Good Stewards “Keep Track”

Astute stewards “keep track” of many things. In the case of the Baker Woods Preserve we keep track of the trails, maps, parking, pollinator gardens, and even the privy. The list is seemingly endless!

But those aren't the tracks I’m referring to. Animal tracks, which are particularly evident on freshly fallen snow, can paint a vivid picture of the vitality of our BWP ecosystem. We’ve captured striking photos of bear, coyote, fisher, bobcat, etc. on our game cam, but observing fresh tracks on a snow white pallet is its very own written language. It’s challenging, intriguing, and worthwhile to decipher their origin and intent. Identifying the tracks of an amphibian, such as a blue spotted salamander, making its nocturnal meander from leaf litter to a vernal pool (to breed) is no less exhilarating than the tracks of a large carnivore looking for its next meal.

If you would like to learn more about tracking and nature in general please consider joining us on March 19th for an event sponsored by the Indian River Lakes Conservancy (IRLC). Sign up at the tracks below!

“Tracks in the Snow” Snowshoeing Trek with Peter O’Shea March 19th 11am

“Peter O’Shea, a well-known, engaging naturalist, will lead us on a snowshoeing trek at Baker Woods Preserve in Natural Bridge, NY. He is the author of two books on wildlife: “Great South Woods: Rambles of an Adirondack Naturalist” and “Great South Woods…more to the story.” Peter will search out tracks and share on any number of topics from his wealth of experience with the natural world. Snowshoes are provided upon request. Sign-up is not required but appreciated. Sign up here.”

Meanwhile, see if you can identify these tracks recently found in the Baker Woods Preserve!

Yours in the environment.

~Matt and Linda