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It feels good to be back. This is my first field recording in nearly two years, captured just after sunset along the banks of Otter Creek in Sleeping Bear Dunes. I used my Zoom F3 recorder paired with the Audio-Technica BP4025 microphone, placed as a drop rig for an overnight session.

As the light faded, I returned to one of my favorite spots—a quiet place where beavers often swim and birds gather in abundance. I watched two Trumpeter Swans descend and glide in beside a gathering of geese and ducks settling in for the night. Turkeys called from nearby trees, and the evening wrapped itself in the distant sound of Barred Owls echoing through the forest. It was peaceful, wild, and exactly what I’d been missing.

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 4/17/2025 | 5:30 AM
• Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Landscape/Feature: Otter Creek
• Conditions: 61F (16C), Overnight, Light Breeze that changed to Gusting
• Recording Device: Zoom F3 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Audio Technica BP4025

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I would like to thank everyone that has donated or otherwise supported Nature is my Jam by liking, following, sharing and/or subscribing to the podcast. Your support goes directly to creating future episodes and allows this podcast to be ad-free and 100% listener supported. Your kindness means the world to me and I hope you might feel inspired to explore the natural areas where you live.

Subtlety and solitude were the theme of the early dawn as I drove towards the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore this morning. The morning sky was replaced by dark, brooding clouds as dawn broke and the crash and retreat of water against the sandy shoreline echoed a symphony that only nature could compose... a soothing rhythm that breathed sustenance into this muted morning. 

In this quiet, moody atmosphere, the resilient life of the beach was on full display. Dune grass swayed gently with the wind, each whisper adding another layer to the dawn soundtrack filling my ears. Intermingled with the subdued tones of the morning, vibrant shocks of color pierced through, with the Carolina Puccoon flowers shining their intense yellow petals. These hardy blooms were striking against the backdrop of rugged and scraggly pines that stand guard over the dunes, a testament to the beauty of nature. Rainy mornings such as these come with a precious offering - solitude. The beach, often teeming with life, was a haven of tranquility. The soft patter of the rain added a soothing rhythm to the natural melody, each drop a unique note in the lakeshore’s grand aria.

I spent the morning in unhurried exploration, my camera guiding my movements rather than any pre-set path. It led me across rolling dunes and clusters of wildflowers, while the captivating sounds of the beach played on. Time seemed suspended, every moment a snapshot of serene beauty set against the gentle music of the lake’s waves.

It was a morning filled with exploration and reflection, where nature’s music and visual spectacle were in perfect harmony. As the field recorder captured each note of the morning’s melody, I was reminded of the beauty in these unscripted moments and the enduring allure of nature’s symphony. It was, undoubtedly, a couple of hours well spent.

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 6/13/2023 | 5:30 AM
• Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Landscape/Feature: Peterson Road Beach and Surrounding Dunes
• Conditions: 49F (9.5C), Sunrise, Cloudy, Misty, Rain
• Recording Device: Zoom F3 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Sonorous Objects SO.101 (matched pair in stereo configuration)

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Returning to the idyllic Boekeloo Lodge at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for the second week, it was as though I had stepped into a Thoreauvian (is that a word?) dream. Set amidst a picturesque landscape that Mother Nature herself would be proud of, the lodge and its surroundings evoked a sense of peace and tranquility, only amplified by the resounding chorus of spring peepers that punctuated the evening air.

For this endeavor, I brought along my new LÖM BasicUcho microphones, making their inaugural appearance on my podcast. My trusty companion, as always, was the Zoom F3 Field Recorder. It’s the stalwart backbone of nearly every episode, faithfully capturing the intricacies and nuances of nature’s audio tapestry.

The day was adorned in spring’s finest hues of green and yellow, the skies overhead clear with a hint of a breeze that softly grazed but didn’t interrupt my recording. An enthralling promise filled the air, the possibility of seeing the northern lights.

At Boekeloo, solitude is often your only companion. But this time, my day was punctuated by the unexpected, but pleasant, company of Nick Irwin. A talented photographer (IG: @irwin.nick), Nick was the only other soul present during the six hours I spent recording. His conversation was as engaging as his photography skills, and I found myself thankful for his presence.

Recording nature and wildlife sounds can be a solitary activity. Yet, there is an undeniable thrill in the pursuit. To sit quietly and be an observer, to capture the conversations of nature that often go unheard, is a humbling experience. The spring peepers at Boekeloo, with their overpowering sonic presence, have been captivating. These little tree frogs have left an indelible mark on my heart, and through my recording, I hope they touch your hearts, too.

As I pack my gear for the night, I am left in awe of the overwhelming power of nature - both seen and heard. The ephemeral glimpse of the northern lights coupled with the resonating echo of the peepers rounds off a perfect day. The Boekeloo Lodge, the pond, the peepers, and the chance encounter with Nick made for a day that will long be etched in my memory. But for now, I am happy to share this recording with you. After all, each peep is a story waiting to be heard.

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 5/23/2023 | 9:15 PM
• Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Landscape/Feature: Boekeloo Lodge and the surrounding pond
• Conditions: 59F (15C), Sunset, Golden Hour, Light Breeze, Pleasant Conditions
• Recording Device: Zoom F3 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): LÖM BasicUcho matched pair microphone(s)

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I would like to thank everyone that has donated or otherwise supported Nature is my Jam by liking, following, sharing and/or subscribing to the podcast. Your support goes directly to creating future episodes and allows this podcast to be ad-free and 100% listener supported. Your kindness means the world to me and I hope you might feel inspired to explore the natural areas where you live.

Today, we’re exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and uncovering the story of the Boekeloo Lodge. This charming cabin, nestled in a picturesque landscape, has a fascinating history.

The Boekeloo family made an unexpected discovery in 1945 when they found an old cabin that had been neglected and had deteriorated for the past 10 years. They saw its potential and restored it with love and care. The result was a delightful wilderness getaway, where the family enjoyed many peaceful retreats surrounded by the tranquility of the woods and the grandeur of the dunes. But this hidden gem had an unexpected future.

Eventually, the National Park Service (NPS) acquired the property because they recognized its historical significance and natural beauty. Today, visitors to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore can take a leisurely walk around the lodge and look through its windows to glimpse how vacations were in the past. The cabin stands as a testament to the Boekeloo family’s creativity and vision, offering a unique view into a simpler and more peaceful time.

As a volunteer involved in a photography project at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, I was honored to be assigned the task of capturing the beauty of the Boekeloo Lodge. Without this opportunity, I would have never known about this incredible building and its fascinating history.

When I arrived at noon, the sun was directly overhead, making it challenging to capture the best lighting for my photographs. Similarly, nature photographers know that noon is not the most active time for wildlife. I took advantage of the situation and was delighted to discover a lot of birds at the location. While taking pictures and documenting the site, I also set up my recording equipment, hoping to capture the essence of this enchanting place.

Boekeloo Lodge is located just a mile off M-22, a state highway in Michigan. It sits next to a peaceful pond, and although you can hear some traffic noise in the distance, the overall atmosphere is enjoyable, allowing nature’s melodies to shine through. I’m excited to return to this idyllic spot to experience the dawn chorus and explore the surrounding area on a hike.

The Boekeloo Lodge at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides a captivating look into the past and serves as a reminder of the significance of conserving our natural environments. With its storied past and peaceful surroundings, it’s a remarkable place for photographers and nature lovers to visit.

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 5/15/2023 | 12:15 PM
• Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Landscape/Feature: Boekeloo Lodge and Surrounding Area
• Conditions: 59F (15C), Bright, Sunny, Strong Breeze, Pleasant Conditions
• Recording Device: Zoom F3 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Audio Technica BP4025 Stereo Microphone

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Quick Note: You will hear some artificial noises in this recording, but they are few and I don’t feel they detract from the recording. It is becoming increasingly difficult to record pristine audio without driving hundreds of miles and spending countless hours in its pursuit. I realize it is perhaps better to include the artificial sounds and recognize that we live in a society where noise pollution exists. I am a perfectionist for my work and I struggle on where to draw the line and release a recording. To maintain my sanity, I have to learn to be okay with imperfect recordings and some noise pollution. I hope you will understand. 

We have made it through the third winter here in Michigan and have started on the second spring. We also made a jump to first summer, but it was very short-lived. It can be very hard to define seasons here because it can change so quickly, but it does really feel like a spring that is going to actually get us to summer. 

One thing I look forward most as the snow melts and the flowers start blooming is the return of the dawn chorus. This natural phenomenon occurs in the early morning and is a collective singing of birds as they welcome the start of a new day. During the dawn chorus, birds sing to defend their territories, attract mates, and communicate with their flock. The chorus begins just before the first light of dawn and can last for several hours, with different species of birds joining in at differing times. It truly is one of the most beautiful sound collective that exists in nature. 

I recently received a new recording kit from SR3D Binaural Microphones in the UK to test out and share my thoughts. I will have a separate post and video about this kit and my thoughts on it in the coming weeks. Binaural recording is an advanced method of capturing audio that closely replicates human auditory perception by utilizing two microphones configured in that mimics the human head. While listening to binaural recordings through headphones, the listener is immersed in a lifelike environment, such as the dawn chorus in the middle of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The biggest advantage, in my experience, is the heightened level of auditory realism. In short, you will feel you are in the middle of the action. 

Knowing I wanted to test out the realistic recording effects of this kit, I went to one of my favorite recording locations to capture the dawn chorus. Over the course of a few hours, I heard and saw at least 13 different species to include the usual suspects like the American Robin and Red-winged blackbird, but I recorded some firsts for me. It was my first time recording a Bald Eagle and a Virginia Rail. I won’t spoil the entire recording and would love to hear what species you heard while listening. 

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 5/5/2023 | 5:45AM
• Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Landscape/Feature: Otter Creek
• Conditions: 49F (10C), Sunrise, Slight Breeze, Mild Conditions
• Recording Device: Zoom F3 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): SR3D Binaural Microphone Kit fitted with Sonorous Objects SO.1 Microphones

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 I would like to thank everyone that has donated or otherwise supported Nature is my Jam by liking, following, sharing and/or subscribing to the podcast. Your support goes directly to creating future episodes and allows this podcast to be ad-free and 100% listener supported. Your kindness means the world to me and I hope you might feel inspired to explore the natural areas where you live.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Nature is my Jam Podcast! I am a firm believer in the meditative and restorative benefits of simply listening to moving water, especially the sound of waves crashing onto a remote beach. This week, I am uploading over 2 hours of a recent recording done at the Peterson Road Beach at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Within the Platte Plains section of the lakeshore, this area features gently rolling hills, mature forests and wide expanses of beach that are rarely crowded. On the night of this recording, I had the entire beach to myself for around 4 hours, except for one person walking his dogs for a few minutes. I let the field recorder run and spent the time hiking on the beach to see what the melting ice might reveal. 

Ever since I have been old enough to remember, I have been irresistibly drawn to water like a magnet. One of my earliest memories is walking the beach with my parents and my brother in San Diego when I was 4 or 5. I remember holding my dad’s hand as he let me get closer and closer to the waves. The waves mesmerized me and I was instantly drawn to that unmistakable sound of waves crashing onto the shore.
Not even the “Jellyfish Incident of ’96” could change my love of hearing the waves and wanting to be close to a body of water at all times. Pro tip: If the locals aren’t in the ocean on a hot day, then there is probably an excellent reason. Don’t be that guy that ignores all the clues and finds himself wrapped up in jellyfish tentacles. 
Waves are one of the most powerful meditative tools available to us. Their rhythmic and soothing sounds can help us achieve a state of deep relaxation and inner calm, while also providing a powerful connection to the natural world. The repetition of the sound of waves crashing on the shore creates a sense of predictability and stability, which can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. I think that the sound of waves can even help to synchronize brainwaves, leading to a greater sense of focus and concentration.

Besides their calming effect, the power of waves lies in their ability to evoke a sense of awe and wonder. The vastness of large bodies of water and the sheer force of the waves can help to put our own problems and worries into perspective, reminding us of the greater forces at work in the world. There are many ways to incorporate the power of waves into a meditation practice. Simply sitting by the shore and listening to the sound of the waves can be a powerful experience, while walking along the beach and feeling the sand between our toes can also be grounding and calming. For those who don’t live near the ocean or the Great Lakes, recordings of waves can also be a powerful tool for meditation. Whether experienced in person or through recordings, the power of waves as a meditative tool is undeniable. By connecting us to the natural world and helping to calm our minds, waves can provide a much-needed sense of peace and tranquillity in our busy lives.

Recording Details:
•Date and Time: 3/30/2023 | 6:30PM
•Location: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
•Landscape/Feature: Peterson Road Beach
•Conditions: 41F (5C), Overcast, Low Clouds, Stiff Onshore Breeze

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QUICK NOTE: This recording has a fair bit of noise pollution in the form of traffic and the occasional aircraft. I was a couple of miles away from where I wanted to record but heard the owls starting their calls so wanted to record them. My apologies but I really think this recording is amazing and I wanted to share it with you.

I would like to thank everyone that has donated or otherwise supported Nature is my Jam by liking, following, sharing and/or subscribing to the podcast. Your support goes directly to creating future episodes and allows this podcast to be ad-free and 100% listener supported. Your kindness means the world to me and I hope you might feel inspired to explore the natural areas where you live.

Greetings! Let’s talk about the barred owl mating season in northern Michigan. It’s a pretty exciting time for these nocturnal birds, and things can get lively out there in the forest. Mating lasts from February to April. The male barred owls become incredibly vocal during this period and create various sounds to draw in the female barred owls. They will use loud noises such as hooting, barking, and screaming in order to make their thoughts and feelings known. We humans, much like many other species, take the time to groom ourselves before heading out on a night of revelry and adventure. 

Once a male has caught the attention of a female, the real show begins. He’ll do all kinds of courtship displays like bowing, bobbing, and swaying. And if that’s not enough, he’ll even bring her gifts as food offerings. As Sade famously sang, he’s a smooth operator! The saxophone solo makes it true. 

If all of this impressed the female, the two lovebirds will mate and she’ll lay 2-4 eggs in a tree cavity or an abandoned nest. Both parents will take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young once they hatch, which usually happens after around 30 days.

All in all, the barred owl mating season is a pretty important time for these birds. Without successful reproduction, their populations in northern Michigan could be in trouble. So, let’s wish them luck as they navigate the trials and tribulations of love in the forest!

I recorded this episode near my home on the Muncie Lakes Pathway. This is one of my favorite areas to go birding and hike the trails. In fact, I recorded the very first episode of this podcast in the same location. Knowing there was going to be gusting wind through the overnight, I opted for the Audio-Technica BP4025 microphone. I have great wind protection gear for this microphone in the Rycote Windshield and the Rycote Windjammer. While not perfect, this configuration does a respectable job in blocking the wind. It’s probably not a surprise at this point in our journey, but I used the Zoom F3 Field Recorder to capture the owls and coyotes. I can’t say enough good things about the Zoom F3 and reach for it nearly every trip into the forest. 

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Greetings one and all. We have returned from a brief hiatus after the passing of Rhonda’s Dad to venture out to the Boardman River for a hydrophone recording. Hydrowhat? A hydrophone is a specialized microphone used to capture the hidden sounds of aquatic environment that happen beneath the surface of the water. Unlike traditional microphones that are designed to pick up sound waves traveling through the air, hydrophones are engineered to detect sound waves transmitted through the water. These fascinating devices work by converting changes in underwater pressure caused by sound waves into electrical signals. 

The Boardman River begins near Kalkaska, Michigan and meanders around 28 miles through Traverse City until it empties into the Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan. This river is a prime example of a blue ribbon river, offering an exceptional fishing experience for anglers and a pristine habitat for its aquatic residents. One of the key factors that contribute to its blue ribbon status is the health population of brook trout. These trout thrive in the crystal clear waters and diverse ecosystem, which provides the perfect conditions for their growth and reproduction. The blue ribbon designation not only reflects the rivers outstanding water quality and well-managed surroundings ut also highlights the importance of preserving and maintaining such habitats for future generations. 

Recorded just a stone’s throw from the Scheck’s Place Trail Camp with the Zoom F6 Field Recorder and the Aquarian H2A Hydrophone, this episode is a nice look at what lies beneath the river in late winter/early spring. The Trail Camp is maintained by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and is used by equestrians seeking to traverse the Shore to Shore Riding Trail. The Shore to Shore Trail is over 220 miles long and connects Lake Huron to Lake Michigan. Primarily used by horseback riders, the trail is also open to hikers and cross-country skiers. 

I was surprised to see two hearty kayakers on the river today. They stopped at the horse watering hole to take a break as I was packing up my gear. We were all surprised to see someone else on the river and had a great conversation. They had been on the river for about 2 hours and had another hour or so before they concluded their journey at the old Brown Bridge Dam. While they were definitely getting a jump on the kayaking season, their presence signals a gentle swing towards spring and is a very welcome sign. 

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 3/15/2023 | 3:30PM
• Location: Scheck’s Place Trail Camp, Traverse City, Michigan
• Landscape/Feature: Boardman River
• Conditions: 35F (2C), Sunny, Mild, Light Winds
• Recording Device: Zoom F6 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Sonorous Objects SO.1

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Recorded with the Sonorous Objects SO.1 microphones and the Zoom F3 Field Recorder, this episode is all about how I find solace and peace by spending time in, on and around Lake Michigan. What makes this recording special, for me, is the muted tones of the lake when the ice has formed. It sounds completely unique and unlike any other time of the year. It is special, especially with the sporadic ice balls that form along the shore when the conditions are right. 

These spherical ice formations, ranging from a few inches to over a foot in diameter, are stunning to watch as they roll and bob on the lake’s surface. Although they may look like snowballs, they’re actually formed by layers of ice accumulating around a small nucleus of ice.

February has been a tough month. Despite being the shortest month of the year, it’s packed a gut punch. On February 10, my father-in-law Gary Miller passed away after battling various cancers for years. He died one day before his 75th birthday, leaving behind his wife and two daughters. Although his passing has brought an inevitable change for everyone impacted, I’m encouraged by the resilience of my wife, Rhonda, her sister, and her mom.

A few days later, a mass shooting occurred on the campus of Michigan State University. A deranged individual felt it was necessary to kill three students and injure another three before taking his own life. Although I have many thoughts about this senseless act, it’s difficult for me to move past the anger I feel when I think about it.

When I feel trapped or need time for reflection, I head towards water. Oceans, lakes, rivers and streams have drawn me in for as long as I can remember. The sound of waves crashing on the shore, the breeze blowing across my face, and the colors of nature surrounding me always bring me peace and comfort. Today, I found solace at one of my favorite spots along Lake Michigan.

When I look out at the vastness of Lake Michigan, I’m reminded of its incredible power. This precious body of water has endured for over a billion years, with an ever-changing landscape and surrounding terrain that serve as a source of healing for me. It reminds me that even when things are tough, we can still find hope and joy in the world.

In 2012, I recorded Lake Michigan for the first time, and it seems fitting that I continue to find inspiration, healing, and solace by recording this precious body of water again and again and again.

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 2/24/2023 | 04:30 PM
• Location: Peterson Road Beach, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Landscape/Feature: Lake Michigan, Snow, Ice Balls, Waves
• Conditions: 10-19 degrees F (-12C to -7C), light winds, partly sunny
• Recording Device: Zoom F3 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Sonorous Objects SO.1 Microphones

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Disclaimer: I didn’t record this episode deep in the forest or on a deserted stretch of beach. I spent the weekend in my backyard, taking part in the 2023 Great Backyard Bird Count. Temperatures ranged from the mid-20s (F) into the high-40s over the weekend. The wind was BRUTAL, with gusts hitting 30 miles per hour. This is not a clean recording, but it accurately reflects the conditions in which I found myself during this event.

As a birding enthusiast and a self-proclaimed citizen scientist, I am taking part in the 2023 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC), a global event that encourages people to observe and count the birds in their backyard, local park, or any other location for at least 15 minutes on one or more days during the event. The event for 2023 began on Friday (2/17) and ends tomorrow (2/20). Despite insane wind and less-than-ideal birding conditions, I identified 14 different bird species during the event, including some of my favorite songbirds and a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers.

Participating in the GBBC was not only fun and rewarding, but it also had important scientific value. By counting birds and reporting my sightings online, I contributed to one of the largest bird surveys in the world and helped scientists track changes in bird populations and their distribution over time. Even though my observations were from a small area, it’s still valuable data that can help identify hotspots of bird diversity and monitor the spread of invasive species.

The following are the bird species I identified during the event:

• Mourning Dove
• Bald Eagle
• Downy Woodpecker
• Pileated Woodpecker
• Blue Jay
• American Crow
• Black-capped Chickadee
• Tufted Titmouse
• White-breasted Nuthatch
• Cedar Waxwing
• Northern Cardinal
• House Sparrow
• American Goldfinch
• Common Raven

I hope you will consider joining me next February for the next bird count. Let me know how many birds you are able to identify in this recording! 

Recording Details:

• Date and Time: 2/19/2023 | 07:15AM
• Location: My Backyard on Spider Lake | Traverse City, Michigan
• Landscape/Feature: Backyard with Cedar, Pine, Maple and Oak trees on Spider Lake
• Conditions: 20F to 45F, Extreme Wind, Sunny
• Recording Device: Zoom F6 Field Recorder
• Microphone(s): Sonorous Objects SO.1 Microphones
• Digital Audio Workstation: Adobe Audition

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