February Nature News

Local guide, naturalist, hiking expert and owner of the Hole Hiking Experience, Cathy Shill, shares some updates on area wildlife activity, nature news and a suggested winter hiking tour:
 

February in Jackson Hole, the heart of winter, is dominated by snow, wind, cold temperatures, and a deep snowpack.  Species hunker down awaiting the light of March.  Precipitation is 88 % of normal. Approximately 288 inches of snow has fallen and more is on the way.   Days are beginning to lengthen and if you look closely, you can see the first signs of change.  Ravens are paired and visiting nesting sites.  You see them on a branch, leaning into each other.  They appear to be whispering.   Magpies are also visiting nesting sites and adding a branch or two.  They are fun nests to find.  They are large bramble of twigs and usually in a thick bush so will be well hidden by leaves. Find nests now so you will know where to look once trees leaf and birds are tending the young.   I was walking at dawn and heard the call. “I’m back, I’m back. Here I sit and here I plan to nest. This is my territory.” The red-winged blackbirds were singing. I always wonder what they think when it continues to snow and blow. I am sure they find a protected niche to wait out the storms.
 
Thanks to a local resident, we now have flashing neon signs to alert motorists of wildlife on the roads. The Teton Village Road is prime winter habitat and moose love the area.  It is near the river with lots of protection and food.   Unfortunately, moose walk on the roads to avoid the deeper snow.  They are black and quite hard to see.  There have been five moose hit on that road and nine deaths total in this area.  Seeing a calf with a broken leg, mom standing nearby with a lost, sad expression is a site you will not soon forget.  Kudos to the locals and the alert drivers who slow down to protect the animals.   Wolves have been seen close to town again.  I guess the game and fish department are going to track and euthanize them.  Consensus is not to have wolves near town, people, kids and dogs. I can’t say that I disagree but my compassionate, biological side would like to give these animals a chance.  They have yet to do anything wrong.  It is hard to find balance.
 
What’s in the woods:
2/2- elk refuge- about 5000 elk, mature bald eagle on fence post
2/8- town of Jackson- mature bald eagle
2/9-snake river- cow moose, flock of Trompeter swans
2/9- rafter J- cow moose
2/10- light snow
2/11- highway 89- owl perched on fence post
2/17- elk refuge- five coyotes, ravens, golden eagle, bald eagle
2/18- East Gros Ventre butte- black wolf having standoff with female mule deer
2/19- rafter J- goldfinch at sunflower feeder
2/21- red wing blackbirds near fall creek
2/25- winter storm, strong winds
2/27-spring gulch- two coyotes, mature bald eagle, cow/calf moose
2/29- winter storm
 
Tour Suggestion:
If you don’t mind a bit of a drive or happen to be in Teton Valley, Idaho, you can’t beat a cross-country tour up Teton Canyon.  The Teton Peaks stand guard above you as you ski or snowshoe up the canyon.  To get to the trailhead, you drive to Driggs, ID, turn right and drive out ski hill road.  You will reach the town of Alta, WY. Teton Canyon is just a few miles out of town.  The road is marked with a forest service sign.  You turn right and drive a few hundred yards to the parking area.  For the tour, you can skate ski, Nordic ski or snowshoe.  The entire length roundtrip is eight miles.  The great part is you can tour as far as you want enjoying the Teton views the entire time.  The Teton Valley Recreation Association grooms the road and you can check online to get the schedule.  If you have already enjoyed this tour, Moose Creek is another great option.  Have fun!