Time: 11:00 Weather: 22 Degrees Fahrenheit, Sunny, Very Low Winds.
Tracks found:
The tracks of domestic dogs were found, they were characterized as domestic dog due to the lack of straight line pattern, general foot size and shaped. The tracks were melted so other factors of identification where hard to come by. However, the pattern of the tracks is very telling as the animal generating them had no concern for expending extra energy, since it did not have to worry about having enough food supply.
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
Red or Gray fox tracks were found. Linear track was found, with a 10cm straddle and 5cm by 5cm tracks, these all match with fox tracks. Snow again was in poor condition for tracking. So there is a chance this analysis is wrong and tracks have been distorted to a different size. However, due to the very linear pattern and straddle, domestic dog can be ruled out and coyote seems unlikely due to track size.
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
Trees Identified in Winter State:
Ash trees were found in the area surround my phenology sight.
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
There was a tree that I found which had buds that I could not associate with any specific type of tree on the tree identification sheet.
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
There were a couple boxelder surrounding my phenology sight.
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
Here is a labeled sketch of a Boxedler Twig
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
General Phenological Changes
Vegetation is vastly dormant
Crows are still calling but out of sight, three different calls of songbirds present. Tapping noise which may indicate a woodpecker. Ashes are still holding onto what appear to be decayed seeds. Grey/Red Fox trail. Snow is coating the ground. White Pines across way are very visible now. Unlikely that deer inhabit this area due to lack of hemlock trees. Recent looking beaver cuts have been found.
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
(Fong, C. 2020). My photograph
Field Notes:
Referenced Sources:
Levine, L., & Mitchell, M. (2008). Mammal tracks and scat: life-size tracking guide. East Dummerston, VT: Heartwood Press.
Watts, M. T. (n.d.). Massachusetts Audubon Society, South Lincoln MA. Massachusetts Audubon Society, South Lincoln MA.