Just a couple of months ago I attended a conference in Baraboo, Wisconsin. To prepare, we were sent readings that we had to complete before the start of the workshop. One of these readings was a short piece called “Backyard Wilds” by David Gessner, which I encourage you to read if you have the chance. Since then, I have had a name to give to the various wildlife experiences that I cross while in town. On a Jordan Creek tour yesterday, we were greeted by a nice sized common snapping turtle; quite a surprise as we stumbled through the dark culvert. Today, a group of home school students met at the Watershed Center and I was able to show them around. We encountered all manner of crayfish, dragonflies, and birds all within a fifteen minute drive from downtown Springfield. These experiences are not difficult to come by; a deer crossing a street, a fox chasing mice through a subdivision. Native plantings certainly encourage these chance meetings, but the observer with a keen eye and ears tuned to nature is sure to benefit without strenuous effort.
Take time this week, as the grass lies wet from late summer rains and animals are stirring in the pre-fall chill, to turn your mind toward those connections, those brief but cherished moments with something wild. I think you’ll find that there is plenty to see right in your own backyard. Thanks for reading.
Rob Hunt, Watershed Center Coordinator
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