Please slow down!

UPPER DELAWARE RIVER REGION — This dainty yellow warbler lost its life along Route 97 in Pond Eddy, NY after colliding with an automobile. While it’s not always possible to avoid a collision, by slowing down, the life you save might sing you to sleep or brighten your morning with beautiful birdsong.

At this time of year, wildlife in our region are more active than usual, with feeding and reproductive activities causing an increase in road crossings. Fawns will be plentiful as the season progresses.

Ease up on the pedal while motoring around; less gas will be consumed, more collisions can be avoided, and the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Upper Delaware River region will increase.

And while you’re out there, keep watch along the ground for natural treasures like these petite nests, created from an assortment of dried grasses, pine needles, animal fur, feathers, lichen, moss, twigs and roots. Never collect a nest from a tree or shrub, as it might be someone’s home.