Winter can certainly be a dreary time, so plan to get out for a field trip! Hemlock groves are still green and are full of animal life. We will hike into the University Nature Preserve to visit several hemlock groves. During the winter, these areas provide shelter and a haven from the deeper snows for many mammals and birds. Highlights often include deer beds, red squirrels, great horned owls, golden-crowned kinglets, FISHER tracks, and the main object of our labor: PORCUPINES. We will show you how to locate a porky through their sign and hopefully we will actually see one (be prepared to crane your neck, but it is good warbler training). We will also discuss invasive species affecting hemlocks and the surge in the population of the predatory fisher. The hemlock groves are on a fairly steep hillside and if the snow is deep it can be a rigorous walk. It can also be slippery. However, the lower hemlock grove is before the steeper portion and is fairly accessible. If the snow is deep think about snowshoes! Total walk is probably between 1 and 1.5 miles. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction and bring your binoculars. Total trip time between 1 to 2 hours.

Park at the upper end of parking lot M and meet at the entrance to the Nature Preserve. Questions – Contact Victor Lamoureux at vlamoureux9@gmail.com or 607-770-6897.

THIS FIELD TRIP IS NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND YOU MUST BE A CURRENT NATURALISTS’ CLUB MEMBER TO ATTEND. Field trip is limited to 15 participants. Register to attend online at https://forms.gle/SzzsHHfXAHthCciDA