Posted on by Olivia Palmer

Nature’s Camouflage

As I revisited my phenology spot from last semester not much had changed. Other than the obvious thick layer of snow that coated everything, even up to my knees at times, the landscape looks practically unchanged. Because of where my phenology spot is I didn’t expect to see many tracks.

My area backs up to two different neighborhoods and is frequented by walkers, cross country skiers, and even snowshoers.
Last time I came this log had covered the path. It has now been cut away and there have been some cross country skiers that have taken the opportunity throughout this area.
I saw some deer tracks while I was out there, although they were covered in snow from the overnight shower and the wind today.
I’m not quite sure what these are. I think they look like where deer would lay down but it also could be marks from dogs.
These are more of those marks.
I also saw what I think are rabbit tracks, as these indents in the snow were separated, like by a jumping animal.
This is one of those rabbit tracks closer up. That’s my mitten for size comparison. They did seem big to be a rabbit but its the only winter jumping animal I could think of.

These both looked like they could be subnivean access points to me. Although I’m not quite sure.

This looked like the perfect place for animals to seek refuge from the snow. Although it is open air, the base of this fallen tree provides access the subnivean areas deep in the snow.

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