A backside sleeping bag is the perfect choice for the outdoor enthusiast who takes their outdoor excursions to the extreme of cooler weather conditions. A quality piece of survival equipment that can withstand such cooler conditions requires a number of features and a high level of quality.
In order to produce such a superior item, much must go into the product by way of research and development to determine which properties make for a more reliable product and which do not. Those who choose a Backside sleeping bag will find that the research has led to an extremely fine product.
Since a backside sleeping bag is especially designed to keep campers and hikers incredibly warm in the coldest of climates, synthetic and natural insulations are used in their products with a fill power of 700-750 or more. Bags with this high of a fill power are ultra-toasty, more durable and last longer.
A backside sleeping bag can also be counted on to be amazingly light and compact even with the extra insulation added to the chest and footbox of the sleeping bag. A draft tube that runs the length of the sleeping bag will help to keep out a chilly draft and many of the models come with an adjustable draft collar that creates a seal keeping body heat in and cold drafts out. Models that come with a parka style hood help to retain even more heat.
The bag's durable seams are places on the bottom to keep out chilly winds and compatible zippers allow bags to be joined together to make for a larger sleeping space, a necessary tactic in extremely cold weather conditions. Highly breathable fabrics add to the comfort.
A backside sleeping bag can be found for all shapes and sizes, including children's sizes and youth sizes. Each style gives all the necessary protection a camper could want. Many campers and hikers find that the features, fill power and the bag's ability to compact as well as it does make the Backside sleeping bag worth every penny. The fact these bags can last for many seasons with proper care only increases their value even more.
Other cold weather sleeping bags may offer similar features but backside continues to deliver at a much better price, even if the bag is used only from time to time throughout the year. However, extensive use shows that this is a product that can take the wear and tear of a camping or hiking trip in cold climates and come out extremely well with no problems whatsoever.
About the Author
Tom Ambrozewicz is CEO/President of CampingManiac.com combines his love for the outdoors to help you with information that will enhance your camping experiences and make your adventures memorable. Check his latest bestseller book titled Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Camping, But Never Dared To Ask
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Basic Horse Care
How to find the horse that's right for you.
If you are inexperienced in dealing with horses, finding the right horse for you can be either a wonderful or a very discouraging experience.First of all, you need to ask yourself why do I want a horse and what am I looking for in a horse.Are you looking for a trail horse or a horse that you can show in competition.Prices will vary, starting around $800-$1000 for a pleasure (trail) horse to many, many thousands for a well trained show horse.
The first mistake I see over and over is people want to buy for how the horse looks.You can find the most beautiful horse until you get on his back and that beauty can turn real ugly fast.For some reason, this is the hardest thing to get new horse buyers to grasp,however after they have bought and taken their new horse home,they quickly understand what I meant.In my opinion, the horse's looks, (color,etc), should be one of the last things that you consider.
Find a horse that fits you in size and in the horse's training and ability for what you want the horse to be able to do.While observing the horse,make a mental note of the horse's ground manners.While standing, does he stand still or does he/she try to walk away, crowd your space,do they spook with your slightest hand movements.Will the horse load onto a trailer?A scared or nervous horse can seriously hurt if not kill you.In time, after alot of care and love a horse WILL begin to trust you.You can almost recognize the moment that they start to trust you.However in the beginning,the horse doesn't know you or trust you.
When buying a horse don't think for a minute that it's like buying a dog.A dog is a "predator" animal and a horse is a "prey" animal.For all the horse knows, you are there to eat him.A horse is also a "flight" animal.They will run away in a scary situation and if cornered they will hurt you.
With all that said, after you have chosen the horse that you want, do NOT ever purchase the horse on your first visit, unless you have personal pryor knowledge of the horse's personality.I am sorry to say that alot of horse owners are only in it for the money and they will "dope" the animal.So often, the horse you buy is not the same horse the next day.Make several UNANNOUNCED trips back to see the horse before you put up your money.If after several trips back and the horse's behaviour is consistent,then you can pretty well judge the horse's true personality.
After you have purchased your horse, take careful note to the environment from which you are taking him from and compare it to where you are going to relocate the animal.For example if you take him from a pasture that the grass is thin and relocate the animal to a thick, lush and green pasture,be sure to limit his time in the pasture.Each day you can increase the amount of time the horse stays in the pasture.Alot of times if you just put a horse into a pasture that has alot more grass than they are used to, the horse may "founder" or "collick".Both illnesses can be fatal.A good place to research horse ailments is " http://www.horseadvice.com".This site lists the various illnesses as well as symptoms to look for and the best treatment advice.
If you place the horse on your own private property make sure he has plenty of clean water.Always check to make sure the horse is still eating and drinking water.Horse's are "creatures of habit" and moving them can be very traumatic for some.If the horse was really attached to a herd before you moved him,they may go through "separation anxiety".As with any living creature, there is safety in numbers and when you take the horse from that, they feel extremely vulnerable.
If you decide to change the horse's feed , do so very gradually.They are strong animals with a poor digestive system.Just remember that any change to a horse's diet MUST be done slowly. If your horse is to be kept in a stall at times, be sure that it is "mucked" (cleaned) daily.If not, the horse is more apt to catch a bacterial infection.
Have your horse's hooves trimmed every 6 weeks and if you plan to ride them in a hard or rocky area,have shoes put on their front hooves.This gives the animal more ground clearance and helps to prevent stone bruises that can turn into an abcess.One of the saddest things you'll ever see is a horse with bad legs or feet.They have to support alot of weight for long periods of time.
In closing, if I could offer you any helpful advice at all it would be to remain calm around your horse.Speak in a calm voice, don't swing your arms suddenly around their head.Just remember to spend as much time on the ground as you do on their back.If everytime you got your horse from the pasture was to ride them, soon they'll not let you get your hands on them.Take time to let them graze on the "greener" grass on the other side of the fence.Spend plenty of time grooming the horse.This is what builds trust and once you have their trust, this is when you will really enjoy your new horse.It can be so rewarding.
I have been lucky enough to spend my days with 32 horses on a 80 acre ranch.I have grown to love and respect every single one of them.Iam the caretaker at Meadowchase Farm in Myrtle Beach,SC.
For the absolute best and most humane training guide go to:
http://www.horsewhisperer.com/index.html?aid=342
Register for the Free mini course while there.
About the Author
Dallas has been handling and caring for horses professionally for over 6 years.He currently manages Meadow Chase Horse Farm in Conway,SC. Dallas is also a Coast Guard approved Charter Boat Captain and is currently operating his own charter business.He is owner of "Reel Job Charters" and is located in Myrtle Beach,SC.
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Personal profile pages, Hunting, Fishing, Free, Videos, Photos, Stories, Live Chat
ty-breiz shopping general
Our website offers a range of wonderful gifts for various occasions such as holidays, weddings, birt
ty-breiz shopping general
Our website offers a range of wonderful gifts for various occasions such as holidays, weddings, birt
If you are inexperienced in dealing with horses, finding the right horse for you can be either a wonderful or a very discouraging experience.First of all, you need to ask yourself why do I want a horse and what am I looking for in a horse.Are you looking for a trail horse or a horse that you can show in competition.Prices will vary, starting around $800-$1000 for a pleasure (trail) horse to many, many thousands for a well trained show horse.
The first mistake I see over and over is people want to buy for how the horse looks.You can find the most beautiful horse until you get on his back and that beauty can turn real ugly fast.For some reason, this is the hardest thing to get new horse buyers to grasp,however after they have bought and taken their new horse home,they quickly understand what I meant.In my opinion, the horse's looks, (color,etc), should be one of the last things that you consider.
Find a horse that fits you in size and in the horse's training and ability for what you want the horse to be able to do.While observing the horse,make a mental note of the horse's ground manners.While standing, does he stand still or does he/she try to walk away, crowd your space,do they spook with your slightest hand movements.Will the horse load onto a trailer?A scared or nervous horse can seriously hurt if not kill you.In time, after alot of care and love a horse WILL begin to trust you.You can almost recognize the moment that they start to trust you.However in the beginning,the horse doesn't know you or trust you.
When buying a horse don't think for a minute that it's like buying a dog.A dog is a "predator" animal and a horse is a "prey" animal.For all the horse knows, you are there to eat him.A horse is also a "flight" animal.They will run away in a scary situation and if cornered they will hurt you.
With all that said, after you have chosen the horse that you want, do NOT ever purchase the horse on your first visit, unless you have personal pryor knowledge of the horse's personality.I am sorry to say that alot of horse owners are only in it for the money and they will "dope" the animal.So often, the horse you buy is not the same horse the next day.Make several UNANNOUNCED trips back to see the horse before you put up your money.If after several trips back and the horse's behaviour is consistent,then you can pretty well judge the horse's true personality.
After you have purchased your horse, take careful note to the environment from which you are taking him from and compare it to where you are going to relocate the animal.For example if you take him from a pasture that the grass is thin and relocate the animal to a thick, lush and green pasture,be sure to limit his time in the pasture.Each day you can increase the amount of time the horse stays in the pasture.Alot of times if you just put a horse into a pasture that has alot more grass than they are used to, the horse may "founder" or "collick".Both illnesses can be fatal.A good place to research horse ailments is " http://www.horseadvice.com".This site lists the various illnesses as well as symptoms to look for and the best treatment advice.
If you place the horse on your own private property make sure he has plenty of clean water.Always check to make sure the horse is still eating and drinking water.Horse's are "creatures of habit" and moving them can be very traumatic for some.If the horse was really attached to a herd before you moved him,they may go through "separation anxiety".As with any living creature, there is safety in numbers and when you take the horse from that, they feel extremely vulnerable.
If you decide to change the horse's feed , do so very gradually.They are strong animals with a poor digestive system.Just remember that any change to a horse's diet MUST be done slowly. If your horse is to be kept in a stall at times, be sure that it is "mucked" (cleaned) daily.If not, the horse is more apt to catch a bacterial infection.
Have your horse's hooves trimmed every 6 weeks and if you plan to ride them in a hard or rocky area,have shoes put on their front hooves.This gives the animal more ground clearance and helps to prevent stone bruises that can turn into an abcess.One of the saddest things you'll ever see is a horse with bad legs or feet.They have to support alot of weight for long periods of time.
In closing, if I could offer you any helpful advice at all it would be to remain calm around your horse.Speak in a calm voice, don't swing your arms suddenly around their head.Just remember to spend as much time on the ground as you do on their back.If everytime you got your horse from the pasture was to ride them, soon they'll not let you get your hands on them.Take time to let them graze on the "greener" grass on the other side of the fence.Spend plenty of time grooming the horse.This is what builds trust and once you have their trust, this is when you will really enjoy your new horse.It can be so rewarding.
I have been lucky enough to spend my days with 32 horses on a 80 acre ranch.I have grown to love and respect every single one of them.Iam the caretaker at Meadowchase Farm in Myrtle Beach,SC.
For the absolute best and most humane training guide go to:
http://www.horsewhisperer.com/index.html?aid=342
Register for the Free mini course while there.
About the Author
Dallas has been handling and caring for horses professionally for over 6 years.He currently manages Meadow Chase Horse Farm in Conway,SC. Dallas is also a Coast Guard approved Charter Boat Captain and is currently operating his own charter business.He is owner of "Reel Job Charters" and is located in Myrtle Beach,SC.
del.icio.us
Furl
Technorati
Blinklist
Spurl
Everywhere Else
-->
Online Outdoor Profiles
Personal profile pages, Hunting, Fishing, Free, Videos, Photos, Stories, Live Chat
ty-breiz shopping general
Our website offers a range of wonderful gifts for various occasions such as holidays, weddings, birt
ty-breiz shopping general
Our website offers a range of wonderful gifts for various occasions such as holidays, weddings, birt
Tips in Buying a Bird watching telescope
Many families entertain the idea of getting a pet at one time or another. Sometimes it is the children that insist that their lives will not be complete without a friendly pet to have fun with. The first thing you need to do when identifying birds is to learn how to recognise a certain group of birds like warblers, flycatchers, hawks, owls and wrens. These all share certain similarities. As you get better at this you will be able to distinguish a certain species from the group as a whole.
Bird cages are the type of thing that "you don't go cheap twice". If you go cheap once, you'll be sure to never do that again! Here is a feature that is often overlooked: bird-proof door locks.
Even if you don't need to break your cage all the way down, it's handy to be able to pull a portion of the cage off to clean it without having to get out the tools. Good quality cages literally snap in & out of place without the need for any tools at all!
Bird cages are the type of thing that "you don't go cheap twice". If you go cheap once, you'll be sure to never do that again! Here is a feature that is often overlooked: bird-proof door locks.
Even if you don't need to break your cage all the way down, it's handy to be able to pull a portion of the cage off to clean it without having to get out the tools. Good quality cages literally snap in & out of place without the need for any tools at all!
How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info Know What Species to Expect. There are approximately 900 species of birds in the United States and recognizing each of them is nearly impossible. So when you visit an area, do a little research first.
Tips in Buying a Bird Watching Telescope
Bird watching is considered to be one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the United States. To date, there are more than 50 million members and the number is still growing.
It doesn¡¯t take much to be a bird enthusiast. The individual just needs to know the different species and have a bird watching telescope around to be able to see this creature from a distance. Some people prefer to use a pair of binoculars rather than a telescope. This is because it is easier to hold and view using both eyes instead of using just one.
Regardless of the type chosen, the two are not that different since both allow the viewer to see a far greater distance than the naked eye. Before buying, the hobbyist will have to determine certain requirements in choosing the right model that will be used for bird watching.
Bird watching is considered to be one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the United States. To date, there are more than 50 million members and the number is still growing.
It doesn¡¯t take much to be a bird enthusiast. The individual just needs to know the different species and have a bird watching telescope around to be able to see this creature from a distance. Some people prefer to use a pair of binoculars rather than a telescope. This is because it is easier to hold and view using both eyes instead of using just one.
Regardless of the type chosen, the two are not that different since both allow the viewer to see a far greater distance than the naked eye. Before buying, the hobbyist will have to determine certain requirements in choosing the right model that will be used for bird watching.
1. The person should check how much money could be used to buy the bird watching telescope. Those who have no problems can buy the best being sold in the market. Those who don¡¯t have enough can settle for another brand or purchase a used one instead.
If you have an inexpensive pair of binoculars you are not getting the most out of your viewing. Today¡¯s technologies come at a price and they provide crucial benefits in wildlife viewing.
Though authentic antique cages are pleasing to the eye, they are not the best home for your bird. Many antique bird cages are treated with chemicals or paints that can be toxic to your bird.
Perhaps many people think that owning a bird is reserved for the wild at heart or certainly for those living in a tropical climate.
Just where to hang the feeders? In general, it is good to hang these feeders in any part of the garden where there is no direct exposure to sunlight and where the wind will not be able to shake the feeder.
And here's why; when you decide to squeeze a cage into a specific place in your house this almost always takes away from the well-being of your bird!
If you have an inexpensive pair of binoculars you are not getting the most out of your viewing. Today¡¯s technologies come at a price and they provide crucial benefits in wildlife viewing.
Though authentic antique cages are pleasing to the eye, they are not the best home for your bird. Many antique bird cages are treated with chemicals or paints that can be toxic to your bird.
Perhaps many people think that owning a bird is reserved for the wild at heart or certainly for those living in a tropical climate.
Just where to hang the feeders? In general, it is good to hang these feeders in any part of the garden where there is no direct exposure to sunlight and where the wind will not be able to shake the feeder.
And here's why; when you decide to squeeze a cage into a specific place in your house this almost always takes away from the well-being of your bird!
2. To help the individual make that decision, it would be a good idea to check out some bird watching magazines. Some hobbyists will offer the reader opinions on the type of telescopes worth buying.
3. Telescopes can be big and bulky or can be light and collapsible. Those who want to go bird watching should get a model that is easy to transport and assemble with minimum difficulty.
This is because the hobbyist doesn¡¯t simply stay in one place to view birds but has to move around to catch different species during the trip.
This is because the hobbyist doesn¡¯t simply stay in one place to view birds but has to move around to catch different species during the trip.
4. It is hard to hold a telescope and wait for a bird to land on a tree; it would be easier if it had
mounting. Some of these telescopes already have this included in the package while other retailers sell the mounting separately.
The mounting to be purchased doesn¡¯t have to be expensive so the money saved can be used on other accessories such as optics.
The mounting to be purchased doesn¡¯t have to be expensive so the money saved can be used on other accessories such as optics.
5. It would be a good idea to get a telescope that has interchangeable optics. This allows an individual to see farther than conventional binoculars which can only see the birds at a limited range.
The bird watching telescope is the most important thing to have to enjoy this hobby. The person should follow these tips to be able to get the right one to enjoy this recreational activity. Okay, most people are not informed enough to make a good decision when buying a bird cage. That's really not good, because if you're buying a good quality cage it isn't going to be cheap, and if you are paying a decent amount of money, you need to get the best product you can get for that money!
Avoid hollow bars! Especially if you're getting a medium to large bird. Any decent sized bird will bend or possibly chew through a hollow cage bar. If you are a new bird watcher, we urge you to joing a bird watching forum. When buying online, however, be sure to weigh in the shipping costs to determine if you are truly saving over buying local.
We may have the best intentions to let our bird spend most of his time out of the cage. But there will still be times when he needs to be in his cage.
After you have brought your bird bath home, find a place to set up the bath well within sight of your outdoor and indoor spaces.
About the Author
How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info
We may have the best intentions to let our bird spend most of his time out of the cage. But there will still be times when he needs to be in his cage.
After you have brought your bird bath home, find a place to set up the bath well within sight of your outdoor and indoor spaces.
About the Author
How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info
Bird Watchers kit
Many families entertain the idea of getting a pet at one time or another. Sometimes it is the children that insist that their lives will not be complete without a friendly pet to have fun with. Then there is the posture of a bird. Believe it or not, birds perch differently. For example, a Flycatcher perches vertically (straight up and down) when on a branch while a Vireo perches horizontally (almost lying down) when on the same branch.
Bird cages are the type of thing that "you don't go cheap twice". If you go cheap once, you'll be sure to never do that again! Here is a feature that is often overlooked: bird-proof door locks.
Let me explain why; when a cage is fairly easy to clean, it not only cuts down on the amount of time you spend cleaning, it also extends the life of your cage. If your cage is an extreme pain to clean and it takes many hours you will put off cleaning it for longer amounts of time and this will drastically reduce the life of your cage (especially a powder-coated bird cage).
Know What Species to Expect. There are approximately 900 species of birds in the United States and recognizing each of them is nearly impossible. So when you visit an area, do a little research first.
The Kit for a bird watcher
Bird watching is fun and exciting as long as we see birds and can identify the species that we see. Sometimes it is no fun when we hardly see the birds (probably because the birds sensed you) and then when we finally see one we can't identify what type of bird it was.
Birds have different chirps, sizes, colors, feathers and characteristics that a novice may find difficult to pinpoint. Don¡¯t you ever wonder how some people can easily tell the species of the bird just by listening at it? For the trained ear each type of bird speaks a different language; this is why they can easily tell you the type of bird without batting an eyelash. It is better if you have a partner to go bird watching with you. Sometimes others see what we miss so this would be a good way to see more species of birds. Your partner can also help you jot down time frames and the specific places you have seen a certain type of bird.
Before you start your bird watching do your assignment. Learn more about the common birds in your area. You need to look at the characteristics of the birds, their sounds, where they usually are, and what they look like.
And here's why; when you decide to squeeze a cage into a specific place in your house this almost always takes away from the well-being of your bird!
Basically, that's all you have to do in making hummingbird feeders. It depends on you how many hummingbird feeders you want to make, but if you want to enjoy watching more than just one hummingbird, you can make a number of these feeders and tie them into a mobile and place them in your backyard.
Think about the ability of your family to care for a pet and then only choose a bird that you could really care for and enjoy.
First of all, a bird cage cover blocks the cool air, keeping your bird warmer in the winter. It also blocks some sound, and may help your bird rest easier. Perhaps most importantly, the bird cage cover keeps out the light, persuading your bird to sleep until you are ready to wake up. Try this before you go; lower your binoculars to your side and very quickly raise them to find and follow a jet airliner across the sky. After only a few attempts, you¡¯ll get good at quickly acquiring your target. Quite often, birds are visible for only a few seconds, practice to become proficient.
As a birdwatcher there are things you must take along with you and these are commonly the following:
Binoculars ¨C you might want to consider binoculars that are powerful enough to see from a long distance since birds most of the time won't just land on your shoulder to say hello.
Digital Camera ¨C so you can have pictures of the different birds you see in your watching area. Of course the normal cameras won¡¯t be of much help since their zoom is not far enough: a good camera with very strong lenses will do the trick.
Pencil ¨C you will need this when you want to jot down what you saw.
Paper ¨C use this to write down everything you see. It would be better if you drew a simple sketch of a bird on the page. Have this photocopied and enjoy pointing out the different parts of the birds you see. Use a separate sheet of paper for every type of bird. Also jot down how many of this type you saw during your stay there.
You are now ready. Take your kit with you and enjoy a wonderful day with the birds! Remember be patient and don¡¯t disturb them, just watch.
Okay, most people are not informed enough to make a good decision when buying a bird cage. That's really not good, because if you're buying a good quality cage it isn't going to be cheap, and if you are paying a decent amount of money, you need to get the best product you can get for that money! How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info Do not buy a generic bird cage, it will most likely come without a manual, without a tech support phone number, and without a decent warranty.
Department stores and discount stores sometimes offer sales on bird cages. Check the advertising section of your local newspaper. There isn¡¯t a more important purchase to be made for your new bird, then your bird¡¯s cage. Well-made cages of high quality materials are expensive but are often safer and will be worth it over the life span of your bird. To draw more birds during bird watching, consider using a fountain bird bath.
If you decide to choose a bird as your first or next family pet, take the time to educate your entire family on the bird. After you have taken the time to learn, teach your family important facts about the bird and about the needs the bird will have when it becomes a part of your family.
About the Author
How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info
Bird cages are the type of thing that "you don't go cheap twice". If you go cheap once, you'll be sure to never do that again! Here is a feature that is often overlooked: bird-proof door locks.
Let me explain why; when a cage is fairly easy to clean, it not only cuts down on the amount of time you spend cleaning, it also extends the life of your cage. If your cage is an extreme pain to clean and it takes many hours you will put off cleaning it for longer amounts of time and this will drastically reduce the life of your cage (especially a powder-coated bird cage).
Know What Species to Expect. There are approximately 900 species of birds in the United States and recognizing each of them is nearly impossible. So when you visit an area, do a little research first.
The Kit for a bird watcher
Bird watching is fun and exciting as long as we see birds and can identify the species that we see. Sometimes it is no fun when we hardly see the birds (probably because the birds sensed you) and then when we finally see one we can't identify what type of bird it was.
Birds have different chirps, sizes, colors, feathers and characteristics that a novice may find difficult to pinpoint. Don¡¯t you ever wonder how some people can easily tell the species of the bird just by listening at it? For the trained ear each type of bird speaks a different language; this is why they can easily tell you the type of bird without batting an eyelash. It is better if you have a partner to go bird watching with you. Sometimes others see what we miss so this would be a good way to see more species of birds. Your partner can also help you jot down time frames and the specific places you have seen a certain type of bird.
Before you start your bird watching do your assignment. Learn more about the common birds in your area. You need to look at the characteristics of the birds, their sounds, where they usually are, and what they look like.
And here's why; when you decide to squeeze a cage into a specific place in your house this almost always takes away from the well-being of your bird!
Basically, that's all you have to do in making hummingbird feeders. It depends on you how many hummingbird feeders you want to make, but if you want to enjoy watching more than just one hummingbird, you can make a number of these feeders and tie them into a mobile and place them in your backyard.
Think about the ability of your family to care for a pet and then only choose a bird that you could really care for and enjoy.
First of all, a bird cage cover blocks the cool air, keeping your bird warmer in the winter. It also blocks some sound, and may help your bird rest easier. Perhaps most importantly, the bird cage cover keeps out the light, persuading your bird to sleep until you are ready to wake up. Try this before you go; lower your binoculars to your side and very quickly raise them to find and follow a jet airliner across the sky. After only a few attempts, you¡¯ll get good at quickly acquiring your target. Quite often, birds are visible for only a few seconds, practice to become proficient.
As a birdwatcher there are things you must take along with you and these are commonly the following:
Binoculars ¨C you might want to consider binoculars that are powerful enough to see from a long distance since birds most of the time won't just land on your shoulder to say hello.
Digital Camera ¨C so you can have pictures of the different birds you see in your watching area. Of course the normal cameras won¡¯t be of much help since their zoom is not far enough: a good camera with very strong lenses will do the trick.
Pencil ¨C you will need this when you want to jot down what you saw.
Paper ¨C use this to write down everything you see. It would be better if you drew a simple sketch of a bird on the page. Have this photocopied and enjoy pointing out the different parts of the birds you see. Use a separate sheet of paper for every type of bird. Also jot down how many of this type you saw during your stay there.
You are now ready. Take your kit with you and enjoy a wonderful day with the birds! Remember be patient and don¡¯t disturb them, just watch.
Okay, most people are not informed enough to make a good decision when buying a bird cage. That's really not good, because if you're buying a good quality cage it isn't going to be cheap, and if you are paying a decent amount of money, you need to get the best product you can get for that money! How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info Do not buy a generic bird cage, it will most likely come without a manual, without a tech support phone number, and without a decent warranty.
Department stores and discount stores sometimes offer sales on bird cages. Check the advertising section of your local newspaper. There isn¡¯t a more important purchase to be made for your new bird, then your bird¡¯s cage. Well-made cages of high quality materials are expensive but are often safer and will be worth it over the life span of your bird. To draw more birds during bird watching, consider using a fountain bird bath.
If you decide to choose a bird as your first or next family pet, take the time to educate your entire family on the bird. After you have taken the time to learn, teach your family important facts about the bird and about the needs the bird will have when it becomes a part of your family.
About the Author
How do bird watchers strive to entice birds to their yards? Find out at http://www.bird-watch.info
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Blue Ridge Camping
Travelling the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern United States will continually surprise you as you cruise past first a folk arts fair, then a museum to Appalachian culture, then a breath-taking shimmering lake. Stretching all the way from Pennsylvania to Georgia, the mountains are a world of possibilities, and Blue Ridge RV camping is one of the best ways to see them.
You can travel about in the comfort of your own place, at your one pace, and stay near to the things you want to see. And some of the attractions of the Blue Ridge area are uniquely suited to RVing.
One of the fastest growing business and attractions within the Blue Ridge region is wine-making. While California may still be the viticultural behemoth of the United States, the east coast wine industries is its plucky younger brother who boasts more than a few surprises.
Blue Ridge RV camping can be an excellent way to tour the wineries of the region, as you can set up camp and then head out to see what the local area offers. After you've sipped all that one area has to offer, picking up and heading to the next spot is as easy as turning turning your key in the ignition.
Blue Ridge RV camping isn't restricted to wine touring, however. Many people who head to the mountains have something else in mind completely: a bit of blue-grass music!
Mountain music sites abound throughout the Appalachian range, and those taking a Blue Ridge RV camping trip will not be disappointed by the range available to them. A bit of research before your trip will pay off, however, as many of the best acts and venues are small time and not easily booked too far in advance.
Some of the best places to see blue grass musicians are in fact local coffee houses such as the Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. Give places near your itinerary a ring and see what acts are scheduled during your stay.
Blue Ridge RV Camping is also one of the best ways to have an outdoor adventure. You can travel with your RV through some of the most beautiful landscapes in North America on your way to an exciting white water rafting or a relaxing fishing trip.
White water rafting attracts many people to the Blue Ridge Mountains each year, and for thrill seekers it is a hard thing to beat. For the more subdued, there are numerous creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes that are home to hundreds of thousands if not millions of fish all waiting for a chance at your bait during your next Blue Ridge RV Camping trip.
Be sure to make reservations for rafting trips, as growing popularity in recent years makes reservations essential.
About the Author
Tom Ambrozewicz is CEO/President of CampingManiac.com combines his love for the outdoors to help you with information that will enhance your camping experiences and make your adventures memorable. Check his latest bestseller book titled Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Camping, But Never Dared To Ask
You can travel about in the comfort of your own place, at your one pace, and stay near to the things you want to see. And some of the attractions of the Blue Ridge area are uniquely suited to RVing.
One of the fastest growing business and attractions within the Blue Ridge region is wine-making. While California may still be the viticultural behemoth of the United States, the east coast wine industries is its plucky younger brother who boasts more than a few surprises.
Blue Ridge RV camping can be an excellent way to tour the wineries of the region, as you can set up camp and then head out to see what the local area offers. After you've sipped all that one area has to offer, picking up and heading to the next spot is as easy as turning turning your key in the ignition.
Blue Ridge RV camping isn't restricted to wine touring, however. Many people who head to the mountains have something else in mind completely: a bit of blue-grass music!
Mountain music sites abound throughout the Appalachian range, and those taking a Blue Ridge RV camping trip will not be disappointed by the range available to them. A bit of research before your trip will pay off, however, as many of the best acts and venues are small time and not easily booked too far in advance.
Some of the best places to see blue grass musicians are in fact local coffee houses such as the Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West Virginia. Give places near your itinerary a ring and see what acts are scheduled during your stay.
Blue Ridge RV Camping is also one of the best ways to have an outdoor adventure. You can travel with your RV through some of the most beautiful landscapes in North America on your way to an exciting white water rafting or a relaxing fishing trip.
White water rafting attracts many people to the Blue Ridge Mountains each year, and for thrill seekers it is a hard thing to beat. For the more subdued, there are numerous creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes that are home to hundreds of thousands if not millions of fish all waiting for a chance at your bait during your next Blue Ridge RV Camping trip.
Be sure to make reservations for rafting trips, as growing popularity in recent years makes reservations essential.
About the Author
Tom Ambrozewicz is CEO/President of CampingManiac.com combines his love for the outdoors to help you with information that will enhance your camping experiences and make your adventures memorable. Check his latest bestseller book titled Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Camping, But Never Dared To Ask
Homebuilt Ultralight Aircrafts
You have heard about them - home built ultralight airplanes and helicopters. If you wonder what "home built" means, I can assure you it is exactly what you think - they are really aircrafts which you can build at your home, garage or home workshop.
Building your aircraft yourself has many advantages: you don't need to pay for features that you don't want, you may use parts and colors of your likeness (of course the parts need to work together) and in general you will save money.
Depending on your level of experience, there are several ways to go ahead with building your flying vehicle. You can build "from scratch" or from kit. Building from kit also may require different effort and knowledge - some kits are almost finished ultralight airplanes, while others are just an airframe and few parts. I'll review these options in details below.
Build Your Aircraft From Scratch
Ok, obviously it will take an eternity to build an airplane really from nothing. Building "from scratch" means not to use kit - but you still needs parts and materials.
Unless you are very knowledgeable to develop your own project, you can not manage without a construction plan and manual. There are thousands of models home built aircrafts and plans for them are sold on the Net. Usually the price of such plans is between $30 and $130. The plans usually include schemes, work tables, test cases and material list.
If you search the Net for "home built aircraft plans" you will find a lot of sites offering such products. Building your airplane "from scratch" may take a lot of time and might be a challenge for your motivation and construction skills. If you don't like to build things, better don't go this way.
Building Ultralight Airplane Or Helicopter From Kit
The kits are well documented and tested packages of parts ready to build your aircraft. Most ultralight airplane and helicopter models are available as kits - in fact there are many which are sold only as kits and not in completed version.
Building from kit is cheaper than buying a ready airplane, but more expensive than building from scratch. However the kits are saving you a lot of time - depending on the level of their completeness of course. Some kits are just an airframe and parts - and you must build it all. Others are almost completed airplanes and you have very little to do.
Just like when building your aircraft alone, if you consider buying and ultralight airplane kit make sure that you don't lack motivation to work on it. Usually you have to be prepared for 500 - 1000 hours of work.
You can find out more about the ultralight kits at http://ultralight-airplanes.info
Popular Home Built Airplanes And Helicopters
There are literally thousands of model developments for the aircraft home builders. But few of the models have gained a lot of popularity and worth a look unless you have anything specific in mind.
The "G-1 ultralight helicopter" is one place heli which is often built without a cabin or has a very simple plastic cabin.
"Scorpion-133" is one of the most popular ultralight helicopters. It's construction plans are sold for around $130. You can also find this model to be sold as a ready to fly aircraft.
If you are on low budget, consider the "Indian Ultralight Helicopter" - it's been advertised with it's low cost which is under $8,000. (can be found at http://www.indianhelicopters.com/helicopter.htm)
"Legal Eagle" is one of the greatest home built ultralight airplanes (more information at http://www.ultralightnews.com/plansbuyerguide/legaleagle-aircraftplans.html).
Probably the cheapest and easiest to built experimental aircraft is the Powered Paradigler which can cost under $2,000.
Building your ultralight airplane yourself or from a kit can be great experience and fun. However you should consider the time, instruments and skills that it requires. And before doing anything at all, do check your country law about experimental/home built aircrafts so you know what kind of licenses are required.
About the Author
Bobby Handzhiev manages a website about Ultralight Aviation - http://ultralight-airplanes.info/
Building your aircraft yourself has many advantages: you don't need to pay for features that you don't want, you may use parts and colors of your likeness (of course the parts need to work together) and in general you will save money.
Depending on your level of experience, there are several ways to go ahead with building your flying vehicle. You can build "from scratch" or from kit. Building from kit also may require different effort and knowledge - some kits are almost finished ultralight airplanes, while others are just an airframe and few parts. I'll review these options in details below.
Build Your Aircraft From Scratch
Ok, obviously it will take an eternity to build an airplane really from nothing. Building "from scratch" means not to use kit - but you still needs parts and materials.
Unless you are very knowledgeable to develop your own project, you can not manage without a construction plan and manual. There are thousands of models home built aircrafts and plans for them are sold on the Net. Usually the price of such plans is between $30 and $130. The plans usually include schemes, work tables, test cases and material list.
If you search the Net for "home built aircraft plans" you will find a lot of sites offering such products. Building your airplane "from scratch" may take a lot of time and might be a challenge for your motivation and construction skills. If you don't like to build things, better don't go this way.
Building Ultralight Airplane Or Helicopter From Kit
The kits are well documented and tested packages of parts ready to build your aircraft. Most ultralight airplane and helicopter models are available as kits - in fact there are many which are sold only as kits and not in completed version.
Building from kit is cheaper than buying a ready airplane, but more expensive than building from scratch. However the kits are saving you a lot of time - depending on the level of their completeness of course. Some kits are just an airframe and parts - and you must build it all. Others are almost completed airplanes and you have very little to do.
Just like when building your aircraft alone, if you consider buying and ultralight airplane kit make sure that you don't lack motivation to work on it. Usually you have to be prepared for 500 - 1000 hours of work.
You can find out more about the ultralight kits at http://ultralight-airplanes.info
Popular Home Built Airplanes And Helicopters
There are literally thousands of model developments for the aircraft home builders. But few of the models have gained a lot of popularity and worth a look unless you have anything specific in mind.
The "G-1 ultralight helicopter" is one place heli which is often built without a cabin or has a very simple plastic cabin.
"Scorpion-133" is one of the most popular ultralight helicopters. It's construction plans are sold for around $130. You can also find this model to be sold as a ready to fly aircraft.
If you are on low budget, consider the "Indian Ultralight Helicopter" - it's been advertised with it's low cost which is under $8,000. (can be found at http://www.indianhelicopters.com/helicopter.htm)
"Legal Eagle" is one of the greatest home built ultralight airplanes (more information at http://www.ultralightnews.com/plansbuyerguide/legaleagle-aircraftplans.html).
Probably the cheapest and easiest to built experimental aircraft is the Powered Paradigler which can cost under $2,000.
Building your ultralight airplane yourself or from a kit can be great experience and fun. However you should consider the time, instruments and skills that it requires. And before doing anything at all, do check your country law about experimental/home built aircrafts so you know what kind of licenses are required.
About the Author
Bobby Handzhiev manages a website about Ultralight Aviation - http://ultralight-airplanes.info/
Flyfishing with midges
Midges are probably the most overlooked food source of trout fly fishing. It is understandable I suppose, they have no season, no cloud like hatches, no recognizable features. In short, they have no charisma, yet they are the blue collar trout food. Steady, reliable, and workmanlike, providing up to 22% of trout's annual diet, they play a vital role in the health of a river's or lake's trout population. And yet they are often ignored by trout fly fishers.
Part of the reason for this omission is their size; midges are tiny, not always but usually. And many fly fishers have an inherent fear of going small. Light tippets snap easily, fishing in the breeze is difficult; longs cast are frustrating, even tying the tiny thing on the tippet is difficult especially in the winter when midges are usually the only game in town. Well for the last difficulty think EZ-TY Junior, it will eliminate much frustration threading those light tippets. For the strongest tippet that is the easiest to cast in 6x or 7x try Frog Hair, it can literally mean the difference between a fish and a broken tippet, plus nothing casts better and lays a fly down nicer. This wasn't meant to be a shameless plug for products but if it keeps you fishing longer than I feel the products are worth a mention.
The midge pupa is probably the most important stage of the midge. Midges hung up in the surface film, Suspended Midge, provide easy pickings for trout. As do emerging midges, try Chirnomid Pupa. It is not uncommon to see frenzied trout feeding on something we can't see; this is the time to try these. Tailwaters often provide excellent winter time hatches of midges due to their relative constant temperatures. Midges tend to emerge in pools tailouts, eddys or other slack water areas.
The larva stage is often overlooked, and that is a shame. The BH Zebra Midge and the Disco Midge have earned their place in my vest as constant producers. While the midge larva is a slim meal at best they are prevalent, and they are mobile in this larva stage. Dead drifting a midge is often a great searching technique that produces fish time and again. Any time fishing is slow going small is often the answer, and is the first thing I try in the winter. Rig a small split shot a foot or so above the fly to get it down in the fish's cone of vision.
In lakes you must provide the retrieve or action yourself. Easily the most common mistake to make is fishing these too fast. In fact I don't know if it is possible to fish it too slow. A twitch and then a rest is all you need. Sometimes it can try the patience but the reward is big lake fish on tiny flies.
The careful observer can view the mating process, often time the males will cluster the female, creating a life raft of delicacies for the lucky trout. This process is best imitated with the Griffith Gnat or the CDC Griffith Gnat.
The adult midge pattern covers not only midges but also tiny mayflies, anytime surface action is in progress and you can't see the hatch the midges are probably the catalyst, although tiny Baetis hatches are often confused with midges. It really does not matter as the adult midge pattern will cover both quite nicely.
It takes loads of patience and a delicate hand but landing a monster trout during one of these tiny hatches is a reward that is hard to duplicate. And for winter dry fly fishing nothing is equal to the midge.
Midges are probably the most overlooked food source of trout fly fishing. It is understandable I suppose, they have no season, no cloud like hatches, no recognizable featuresIn short, they have no charisma, yet they are the blue collar trout food.Steady, reliable, and workmanlike, providing up to 22% of trout's annual diet, they play a vital role in the health of a river's or lake's trout populationAnd yet they are often ignored by trout fly fishers.
Part of the reason for this omission is their size; midges are tiny, not always but usuallyAnd many fly fishers have an inherent fear of going small.Light tippets snap easily, fishing in the breeze is difficult; longs cast are frustrating, even tying the tiny thing on the tippet is difficult especially in the winter when midges are usually the only game in townWell for the last difficulty think EZ-TY Junior, it will eliminate much frustration threading those light tippetsFor the strongest tippet that is the easiest to cast in 6x or 7x try Frog Hair, it can literally mean the difference between a fish and a broken tippet, plus nothing casts better and lays a fly down nicer.This wasn't meant to be a shameless plug for products but if it keeps you fishing longer than I feel the products are worth a mention.
The midge pupa is probably the most important stage of the midge.Midges hung up in the surface film, Suspended Midge, provide easy pickings for trout. As do emerging midges, try Chirnomid Pupa. It is not uncommon to see frenzied trout feeding on something we can't see; this is the time to try these. Tailwaters often provide excellent winter time hatches of midges due to their relative constant temperatures. Midges tend to emerge in pools or other slack water areas.
The larva stage is often overlooked, and that is a shame. The BH Zebra Midge and the Disco Midge have earned their place in my vest as constant producers. While the midge larva is a slim meal at best they are prevalent, and they are mobile in this larva stage. Dead drifting a midge is often a great searching technique that produces fish time and again.Any time fishing is slow going small is often the answer, and is the first thing I try in the winter. Rig a small split shot a foot or so above the fly to get it down in the fish's cone of vision.
In lakes you must provide the retrieve or action yourself. Easily the most common mistake to make is fishing these too fast. In fact I don't know if it is possible to fish it too slow. A twitch and then a rest is all you need. Sometimes it can try the patience but the reward is big lake fish on tiny flies.
The careful observer can view the mating process, often time the males will cluster the female, creating a life raft of delicacies for the lucky trout. This process is best imitated with the Griffith Gnat or the CDC Griffith Gnat. adult midge pattern covers not only midges but also tiny mayflies, anytime surface action is in progress and you can't see the hatch the midges are probably the catalyst, although tiny Baetis hatches are often confused with midges. It really does not matter as the adult midge pattern will cover both quite nicely.
It takes loads of patience and a delicate hand but landing a monster trout during one of these tiny hatches is a reward that is hard to duplicate. And for winter dry fly fishing nothing is equal to the midge.
About the Author
Cameron Larsen is owner of Big Y Fly Co, at www.bigyflyco.com.
Part of the reason for this omission is their size; midges are tiny, not always but usually. And many fly fishers have an inherent fear of going small. Light tippets snap easily, fishing in the breeze is difficult; longs cast are frustrating, even tying the tiny thing on the tippet is difficult especially in the winter when midges are usually the only game in town. Well for the last difficulty think EZ-TY Junior, it will eliminate much frustration threading those light tippets. For the strongest tippet that is the easiest to cast in 6x or 7x try Frog Hair, it can literally mean the difference between a fish and a broken tippet, plus nothing casts better and lays a fly down nicer. This wasn't meant to be a shameless plug for products but if it keeps you fishing longer than I feel the products are worth a mention.
The midge pupa is probably the most important stage of the midge. Midges hung up in the surface film, Suspended Midge, provide easy pickings for trout. As do emerging midges, try Chirnomid Pupa. It is not uncommon to see frenzied trout feeding on something we can't see; this is the time to try these. Tailwaters often provide excellent winter time hatches of midges due to their relative constant temperatures. Midges tend to emerge in pools tailouts, eddys or other slack water areas.
The larva stage is often overlooked, and that is a shame. The BH Zebra Midge and the Disco Midge have earned their place in my vest as constant producers. While the midge larva is a slim meal at best they are prevalent, and they are mobile in this larva stage. Dead drifting a midge is often a great searching technique that produces fish time and again. Any time fishing is slow going small is often the answer, and is the first thing I try in the winter. Rig a small split shot a foot or so above the fly to get it down in the fish's cone of vision.
In lakes you must provide the retrieve or action yourself. Easily the most common mistake to make is fishing these too fast. In fact I don't know if it is possible to fish it too slow. A twitch and then a rest is all you need. Sometimes it can try the patience but the reward is big lake fish on tiny flies.
The careful observer can view the mating process, often time the males will cluster the female, creating a life raft of delicacies for the lucky trout. This process is best imitated with the Griffith Gnat or the CDC Griffith Gnat.
The adult midge pattern covers not only midges but also tiny mayflies, anytime surface action is in progress and you can't see the hatch the midges are probably the catalyst, although tiny Baetis hatches are often confused with midges. It really does not matter as the adult midge pattern will cover both quite nicely.
It takes loads of patience and a delicate hand but landing a monster trout during one of these tiny hatches is a reward that is hard to duplicate. And for winter dry fly fishing nothing is equal to the midge.
Midges are probably the most overlooked food source of trout fly fishing. It is understandable I suppose, they have no season, no cloud like hatches, no recognizable featuresIn short, they have no charisma, yet they are the blue collar trout food.Steady, reliable, and workmanlike, providing up to 22% of trout's annual diet, they play a vital role in the health of a river's or lake's trout populationAnd yet they are often ignored by trout fly fishers.
Part of the reason for this omission is their size; midges are tiny, not always but usuallyAnd many fly fishers have an inherent fear of going small.Light tippets snap easily, fishing in the breeze is difficult; longs cast are frustrating, even tying the tiny thing on the tippet is difficult especially in the winter when midges are usually the only game in townWell for the last difficulty think EZ-TY Junior, it will eliminate much frustration threading those light tippetsFor the strongest tippet that is the easiest to cast in 6x or 7x try Frog Hair, it can literally mean the difference between a fish and a broken tippet, plus nothing casts better and lays a fly down nicer.This wasn't meant to be a shameless plug for products but if it keeps you fishing longer than I feel the products are worth a mention.
The midge pupa is probably the most important stage of the midge.Midges hung up in the surface film, Suspended Midge, provide easy pickings for trout. As do emerging midges, try Chirnomid Pupa. It is not uncommon to see frenzied trout feeding on something we can't see; this is the time to try these. Tailwaters often provide excellent winter time hatches of midges due to their relative constant temperatures. Midges tend to emerge in pools or other slack water areas.
The larva stage is often overlooked, and that is a shame. The BH Zebra Midge and the Disco Midge have earned their place in my vest as constant producers. While the midge larva is a slim meal at best they are prevalent, and they are mobile in this larva stage. Dead drifting a midge is often a great searching technique that produces fish time and again.Any time fishing is slow going small is often the answer, and is the first thing I try in the winter. Rig a small split shot a foot or so above the fly to get it down in the fish's cone of vision.
In lakes you must provide the retrieve or action yourself. Easily the most common mistake to make is fishing these too fast. In fact I don't know if it is possible to fish it too slow. A twitch and then a rest is all you need. Sometimes it can try the patience but the reward is big lake fish on tiny flies.
The careful observer can view the mating process, often time the males will cluster the female, creating a life raft of delicacies for the lucky trout. This process is best imitated with the Griffith Gnat or the CDC Griffith Gnat. adult midge pattern covers not only midges but also tiny mayflies, anytime surface action is in progress and you can't see the hatch the midges are probably the catalyst, although tiny Baetis hatches are often confused with midges. It really does not matter as the adult midge pattern will cover both quite nicely.
It takes loads of patience and a delicate hand but landing a monster trout during one of these tiny hatches is a reward that is hard to duplicate. And for winter dry fly fishing nothing is equal to the midge.
About the Author
Cameron Larsen is owner of Big Y Fly Co, at www.bigyflyco.com.
Saving Compass
There's nothing quite like disappearing off into the backcountry on your own. It's a rare opportunity to experience nature at its most peaceful, and is also a great challenge for a hiking enthusiast. It's also easy to get lost if you don't know how to navigate properly. You can navigate using a map, a compass or a GPS unit, or even combine them together. The key is making sure you know how to navigate successfully.
Once you get out into the peacefulness of the backcountry, it's very easy to get caught up in what you're doing, and not pay a lot of attention to where you are. You might be hiking, climbing, camping, hunting or fishing, and it's all good fun until you realize you're lost. So learning to navigate properly is vital. Yes, GPS units are handy and can literally be lifesavers, but it's a bad idea to place your safety in the hands of a piece of equipment with batteries that might die, or that can stop functioning if you drop it. So that's why you need to be able to navigate with a map and compass.
When it comes to navigating, there's one important thing to remember - navigate before you get lost! By the time you realize you're lost, it's a lot harder to work out where you are and how to get back to the main track. It's much simpler to navigate as you go. Then, you either won't get lost at all, or you should hopefully have at least some idea of where you are, even if you're not completely sure. Constantly refer to your compass to make sure you're going the right way. Wear your compass around your neck; don't stuff it in a pocket of your backpack.
Of course, there's not much point in pulling out your compass in the middle of the backcountry somewhere and trying to figure out what to do with it. You need to learn how to navigate successfully long before you leave town. It's too late once you're already lost! So find a class or a hiking club that runs classes, and learn the basics of navigating with a map and compass. If you can read a map properly, and combine that with compass skills, you should be able to find your way back from the wilderness without too much trouble.
There's one basic rule you need to remember when you're navigating with a compass - trust the compass. It's very easy to think that our instincts are more reliable, but the reality is that getting lost often is quite disorientating. Besides, if your instincts were that good, how did you get lost in the first place? Even if you're not lost, it's a good idea to get into the habit of relying on your compass, not yourself.
It can also be useful to orient north on the ground with north on the map, so they're both facing the same way. This makes it easier to identify items in the landscape on the map. Some people feel a bit silly turning the map around, but anything that makes navigating easier is worth doing.
The other thing you need to learn about is declination. Basically, declination is the difference between magnetic and true north. When you're navigating with a compass, declination can make a big difference to your results, so you need to understand it and learn how to compensate for it. Otherwise you could get lost even when you are using your compass. GPS systems usually compensate for declination automatically, but you can't rely on your GPS always functioning.
Heading out into the backcountry can be a wonderful experience, but it's a lot better if you can find your way using a map and a compass. Getting lost can really spoil your time with nature. So make sure you master the basic skills of navigation with a compass, and you'll be able to head off into the backcountry, confident of having a great time without any unnecessary problems.
About the Author
Steve Dolan loves to hike in the wilderness. Compasses are an essential. Click on Compasses and Compass Use to find out more and for great gear click Camping Gear and Tents
Once you get out into the peacefulness of the backcountry, it's very easy to get caught up in what you're doing, and not pay a lot of attention to where you are. You might be hiking, climbing, camping, hunting or fishing, and it's all good fun until you realize you're lost. So learning to navigate properly is vital. Yes, GPS units are handy and can literally be lifesavers, but it's a bad idea to place your safety in the hands of a piece of equipment with batteries that might die, or that can stop functioning if you drop it. So that's why you need to be able to navigate with a map and compass.
When it comes to navigating, there's one important thing to remember - navigate before you get lost! By the time you realize you're lost, it's a lot harder to work out where you are and how to get back to the main track. It's much simpler to navigate as you go. Then, you either won't get lost at all, or you should hopefully have at least some idea of where you are, even if you're not completely sure. Constantly refer to your compass to make sure you're going the right way. Wear your compass around your neck; don't stuff it in a pocket of your backpack.
Of course, there's not much point in pulling out your compass in the middle of the backcountry somewhere and trying to figure out what to do with it. You need to learn how to navigate successfully long before you leave town. It's too late once you're already lost! So find a class or a hiking club that runs classes, and learn the basics of navigating with a map and compass. If you can read a map properly, and combine that with compass skills, you should be able to find your way back from the wilderness without too much trouble.
There's one basic rule you need to remember when you're navigating with a compass - trust the compass. It's very easy to think that our instincts are more reliable, but the reality is that getting lost often is quite disorientating. Besides, if your instincts were that good, how did you get lost in the first place? Even if you're not lost, it's a good idea to get into the habit of relying on your compass, not yourself.
It can also be useful to orient north on the ground with north on the map, so they're both facing the same way. This makes it easier to identify items in the landscape on the map. Some people feel a bit silly turning the map around, but anything that makes navigating easier is worth doing.
The other thing you need to learn about is declination. Basically, declination is the difference between magnetic and true north. When you're navigating with a compass, declination can make a big difference to your results, so you need to understand it and learn how to compensate for it. Otherwise you could get lost even when you are using your compass. GPS systems usually compensate for declination automatically, but you can't rely on your GPS always functioning.
Heading out into the backcountry can be a wonderful experience, but it's a lot better if you can find your way using a map and a compass. Getting lost can really spoil your time with nature. So make sure you master the basic skills of navigation with a compass, and you'll be able to head off into the backcountry, confident of having a great time without any unnecessary problems.
About the Author
Steve Dolan loves to hike in the wilderness. Compasses are an essential. Click on Compasses and Compass Use to find out more and for great gear click Camping Gear and Tents
backyard wildlife
An Article About Encouraging Wildlife To Your Backyard by bill hirst
Many people want to encourage wildlife in their backyard. Are planning to improve your wildlife habitat? Great wildlife habitats just don't happen in your back lot or landscape. You need to plant the correct plants, shrubs, and trees. Knowledge is they key to great plant selection. This article will help you with selecting plants to improve your habitat for wildlife. Are you stumped about what to put in your native habitat? Do you like what you see in other landscapes but feel uncertain that the plants will do well in your native habitat? Many garden centers and nurseries have professional horticulturists on staff who will gladly answer your questions. However, be wary of great looking flowering plants. Nurseries often feature the plants that are blooming that week because they sell well. A plant might look great in the nursery, but it may not be a winner in your native habitat. Your wildlife doesn't care about beautiful flowers unless you are a bee. Bees are not what you want to attract.
A wildlife habitat site should provide some of the basic elements wildlife need to survive: food, water, cover or places for wildlife to raise their young. You will not always be able to do all three of these things at your site. Yet don't feel bad. It may not be necessary. You may not be able to provide enough feed for 5 deer but with careful plant selection a small area can provide cover for many times that number of deer. Selection - Grow native vegetation like locally native shrubs, trees and other plants that produce acorns, berries and other seeds to supply food for wildlife. For birds, feeders can supplement natural food sources. Your choice of plants must first deal with what will grow on your site. Then you must decide what type of plants you want. The type of plant will determine the spacing and thus the number of plants needed. Some plants will take more work than others. I suggest you should select plants that grow fast. If it takes 15 years for an oak to start to produce a lot of acorns, do you want to wait that long? Some fast growing plants will produce shelter and feed at a fast rate. One such plant is the Viburnum. It is easy to grow. It will grow in most soil types and can take deer damage better than most plants. The uses for viburnums are as numerous as the species available. Around the home landscape, viburnums can be used as hedges, screens, and specimen plants. These plants are an excellent additions to wildlife plantings. Several viburnums are native to Pa and suitable for naturalized areas. There are well over 25 species in cultivation and most viburnums provide excellent, year-round interest. Beautiful flower clusters appear in the spring, followed by ornamental fruit in late summer and colorful foliage in the fall. Most viburnums perform best in well-drained soils and full to part-sun. However, several grow well in partial shade and wet areas. They range in size from 4- to 6-foot-tall shrubs to small, 15- to 20-foot trees. Some have fragrant flowers, others produce edible berries. Many provide food for birds in winter.
When I was in the 8th grade I would go fishing along the Delaware River near Lambertville at night. I would camp along the river bank and fish into the wee hours of the night. I am always drifting back to those childhood memories when I pass a river birch tree that is highlighted by lights at night. The night time interest that this tree expresses can help capture moments for you. The main feature of this medium sized spreading tree is its colorful peeling bark. This builds up on the stem and main branches in soft curling layers of orange, pink, Grey and brown. Another great advantage of this species is its tolerance of wet soil and seasonal flooding making it an ideal pond or riverbank tree. Specimens often develop multiple stems which increases the attractiveness its shaggy bark. As an ornamental tree it also has bright green, toothed leaves and long yellow clusters of catkins in early spring. It will have a spreading root system that will check erosion. It is hardy and will seldom blow down. The plant is native to the eastern states from Massachusetts to Florida. The range continues along the Gulf of Mexico and into Texas. Besides, River birch tree groves are a favorite resting place for White Tailed deer.
Birch (Betula spp.) is composed of 30 to 50 species growing in Asia, North America, and Europe. All species look alike microscopically. The word betula is the classical Latin name of birch. The important species are yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), sweet birch (B. lenta), and paper birch (B. papyrifera). Other birches of some commercial importance are river birch (B. nigra), gray birch (B. populifolia), and western paper birch (B. papyrifera var. commutata).
The Dura Heat Birch grows to 25' in Zone 5. It is a superior river birch selected for heat tolerance, creamy white exfoliating bark plus borer and leaf spot resistance. Particularly effective when clumped together. Butter yellow fall foliage.
Yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) is the most valuable native birch. It is recognized by the yellowish-bronze exfoliating bark. This how it gets its name. The inner bark is aromatic and has a flavor of wintergreen. Other names are gray silver birch, grey birch and swamp birch. This birch is a slow-growing long-lived tree is found with other hardwoods and conifers on moist well-drained soils. Many of its native range is uplands and mountain ravines. It is an important source of lumber and a good browse plant for deer. Other wildlife feed on the buds and stems.
See our many web sites at:http://www.zone5trees.com , http://www.highlandhillfarm and http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.greengiantarbs.com http://www..HuntingRelics.com
About the Author
Bill grows trees and plants on his farm in Doylestown Pa. Sign up for his newsletter at http://www.seedlingsrus.com/123456signup.html or visit his web sites at http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.zone5trees.com or http://www.huntingrelics.com
Many people want to encourage wildlife in their backyard. Are planning to improve your wildlife habitat? Great wildlife habitats just don't happen in your back lot or landscape. You need to plant the correct plants, shrubs, and trees. Knowledge is they key to great plant selection. This article will help you with selecting plants to improve your habitat for wildlife. Are you stumped about what to put in your native habitat? Do you like what you see in other landscapes but feel uncertain that the plants will do well in your native habitat? Many garden centers and nurseries have professional horticulturists on staff who will gladly answer your questions. However, be wary of great looking flowering plants. Nurseries often feature the plants that are blooming that week because they sell well. A plant might look great in the nursery, but it may not be a winner in your native habitat. Your wildlife doesn't care about beautiful flowers unless you are a bee. Bees are not what you want to attract.
A wildlife habitat site should provide some of the basic elements wildlife need to survive: food, water, cover or places for wildlife to raise their young. You will not always be able to do all three of these things at your site. Yet don't feel bad. It may not be necessary. You may not be able to provide enough feed for 5 deer but with careful plant selection a small area can provide cover for many times that number of deer. Selection - Grow native vegetation like locally native shrubs, trees and other plants that produce acorns, berries and other seeds to supply food for wildlife. For birds, feeders can supplement natural food sources. Your choice of plants must first deal with what will grow on your site. Then you must decide what type of plants you want. The type of plant will determine the spacing and thus the number of plants needed. Some plants will take more work than others. I suggest you should select plants that grow fast. If it takes 15 years for an oak to start to produce a lot of acorns, do you want to wait that long? Some fast growing plants will produce shelter and feed at a fast rate. One such plant is the Viburnum. It is easy to grow. It will grow in most soil types and can take deer damage better than most plants. The uses for viburnums are as numerous as the species available. Around the home landscape, viburnums can be used as hedges, screens, and specimen plants. These plants are an excellent additions to wildlife plantings. Several viburnums are native to Pa and suitable for naturalized areas. There are well over 25 species in cultivation and most viburnums provide excellent, year-round interest. Beautiful flower clusters appear in the spring, followed by ornamental fruit in late summer and colorful foliage in the fall. Most viburnums perform best in well-drained soils and full to part-sun. However, several grow well in partial shade and wet areas. They range in size from 4- to 6-foot-tall shrubs to small, 15- to 20-foot trees. Some have fragrant flowers, others produce edible berries. Many provide food for birds in winter.
When I was in the 8th grade I would go fishing along the Delaware River near Lambertville at night. I would camp along the river bank and fish into the wee hours of the night. I am always drifting back to those childhood memories when I pass a river birch tree that is highlighted by lights at night. The night time interest that this tree expresses can help capture moments for you. The main feature of this medium sized spreading tree is its colorful peeling bark. This builds up on the stem and main branches in soft curling layers of orange, pink, Grey and brown. Another great advantage of this species is its tolerance of wet soil and seasonal flooding making it an ideal pond or riverbank tree. Specimens often develop multiple stems which increases the attractiveness its shaggy bark. As an ornamental tree it also has bright green, toothed leaves and long yellow clusters of catkins in early spring. It will have a spreading root system that will check erosion. It is hardy and will seldom blow down. The plant is native to the eastern states from Massachusetts to Florida. The range continues along the Gulf of Mexico and into Texas. Besides, River birch tree groves are a favorite resting place for White Tailed deer.
Birch (Betula spp.) is composed of 30 to 50 species growing in Asia, North America, and Europe. All species look alike microscopically. The word betula is the classical Latin name of birch. The important species are yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), sweet birch (B. lenta), and paper birch (B. papyrifera). Other birches of some commercial importance are river birch (B. nigra), gray birch (B. populifolia), and western paper birch (B. papyrifera var. commutata).
The Dura Heat Birch grows to 25' in Zone 5. It is a superior river birch selected for heat tolerance, creamy white exfoliating bark plus borer and leaf spot resistance. Particularly effective when clumped together. Butter yellow fall foliage.
Yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) is the most valuable native birch. It is recognized by the yellowish-bronze exfoliating bark. This how it gets its name. The inner bark is aromatic and has a flavor of wintergreen. Other names are gray silver birch, grey birch and swamp birch. This birch is a slow-growing long-lived tree is found with other hardwoods and conifers on moist well-drained soils. Many of its native range is uplands and mountain ravines. It is an important source of lumber and a good browse plant for deer. Other wildlife feed on the buds and stems.
See our many web sites at:http://www.zone5trees.com , http://www.highlandhillfarm and http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.greengiantarbs.com http://www..HuntingRelics.com
About the Author
Bill grows trees and plants on his farm in Doylestown Pa. Sign up for his newsletter at http://www.seedlingsrus.com/123456signup.html or visit his web sites at http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.zone5trees.com or http://www.huntingrelics.com
Plant Help
Plant Help by Mike Hirst
Many people want to encourage wildlife in their backyard. Are planning to improve your wildlife habitat? Great wildlife habitats just don't happen in your back lot or landscape. You need to plant the correct plants, shrubs, and trees. Knowledge is they key to great plant selection. This article will help you with selecting plants to improve your habitat for wildlife. Are you stumped about what to put in your native habitat? Do you like what you see in other landscapes but feel uncertain that the plants will do well in your native habitat? Many garden centers and nurseries have professional horticulturists on staff who will gladly answer your questions. However, be wary of great looking flowering plants. Nurseries often feature the plants that are blooming that week because they sell well. A plant might look great in the nursery, but it may not be a winner in your native habitat. Your wildlife doesn't care about beautiful flowers unless you are a bee. Bees are not what you want to attract.
A wildlife habitat site should provide some of the basic elements wildlife need to survive: food, water, cover or places for wildlife to raise their young. You will not always be able to do all three of these things at your site. Yet don't feel bad. It may not be necessary. You may not be able to provide enough feed for 5 deer but with careful plant selection a small area can provide cover for many times that number of deer. Selection - Grow native vegetation like locally native shrubs, trees and other plants that produce acorns, berries and other seeds to supply food for wildlife. For birds, feeders can supplement natural food sources. Your choice of plants must first deal with what will grow on your site. Then you must decide what type of plants you want. The type of plant will determine the spacing and thus the number of plants needed. Some plants will take more work than others. I suggest you should select plants that grow fast. If it takes 15 years for an oak to start to produce a lot of acorns, do you want to wait that long? Some fast growing plants will produce shelter and feed at a fast rate. One such plant is the Viburnum. It is easy to grow. It will grow in most soil types and can take deer damage better than most plants. The uses for viburnums are as numerous as the species available. Around the home landscape, viburnums can be used as hedges, screens, and specimen plants. These plants are an excellent additions to wildlife plantings. Several viburnums are native to Pa and suitable for naturalized areas. There are well over 25 species in cultivation and most viburnums provide excellent, year-round interest. Beautiful flower clusters appear in the spring, followed by ornamental fruit in late summer and colorful foliage in the fall. Most viburnums perform best in well-drained soils and full to part-sun. However, several grow well in partial shade and wet areas. They range in size from 4- to 6-foot-tall shrubs to small, 15- to 20-foot trees. Some have fragrant flowers, others produce edible berries. Many provide food for birds in winter.
When I was in the 8th grade I would go fishing along the Delaware River near Lambertville at night. I would camp along the river bank and fish into the wee hours of the night. I am always drifting back to those childhood memories when I pass a river birch tree that is highlighted by lights at night. The night time interest that this tree expresses can help capture moments for you. The main feature of this medium sized spreading tree is its colorful peeling bark. This builds up on the stem and main branches in soft curling layers of orange, pink, Grey and brown. Another great advantage of this species is its tolerance of wet soil and seasonal flooding making it an ideal pond or riverbank tree. Specimens often develop multiple stems which increases the attractiveness its shaggy bark. As an ornamental tree it also has bright green, toothed leaves and long yellow clusters of catkins in early spring. It will have a spreading root system that will check erosion. It is hardy and will seldom blow down. The plant is native to the eastern states from Massachusetts to Florida. The range continues along the Gulf of Mexico and into Texas. Besides, River birch tree groves are a favorite resting place for White Tailed deer.
Birch (Betula spp.) is composed of 30 to 50 species growing in Asia, North America, and Europe. All species look alike microscopically. The word betula is the classical Latin name of birch. The important species are yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), sweet birch (B. lenta), and paper birch (B. papyrifera). Other birches of some commercial importance are river birch (B. nigra), gray birch (B. populifolia), and western paper birch (B. papyrifera var. commutata).
The Dura Heat Birch grows to 25' in Zone 5. It is a superior river birch selected for heat tolerance, creamy white exfoliating bark plus borer and leaf spot resistance. Particularly effective when clumped together. Butter yellow fall foliage.
Yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) is the most valuable native birch. It is recognized by the yellowish-bronze exfoliating bark. This how it gets its name. The inner bark is aromatic and has a flavor of wintergreen. Other names are gray silver birch, grey birch and swamp birch. This birch is a slow-growing long-lived tree is found with other hardwoods and conifers on moist well-drained soils. Many of its native range is uplands and mountain ravines. It is an important source of lumber and a good browse plant for deer. Other wildlife feed on the buds and stems.
See our many web sites at:
http://www.zone5trees.com , http://www.highlandhillfarm and http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.greengiantarbs.com http://www..HuntingRelics.com
About the Author
Bill grows trees and plants on his farm in Doylestown Pa. Sign up for his newsletter at http://www.seedlingsrus.com/123456signup.html or visit his web sites at http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.zone5trees.com or http://www.huntingrelics.com
Many people want to encourage wildlife in their backyard. Are planning to improve your wildlife habitat? Great wildlife habitats just don't happen in your back lot or landscape. You need to plant the correct plants, shrubs, and trees. Knowledge is they key to great plant selection. This article will help you with selecting plants to improve your habitat for wildlife. Are you stumped about what to put in your native habitat? Do you like what you see in other landscapes but feel uncertain that the plants will do well in your native habitat? Many garden centers and nurseries have professional horticulturists on staff who will gladly answer your questions. However, be wary of great looking flowering plants. Nurseries often feature the plants that are blooming that week because they sell well. A plant might look great in the nursery, but it may not be a winner in your native habitat. Your wildlife doesn't care about beautiful flowers unless you are a bee. Bees are not what you want to attract.
A wildlife habitat site should provide some of the basic elements wildlife need to survive: food, water, cover or places for wildlife to raise their young. You will not always be able to do all three of these things at your site. Yet don't feel bad. It may not be necessary. You may not be able to provide enough feed for 5 deer but with careful plant selection a small area can provide cover for many times that number of deer. Selection - Grow native vegetation like locally native shrubs, trees and other plants that produce acorns, berries and other seeds to supply food for wildlife. For birds, feeders can supplement natural food sources. Your choice of plants must first deal with what will grow on your site. Then you must decide what type of plants you want. The type of plant will determine the spacing and thus the number of plants needed. Some plants will take more work than others. I suggest you should select plants that grow fast. If it takes 15 years for an oak to start to produce a lot of acorns, do you want to wait that long? Some fast growing plants will produce shelter and feed at a fast rate. One such plant is the Viburnum. It is easy to grow. It will grow in most soil types and can take deer damage better than most plants. The uses for viburnums are as numerous as the species available. Around the home landscape, viburnums can be used as hedges, screens, and specimen plants. These plants are an excellent additions to wildlife plantings. Several viburnums are native to Pa and suitable for naturalized areas. There are well over 25 species in cultivation and most viburnums provide excellent, year-round interest. Beautiful flower clusters appear in the spring, followed by ornamental fruit in late summer and colorful foliage in the fall. Most viburnums perform best in well-drained soils and full to part-sun. However, several grow well in partial shade and wet areas. They range in size from 4- to 6-foot-tall shrubs to small, 15- to 20-foot trees. Some have fragrant flowers, others produce edible berries. Many provide food for birds in winter.
When I was in the 8th grade I would go fishing along the Delaware River near Lambertville at night. I would camp along the river bank and fish into the wee hours of the night. I am always drifting back to those childhood memories when I pass a river birch tree that is highlighted by lights at night. The night time interest that this tree expresses can help capture moments for you. The main feature of this medium sized spreading tree is its colorful peeling bark. This builds up on the stem and main branches in soft curling layers of orange, pink, Grey and brown. Another great advantage of this species is its tolerance of wet soil and seasonal flooding making it an ideal pond or riverbank tree. Specimens often develop multiple stems which increases the attractiveness its shaggy bark. As an ornamental tree it also has bright green, toothed leaves and long yellow clusters of catkins in early spring. It will have a spreading root system that will check erosion. It is hardy and will seldom blow down. The plant is native to the eastern states from Massachusetts to Florida. The range continues along the Gulf of Mexico and into Texas. Besides, River birch tree groves are a favorite resting place for White Tailed deer.
Birch (Betula spp.) is composed of 30 to 50 species growing in Asia, North America, and Europe. All species look alike microscopically. The word betula is the classical Latin name of birch. The important species are yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), sweet birch (B. lenta), and paper birch (B. papyrifera). Other birches of some commercial importance are river birch (B. nigra), gray birch (B. populifolia), and western paper birch (B. papyrifera var. commutata).
The Dura Heat Birch grows to 25' in Zone 5. It is a superior river birch selected for heat tolerance, creamy white exfoliating bark plus borer and leaf spot resistance. Particularly effective when clumped together. Butter yellow fall foliage.
Yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) is the most valuable native birch. It is recognized by the yellowish-bronze exfoliating bark. This how it gets its name. The inner bark is aromatic and has a flavor of wintergreen. Other names are gray silver birch, grey birch and swamp birch. This birch is a slow-growing long-lived tree is found with other hardwoods and conifers on moist well-drained soils. Many of its native range is uplands and mountain ravines. It is an important source of lumber and a good browse plant for deer. Other wildlife feed on the buds and stems.
See our many web sites at:
http://www.zone5trees.com , http://www.highlandhillfarm and http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.greengiantarbs.com http://www..HuntingRelics.com
About the Author
Bill grows trees and plants on his farm in Doylestown Pa. Sign up for his newsletter at http://www.seedlingsrus.com/123456signup.html or visit his web sites at http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.zone5trees.com or http://www.huntingrelics.com
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