As it is currently a peak migratory time, we used the walk as an opportunity to look and listen for birds. American goldfinches, Tufted titmice, Chimney swifts, and Chipping sparrows chattered overhead, and we were even lucky enough to spot a Great Blue heron passing above.
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Tag: Forest Explorations
Forest Explorations — April in the Fells
April is an exciting month: vernal pools have thawed and are welcoming frogs and salamanders to breed, and the forest floor exhibits the colors of its first bloomers. Anticipation builds up, and hope for a more clement time is on our mind, maybe even more so this year than previous years…
Forest Explorations — March in the Fells
For many New Englanders, the beginning of springtime comes as a welcome relief. This past winter has been especially challenging and, to me at least, the beginning of spring this year feels even more needed than usual.
Forest Explorations — February in the Fe
This Forest Exploration shed light on the many benefits of the snowpack (layered snow buildup) from temperature regulation to protection from predators.
Forest Explorations — January in the Fel
In addition to the usual emphasis on ecology, this January’s Forest Exploration introduced an additional focus: geology.
Forest Explorations — December in the Fe
Many of our discussions led to reading the forest floor, musing about it, as well as understanding the implications of what we were seeing onto the Fells habitat and its inhabitants. Each Forest exploration walk brings its load of wonders and this December Fell exploration wasn’t any different.
Forest Explorations — November in the Fe
Last month, conditions were too parched to support much fungi life, but this Saturday we spotted pale False Deathcaps, Amber Jelly fungus…
Forest Explorations — October in the Fel
During this month’s Forest Exploration, our group spotted painted turtles basking in the sun, appreciated the lingering goldenrods, and learned more about red oaks.
Forest Explorations — September in the F
Much of the Fell’s flora has passed its summer prime but evergreen wintergreens still adorn the forest floor.
Forest Explorations — August in the Fell
Summer is beginning to wind down in the Fells. This season has been especially dry; premature, still-green acorns litter the ground around us and the vernal pools we pass are parched. Still, there is no shortage of interesting natural phenomena to explore.