This time of year is a pretty interesting time to observe nature as it comes awake from the cold time of winter. We can see and hear the spring calling of birds and the emerging plant life. The early spring peepers are being replaced by American toads calling in waterways, and snakes and turtles are more evident; you may see some of the last two crossing roadways. 

Young mammals such as bear cubs and fawns might also be near the roads, equipped with no road sense; be careful while driving.

Other species of birds are just passing through, or coming and going; this is the time to see them. You may see or hear a loon on the lake or river as they head to their breeding grounds to the north. For bird watchers, it’s a good time to spot transient species. 

You may see newborn fawns seemingly abandoned by the mother, but resist the temptation to pick up the fawn to try to help. The female deer is standing off a bit so as to avoid drawing attention to the fawn until the fawn is able to walk.

Talking of birds, it’s probably a good time to put the bird feeders away. The bears are out now and you may have already gotten a visit from a hungry bear. Those visits start in early April when the majority of bears emerge from their dens. 

By the time this column goes to print, there will be more songs from the woods from birds like the wood thrush and the veery. The first tree frogs were heard here during the third week in April, and it was the same for American toads in most areas. It’s a good time to go out and see the comings and goings of nature.