All Creatures Small

 Toad, Dragonfly, and Robin Eggs

We caught this lumpy little toad this month. We were able to take a few close up pictures and then turn him loose.

I believe this is and American Toad. In our area it could be a Fowler's Toad or American Toad and from what I have learned about the distinguishing features, I believe this is an American Toad.

Toad's eyes are so pretty. They look like they have glittering specks of gold in them.

I read that people long ago thought toads had jewels in their heads. I don't know who or when but I can see why they thought that.

Toads dig into the ground moving backwards with a specialized claw on their back feet. They burrow about 3 feet under the ground to hibernate. 

Toads are carnivores. Their diets contains crickets flies, slugs, worms, and basically any moving bug. Their prey has to be caught live. It is the movement that attracts their attention.

Toads tend to be more active at night and shelter during the day.

Toads can live about 10 years in the wild if they avoid predation and hazards. In captivity toads have lived past 30 years! I have read that they make good pets. They are easy to take care of and handle. They seem to have a certain level of character, too.

Bye Mr. Toad. Have a good life!

My son caught this amazing dragon fly on a chilly day at the park last month. 

It's colors were so brilliant and it's wings were so intricate.

My son was gentle with the dragon fly. Once we were done observing the little guy he was released and zipped away. What an amazing creature!

This year a robin couple built their nest in a lilac bush in our yard. The nest is so close to the ground. I was surprised that they chose that nesting spot. The children were able to watch the robins at work from the living room window.

Now the female is sitting on eggs. It will be exciting once they hatch!

Spring is a wonderful time of year! Seeing creation testify of God greatness is wonderful, too!

Transplanting Tomatoes and Peppers

 

My winter sowing milk jugs worked out great for my tomatoes and peppers this year.

I need to get them in the ground, but before I do I transplanted them into individual pots.

I knew that separating the plants was going to cause considerable root damage. I decided to separate them and put them into individual containers before I put them in the ground.

I just cut the tomatoes apart with the sharp edge of my dough scraper. It was pretty ruthless. I chopped them apart and put each section in a styrofoam cup.

I added more soil to cover the stem by an inch or so. That way the plant can put out more roots.

I ended up with 33 tomato plants and 12 bell peppers. They are doing well, praise the Lord. I am looking forward to getting them in the garden.