The area in Centennial Woods that I explored this semester may seem to be at a standstill to the average eye, but there is an abundance of winter life that exists in this Northern Hardwood Forest. The aged hardwood trees, a mix of Beech, Birch, and others, are home to nests and provided ground cover for subnivean surviving species to work with throughout the winter. With slightly warmer temperatures, this ground cover is beginning to emerge– as are some signs of hidden life.

A nest sits in one of the larger hardwoods in the area, but its inhabitance is unknown, as the signs of life are from those of larger mammals.

Although I have not been visiting this specific spot for long, as I found a new place (further from the business of South Burlington), I have seen some changes in just my recent visits. The first time I visited this new place, I went in deep snow, where tracks were visible and the area was covered with a whimsical charm. Now, the snow has melted and again frozen over, making for a hazardous, icy tracking experience. I am anticipating the signs of spring life in this area and look forward to watching life bloom in abundance.