WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY Every autumn we sense the excitement of the beginning of a new season. Autumn is the time for nature-embracing explorations into the natural world as nights cool, fantastic forest fungi appear, and mosquito-free trails beckon. I know the time of autumn draws near as energized Eastern gray squirrels gather acorns felled by … Continue reading The Dawn of Autumn in Oakland County
WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY I’m often asked how I select Wilder Side of Oakland County nature topics. I’m easily distracted, that’s how. Being distracted as I hike is a very good thing for me. Distractions often lead to noting aspects of nature’s way that I was not searching for as the countdown to autumn … Continue reading Countdown to Autumn in Oakland County
WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY Double-crested Cormorants are one of the most fascinating and peculiar-looking birds of Oakland County. Their sightings occur most often in May during northward migrations and again in early September as they head south from their colonies located along the shores of our Great Lakes. Many that are now passing through … Continue reading Cormorants in Oakland County and Beyond
Photo credit: Taylor Reynolds WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY We knew winter really was over and spring was firmly taking hold on the wilder side of Oakland County when my hiking companion and I unexpectedly encountered an ancient amphibian ritual deep in the woods of Bald Mountain Recreation Area. Although light rain fell the evening … Continue reading Oakland County’s Vernal Ponds – Alive With Wood Frogs!
WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY The days are short, and darkness comes all too soon. The dawn of winter draws near. We may feel sleepy at times, but there is no long winter nap awaiting the beaver (Castor canadensis,) the largest rodent of North America. Contrary to the belief of some, beavers do not hibernate. … Continue reading Beavers: Oakland County’s Best Dam Builders!
