Today’s visit to the Redstone Pines was a record dreary trip! The air was freezing and I hardly saw any students. There was less trash on the ground than usual as a result of students being unable to spend time outside. Compared to my last visit in early December, there was much more debris on the ground, including a large number of pine cones and needles.
There was also a small amount of snow in shadowed areas of the Pines. Most of the “snowy” patches were really just ice. Between visits, there was a large amount of snow that I didn’t get to see.
Being that there was little snow cover, there were only a few signs of animal life. First, I found dog tracks. I have noticed during my project that the pines are a very popular dog walking spot for older community members.
Unfortunately, I was able to observe quite an upsetting wildlife phenomenon during this visit. Just as I was leaving, I noticed a fat squirrel laid out underneath a tree. He was fluffy and large and looked as if he had only just died. He was untouched by predators. I am curious as to what happened to him being he looked so healthy. I did not take a photo for obvious reasons.
Overall, the Pines are similar to the way I left them, with the addition of icy patches and more pine needles. The dominating conifers make the space green even during this harsh season. A few rhododendrons add to the surviving greenery. I can’t wait for campus to warm up and to see the Pines in bloom!
