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By Vici and Steve Diehl

We started the Birds, Bugs, & Blossoms Spring Hike more than a decade ago. This year, due to the rain and cold weather, birds were delayed in their return and plant growth was not as advanced compared to years past.  Shads were in blossom and the muted colors of emerging tree leaves allowed sunlight through to the spring ephemerals – the wildflowers and ferns on the forest floor.

Red and White Trilliums, Wild Ginger, Carolina Spring Beauties, Dutchman’s Breeches and Squirrel Corn, Hepatica, Blue Cohosh, Maidenhair and Christmas ferns were abundant. Though Golden-winged Warblers had yet to arrive, Eastern Towhees greeted us at the parking lot along with Red-winged Blackbirds and Chickadees. A Roughed Grouse was “drumming”, there were fresh signs of Pileated Woodpeckers and an evasive Black & White Warbler teased us with brief appearances on the Eagle Marsh Trail.

The hike was a steady process of discovery … one step at a time. Every hike is memorable and everyone learns from each other. For example, the historical medicinal uses of Toothwort, Hepatica, and Blue Cohosh were discussed. Vernal pools, which have no fish, are important for the survival of many animals such as the tadpoles of Spring Peepers, Wood Frogs, and other aquatic life.

Sometimes, the hike resembled an accordion … stretching out and then contracting as participants gathered to feel the velvety texture of heart-shaped Wild Ginger leaves and knelt to brave the unpleasant aroma of their flowers.

It is important that IRLC organizes guided hikes in the spring, fall, and winter so families can enjoy incredible and diverse scenery, learn about the flora and fauna while making friends in the process. Experiencing the natural environment is healthy for all of us.

Photo Credit: Steve Diehl