Monarch butterfly populations have reached such a low number that they are being considered for endangered species status. Loss of habitat, use of pesticides, changing farming practices that no longer allow for milkweed patches and the logging of their winter habitat in forests of Mexico are all reasons for their decline. While we can raise Monarchs in laboratories or greenhouses the annual migration of the Monarch is what is at risk.
Fresh snow on Blue Spruce trees is one of our favorite winter scenes. These Blue Spruce trees are part of a large field of trees once planted at what is now the Blacklick Valley Natural Area. For many years the property was used for Christmas tree production. Since the donation of the property for the natural area the trees have been allowed to grow to provide a natural cover for wildlife at this area.
At one time just about all Canada Geese flew south for the winter but in recent times more and more geese have become year-round residents. They will seek out open water in lakes and streams throughout the winter. We saw these ones at a shoreline area at the Ghost Town Trail along Blacklick Creek.
