Grumpy Doves

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Day 132: Although Mourning Doves are capable of entering a state of torpor similar to that exhibited by overwintering hummingbirds, their circulatory system is not as well-developed as that seen in many other non-migratory birds. Consequently, Mourning Doves are more likely to lose toes to frostbite. One hypothesis suggests that this susceptibility may be a by-product of the birds' expanding range. The species' physiology has not yet adapted to the colder northern climates. Mine are certainly not happy with this morning's snow. They have been sitting in groups on the fence and phone lines, heads pulled down between their shoulders and feathers fluffed out to trap body heat. Nighttime temperatures are forecast to drop into the low teens this week, making it rough on the pigeon-toed members of my yard flock.

Strange Planet

Day 120: You have only to walk through the forest to experience parallel universes and alien civilizations. Bizarrely shaped creatures occupy every rotting stump and march across the duff in vast armies. If you think giraffes and octopi are odd, bend down and make the acquaintance of a family of bryophytes or better yet, a colony of Cladonia lichens like those shown here. Like the other creatures which populate the Earth, these fascinating plants have evolved their peculiar structures to adapt to their environments in a manner which allows them to take advantage of moisture and nutrients. Notice how the sporophyte (seed head) holds a water drop. Observe the scales of the lichen and consider how they can pull moisture from the atmosphere by presenting more surface area in a small space. Truly, there are wonders at our feet!