Has the winter weather sent you hibernating in your own home recently? While many creatures similarly hunker down during the colder months, there is still plenty of animal activity outdoors. In fact, winter unveils a unique landscape for wildlife watching with its snow-covered landscapes and barren trees. It’s also a chance for us to witness nature’s resilience throughout the seasons. We had the chance to speak with Suzanne Roth, Director of Programming & Education at MetroParks, about what makes a successful winter wildlife watch. She offered some insightful tips about getting the most out of your time outdoors this season. So what are we waiting for? Let’s go!
Pack Accordingly
The biggest hurdle to a successful watch is getting outside in the first place. Winter intimidates us with its below-freezing temperatures, so it is important to always dress in layers to stay warm. Blended wool products, especially for feet, are ideal for wicking moisture away and retaining heat. Wearing a hat is also crucial for maintaining your body’s temperature. And be sure to have enough room in your boots to wiggle your toes and keep them warm.
The most important thing to pack? Patience. Because animals don’t operate on set schedules and can be wary of sudden movements, it is best to move slowly and quietly. Give yourself time (and distance) to blend into the environment. Your focus will heighten your awareness of the natural environment. Stay present, and remember, the most magical animal encounters happen when you least expect them.
But Who (or What) to Look For?
Though some animals migrate or hibernate in the winter, others survive by sticking it out. The best species to spot in winter include white-tailed deer, red fox, large birds of prey, winter resident birds, and raccoons.
If there is snow outside, don’t fear! This is a great time to look for animal tracks, but they can be distorted as the snow melts. Paying attention to the stride and straddle pattern can be an easier way to identify them than the shape itself. As Suzanne says, “Taking in the big picture is more helpful than narrowing in on the footprint.”
Look up!
After searching for ground footprints, don’t forget to look up, too! With the leaves off the trees, all the nests left behind are visible. They come from all kinds of creatures, including bird nests made of various materials, leafy squirrel nets, and bald-faced hornet nests.
This is also the best time of year to work on bird identification since migrants aren’t here. A birdfeeder filled with a variety of seeds is a great way to get started. Don’t forget to bring your feeders in at night to avoid inviting wildlife nuisances.
Want to take your wildlife observations to the next level? Bringing a pair of binoculars can help you see small details from further away, making it easier to identify species.
Who Goes There?
Even after dark, there are still plenty of wildlife wonders to be found. Owls are currently in their mating season, so listen closely for them during the night. After a rain shower, you might find salamanders on their nighttime trek to their breeding ponds. Watch your step, though!
MetroParks hosts its own annual salamander migration viewing at Indian Creek MetroPark. It occurs between late January and early March each year. During the event, you can find spotted and red-backed salamanders on their migration to the vernal pools. There will also be tons of spring peepers and invertebrates living in the pools. Interested in joining this year? Sign up here!
Keep an Open, Nature-Focused Mindset
As with all experiences in the outdoors, be respectful of wildlife and their habitats. Avoid threatening animals and allow them to maintain their natural routines by keeping a safe distance and sustainable footprint.
Even with careful practice, wildlife watching is not always easy. If no creatures are spotted, do not become discouraged. Remember that the winter quiet is a peaceful experience that can only be enjoyed during these months. Cherish this time spent outside, always.
Addy Werling
Addy is a senior at Miami University in Oxford with a major in marketing. She recently joined the MetroParks team as an intern in the summer of 2022. With a love for writing and connecting with others, she has helped MetroParks in the creation of their very first blog, Footprints. Although she had only set foot in one MetroPark when she began, she is excited to explore new green spaces here in Butler County and showcase them on the blog. Beyond her work, Addy enjoys spending time outside, camping, running, hiking, and playing with her dog, Max. She appreciates you taking the time to read her content on the blog and hopes that through this platform, we all can find a renewed gratitude for the outdoors.
awerling@yourmetroparks.net
