Today was First Wednesday. So certainly people were put off by the rain forecasted and opted not to come. However, it was the perfect day! Some low clouds and fog made it just wonderful day to be at the grasslands.
A bit foggy but no mist!
Four hardy souls joined with me for a day at the grasslands!
Jerry was taking observations for iNat!
Observing on the bank the mosses and ferns!
Crisp shelf fungus!
Buttonbush seed head broken open!
Plenty of the Goldeneye Lichen (Teloschistes exilis)!
And for comparison, the Ciliate Goldeneye Lichen (Teloschistes chrysophthallmus).
Hung like on a cloth line, a spider’s egg casing!
The Hedge Hog fungus (Hericium erinaceus) had aged some since I saw it on Nov. 26th.
This was found. Still not sure what it is even after a quick look under the microscope. So it will certainly need more examination tomorrow.
By the time we had concluded the walk, the cloud ceiling was dropping. And there are two towers in this photo. The one on the left and another almost dead center. You probably just have to take my word on that. 😉
Also we tallied 20 bird species! Additionally, we learned from NEON field technicians about the vegetation survey they were conducting today. Fascinating stuff!
Was that whiteish thing you found a caterpillar? Sounds like a successful day exploring.
I don’t think is a cat but I will look closer tomorrow and Rosie found it.
Ooops I forgot to mention that Rosie found the mystery thing. Hopefully I can solve the mystery 🤷🏻♀️ Interesting find, Rosie!!
Neat stuff!
Looks like a perfect day to be out! Sorry to have missed it – my absence was not related to the forecast.
We missed you. 🤗