J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store
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click the topic (right) for quick access...- garden accents
- thermometers & weather gauges
- tools
- goods for the gardener (& their gardens)
- bells & chimes
- mantids and bees

garden accents

Griswold & Peter - frolicGriswold and Peter
Griswold the Woodland Gnome loves his bunny pal, Peter, and doesn't let a day go by without telling him. Gris and Pete have been busy getting ready for this year's Easter celebration.  Every Easter they organize the town's Easter festivities. This year they plan on having a sack race and when the hoppers hop across the finish line Gris and Pete have invited every woodland creature to cheer them on. So far Leopold frog, Cissie cat, Sam squirrel, and Minnie mouse have all signed on to be cheer leaders.
Griswold is 11" tall (including felt hat).
$38.95

 

 

"Wishing Fairy" with solar featureWishing Solar Fairy
Our new, adorable "wishing solar fairy" features a flower that changes color. Her solar-powered flower starts to glows at dusk and morphs colors from red to purple to green to blue. It automatically turns on/off at dusk/dawn. Rechargeable AA battery included. 8"x 6½" x 8¾".  Resin base.
$36.95

copper dragonflyCopper Dragonfly
by Haw Creek Forge

Hand crafted, patina finish, clear coated for patina protection.
30” brass stake, $36.95

remembrance angelTree of Remembrance Angels  
Hand cut coppery finish wings adorn this all natural angel. Our exclusive angel is made out of river rock, twisted metal, and real twig body. Attached card reads: "Place this in a garden Somewhere near your view So you can watch this angel Sending loving thoughts from you."
$26.95
Portly's logoThe Portly's
Garden Statues - Always friendly and fun, the Portly's round and chubby bodies are big on charm & cheer. Each one of these upbeat characters will delight both adults and children - place 'em on the porch, in the garden or anywhere! Appropriately painted cast resin figures.
Portly's squirrel large garden statue

Portly's Keykeepers
Same designs as garden statues below, though slightly smaller (about 5" tall) - serves also as key-keeper (note cover metal flap on bottom of piece conceals small storage compartment). Designs include: squirrel, goldfinch, and bear. $16.95

toad abodeToad Abode
By Mudworks Pottery 8” in diameter, and 4” tall. Not only functional, but decorative and made out of rugged stoneware. Toads find this a fitting space for summer and winter hibernation. $46.95

Portly's bunny - large garden statueLarge Portly Statue - about 8" tall. Portly bunny (shown), and cardinal (not shown). $33.50

 

more garden accents & durable cast iron bird bath can be found on our "accessories & hardware" page >>

see our "gifts page" for more
great nature-related products

raccoon statue is a "key-keeper"Raccoon Key Keeper
Secret panel on bottom of resin statue provides a great place to stash a spare key. Cute little figure stands 8" x 8" x 6", hand painted. $18.95

just "Too Much Fun"!Our collection of George Carruth's attractive work has grown so much -- and is so popular -- we've devoted a page completely to Carruth Studios.

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thermometers & weather gauges

Conant Custom Brass home & garden productsConant Custom Brass - All Conant Custom Brass products are guaranteed for life and the quality commitment is apparent in each piece they make.   (Sadly, these are made in China now...a decision made by new owners Weems & Plath of England.)

Conant outdoor thermometerVermont Outdoor Thermometer
Solid brass and glass construction, 7½" high x 2½" depth x 1½" wide. Left: model T-1 $33.95
Grande View - Deck model T-21Vermont Deck Thermometer: Grande View Deck - 12-inches tall, huge 7/16" numerals for easy reading. Mounted on a solid cast brass base to ensure stability, this handsome thermometer will look great in any outdoor environment. Heck!  Indoors too. The base (4 inch diameter) will conceal the optional mounting hardware, (included) for a more permanent placement. Optical quality glass tube.  Model T-21 $59.95

 

Galileo thermometersGalileo thermometers
Italian astronomer and physicist, Galileo Galilei's discovery that the density of liquid expands or contracts with temperature changes led to the creation of this famous thermometer - a fascinating method of searching for exact temperature measurements. The thermometer is made up of a glass cylinder filled with a special liquid. Inside the cylinder are liquid-filled, hand blown, glass spheres each with imprinted designated temperature reading medallions. As temperatures fall, spheres will rise, as temperatures rise, spheres will sink. The lowest floating sphere will indicate actual temperature.

Two sizes:
11", $9.95, (temp sold out)
13", $14.95

Whitehall logo - a fine company located in Michigansee more Whitehall products:
bird feeders
suet feeders
bird bath
cast Pinecone ThermometerPinecone Thermometer & Clock
Easily seen from a good distance, this 14” diameter cast recycled aluminum indoor/outside thermometer/clock combo will add charm and beauty to any garden, and provide accurate gauging for years. Made in the U.S.A., French bronze, $89.00
cast aluminum thermometerMoon Thermometer
Attractive for any decor - large numbers are easily read from a distance, this 12" diameter cast recycled aluminum indoor/outside thermometer features a crescent moon figure. Made in the U.S.A., French bronze, $54.00 

Whitehall combo thermometer & clockWhitehall Birds with Fruits Clock and Thermometer Combination.   Dimensions: 8" wide x 13¾" tall. Wall mount. Packaged Weight: 4 lbs. Cast recycled aluminum, made in the U.S.A.  It is available in antique French bronze (shown), or verdigris. Please specify color choice when ordering. Clock operates on one “AA” battery, included. May be used inside or outdoors, model #BFCTC $79.00

Whitehall Rose ThermometerWhitehall Rose Thermometer
Available in verdigris finish only, durable cast recycled aluminum. 12" diameter x 1½" thick. Wall mount. Packaged weight: 4 lbs. Clock operates on one “AA” battery, inc. Model #RT  $54.00 

Also available as a clock, model #RC, (not shown) $54.00

Whitehall moon phase clockWhitehall Time & Seasons Clock
French bronze finish, durable cast recycled aluminum. Dimensions: 12" diameter. Wall mount, packaged weight: 4 lbs. Clock operates on one “AA” battery, included. $54.00
cast bronze "frog" thermometerCast Bronze Outdoor Thermometers
Easy wall mount and very accurate. Approx. 9” tall, 5” wide, and 2” deep. Cast bronze will never rust. Glass is thick marine grade. For outdoor use but may be used indoors. Choose from frogs (shown), butterflies, and birds. $34.95
AcuRite window mount thermometerAcu-Rite Suction window-mount digital thermometer. Easy-to-read LCD display. Compact digital thermometer is perfect for the home or office. Strong suction cup clings to the outside of a window.  Battery included (model #L1154 button cell). One-year manufacturers warranty. Model #ACCUR00799.  $9.95

enlarged view >

 

simple rain gaugebird & leaf rain gaugeSimple Functional Rain Gauge
Two-part, hand-crafted, heavy slate base; thick glass measuring tube in centimeters, and inches. 3½” diameter, 6¼” tall.
<  $14.95

Birds and Leaves Rain Gauge
13” x 2”, cast bronze with natural bronze and verdigris finish. $38.95  >

large outdoor Acurite 12" dia. thermometerAcu-Rite Outdoor Thermometer
Colorful bird images, 12" diameter. And it's made in USA!  $16.95
rain dialRain Dial by Headwinds
Unique horizontal scale allows for placement in the ground or on a post. EZ-to-read float travels up specially designed post to accurately indicate water level. EZ observation easy to empty and clean. Made in the USA.
$8.95
basic rain gaugeAcurite magnifying rain gaugeBasic Glass Rain Gauge by Headwinds
Glass vial 5" x ¾" - fits most rain gauges made by Carruth Studios and other fine manufacturers, or can be used as a stand alone, simple rain gauge. Includes green plastic spike/bracket to mount to fence, post or stick in the ground.  Made in the USA.  (Shown far left.)  Just $3.99

Magnifying Rain Gauge by AcuRite
AcuRite Easy Read Magnifying Rain Gauge. 12½" tall. This gauge measures rainfall in increments as small as a tenth of an inch, and up to five inches. (Shown near left.)   $8.95

the original Davis Hill Weather Stick The Original Davis Hill Weather StickTM
From product tag: "Weather Sticks, from the folks on Davis Hill, will tell you what the weather is doing. With good weather about they point to the sky; and when things aren't so pleasant they will point to the ground. Folks on Davis Hill don't know why, but Old Timers had faith in them. Mount it outdoors with the nail up. Under an eave, on a window frame, or out on a garage wall. Anywhere where you can see it from inside. These country Weather Sticks are harvested at the right time of year and carefully prepared and dried. When first put up they will take a short while to get used to your house so be patient with them and they will serve you well for a long time. Some as long as 15-years so you won't need another for quite a while." 12-16" long.  $5.95

quality Aspects thermometers

Aspects Classic Window Thermometers feature a uniquely arched top and bottom in addition to a frosted background behind the scale to ease reading in all lighting conditions. Each design is hand silk screened on clear acrylic and attractively packaged for gift giving. 3-7/8" x 8-¼" Suction cups included.

Aspects window thermometer Model #115Aspects window thermometer Model #244Aspects Classic Window Thermometer - Chickadee & Cardinal - model #115  (left) $22.50

Aspects Classic Window Thermometer - Chickadee & Nuthatch - model #244  (near left) $22.50

Aspects window thermometer Model #191Aspects window thermometer Model #256Aspects Classic Window Thermometer - (left)  Ivy & Ladybug - model #191, and (right) Eastern Bluebird - model #256 $22.50 Aspects window thermometer Model #259Aspects window thermometer Model #268Aspects Classic Window Thermometer - (far left) Goldfinch - model #259, (near left) Great Blue Heron - model #268  $22.50 ea.
Premier Kite 22" balloon"Hot air balloon wind spinner"
by Premier Kite
It is constructed of the same material as a hot air balloon, is fade-resistant, has a lifetime warranty on its construction. Made from fade-resistant SolarMaxTM material. Two sizes:
   22" diameter: $42.95
   26" diameter: $52.95

Also available in USA red, white & blue motif (not shown).

spinnerStake Spinners - attach to a graphite rod and watch 'em fly! Collection includes cardinal, hummingbird and chickadee motifs. Made from fade-resistant SolarMaxTM material, heavy duty hardware, patented low-friction hubs, and superior craftsmanship. Colorful, durable, moving works of art.  Cardinal spinner is 23 inches long. Lifetime Premier Kite warranty. Starting at $46.95
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tools

Handy ScoopHandy Scoop - "Premium" stainless steel blade. Use this tool for any task. The deep bowl shape makes for easy transfer of compost, seeds, fertilizer, etc. 5-Year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.  PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA
$21.95

I'm a potting scoopPotting Scoop - Use it like a trowel, the Soil Scoop acts as a natural extension of your own hand. Whether you plant, cut or dig, this is sure to become your favorite "do it all" tool. Sharp point and serrated teeth make it great for removing weeds and cutting open soil bags; deep scoop shape is excellent for digging and lifting dirt from planting holes and potting bags. Rust-free stainless steel blade is thick enough not to bend under heavy-duty use, and the ergonomically-designed "comfort grip" bright colorful handle makes it easily visible so you won't loose it. Made in USA. Manufacturer's lifetime guarantee. Available with yellow soft grip handle as well as red & green! $21.95  

Soil Scoop NOW in NEW Colors: violet and sunflower

Garden Works prunersHand Pruner, large Stainless steel hand tool.  Strong enough to prune hard branches of trees and shrubs, sometimes up to ¾” thick. They are used in gardening and flower arranging. Carbon steel blade may be sharpened for years of use. Item #BPS, $32.95.

[import alert: made in India]

pocket prunerPocket Pruner by Burgon & Ball of Shefield, England, makers of quality stainless steel hand tools. Cute little pocket pruner fits in the palm of your hand, and is perfect for quick garden touch-ups. The blade 'bypasses' the cutting block or anvil. This action produces the cleanest and hence healthiest cut and is recommended for all pruning of live stems up to about 1-inch in diameter. May be sharpened for years of use. #GTO/PP $32.95

Sorby & Hutton Hoe KnifeSorby & Hutton Hoe Knife - Double-sided blade is excellent for removing grass and weeds from walks and driveways and for weeding under mulch. Made in England. #22-1674 $24.95

dandelion weederDandelion Weeder - Stainless steel hand tool, by Burgon & Ball of Shefield, England, makers of quality stainless steel hand tools. Made from 50% recycled materials, and a timeless proven design. Pops out dandelions effortlessly (well almost), item #GTH/SDW.   $21.95

crevice weederCrevice Weeder by Burgon & Ball - Perfect for narrow driveway and walkway cracks. 11-inches long x 3” wide. Made in England. $19.95

hand sprayer7-Pattern Flow-Control Hand Sprayer by Garden Works, Bellevue, WA - Sleek Ergonomic Design, made of 50% recycled materials, and comfortable slip resistant soft grip. $15.96

Joy Garden Gloves

They'll be a joy to wear! These new gloves are made out of washable synthetic leather and they have silicone palms with a rose pattern for fun and functionality. They also have an adjustable wrist closure for a nice fit. They are breathable, durable and will provide years of service. Available in small, medium, and large. $24.95

joy garden glove
folding tool seatTool Seat
Gardener's of all abilities will enjoy the combined functions of the Tool Seat - a multi-pocket tool bag that conveniently attaches to a lightweight, steel framed seat. What a terrific solution to the age old problem of keeping tools close by when working. The Tool Seat and bag are made from water resistant nylon and come boxed to make an excellent gift. $29.95

Knee BenzKnee Benz in red - lightweight, super comfortable neoprene kneepads.
Item #KBR,  $21.95

tuff tote logoTuffTotes
Introducing a new contemporary design in the most versatile container available to Gardeners. TuffTotes, made from UV inhibited polyethylene and 40% recycled post consumer material, far surpass a person's strength with handles designed to support up to 150 lbs. Tough enough to haul rocks and soil yet flexible enough for pouring water, potting mix or compost tea. To make emptying easier, use the fingherholds located on the bottom of the TuffTote. One things for sure, your customers will love discovering all the different ways the TuffTotes can be used. Available 2 sizes:

11 gallon Tuff Tote available in blueberry, sunflower, bamboo, pumpkin, fuchsia, pine, chili pepper, and violet. $18.95

3½ Gallon Tuff Tote Garden Tub - the perfect multi-use bucket for smaller jobs. They have the same generous handles with finger groves to allow for easier, more comfortable gripping, flexible, available in eight fun colors: blueberry, sunflower, bamboo, pumpkin, fuchsia, pine, chili pepper, and violet, and made in the USA! $14.95

multi-use bucket - strong, flexible...it's one mighty TuffTote!

so many uses for the Tuff Tote!

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goods for the gardener (& their gardens)

Logo

Potting Shed CreationsSedum Terrarium
from Potting Shed Creations
Combining smart design and sustainable materials to create a modern interpretation of the classic terrarium, this indoor garden contains everything needed to grow a vertical sedum in a handmade repurposed wine bottle. Includes: seed, soil-less growing medium, recycled glass pebbles for drainage, bamboo 'chopstick' tool, directions. Bottle size 7¾" long x 2¾" diam. #sedum.  $38.95

Potting Shed Creations Moss Terrarium,  
from Potting Shed Creations
This complete kit comes with all you need to start a moss terrarium in a repurposed wine bottle. Rehydrate the moss and create your own moss-scape full of wonder, perfect for any office desk or table. Care is simple, mist your moss terrarium bottle every 2-4 days. Personalize your moss-scape with small mementos to create your own miniature landscape. Includes: dormant broom, cushion and sheet moss, upcycled wine bottle, recycled glass pebbles for drainage, soil-less growing medium, bamboo 'chopstick' tool, ribbon band for base, directions. Bottle size 7¾" long x 2¾" diam. Item #moss. $38.95

Hummingbird habitat mixHummingbird Garden
Sweet nectar producing wildflowers in many different shapes and sizes. Lovely shades of pinks, reds and purples that naturally provide nectar to attract hummingbirds to your garden instead of your neighbor's feeder!  The hummingbirds won't know where to begin. Annual flowers will begin to bloom 6-8 weeks after germination.  Perennials will produce foliage the first year and blooms the next.  Covers over 100 square feet. Includes: 17 varieties of seed, growing directions.  Bag 7¼" high x 3½". Item: #humm. $12.95

Potting Shed flower mixWith Love from Potting Shed Creations
These vibrant red Cosmos will brighten any space for that very special person. The flowers have 1½" blooms that are scarlet red in color. The plant will grow 12-14 inches tall. Includes: seed, growing medium, coconut husks for drainage, directions. Bag 7" high x 6" wide. Item #love. $9.95

Potting Shed flower mixHappy Birthday
from Potting Shed Creations
On birthdays and throughout the year, these violas will brighten any space. The flowers have small, whiskered faces in a wide variety of colors. Removing spent flowers will promote more blooms. Includes: seed, growing medium, coconut husks for drainage, directions. Bag 7" high x 6" wide. Item #hbirth. $9.95

Potting Shed flower mixForget Me Not
from Potting Shed Creations
A sweet, sentimental flower, sky-blue in color with tiny yellow centers.  It forms a mound of fuzzy foliage that grows to 6" in height.  When in bloom, it bears clusters of flowers that uncurl as the flower buds open. Forget-me-nots are symbolic of true love and means "Remember me forever".  Includes: seed, growing medium, coconut husks for drainage, directions. Bag 7" high x 6" wide. Item #forg.   $9.95

Potting Shed CreationsThe Princess Pea
from Potting Shed Creations
Imagine being sensitive enough to be disturbed by a pea while you slept. Your little princess will love planting their very own peas and watching it grow. This fun activity based garden kit has all of the ingredients included to get kids into gardening. Includes: recycled US steel case and seed tin, organic seed, garden stake, pencil, activity/recipe cards, directions. Tin 1" high x 5" diam. Item #princ.  $12.95

from Potting Shed CreationsJack in the Bean Stalk
from Potting Shed Creations
Imagine growing a bean stalk all the way to the sky!  Kids will love planting their very own bean stalk and watching it grow.  This fun activity based garden kit has all of the ingredients included to get kids into gardening.  Includes: recycled US steel case and seed tin, organic seed, garden stake, pencil, activity/recipe cards, directions. Tin 1" high x 5" diam. Item #bstlk.  $12.95

V'Tae Happy Trails spray - 2 handy sizesHappy Trails
Aromatherapy Mist for the All-Outdoors
100% natural, DEET free. Use with confidence - it's perfectly safe for children and animals. Paraben free Cruelty free This all natural spray can be used on body and washable clothing. Mother Nature's survival kit in a bottle!

4oz, $10.95
60ml travel size, $5.95

 

V'Tae logo

Note from customer:

"Louise: Happy Trails is the best, safe product I've found on the market to repel bugs.  Thank you so much for finding
it & stocking Happy Trails!.  Colleen F., Holly" 

passive bug catcher

Bug Catcher
Eliminate bugs outside the house without chemicals!   Ingenious in their simplicity, glass bug catchers are filled with a bit of sugar water, soda, juice or slices of fruit and thereby attracting flies and other flying insects. There is a small hole in the bottom of the blown-glass vessel where insects enter in search of the "nectar". Once inside, the insects are unable to escape because they can't fly directly down. Effective with various insects: mosquito, wasp, flies, bees. Topped with a simple cork and wire handle; this catcher is made from a heavy glass that will sparkle brilliantly in the sunlight.  10¼" tall.   $21.95

see the colors for this item >

Lady  Bug Lure

Lady Bug Lure
Place one lure on each plant and replace every two weeks. Will attract aphid-loving ladybird beetles to your plants. Control insects, naturally!  $10.95

 

 

 

  booklet: Creating Your Water Gardenbooklet: Creating Your Backyard Bird Garden

see our reference library for more info <<

to toptop Burt's Bees Bug Bite ReliefFor those who didn't have Happy Trails handy, there is always relief from Burt's Bees: Outdoor Bug Bite Relief >>

Bells & Chimes

proudly made in Maine, USA by skilled craftspersonsMemorial and Remembrance
Bells & Chimes

Circle of Life Memory Bell and The Oak Leaf Remembrance Bell message is included with each bell in remembrance of your loved one.

 

 

 

Memorial Bell - in loving memory"Circle of Life" Memory Bell 

Made for us by North Country Wind Bells, Maine. Started in 1975; Jim and May Davidson, owners, helped us create this "Memory Bell" with the addition of symbolic "circle and angel" windcatcher on their 8" Boothbay Harbor Bell that reflects the mellow calm that overtakes all at the day's end.

The Davidson's are very proud of their workshop and their dedicated employees, and we are assured all products are Made in Maine, USA!

Circle of Life Memory Bell: powder coated steel; angel windcatcher, 14" in length, and the angel sail is 5" in diameter - both surfaces are in the copper vein finish. Still just $42.00.

Smokey Mtn. Wind BellSmokey Mountain Wind Bell with Cardinal Motif
The Smokey Mountain area is known for its diversity of plant and animal life. This bell produces three rich and diverse tones, is 10" tall, and is $44.00. Red cardinal motif wind sail included. The bell itself is scalloped and an attractive spruce green. Made from steel right here in the USA.
Cape May wind bellThe Cape May Wind Bell with Star Motif
Cape May is known as one of the oldest seashore resorts in America with and important history. This bell has a deep rich single tone and will remind you of the shore. This bell is 14" tall and is $64.00. Star motif wind sail included. Steel.  Rugged.   Made in USA.
North Country holiday wind bellHoliday Bell

by North Country Wind Bells of Maine

Handmade 10 inch bell, 3 melodic tones. Rich red powder coat finish; main body of bell stands 10" tall. Beautiful toned bell to ring in the Holidays with a gold windcatcher inscribed with the word Peace!  (special order - allow 7 to 10 days, please) $52.50

Optional steel mounting hanger with Cardinal motif is $26.25 (special order - allow 7 to 10 days, please)

Oak Leaf Remembrance Bell - click to see enlarged oak leaf detaillargeThe Oak Leaf Remembrance Bell by North Country Bells, Maine (see above). Yep. Made in the USA.

The Oak Leaf Remembrance Bell
is one of the most meaningful ways to express your sympathy to families. Oaks are a long-lived growing legacy that benefits all of nature. May the memory of those lost live on in the mighty oaks we see, and may this gentle wind-bell be a reminder of the strength of love and the continuation of life.  Bell: black finish, and hammered bronze finish on wind sale. Two sizes:

Medium: 8" x 5", overall length 26" $42.

Large:  overall length 36" $62.

enlarged view (text of remembrance note)

We no longer stock Harmony Hollow products -
they are sold only by the maker (Bradley) at art fairs.

see details above
We do however have some cute new
"remembrance angles" - see above ^

Sunblossoms logo
Sunblossom SunSprite Solar SunSprite by Sunblossom
Bright and lyrical, this chime is a real cutie. It's cousin, the Window Sprite (not pictured), is a simple hanging version that attaches to windows with suction cups (included). Both come in assorted warm or cool colors. These chimes incorporate solar technology - activated by sunlight, incandescent & florescent light. Available in 2 styles:
-- tabletop - freestanding with metal stand 
$64.95 (temp out of stock)
-- window sprite - mount with suction cups
$56.95 (temp out of stock)
Sunblossom MobilesSolar Mobiles by Sunblossom
These mobiles incorporate solar technology into an artistic mobile that moves silently and magically with coruscating colors. Activated by sunlight, incandescent & florescent light. They are a perfect gift for those convalescing or for the hearing impaired. An arching metal hook with two quality suction cups is included for display on any window. Truly eye-catching!  Item varies slightly from photo - theme: sea shells. $48.95
to toptop solar-powered mobileSunblossom's butterfly solar mobile is a depiction of a wonder of nature. Captivating circular flight is created with colorful and realistic magnetized butterflies on a metal vine. Participate creatively: you can arrange six assorted butterflies as desired! Securely attaches to the window with two quality suction cups. Quiet beauty. Sunblossom is a Michigan-based company.  $48.95

Majesty Bells - quality windchimes made in the USA

Majesty Bells is a premier domestic manufacturer of fine, hand-tuned tubular windchimes - proudly crafted in Manassas Park, Virginia, USA.

click to see enlarged view of Majesty Bells - windchime #416sJoyful Refrains by Majesty Bells
18", Made in USA, Item # W416S $26.

[enlarged view]

 

click to see enlarged view of Majesty Bells - windchime #g2006m-blueGentle Spirits by Majesty Bells
29", Made in USA, midnight blue. Item #G206MB (shown) $68.

Also available (not shown):
G406, matte black finish, 44" long, $108.00
G626, copper vein finish, 53" long, $229.00

enlarged view

click to see enlarged view of Majesty Bells - windchime #1735-silverBreezy Blues by Majesty Bells
28" long, , Made in USA.
-- silver - item #W1735-S; $50

enlarged view - silver

click to see enlarged view of Majesty Bells - windchime #M1105-SAMajestic Spirits by Majesty Bells
25", Made in USA,  sage. #M1105SA  $42.
Also available in 34" length, item #M1305SA, $64.

enlarged view

click to see enlarged view of Majesty Bells - windchime #M1105-PLMajestic Spirits by Majesty Bells
25", Made in USA,  plum. #M1105PM  $42.
Also available in 34" length, item #M1305PM, $64.

enlarged view

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mantids and bees

Why Beneficial Insects?

Beneficial insects are your best defense in natural, non-chemical biological control of destructive insects. With ever rising restrictions on toxic insecticides, biological control is becoming more and more popular as gardeners look for alternatives to healthy gardens and yards.

We offer healthy “summer stock” ladybeetles, the best known of all beneficial insects for control of aphids and spider mites. They feed on different soft-bodies insects with aphids being their main food source. Summer stock ladybeetles tend to stay around, lay eggs, and their larvae emerge hungry and ready to consume another 5,000 or so aphids. Ours are shipped in cotton sacks to ensure safe and healthy arrival. $11.95 per half-pint covers up to 2,500 square feet. (sold out)

mantis pods and ref. guide Golden Guides Insects Revised and Updated. This handy guide to the most common, important and showy North American insects will help the novice begin a fascinating study. Full color pictures, non-technical language, and up-to-date range maps. $ 6.95, paper 160 pg., 4 x 6 full-color illustrations St. Martin’s Press ISBN 1-58238-129-1

Praying Mantis egg pods shown left (nearly actual size). Each pods contains 50 to 300 mantids. (See below for a great picture of mantis emerging from pod; even more images at our photo-album.) $3.95 each or $11.50 for three. 3 pods protects up to 5,000 square feet.
NOW IN STOCK
Typically Mantis pods are available Jan. - May
Please respect our minimum web-order: $10 plus shipping

clcik here to see the close-up of emerging Mantids

Folks ask us almost in disbelief when they first hear it.
"50 to 300 Mantids per pod?!"

Yep.
"Wow!"

On a warm day recently, the Mantis pod at our counter display began to transform...hundreds of Mantis were emerging. Click the small image to the left to see what we mean (photo is a large file and it may take a moment to "open").

download .pdf info sheet hereDownload .pdf info sheet here (2 versions: to raise as "pets"; or, for garden/insect control.)

Giant Swallowtail butterfly & chrysalis"Livestock": We have a small quantity of the cocoons of three giant silk moths: 
- Polyphemus, $10.00 each;
- cecropia, $10.00 each;
- luna, $10.00 each.
and,
- Spicebush swallowtail butterfly chrysalids: $10.00 each

"These little creatures make great holiday gifts!" says Louise Dawson, owner and founder of J.J. Cardinal's.

Complete care instructions are included. These magnificent and showy moths will hatch in spring about the time our trees are leafing out. They would make a great classroom project, birthday gift, Christmas gift or just for anyone interested in the natural world. If you'd like us to reserve any livestock and contact you when they arrive, give us a call toll free (1-886-818-6295).  We will need your email address.

 

Louise's monarch drawing circa 1996Monarch Butterfly Caterpillars
The monarchs are here!  Healthy caterpillars are $6.00 each or two for $11.00. The purchase price includes rearing containers, sanitized food (milkweed) and complete instructions to ensure your success in hatching big, beautiful monarch butterflies. Sold out for the season.

More info about raising Monarch Butterflies on our "information page" >

medium sized "bug tent" ideal for raising butterflies & silk moths

You will need a large well ventilated container to put butterfly caterpillars and/or silk moth cocoons into for hatching. If you do not have one, we have sturdy and reusable bug hatching tents available starting at $14.95 (see our kids page for details).

poster/sign: 'Bring Back the Bees'Mason Bees
Our 1st experience with Mason Bees, nature's great pollinators, was the spring of 2002. They've been a huge hit ever since with gardeners and nature buffs alike. There are many species of Orchard Mason bees, only Osmia Lignaria is native to our area (eastern North America).

They are 66% the size of the European honey bee, non-aggressive, and virtually "sting-less". They simply will not attack either singularly or en-masse.
   

male mason beeWhy are Orchard Mason bees so popular? By inviting them into your habitat you increase pollination in and around your gardens ensuring beautiful blossoms, and fruit for wildlife. They are also fascinating to watch and a pleasant learning activity for children. For more information ask for our free pamphlet on Orchard Mason bees.

Starter tube of Orchard Mason Bees - to ensure a new colony is developed in your habitat: $18 (reserve your starter set for 2013 now!)

Mason Bee block with new starter tube holdersGoodPlanet's original
Orchard Mason Bee Block
- made right here in the greater US of A. Holds 20-40 "bee tubes" made from Kraft paper. Overall dimensions: 6½" tall x 3-5/8" wide x 7¾" deep ("double" is 8½" tall). Now includes "starter tube holder" below main chamber.
Solid cedar - screw construction.

- single: 20-tube block: $22.95
- double: 40-tube block: $26.95

enlarged view

Mason Bee nesting tubesWe also supply replacement tube inserts.
Mason Bee tubes - kraft paper (heavy cardboard, waxed outside)...not a wimpy cardboard tube like the other guys sell!  Size:  6" x 3/8". Still just 5¢ each. (Yep.  Just a nickel...five cents, two for a dime...)

Please respect our minimum web-order:
$10 plus shipping

Good Planet's Mason bee nesting house for tunnel-traysMason Bee Nesting Box for Tunnel Trays
- by GoodPlanet
Crafted from recycled barnwood with old paint, Shabby Chic-like style. This nesting block is ideal for attracting Mason Bees to the BeeDiverse Tunnel Tray system - 30 hole nesting tunnels included.  Overall dimensions for this solid wood box are 6-1/8" wide x 8-3/8" deep x 6-¾" high. 
$39.95

 

tunnel trays by BeeDiverseTunnel Trays for Mason Bees by Beediverse
Stackable modular design, these rugged nesting trays are made of environmentally friendly corn material, to create 30 nesting tunnels. Says the manufacturer: "Trays are made from a natural corn material, a nice environmentally friendly alternative to plastic.  Note: the varied colour of the trays. Unlike Honeybees, each Mason Bee nests in its own tunnel. Mason bees use colour to find their nests readily and reliably. The coloured trays help keep bees at home and increase pollination in your garden."  Dimensions:  3½" x 3" x 6" and will accommodate up to 30 females and 180 eggs, reuse trays year-after-year. $22.50

Web guy note: The spelling of "colour" tells you Bee Diverse is a Canadian company.

mason bee "cottage" Orchard Mason Bee Cottage
from BeediverseBee Diverse - logo

 

20 nesting chambers for Orchard Mason bees and is suitable for a small garden or orchard.  $21.95

a book by Margriet DogteromPollination with Mason Bees by Dr. Margriet Dogterom
This book provides all the basic information needed to start and manage the blue orchard mason bee, $9.95
mason bee posterMason Bee Lifecycle Poster
This beautifully illustrated laminated poster is ready to hang up and serve as a reminder of “what to do” and “when to do it” for successful management of orchard mason bees. It is also a wonderful teaching tool and shows the importance on these beneficial gentle pollinators. 8 X 11, $2.95
[to toptop] Carruth Sculpture copyright by Carruth Studios, Inc.
See our orders page for more information regarding shipping carriers and nominal shipping charges. Please respect our minimum web-order: $10 plus shipping.
order-sub-hdr3.jpg (6544 bytes) Okay, admittedly we're "low-tech". But what we do - we do well, swift, accurate and honest. Your order should be in transit in less than 24-hours, often same day.

J.J. Cardinal's Wild Bird & Nature Store®
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12830 S. Saginaw St., Grand Blanc, MI  48439   810-695-8733
updated 03/28/13 illustrations, text & fun © copyright J.J. Cardinal's 1992-2013
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