TRR photo by Scott Rando
Turkey vultures arrive in our area during the beginning of March. They migrate, but some of them don’t travel far. They can be found in parts of New Jersey throughout the winter. A flying turkey vulture can be distinguished from an eagle by its habit of soaring with its wings in a dihedral, or “V” shape. (Click for larger version)

Harbingers of spring

During the middle of March, the region got a good taste of weather to come. On the 18th of March, the temperature got past 60 degrees in many areas. There most likely were a lot of thoughts about working on the garden, getting the flotilla ready for rivers and lakes, and getting our two-wheeled contraptions out of the garage.

Nature is getting ready too. Plant buds are appearing on some trees and under leaf litter in forests. Animals are getting more active as the snow and ice disappear, making it easier for them to forage. Migrating birds of all types are arriving. Have a look at a couple of animal harbingers of spring.

TRR photo by Scott Rando
Beavers are active over the winter, but are not seen as much due to the ice cover during winter. They build lodges with underwater entrances and can swim under the ice. When spring comes, they are a lot more visible, as illustrated by this beaver, swimming in the Delaware River. (Click for larger version)

TRR photo by Scott Rando
Chipmunks hibernate over the winter, waking up every couple of weeks or so to eat. They occasionally venture out of their burrows during winter, but do not stay out long. When spring comes, they emerge in force and can be seen darting about as they forage. (Click for larger version)