Harvard Campus Nature Watch
Lone WILD TURKEY trots through several corners of University’s Cambridge campuses, including Harvard Yard, where the unusual bird nearly startles a jay-biking student off her bicycle, climaxing in frenzied rescue on JFK Street by Susan Tuers, HKS staffer. During the height of rush-hour traffic, she finds the bird lying on the pavement in the middle of the road, overwhelmed by the whizzing cars, busses and trucks. Dodging vehicles, Susan stirs the terrified turkey and herds it into the greenery next to Hicks Hall of Kirkland House, where it squawks in lonely confusion. As Susan put it, “Finally chasing my dog around things-- and trying to catch him when he thinks I’m just playing with him has paid off!”
Three Mourning Doves coo among the crab apples on the roof of Pusey and a male and female Cardinal joins them with the roses and lavender in beautiful bloom.
The cherry tree behind CGIS-South is in full Deep pink glory with a bumble bee in attendance and at least a dozen wasps feeding in the blossoms.
Winter-Spring drought produces an unexpected sighting in the Charles: Clear, silt- and algae-free early spring waters of Charles River reveal 30-year-old MG convertible perforated with hundreds of rust holes next to Newell Boat House. Harvard Police defer investigation to Massachusetts State Police, who send 15 patrol cars, boat, helicopter, and scuba divers to investigate. When no body or evidence of foul play is found, somewhat crestfallen police depart, leaving Harvard Athletics to deal with hulk.
Thanks to Campus Nature Watchers Annie Baldwin, Lydia Carmosino, Jane Collins, Michael Colliver, Erin Hoffman, Sonia Ketchian, Scott McDonald, Joe Shea, Susan Tuer, Ann Weissman!