Nature Calendar, more than four seasons, a guide to wildflowers, wild food, and wildlife activities with 19 distinct seasonal transitions

Like mid-summer, little change is noticeable at the turning point of winter. In the north it’s a time of deep freeze, deep snow, and deep silence. Cold hardens: in the north even rivers freeze over. In the south, risk of killing frost increases. Occasional snow snarls traffic not used to it. It’s the time of rosy dawns and lingering sunsets. Where there is snow, not only tracks but animal trails are discernable (including humans). Other signs in the snow indicate activity even in the deep of winter. Food sources in general begin to run low. However, days do gradually get longer and signs of spring first appear. Owls, foxes, and mink search for mates. Wintering ducks begin courtship, while squirrels are well into it. Chickadees start trying out their spring songs. Deer lose their antlers. Arctic birds (e.g. snowy owl, redpoll & pine grossbeak) appear in the northern part of our range when arctic winters are harsh or food source at an ebb. And it is the time for a “January thaw.” Look for snow fleas and stone flies on warm days.