Tolerance

As conditions change we tolerate through adaptations. The stress due to limitations, increases mortality. Natural fluctuations occur depending on factors.

Some populations may experience higher levels of mortality due to the effects of change. The biggest challenges include condition and reduced resources. Prolonged events force alterations or limit movement to conserve. As sources become unavailable or inaccessible they'll expend larger amounts to maintain.

If not replaced they'll use reserves and alternative sources. Those unable to build up adequate reserves may die. Typically, young, old and those unhealthy in the struggle to build up reserves. We'll observe they appear unhealthy, the struggle will make them weak and may act irregular in search for sources.

With limited access populations are forced to seek alternative sources or are stranded and suffer. As things change for the better they rise and begin to emerge. Visible results of past events are clear now and we learn that providing basics and giving access can make the different in survival.

This article I pretty much stole from a DNR article referring to wildlife's survival during extreme Wisconsin winters. I left out the reference to wildlife since I thought it to be equally relevant to  humanity. Since we cannot migrate (flee) or hibernate (hide), we need to tolerate (accept) and help those less able.

Shades of Gray

Just for the love of it, my own trilogy of creatures of the night and day. Highlighted are some of their more unusual traits.

Gray Squirrel- We all know these small mammals with their bushy tails. But did you know they are the real hoarders, making reality shows pale in comparison. The gray squirrel may have several thousand caches each season, plus due to their extreme spatial memory they can find them again. Eventually using their sense of smell when they get close. I'd called that extreme senses.

They also have the unique ability to descend trees head first, by turning their hind paws backwards enabling them to grip the bark. Kinda kinky.

Gray Fox-This smallest member of the canine family  is a skilled tree climber. Their semi retractable claws allow them to climb up to 30 feet up where they often build their nests.

This beautiful animal has influenced our language with sexual references to beautiful women (Foxy) and cunning references (Vixen). Oh my, who is the real animal.



Gray Catbird- As a member of the Mimidae family of birds (famously Mockingbirds) they can mimic the songs of other birds and sometimes even tree frogs and mechanical sounds. These vocal abilities are impressive as they can string along and create their own songs. Note- be careful what you say you never know whose listening.

Happy Valentines Day. Gotta love nature.

So Excited

Finally, my first Winterfest at Perrot State Park this past weekend. The weather was pleasant and there was snow. For the past two years the event sponsored by the Friends of Perrot has been canceled due to either a lack of snow or dangerously cold polar vortexes.

We enjoyed a horse drawn wagon ride through the campground road and watched the dog sled race through the prairie  path.

The dogs were just so excited to get going. They barked, howled and leap into the air ready to get going. Once the order was given they were all business. Very impressive to see.


 
 
 

For those of you who want to know more about dog sledding catch the Iditarod, starting on March 7th in Alaska. This 1000 mile race is sure to be spectacular. Note poodles need not apply,  they have been included in the race but are now banned.






For those of you who want to see other champions of the canine world you can watch the Westminster Show Feb. 16-17, one of the longest running sporting events in Madison Square Gardens, New York city.

Be Hoppy

Don't be SAD, Be Happy. It's staying lighter later and  Ground Hog Day is Monday. As we enter the shortest month of the year it means spring is right around the corner.

Shake off that Seasonal Affectiveness Disorderly conduct and get something growing. If those seed catalogs aren't enough try growing your groceries.

I saw this at my dear friend Judy's home. She was sprouting the root ends of various vegetables. Pictured here are green onions, celery and I just added Romaine Lettuce. Maybe I'll try carrots next so they're ready for the Easter Bunny.

All you do is leave about two inches of the vegetable from the root end and prop into a container. Add some water to cover the root section and whalla.  In about two weeks the new growth appears. Make sure to check the water level daily and add more as needed.

Snip your own fresh salad greens, put of Vivaldi's Four Seasons and before you know it camping season will be here.