Winter is an extreme season. This time of year brings a lot of lows to the temperate forest. Here are the lows you might expect to see in winter months.
- Low temperatures. For humans, this means more clothing.
- Low amounts of daylight. Days are shorter. You might be coming home in the dark.
- Low insect activity. All of those things that bite you won’t be around. Mosquitoes, ticks, midges, yellow jackets, hornets, bees, and all of those others won’t be a concern now. Enjoy it while it lasts.
- Low amounts of shade in deciduous trees. This works well because direct sun feels mighty good on a brisk day in a tree nude of leaf.
- Low wildlife activity. Bird watchers can expect to see only a few resident species. Many have migrated to warmer climates. Most mammals will be holed up too, including human life.
For some, low is too low. Gear is inspected, repaired, and then hung up until warmer months return. For others, it is a time of peace and solitude. The empty parking lots and quiet landscapes create a powerful experience for the ones comfortable being alone with themselves or just a few chosen friends.
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