Eighty-some odd degrees, plenty of sunshine and a welcome breeze greeted a couple of friends and me as we explored the Sucker Brook Outlet Reserve on Farrington Pond Road in Lovell–certainly a beach day.
Though we often refer to them as being shaped like a cigar, on this summer-like spring day, that description hardly seems apropos.
A few of last year’s leaves still cling tentatively to beech branches,
but on others the buds unfurl
with grace,
displaying pleated leaves covered with long silky hair.
There’s so much to see along the trail, so I hope you’ll continue to wander with me.
Hobblebush,
Wood Anemone
and Sessile-leaved Bellwort or Wild Oats.
Leatherleaf
from a different point of view.
Beaked Hazelnut displaying leaves.
Alternate-leaved Dogwood
preparing to flower.
Squawroot, that reminded us of . . .
pine cones.
Pitcher Plants, carnivores in the plant world,
with their pitcher-shaped leaves,
covered in trigger hairs–waiting to trap insects.
We saw hemlock polypores,
and old bird nests.
And then there was the other animal sign.
Deer scrapes on Striped Maple bark.
And the work of mice below the snow pack.
There is beaver work everywhere
and numerous lodges in the brook.
A rut in the trail
was put to good use–wood frog eggs and emerging tadpoles.
Something made a meal of this Northern Flicker.
Our best finds were actual wildlife. This guy thought that if he hid his head, we wouldn’t see him.
But we did.
A wood frog, also trying to hide, well, sorta.
And a ribbon snake that quickly slithered into a hole and out of sight–the most successful hider of all.
Lest I forget, we were beside Sucker Brook,
where we paused frequently.
An osprey flew overhead, but I wasn’t quick enough to take a picture.
It was a perfect beech day. Thanks for taking the time to enjoy it with me.
And Happy Birthday to my sister, who has loved the beach since day one.
I was anxiously awaiting your findings of the day. They were spectacular! Pitcher plants!! I’ve never seen one. Sorry I couldn’t be there. 😦
But happy you had a good day 🙂
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You were with us in spirit. I didn’t realize you’d never seen a Pitcher Plant. Some at Holt Pond as well. Next time! Until then . . .
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Thanks, Leigh! One of these days I’d love to do one of these wanders with you. You have sharp eyes! You present a wonderful lesson to us each and every time! Thanks.
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I’d like that, Ann. Constantly teaching myself and learning from others 🙂
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Beautiful photos Leigh! and just the right touch with the words. Love it! – Judy
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Thanks Judy. I’m glad you’ve been able to join in the fun.
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