Photo by Rebecca Dunn
Across much of the region, the calls of songbirds and the sounds of insects are now mostly silenced. Lingering leaves rustle as they drift to the ground or crunch underfoot on dry days in sunny locations. With luck, those who walk out into natural areas at this time of year may glimpse unexpected wildlife such as the bobcat, or a sauntering coyote, or a group of deer feeding furtively – alert for possible lurking predators.
In areas blanketed with snow, a scattering of wildlife tracks can provide opportunities for “best guess” matches with wildlife of the area. Tracks in the snow often only reveal bits and pieces of a complex tale of wildlife moving from shelter to water or to sources of food. Temperatures now may be cold, and access to many areas may be limited due to closed gates or roads blocked by snow. But for those who still go out, there are often discoveries that can reward the effort. Each sighting can be a gift to enjoy and to savor.