Nature Notes

The changing seasons are as inevitable as the sunrise and sunset, and here at Lake James, Nature is transitioning from autumn to winter. For humans, that means bundling up in heavy clothes before hitting the trails and maybe a warm thermos of apple cider or coffee waiting back in the vehicle for the end of the trek. For wildlife, it means finding new sources of food and shifting periods of activity to allow for the shortening of daylight and cooler temperatures.

There has been a dramatic shift in the bird populations at the park following the fall migration. Gone are the wood thrushes, red-eyed vireos, summer tanagers and ruby throated hummingbirds of the breeding season. They have all left for warmer climes. Those migrants have been replaced by dark-eyed juncos, golden-crowned kinglets, yellow-bellied sapsuckers and hermit thrushes; all in from the North and perfectly adapted to handle our southern Appalachian winters.

For those critters unable to migrate to escape the cold, other strategies are required. Coldblooded reptiles and amphibians must weather the season by hibernation underground. It is possible to see some of the heartier species like eastern box turtle, black rat snake and Spring peeper during those few warm and sunny days scattered throughout the season, but for the most part, this is a long stretch of inactivity.

Mammals change their ways during winter too. Some, like white-tailed deer, foxes and coyotes have shed their light summer coats for thicker fur to help them keep warm. Food is at a premium this time of year, so it’s a great time to see animals on the move during daylight hours.

For the most part, trees have lost their leaves and understory plants have gone dormant. This makes it easier to observe wildlife because it can no longer hide behind a screen of green. Additionally, any vegetation with remaining fruits, nuts or berries will be in high demand and excellent spots to look for birds and mammals as they take advantage of these highenergy foods.

Late fall and winter see less human traffic at the park, but for those who dress for the weather, the rewards can be great. Hope to see you out on the trail.