General Information
I visited the trail at around 3:30 PM. It was 86º F and sunny when I arrived; during my time there it became a bit more cloudy.
Exploration
Upon entering the forest, I knew I wanted to further investigate the stream a little ways in. During my last visit, I didn’t look too closely at that area, but it’s a place I’ve enjoyed walking to for many years. I decided to stray from the trail a bit to follow the stream. The first thing that struck me was the water level. There was less water in the stream than I had seen in any of my previous visits to the trail. I noticed that while walking along the water, there were many more small insects than there were elsewhere in the forest. During my walk to and time at the stream, I noted hearing a variety of bird calls. I also heard the soft trickle of the stream’s water. There was a very large amount of greenery and vegetation by the water, as well as many moss-covered rocks. Just standing in one spot on the stream, I observed beech, oak, and pine trees. As I walked, I watched multiple frogs jump into the water at the sound of my steps.
Species Identification
The species I identified which I was unfamiliar with was the green frog, or Lithobates clamitan. As I was walking along the stream, I observed many frogs. With this one, I was able to get close enough to have a good look at its features and take a photo for reference; I was very curious what species was hanging around the stream. Using Mass Audubon’s list of native frog species in Massachusetts, I was able to compare my photo to many different species and conclude that it was a green frog. Through my research, I learned that the green frog will eat pretty much anything they can swallow: they’re not picky!
Sketches
Conclusion
I had a really incredible experience with sketching. Generally, I don’t consider myself an artist, and I was a bit nervous to do this activity due to my artistic abilities. But once I was in the field and determined to capture each of my scenes, I got really into sketching! I noticed so many little details and interactions I never would’ve without making my sketches. Even just looking for things to sketch made me connect more with and think deeper about my surroundings. Next visit I think I’d like to look more into the frogs at the stream, and maybe see if I can spot other species.