I am very much an amateur. I love the challenge of photographing and researching my observations. I learned my love of nature from my Mother. As a child we raised and released baby birds and rabbits that people brought to us. That was in the 1950's long before a license was needed. My brother collected insects so there were always some sort of critter living in our house.

I'm a retired mechanical engineer, and now have time to explore all the creatures and plants right at my own back door.
As a science volunteer at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, I get to help the biologists with their bird research.
I truly appreciate any help I can get on my identifications. With my lack of experience, I do make incorrect identifications and any help or corrections are greatly appreciated.