This winter has provided wonderful opportunities to explore Sarett’s habitats on snowshoe. However, the cold temperatures have made it impossible to quietly approach and watch any wildlife. Each step is so loud one may feel it necessary to wear earplugs.

“Look at the squirrel statues!” is often followed by “Must be a hawk nearby.”

While filling my bird feeders I was reminded how much I delight in the black-capped chickadees that have declared my yard to be part of their territory. I usually see three, but the winter flock could be as large as ten or twelve. If a different flock discovers the feeder, the whole original flock will defend it. Chickadees are very tolerant and curious about humans. They will visit you as you walk through the woods or even land on you at feeders.