Peregrine Falcons Return to Land Between The Lakes

Peregrine Falcons Return to Land Between The Lakes

Submitted by John Pollpeter Soaring above the iron works of the Eggner’s Ferry Bridge, peregrine falcons survey their winter kingdom.  Each winter, these once rare birds return to Land Between The Lakes following migrating waterfowl. Also known as “duck hawks,” these crow-sized falcons are the fastest animal on Earth; diving at 240 mph.  These “speed demons” use high perches such as cliffs, bridges, or buildings to launch a successful hunt.  Peregrines tend to focus on hunting birds and often catch their prey on the wing. The Eggner’s Ferry Bridge, as well as the other bridges near Land Between The Lakes,…
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Armadillos Have Arrived

Armadillos Have Arrived

By John Pollpeter, Lead Naturalist at  Woodlands Nature Station People associate Land Between The Lakes with eagles, pelicans, white-tail deer, turkeys, and now – armadillos.  Our region boasts the largest population of the nine-banded armadillo in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. So let’s learn about our newest resident: How did they get here? Armadillos have been naturally migrating north from two southern populations --Texas and Florida.  Armadillos are native to Texas.  In the late 19th century a resident of Florida introduced a small population into Florida. These two populations later merged and have been marching north ever since. Rivers and streams…
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