Trees are beginning to leaf out, the grass is greening up, and the rivers and streams are starting to rise. A very mild winter passed quickly this year, making life a little easier for the wildlife. If the vegetation has not tipped us off to spring's arrival, the wildlife certainly has. The air is a buzz of activity with numerous bird species returning to the valley, many of them to breed. I am monitoring two great blue heron rookeries, and the birds are already incubating eggs.
Mammals are also on the move, making the transition from winter to spring.
White winter coats are changing to brown and sleeping animals are waking up. So hang up those skis and snowboards and get out for a hike during this truly magnificent time of year. This winter marked the first season for the Discover Series slide presentations. The mid-valley was treated to a chance to escape the winter blues and visit a new and exciting place every week. The series was held every Monday night from mid-January through March at the Basalt Middle School auditorium.