It’s winter time on the Cumberland Plateau of southeast Tennessee, home of Jasper Highlands, Tennessee’s most scenic mountain community. Time for a crackling fire, a good novel, ballgames on TV, reflection on what matters, what once was, how beautiful winter … [Read more...]
A journal of all things nature from biologist Mark Bray...
Autumn Backyard Burglars – Taking What is Offered
Early autumn in southeast Tennessee. What a beautiful time of year. The leaves are beginning to turn on the tree-covered mountains – the nights are cooler – the deer have changed from their ‘red’ summer coat to the gray winter coat – migratory birds already on … [Read more...]
April 26th Nature Walk Summary
What a great way to enjoy a delightful, breezy spring Sunday afternoon on the Cumberland Plateau of southeast Tennessee! This post is a summary of the highlights of the recent Jasper Highlands Nature Walk... We met at Pat’s Summitt for introductory … [Read more...]
A Bird’s – Eye Look Back at Winter
It is not unusual for one to see a variety of birds on the Cumberland Plateau of southeast Tennessee, location of Jasper Highlands. John Thornton, developer of Jasper Highlands, recently spotted a pair of Golden Eagles while walking in Jasper Highlands and if … [Read more...]
Winter in Tennessee – Adjustments
When the temperature drops, we put on a coat. When our home becomes a bit uncomfortable, we adjust the thermostat or put another log on the fire. You get the idea...but what about the wild creatures of the Tennessee fields and forests? How do they make … [Read more...]
October 24th Nature Tour Summary
Friday, October 24th, was a great day for the ‘Nature Walk’ at Jasper Highlands. The day was seasonably warm with brilliant sunshine and a refreshing breeze...typical Plateau autumn weather. The event began with a brief welcome ceremony at Pat’s Summit … [Read more...]
A Day on Jasper Highlands…
Often, when it comes to natural things, the more we know about our surroundings, the more we appreciate the harmony and beauty of nature. Recently, I had the opportunity to spend much of a brilliant summer day walking the trails on Jasper … [Read more...]
The Color of Jasper Highlands…In Case You Missed It
There are a lot of reasons to appreciate spring in southeast Tennessee....warmer weather, garden time, wildlife becomes more active, the shades of green return to the mountains, thoughts turn to fishing, hiking, outdoor activities, and the beautiful woodland … [Read more...]
Tennessee’s Most Beautiful Resident?
This post was not easy! The three photographs represent the end result of a lot of spent energy and sneaking through the forest! The bird in the photographs is the male Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea). Two things I know: The Scarlet Tanager is is one of … [Read more...]
More Natural Wonders From Tennessee
Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis) Have you heard a strange noise in the sky recently? In addition to the beautiful scenery, southeast Tennessee is blessed with an array of outdoor recreational opportunities. There are multiple large lakes with great … [Read more...]
