TRR photo by Sandy Long The endearing Mortimer is a northern saw-whet owl residing at the Delaware Valley Raptor Center in Milford, PA. Unable to return to the wild due to an injury, Mortimer serves as an education bird, helping to increase understanding of birds of prey through programs like the one scheduled on Saturday, October 14, 7:00 p.m., Bushkill Center, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (570/828-2253).

Northern saw-whet owl: a feathered phantom

At roughly three to four ounces and between seven to eight inches in length, the northern saw-whet owl is the northeast region’s smallest owl. Similar in size to an adult human’s clenched fist, with brilliant yellow eyes and a black beak, the tiny bird appears somewhat larger in flight due to its 17- to 22-inch wing span.

click for story

Mum’s the Word

Who says the season for flowers in the garden is over? The fall foliage isn’t the only color left in the garden for those who planned ahead last spring, and if you haven’t, now is a great time to make notes for next year. Meanwhile, you can still add some temporary color by popping some fall mums into the empty spots around the yard.

click for story

Keep an eye out for hawks

By SCOTT RANDO

STOKES STATE FOREST, NJ—September marked the start of the fall migration of hawks and other raptors through the region. Over 250 early migrants were spotted on September 25 at the summit of Sunrise Mountain at Stokes State Forest.

click for story