By mid-February, we are finding ourselves looking outside at the snow, ice and bundled up passerbys and we have to ask “WHEN? When will it be Spring?” By mid-February, the infatuation with fluffy snows and chunky sweaters gives way to fantasies of sitting outside on our beautiful grounds looking out at Salem harbor. Take heart as nature is already looking ahead to warmer days so here is what is happening out there under all that snow. There are signs of spring all around us, even if it is the middle of February!
February Signs of Spring
The exciting thing about February is there is actually a lot of spring-like activity going on in nature according to a recent article. February is an important time for bald eagles who begin their nesting while common ravens also begin their courtship flights. Red foxes enter their mating season and American goldfinches are starting to show some new, bright yellow feathers. Meanwhile right about now the last of the dried leaves clinging to oak trees are falling. If you have not noticed, birds are starting to sing again, such as cardinals and chickadees. In fact, male black-capped chickadees (and sometimes females) begin to make their short two-note song. To some, it sounds like “cheese-burger” or “my tree!”. Usually the second note has a lower pitch—but the song varies. For example, researchers have found that chickadees on Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket tend to sing two notes with the same pitch, says Audobon. As spring draws nearer and chickadees pair off, you’ll hear this song more and more frequently. Further, Great Horned Owls are nesting and soon the Horned Larks will return. Of course March is when things really start to ramp up.
The earliest flower to bloom is also one of the most unusual-looking. Related to the peace lily, a popular indoor plant, the skunk cabbage can flower as early as February. Incredibly, its tissues are capable of generating heat, which can melt the snow and ice around it. Look for it in wetland areas. You’ll see a curving hood-like structure (the spathe) surrounding the round flower-bearing spadix; later, big bright green leaves will emerge. Meanwhile, if you ever get out in the country you may hear wood frogs quacking, according to Audobon. These amphibians are remarkably cold tolerant. They survive the winter in soil or leaf litter, freezing and thawing repeatedly without damage thanks to antifreeze-like chemicals. Often while there’s still ice on the ground, wood frogs emerge in March and April to lay their eggs in special temporary forest ponds called vernal pools. Males make a duck-like courtship call.
With the signs beginning to point to the end of winter, seniors can also gradually come out of hibernation and increase outdoor activity. Here are three tips for elders to get ready for spring:
Gentle exercise:
Start with light activities like walking, and gradually increase intensity as the weather warms up.
Hydration:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dehydration, especially when spending time outdoors. Sun protection:
Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against harmful UV rays. Proper clothing:
Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures and wear comfortable, supportive footwear. Outdoor activities:
Consider activities like gardening, bird watching, visiting farmers markets, or fishing.
Gradual exposure:
As the weather warms, slowly increase time spent outdoors to avoid sudden changes.
