January Nature News
Posted on Wednesday, February 4th, 2009
January has been a typical winter month with a mix of weather. We have had winter storms, a January thaw, sun, and bitter cold temperatures. Yes, winter in Wyoming. We have almost 300 inches of snow in the mountains and the valley has become a winter wonderland.
The month of January is the heart of winter. Nature is reasonably quiet. As I walk in the woods, the silence envelops me. The snow blankets the landscape and the smaller streams are covered with snow and ice. As I approach moving water, I stop to listen to hear the water sing the song of winter. Occasionally a bird calls: the mountain chickadee, the raven soaring on the air thermals, but the noises are nothing like a summer song. Nature is in a period of rest and it soothes your soul to stop and listen. Stillness, a wonderful thing.
My backyard is the complete opposite since I feed the birds. It amazes me how the flocks of house finches swarm and push the chickadees away. How the magpie will come in like a fighter jet and all birds scatter. And if it is quiet the sharp-shinned hawk has come looking for a winter meal. I have the opportunity to work at my desk and watch the antics at the feeder. My husband even gave me a heater for our bird bath so they can get fresh water which they seem to enjoy. I do have a few favorites: black rosy finches, black capped chickadees, evening grosbeak, and the downy woodpecker. The feeders are a flourish of activity and so fun to watch!
I have joyously noticed the longer days and the evening light. In the winter, we often get an alpen glow on the mountains. The sun reflects of the snow and the hue is a rosy pink. The awe inspiring beauty makes me reflect. I recall a thought on introspection by Paramahansa Yogananda: Everyone should learn to analyze himself dispassionately. Write down your thoughts and aspirations daily. Find out what you are—not what you imagine you are!—because you want to make yourself what you ought to be. Most people don’t change because they don’t see their own faults.
Tour Suggestion:
At least once a winter, all locals should ski Teton Canyon in Alta, WY and it is well worth a visit for visitors as well. It is an amazing canyon with the Teton peaks standing as sentinels above the valley. It really is spectacular and the roadway is groomed by the Teton Valley Trails and Pathways. You can skate ski or cross-country. It is eight miles, round trip, with minimal elevation gain.
To reach the trailhead, you drive to Victor, ID on Highway 33 and continue to the town of Driggs. At the lighted intersection, you turn right or east off of the highway onto Little Avenue. It is known locally as Ski Hill Road. Drive through Alta, WY, to the Teton Canyon sign on the right side of the road. Turn onto the road and drive about ¼ mile to the trailhead. You can even take your dog!
Biologist Cathy Shill runs the Hole Hiking Experience.
