Tuesday, March 16, 2010

A Rush of Changes

The world of Hanlon Creek is changing fast at this time of year. In a few short weeks (it seems like a few short days this year!), one season vanishes, and another season arrives.

The spring melt is a quick episode in the seasons, but has a huge impact. Streams rise, the stormwater ponds and meadows fill to overflowing, and water in the swamp is recharged. Without this, the swamp would dry up in late summer.

Birds return, starting with the blackbirds, and followed quickly by the robins, then dozens of other species. Meanwhile, the birds who stayed all winter - the cardinals, chickadees, and of course the geese - are seeking mates and a place to nest. The geese honk madly at us as we set out on the trails.

And daylight savings arrives, allowing walks after dinner without having to go out in the dark. For the next seven months we'll be out enjoying the trails in the evenings.

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