This event is currently full. Keep an eye out in case we are able to add another wildlife tracking walk.
The beauty of snow is that it provides us with a natural canvas where we can see the pattern of animal tracks and read a story about the forest in winter.
On Thursday, February 11 from 10AM-12PM (snow date Friday, February 12, same time), join Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director Lynne Flaccus for a winter wander at the Bowditch Runnells State Forest off Route 16 north of Chocorua Lake to observe and learn about wildlife in winter and the tracks they leave behind. A diversity of animals are active during the winter months, busy finding food and staying warm. They leave behind patterns in the snow that tell stories about their movements and what they need to survive. What do they eat, where do they find shelter, who eats them? You’ll be amazed by what you can read in the snow and learn about our wild neighbors. Who walks in a straight line and who waddles? Who has four toes and who has five? Do the tracks lead to a tree or a hole in the ground? What clues might tell you what animal left the signs?
The Bowditch Runnells Forest is owned by the State of NH, and restricted by CLC covenants. The forest is on the east and west side of Route 16 north of the lake and south of Scott Road. We’ll explore the woods on the west side and down along the Chocorua River and its tributaries. Maybe we’ll find signs of otter or fishers, some deer tracks mingled with fox or coyote, hares, mice and squirrels, and perhaps a bobcat? Parking is on the west side of the highway just south of the Bowditch Runnells sign, and where the ROW has been plowed wider. We won’t be on a trail so be prepared for some wandering over rolling land. Snowshoes may be recommended depending on snow cover. Please wear good sturdy winter footwear, dress in layers for the cold temperatures, bring water and a snack if you’d like. Please wear a scarf and/or mask—we’ll practice social distancing, but face coverings will be used if we gather around to look at something. Please email lflaccus@chocorualake.org with your phone number to let us know you’ll join us—numbers are limited, and we want to be able to reach you if plans change, including if the State of NH issues new Covid-19 directives.
Naturalist Lynne Flaccus has more than 30 years of experience in land conservation and stewardship, managing protected properties, studying wildlife, and educating adults and children.
Banner: Whose tracks are these along the Chocorua River in the Bowditch Runnells State Forest? Photo: Lynne Flaccus