Three or four times a week I take a walk in a local park. Along one border of the park is a small stream. Along the stream is a nice buffer zone consisting of trees, shrubs and tall grasses. The buffer zone is an important feature of the landscape. It helps prevent erosion of the stream bank, provides nesting sites for birds and habitat for small creatures like mice, voles, insects, snakes, etc. Erosion control is important to help keep the stream within it’s banks and in keeping the water clear. Clear clean water is important for the survival of the fish, amphibians, crustaceans and other water creatures. With spring approaching, the birds are busy locating and claiming territory. There are three Mockingbirds which seem to have made claims to zones along the stream. I haven’t seen any females yet, but they are sure to be along pretty soon. The bird in the picture is an interesting subject. He has a deformed beak which must make it difficult to pick up food. Despite his deformed beak, he seems to be in good health. God will provide!