Any blog that focuses on passion, which of course is the theme for the 2009 Southeastern Flower Show, has to mention Monteen McCord, who is absolutely, passionately devoted to all things wild and wonderful.  I met Monteen several years ago, while buying sunflower seeds for our backyard cardinals and chickadees.  She was seated in the middle of the store with a crowd gathered around her, everyone trying to see the enormous Great Horned Owl perched on her gloved arm.

The owl, I discovered, was Sam, and he is Monteen’s constant companion when she speaks about protecting wild creatures and preserving our natural world through her non-profit educational organization, HawkTalk.  Based in Atlanta-based, HawkTalk works to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned and injured wild birds, especially hawks, falcons, and owls.  (You can see more about the birds at www.hawktalk.org)

Monteen took Sam in when he was an owlet, after he tumbled from his nest in the woods and was found by some well-meaning hikers.  Sadly, he can’t be released because he now associates food with humans, so he’s joined a group of permanent residents in Monteen’s  rural backyard.  She’s permitted to keep and rehab migratory birds like Sam, thanks to her federal and state licenses, and to her standing as a Master Falconer. ( There are only a few thousand Master Falconers in the U.S., and only a handful of women who hold that hard-to-earn title.)  

Monteen, also known as ‘teen, is crazy about her feathered family, but she’s also a fine photographer and passionate gardener.  You can see some of her snapshots at the top of this post.  Thanks for sharing, ‘teen.                                             

                On a sadder note, Mina, ‘teen’s beloved red-tailed hawk, and her companion on visits to schools, wildlife centers, and other groups, is seriously ill at this writing.  Monteen has been at her side throughout the night as a veterinarian who specializes in raptors tries to figure out what is wrong and how to help.  Monteen, we’re thinking of you and beautiful Mina, hoping she recovers and continues her good work with you.    

Mina, a red-tailed hawk, Monteen's friend and companion

Don’t forget to send your garden pictures to the Southeastern Flower Show.  Just email your jpgs and your name to inkycreek@gmail.com  We want to know: how do YOU bloom?

cheers,

Lynn