Bye-Bye Birdies
A More Grand Entrance
The DABG has expanded the area right before the double wooden gates leading to the Japanese Garden . This new entry was designed to provide a snapshot of what you might see in the Japanese Garden . The trees and shrubs in the landscaping are reminiscent of what is to come and the entry steps that lead to the upper parking lot guide visitors into the garden .
Interestingly enough , the Japanese Garden wall and gates were designed by Hoichi Kurisu , a master designer of Japanese gardens . The gate was designed in Japan , shipped to the U . S . and assembled by a carpenter from Japan .
A special thanks to the following people who designed and implemented this new entry : Steve Ulstad , Wylie Bledsoe , Mary Reuland , Barb Bishop , and Judy Curnan .
Also , a special thanks to Linda Claussen who provided the initial funding to get this garden started .
Bye-Bye Birdies
Eastern bluebirds visit the DABG each summer , nesting and breeding in boxes built expressly for them . The birds ’ flashy blue and orange colors and their musical two-note call make them a favorite of many birdwatchers .
Specially designed nesting boxes have been strategically mounted in “ Bluebird Watch ” areas to attract the beloved birds . In the spring , the male bluebird shows off his colors at the nesting cavity of his choosing , bringing nesting material to the hole . He will go in and out of the housing site , waving his wings and perching above the box or post to attract a mate . When a partner is determined , the female builds the nest and incubates the eggs .
A bluebird ’ s diet consists primarily of caterpillars , beetles , grasshoppers , spiders , wild fruit and berries . They have also been known to eat shrews , salamanders , snakes , lizards and tree frogs .
DABG volunteer and bird enthusiast Jeanette Callahan reports a count of two broods during the 2016 season with between 8 and 12 baby bluebirds fledged in the park . Welcome , little ones .
Usually , Iowa bluebirds migrate in October and we must say “ good-bye ” for a season . Returning bluebirds will be surprised to discover the smorgasbord of fruits and berries in the new Garden of Eat ’ n in the spring .
2016 Cleanup Day
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