With the sun out for part of day and temperatures in the 30s, it was a nice winter day to take a hike through the woods if you had snowshoes, otherwise your foot would sink in or slide off the path with the wet snow.
Winter Hike Through the Woods
The temperature overnight was colder than predicted so the birds have been busy coming to the feeders this morning to get some food to burn to stay warm. Feathers, specialized scales on legs and feet, and fat reserves help birds survive the cold temperatures. They will also fluff feathers to create air pockets, catch some sun on clear days, huddle together while roosting and even shiver to generate more body heat. But even with all these adaptations to stay warm, some birds will still succumb to frigid temperatures during severe winters.
Getting Fuel for the Cold
The new snow was sparkling in the very crisp air this afternoon, even if it was warmer than the over night low of -22 (although it might have been colder but my digital thermometer only goes to -22). The snow squeaked when walking on it to do chores so I didn’t stay out long to take many pictures as the camera battery drained quickly in the cold but the snow covered tree caught my eye with the sun peeking out behind it.
Very Cold Sunday Afternoon