Note From the Publisher
In the early spring and summer you see turtles crossing the road. It appears they are seeking the company of others. I see groups of turtles gathered at certain spots along the road, in little coves, lined up on logs. When my son and I near those turtle hangouts we always yell,“ Turtles!” Drivers must brake for turtles, or go around them a lot around here, because I don’ t see many accident victims.
When I have a close encounter with wildlife in Brown County I remind myself how lucky I am to live in a place where birds and animals want to come. It is the biggest green space in Indiana and continues to attract all forms of nature including tourists and artists. This place is special.
— Cindy Steele •
Inc.
Cindy Steele, publisher P. O. Box 157 Helmsburg, IN 47435 812-988-8807
www. ourbrowncounty. com ourbrown @ bluemarble. net
copyright 2015 Thanks, Mom, for making it happen!
There are many pockets of paradise in Brown County where the woodlands put on a show of wildlife and vegetation. Most of these spaces are off the beaten path and require four-wheel-drive vehicles for navigation. But, surprisingly, the main highways also give glimpses into our diverse ecosystems.
On three separate occasions last month I was privileged to witness a bald eagle soaring over the state highway— twice on the way to Bean Blossom, and another on the way to Bloomington. The huge white head and tail can’ t be mistaken for a hawk. It is stunning to realize the size of the bird’ s body. I had to pull over to watch its flight.
The big birds don’ t seem to mind the highways in Brown County and may even use the pavement as their hunting ground. I often see blue herons passing over between Helmsburg and Bean Blossom. I once saw an owl sitting on top of a speed limit sign in our neighborhood. Red Tailed Hawks perch on the power lines that parallel 45 to stalk their prey every day, any time of the year. Of course, the turkey vultures congregate on the highway, too, when deer make deadly mistakes.
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July / August 2015 • Our Brown County 13