2021

Fox Squirrel Tales

Oakland County, MI Government 2 Comments
Fox squirrel eating

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

They have chisel-like front teeth, powerful legs, flexible ankle joints, furry paws, sharp claws, keen eyesight, sensitive whiskers, and they always have a multi-function colorful blanket at the ready. Their menu varies with the seasons, and December is their season for feasting on high-energy nuts and frosty tree fruits, and, of course, the seeds at your bird feeder. As I write these words, I’m watching one gnawing away at a black walnut from the security of a tree limb barely twenty feet from my door on the wilder side of Oakland County.

Continue reading →

#ShopLocalOaklandTogether this Holiday Season in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
shop small and local graphic

This holiday season, shop local in Oakland County for unique and meaningful gifts while supporting our small businesses, neighbors and friends.

“You can not only get great variety by shopping local, but you’re also supporting the local economy and the workers who are your neighbors, friends and family. And your dollars are staying in the local economy when you shop in these small businesses that are the binding threads in the fabric of our communities.”

-Oakland County Executive David Coulter

As you’re out and about, share a photo or video from where you are shopping and join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #ShopLocalOaklandTogether.

Continue reading →

Pileated Woodpeckers on a Whim

Oakland County, MI Government 1 Comment
Pileated woodpecker

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

Pileated woodpeckers are North America’s largest species of woodpecker. These beautiful forest birds have a wingspan of up to 30 inches and measure from 16 to 19 inches in length, with a size and shape that’s most noticeable when they cling to the trunk of a tree.

Their eye-catching triangular red crest that sweeps off the back of their heads is a perfect identification clue, even for a novice birder. As for the name “pileated,” it refers to the species’ red crest, and is derived from the Latin word pileatus which means “capped.”

Continue reading →

Veteran Resources in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
Oakland County Veterans Memorial

Oakland County is dedicated to honoring the service of more than 70,000 veterans who call the county “home.” The mission of the Oakland County Veterans’ Services team is to obtain the maximum benefits available to veterans and their families, while making the process as simple as possible.

Finding, applying for, receiving, and maintaining veterans’ benefits can be confusing and frustrating. Oakland County’s highly trained and accredited Veteran Benefits Counselors provide professional services at no charge.

Continue reading →