We have nearly arrived at the tail-end of what has been a shockingly mild winter. The signs of spring are slowly emerging, you just have to look for them. Bird songs have begun to replace the still, winter silence. Plant life on the forest floor has started to peak through the soil, waiting for warmth and rain. Buds are almost ready to burst on many trees. Hibernating aquatic turtles leave their winter hiding places beneath the mud on warmer days, exposing their shells to solar rays. A few brave wood frogs and spring peepers warm up their voices as if practicing for the deafening choirs which are soon to premiere. Spotted salamanders are getting restless in their underground lairs, ready to find romance and make a midnight vernal pool appearance. Flocks of waterfowl rarely seen during the warmer months will soon leave our wetlands to make their way back home up north. Many mammals such as the river otter and flying squirrel have bred by now and will soon have babies entering the world. The dance of predator and prey will ensue while parents begin teaching their young the rules of survival. Spring is a magical time that I believe presents a fantastic snapshot of the fragile natural balance, one that if we don’t open our eyes and ears, we may never realize exists.
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