The Winter of 2011 – 2012 Part Two

For me this has been a very enjoyable winter. I have not missed the generous amount cold and snow we usually get here in Central Minnesota. Currently our high temperature today was in the forty’s again and the only snow we have on the ground is a trace in the shadiest corners of our woodlots. Welcome to February in Minnesota 2012.

As much as I have been enjoying our lack of snow this does alter more than a few natural dynamics of winter. This goes beyond the obvious lack of precipitation needed to recharge our streams, lakes and ground water supply. Waterfowl and other shoreline birds are then impacted with fewer locations to nest and safely raise their young. This results in a lower populations.

The lack of snow also affects many woodland creatures. Snowshoe hair that turn white in the winter lose their natural camouflage, making them susceptible to predation from many predators. Without snow ruffed grouse, mice, voles and shrews are just a few critters that lose valuable cover needed to hide them from hawks, owls or coyotes. Snow also acts as an insulation to help keep these animals and birds warm.

I have noticed that this warm weather has a few trees fooled into budding already. Our trees and fruiting plants are exposed to an increase of the possibility of frost injury. Actively growing trees or grape vines fooled into an early growth can suffer death of flowering buds if a hard frost occurs. Open blossoms may die if the temperature drops below 27 degrees F. This means fewer apples, grapes and plums.  Damage to shoots, fruits and broad leaf plants are also common anytime cold temperatures occur after a warm winter.

The effects of the winter of 2012 can even change our recreational habits and experiences. This mild winter means a longer tick season. In fact any time the temperatures are above 35 degrees woodland ticks are active and in search of a blood meal. This could be a banner year for these little forest draculas. One of my favorite treats, the morel mushroom, could also suffer from the lack of moisture. I sure hope we get a lot of rain this spring.

There is good news mixed in with this. All of the species will recover and grow again. After all, they have been doing this for a very long time.

Enjoy our woodland treasures, and take care of our natural resources.

Jim

Coyote out mouse hunting...