hairstreak
July is butterfly season
July 14, 2006
Sayornis phoebe
phoebe
Phoebes come early and stay late
November 14, 2014
Scaphiopus holbrookii holbrookii
Spadefoot toad
Visitors to our vernal pools
March 17, 2006
Schinia florida
Primrose moth
Pink moths?
September 12, 2014
Schizachyrium scoparium
Little bluestem grass
Grass appreciation
November 30, 2018
Sciurus carolinensis
Gray squirrel
Blue butterfly days
April 6, 2007
A white squirrel sighting
July 28, 2006
Squirrel tales
February 18, 2005
Scleroderma citrinum
Pigskin poison puffball
Puffballs in the grass
October 14, 2005
Scolopax minor
American woodcock
Sky-dancing Woodcocks
March 24, 2017
Seiurus aurocapilla
Ovenbird
The ovenbird's mid-summer sound
August 14, 2015
Setophaga coronata
Yellow-rumped warbler
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Setophaga discolor
Prairie warbler
Prairie warblers sing a catchy song
April 29, 2016
Setophaga pinus
Pine warbler
Pine warblers arrive on schedule
May 4, 2018
Setophaga ruticilla
Redstart
Redstarts are one of our warblers
May 28, 2021
Sialia sialis
Bluebird
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Winter bluebirds brighten Westborough
February 1, 2008
Bluebirds in Westborough
May 26, 2006
Sisyrinchium
Blue-eyed grass
Wild iris in the woods
June 11, 2004
Sitta canadensis
Red-breasted nuthatch
Watch for wildflowers in Westborough
April 25, 2008
The famous red-breasted nuthatch
November 9, 2007
Nuthatches in the winter
February 3, 2006
Sitta carolinensis
White-breasted nuthatch
The famous red-breasted nuthatch
November 9, 2007
Nuthatches in the winter
February 3, 2006
Solanum dulcamara
Bittersweet nightshade
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Solanum melongena
Eggplant
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Solanum tuberosum
Potato
Not-So-Deadly Nightshade
June 24, 2005
Solidago
Goldenrod
Late-summer sneezing
August 20, 2004
Solidago bicolor
Silverrod
A White Goldenrod
October 3, 2014
Solidago puberula
Downy goldenrod
A White Goldenrod
October 3, 2014
Speyeria aphrodite
Aphrodite fritillary
Our earliest wild violet
May 4, 2007
Speyeria cybele
Great spangled fritillary
great spangled fritillary butterfly
Spangled butterflies in local fields and gardens
July 21, 2022
Our earliest wild violet
May 4, 2007
Sphagnum
Sphagnum moss
An ancient and useful moss
April 29, 2011
Sphecius speciosus
Cicada-killer wasp
Cicada-killer wasps and summer's song
August 30, 2013
Sphyrapicus varius
Yellow-bellied sapsucker
A sign of spring: sapsuckers
March 9, 2023
Spigelia marilandica
Indian pink
Summer hummers
August 19, 2005
Spinus pinus
Pine siskin
Pine siskins visit Westborough this year
November 16, 2012
Spiranthes cernua
Nodding ladies'-tresses
September's wild orchid
September 16, 2005
Stereum ostrea
False turkey tail
Turkey tail season
November 4, 2011
Strix varia
Barred owl
Barred owls begin courting
February 3, 2012
Strobilomyces floccopus
Old man of the woods
Mushroom season brings colors & curiosities
September 14, 2012
Strymon melinus
Gray hairstreak
Seeing Small Butterflies
July 13, 2012
Sturnus vulgaris
European starling
European starlings
Starling
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Who's who in those big flocks of blackbirds?
November 2, 2018
The bird we love to hate
February 27, 2009
Bluebirds in Westborough
May 26, 2006
Sylvilagus floridanus
Eastern cottontail rabbit
The tale of the cottontail rabbit
June 23, 2006
Sylvilagus transitionalis
New England cottontail rabbit
The tale of the cottontail rabbit
June 23, 2006
Symplocarpus foetidus
Skunk cabbage
Corpse flower & local relatives
August 15, 2023
What's the first wildflower of spring?
April 9, 2010
Swamps in bloom
April 15, 2005
Tachycineta bicolor
Tree swallow
Eating on the wing
May 1, 2009
Tamias striatus
Chipmunk
Acorns and chipmunks
October 20, 2006
Tamiasciurus hudsonicus
Red Squirrel
Smart and feisty red squirrels
October 24, 2008
Squirrel tales
February 18, 2005
Tenodera aridifolia
Chinese mantid
Insect eaters of insects
October 27, 2017
Tetraopes tetraophthalmus
Milkweed beetle
Milkweed and butterflies in our meadows
July 8, 2005
Thalictrum thalictroides
Rue anemone
Watch for wildflowers in Westborough
April 25, 2008
Thamnophis sauritus
Ribbon snake
Westborough's snakes are harmless
June 20, 2008
Thamnophis sirtalis
Garter snake
Our local snakes are nothing to fear
June 22, 2022
Westborough's snakes are harmless
June 20, 2008
Thryothorus ludovicianus
Carolina wren
A loud little songbird
October 16, 2020
Thuja occidentalis
Northern white cedar
Westborough's Atlantic White Cedars
February 4, 2005
Tibicen canicularis
Cicada
Cicada-killer wasps and summer's song
August 30, 2013
Toxicodendron radicans
Poison ivy
Feasting on poison ivy
November 7, 2008
Toxicodendron vernix
Poison sumac
Sumac Season
August 30, 2019
Toxostoma rufum
Brown thrasher
The catbird in the catbird seat
June 29, 2007
Trametes versicolor
Turkey tail
Turkey tail season
November 4, 2011
Trichostema dichotomum
Eastern bluecurls
The minty month of August
August 15, 2008
Trichostema lanceolatum
Western bluecurls
The minty month of August
August 15, 2008
Trientalis borealis
Starflower
Spot the seven-pointed stars of starflower
May 9, 2014
Trifolium arvense
Rabbit's foot clover
Rabbit's foot clover is fun for kids
August 24, 2012
Trillium cernuum
Nodding trillium
Treasure-hunting for trilliums
June 6, 2008
Tringa solitaria
Solitary sandpiper
A Trip to the Shore
August 17, 2022
Tsuga canadensis
Eastern hemlock
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Tsuga caroliniana
Carolina hemlock
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Tsuga heterophylla
Western hemlock
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Tsuga mertensiana
Mountain hemlock
Alien Invader Targets Our Hemlocks
December 13, 2006
Turdus migratorius
American robin
Birds feast on berries in the natural landscape
November 16, 2024
Watching for robins
February 24, 2012
Early birds get the dried fruit
March 3, 2006
Tussilago farfara
Coltsfoot
What's the first wildflower of spring?
April 9, 2010
Typha latifolia
Cattail
Cattails
Cattails going to fluff
November 19, 2021
Return of the red-wings signals spring
March 23, 2007
Invasion of the Purple Loosestrife
August 6, 2004
Ulmus americana
American elm
The first butterfly of spring
April 29, 2005
Ursus americanus
Black bear
Get ready for black bears
September 19, 2024
Utricularia
Bladderworts
Carnivorous floating flowers
August 24, 2007
Utricularia cornuta
Horned bladderwort
Carnivorous floating flowers
August 24, 2007
Utricularia inflata
Swollen bladderwort
Carnivorous floating flowers
August 24, 2007
Utricularia purpurea
Purple bladderwort
Carnivorous floating flowers
August 24, 2007
Uvularia sessilifolia
Wild oats
Treasure-hunting for spring wildflowers
April 13, 2012
Vaccinium angustifolium
Blueberry (low bush)
Blooming blueberries
May 4, 2012
Vaccinium corymbosum
Blueberry (high bush)
Blooming blueberries
May 4, 2012
Vanessa cardui
Painted lady
A good year for butterflies
May 28, 2010
Goldfinches and summer's thistles
August 25, 2006
Vanessa virginiensis
American lady
A good year for butterflies
May 28, 2010
Vermivora chrysoptera
Golden-winged warbler
The drama of nature's changes
May 20, 2011
Vermivora pinus
Blue-winged warbler
The drama of nature's changes
May 20, 2011
Viburnum
Viburnums
Turtlehead and butterflies
September 8, 2006
Viola cucullata
Marsh blue violet
Native wild violets in wet and dry places
May 18, 2007
Viola fimbriatula
Northern downy violet
Our earliest wild violet
May 4, 2007
Viola pedata
Birdfoot violet
Native wild violets in wet and dry places
May 18, 2007
Viola sagittata
Northern downy violet
Our earliest wild violet
May 4, 2007
Vulpes vulpes
Red fox
Foxy neighbors
May 15, 2009
Zenaida macroura
Mourning dove
The mourning dove's coo
March 18, 2005
Zonotrichia albicollis
White-throated sparrow
Interesting white-throated sparrows pass through soon
September 18, 2020
Zygoptera
Damselflies
Dragons and damsels
July 18, 2008
(A Nature Notes quiz)
WCLT’s Nature Notes Quiz on 2023
January 11, 2024
WCLT's Annual Nature Notes Quiz
January 17, 2023
WCLT's Annual Nature Notes Quiz
January 17, 2022
Who's out there? Take Westborough Community Land Trust's quiz
January 22, 2021
Who am I? WCLT’s Annual Nature Notes Quiz
January 24, 2020
Challenge yourself with the Nature Notes quiz
January 18, 2019
Get ready for nature in 2018 with a memory-jogging Nature Notes quiz
January 12, 2018
Review your nature knowledge - Nature Notes quiz 2016
January 27, 2017
Name the wildlife - Nature Notes quiz
January 15, 2016
What's my name? Take the Nature Notes quiz
January 30, 2015
Who am I? Take the Nature Notes quiz (2013)
January 17, 2014
Try the annual Nature Notes quiz (2012)
January 18, 2013
Quiz Yourself on Nature (2011)
January 13, 2012
Take the annual nature quiz (2010)
January 14, 2011
Quiz Yourself on Nature (2009)
January 15, 2010
Quiz Yourself on Nature (2008)
January 16, 2009
Prepare to notice nature in 2008 by taking the 2007 Nature Notes quiz
January 18, 2008
Think you know nature? (2006)
January 12, 2007
Think you know nature? (2005)
January 6, 2006
Think you know nature? (2004)
January 7, 2005
(Astronomy)
Looking Up
March 20, 2009
(Autumn leaf colors)
Virginia creeper and other autumn reds
October 5, 2012
(Baby birds)
The season for baby birds
June 12, 2009
(Books)
Nature in books for the holidays
November 16, 2023
Nature Book Holiday Gift Ideas
November 20, 2020
Book gifts for nature lovers
December 7, 2012
(Climate change)
Talking climate change: How you can help
February 21, 2020
(Conservation in Westborough)
Conservation Highlights in Westborough
September 22, 2017
(Earthquakes)
Earthquakes in New England
December 9, 2011
(Earthstar)
Earthstars are unique mushrooms
August 14, 2018
(Environmentalist)
The legacy of Marjory Stoneman Douglas
April 6, 2018
(Geology of Westborough)
A mighty collision and much glaciation
May 12, 2006
(Gibbons 7th-graders use Nature Notes)
Nature Notes in the classroom
May 13, 2005
(Ice)
Ice is nice
January 30, 2009
(Moon)
Did you see the super blood wolf moon?
February 1, 2019
Moon over Westborough
February 29, 2008
(Mushrooms)
Connecting with wild mushrooms
October 19, 2022
Hunting for mushrooms with an expert
October 26, 2012
(Nature)
Celebrating nature’s special sites & special sights
September 16, 2022
(Poetry)
A poem for a winter day
February 9, 2018
(Pollinators)
Get to know the pollinators
March 9, 2018
(Signs of Spring)
Signs of Spring in February
February 19, 2021
(Wildlife)
Good tips from a wildlife veterinarian
February 20, 2015

Westborough Community Land Trust, PO Box 838, Westborough , MA 01581
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