belwin, late july
field notes
summer 2026

overcast day at belwin conservancy. monarchs were everywhere, rabbits, voles. bluestem grass was over my head in some areas. felt quiet out.

observation deck at belwin conservancy on an overcast day, buffalos were visible but not super close. still took my breath away. there were groups of birds flying around them, their tales were swatting. we were the only ones there until we left and ran into some folks arriving who asked ‘can you see them?’

same weekend, different day, it was hot and sunny. we got out early to beat the heat, got stuck waiting for a train to pass on the way there. dog’s didn’t last too long, but gordy never likes to leave to go back into town. more people there than usual, though we didn’t really run into anyone. birds and bugs were loud ! saw a lot of either eastern bluebirds or blue bunting, i couldn’t tell because they were moving too quick and i’m not great with birds.