Scott Reed grew up in Rochester, NY. He lived in Hinesburg, VT for twenty-one years until he moved with his wife Penelope to the Fairview area. He has two children, Taylor age 27 and Alice who is 24. He also has two dogs and an african gray parrot. Scott spends a lot of time outdoors hiking and bird watching. Every September he makes the drive with his wife to spend a few hours at the vertical bog on the BRP. 

by Linda Martinson Blue Ridge Naturalist

The month of September is a transition from summer to fall, from long days and leisurely evenings to the fall equinox and then shorter days and longer nights. And there are other corresponding natural changes in September, for example in leaf colors and in insect, bird and mammal behavior. The katydids and other night-singing insects are increasingly muted, and the hummingbirds are getting ready for their long migration to somewhere far far away. I’ve increased the proportion of sugar to water in our feeder to help the little guys pack on some weight (about 25-40% more) for their trip. The bears are also packing on weight in preparation for their hibernation in the winter, and there are plenty of acorns for them this year. The goldenrods and asters in the field by the river are glorious this year, and it’s been a good season for Monarch butterflies there, too.

Every month I choose a photographer to send me eight to fifteen photos and a short bio. The photos are amazing! It really helps me with refreshing my memory for identification of flora and fauna. This month I decided to post the “Heart of the BRNN” which are photos of our members on our fun and informative outings! Please do not be shy and share any of your photos! If you would like to be “Photographer of the Month” please email me. You do not need to be a professional photographer! My email is publicrealations@brnnetwork.org