June 9

Thursday, Remi and I returned to Forest Hill Nature Area for our weekly hike. The early morning weather was partly sunny with a temperature of 52 degrees and still air. After gazing west from Energy Hill, I walked down along the edge of Mallard Marsh where the Reed Canary grass was displaying its colorful flowers (panicles). I continued through Bobolink Meadow where no Bobolinks were seen, however I did spot a female Goldfinch perched on top of a young Norway spruce. Shortly after entering North woods, I noticed a single Wild Iris blossom near the footbridge while further down the path the forest floor was covered with a healthy mix of Virginia creeper and Poison Ivy. Continuing west, I glanced skyward to see a nearly full canopy of leaves. Exiting the woods, I followed the trail west around Succession field where I was surprised to see that a Goat’s Beard flower had already gone to seed. Also, bushes of Blackberry and Multi flora Rose where in full bloom. Turning south, I followed the trail through a lush corridor of oak and hickory while being serenaded by a variety of birds. Turning east, I passed through Birch row where I saw several small globs of white froth attached to young plants, including Wild Carrot. This particular one was made by the nymph of a spittlebug call a Meadow froghopper. Following the perimeter trail, I passed Sora Swale and headed east past Frog Fen. Approaching Brady Cemetery, I quietly passed a perching Robin fledgling that was ready to test its wings. Nearby, I paused to pick a wispy flower from a Wild Grape vine and take in its perfume-like fragrance. Passing the cemetery, I continued north through Native Grassland where Spiderwort was beginning to bloom. Nearing the barn, I noticed Grebe Pond was being covered once again with a green layer of the invasive Water meal. Continuing around the barn, I checked out the rocks that have become a great place to see snakes and wasn’t surprised to see a Garter snake. Finally, we got back to the car and headed home.

Place to hike

Often repeat

Earthen trails

Touch my feet

Path of discovery

Meandering kind

Lessons of the wild

Touch my mind

Walking in nature

My only goal

Times with her

Touch my soul

D. DeGraaf