In New England, emus and ostriches are rare and exotic. A recent visit to Lilac Hedge Farm provided an extraordinary opportunity to see them close up. This stately emu strutted casually through its enclosure.Oftentimes, emus display graceful ballerina moves.These birds are easily identified by patches of blue on their heads.Nearby, ostriches were protected in their own enclosure. Their feathers look soft and fluffy when seen close-up.This imposing male ostrich had a a thin coating of white feathers on its head.Two delightful juvenile ostriches regarded visitors with quiet intensity and great curiosity.Lilac Hedge Farm is the former site of a Heifer International Educational Center. Its many acres provide ample space for both local and exotic creatures to roam.
This photo blog features the seasonal changes in nature observed in my own backyard and a variety of local environments. The Wachusett Meadow Audubon Sanctuary in Princeton, MA is often highlighted as a model for the positive effects a small nature preserve can have on the larger environment and the local community. Local sites of historical, cultural and recreational interest are spotlighted as well.
All photographs were taken by me. Thank you so much for visiting.
From My Window 
Awesome photos! Wow! Thanks for share Julie.
Take care.
Elvira
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You are very welcome, Elvira!
-Julie
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It is a pleassure Julie.
Have a wonderful time!
Elvira
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You can see why these birds are prone to caricature with those expressive looks, long necks and eyelashes!
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“Expressive” is a perfect word for them, I think!
-Julie
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Big birds! You’re right, Julie. Great shots! 🙂
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Thanks, H.J. There was fencing in the way, so I worked hard to try to photograph them without it.
-Julie
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I have never seen these awesome birds before! They all are so special and beautiful1
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I’m glad you like them, Kaya. It was really a highlight of my “birding trips” to see them!
-Julie
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Wonderfully expressive faces! As far as I can recall, I have never seen either an ostrich or an emu.
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First time for me seeing those beautiful (if a bit scary) birds, as well!
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Wow, those are big birds. Pretty awesome!!
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I had never seen emus or ostriches up close they that. They were awesome for sure!
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I am surprised they cope with the cold winters – I expect they spend the nights indoors? The certainly are beautiful and expressive birds.
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I wondered about the cold myself, but I did see barns for them.
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