April 17th and The Rain

Today’s weather was rainy, but not too cold with a temperature averaging 42ºF. I was actually hoping for rain because it meant that I could try to find the vernal pools that I saw on Biofinder awhile back; however, I’ll save that until later.

One of the most drastic changes that I observed was the water level of Lake Champlain. I approximate at least an extra 3-4 inches. The log in the photo (below) has always had a good 15 ft. from the water’s edge but now it was completely surrounded. As I was walking along the shore, I found the reason. A stream was flowing quite vigorously and I was surprised because I had never actually it flowing before. I guess all the snow melting plus the April showers made the water levels rise and probably flooded in quite a few places in the area. In the same area, the red maple tree (the same one I have been tracking through the whole year) has begun to bud (see below). Hopefully, I can see further budding if I’m able to come back here before the year is over. The edge effect is prominent in Red Rocks whether it’s the beach area and forest or the forest and lake. This definitely promotes forest-dwelling species because of the abundance of forest itself and the resources that it can provide.

I followed the stream attempting to find the vernal pools and subsequently the amphibians that make their homes and breed in the environment. I believe I found some, but couldn’t find any signs of wildlife. However, I came across a dead tree (not sure of the species), and in the trunk was a deep hole that could house birds or small tree-dwelling mammals.

Pictures Top to bottom: Red maple buds, high water levels, possible home, vernal pool, the stream.

~ by aeromano on April 17, 2018.

 
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