Friday, February 6, 2009

Winter Wildlife


RI’s mustelids (except perhaps skunks) are a big prize for keen-eyed naturalists, and winter is the time to spot them. This week my daughter and I were awed by a beautiful mink that dashed across the road at the Barberville dam (WPWA global headquarters) as we were driving by. A mahogany-colored mink on a backdrop of fresh new snow is an easy target to see. Winter wildlife viewing is sure a lot easier when the contrast between the animal and environment is so stark. So, my Wood River mustelid scorecard this winter is multiple otter observations and one mink. A fisher sighting (RI’s largest and orneriest mustelid) would be great, but a weasel or ermine sighting would be even better. (Photo: USFWS)

1 comment:

tommcc said...

Great picture! A reward for getting outside in the deep of winter! I didn't know minks were that cute. Fortunately, WPWA members help keep their environment livable for them. Here's hoping more and more people realize the importance of the work and lend a hand.