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Tag Archives: seasons
Springtime
Non-winter seasons at this latitude are crammed into a much shorter length of time than in the Lower-48. Spring comes late and flowers rush to complete the bloom/seed cycle. Early wildflowers are reaching their peak in Southcentral Alaska, like these … Continue reading
Seasonal Transition
It’s that time of year again, when winter begins to fade as temperatures gradually rise above the freezing point. One of the first spots in Anchorage where the change is most notable is a shallow manmade lagoon along Chester Creek. … Continue reading
They’re Back
It’s been much warmer than usual in Southcentral Alaska and the seasonal change has come early—way early! One of the markers is the return of waterfowl. The first gulls showed up yesterday; geese should follow soon. The arrival of these … Continue reading
Winter Browse
Winter came late this year in Anchorage, and it wasn’t until December that we had significant snowfall. Now we’re making up for it. Temperatures have been very mild as well and wildlife doesn’t seem to be having any trouble getting … Continue reading
The Colors of Spring
One of the most ubiquitous signs of spring in Southcentral Alaska is the blooming of wild roses. These delightful pink blossoms seems to show up everywhere. There are two species—prickly roses and Nootka roses—the former being the most common. Both … Continue reading
Avian Winter Residents
Not all birds migrate. Among the winter residents in Southcentral Alaska are black-capped chickadees and red-breasted nuthatches seen visiting a peanut butter feeder above. Boreal chickadees, and both hairy and downy woodpeckers also stop by regularly.
More Evidence of Spring
More evidence of an exceptionally early spring here in Southcentral Alaska. These bright new Northern Red Currant leaves accompanied by blossoms usually show weeks later. Birch, cottonwood, alder, and many other trees and shrubs are bursting with new leaves as … Continue reading
Early Signs of Spring
Pussy willows are always among the first signs of emerging plant life toward the end of winter in Southcentral Alaska, but this year’s exceedingly mild season seems to have accelerated the process. These catkins along Turnagain Arm in mid-February are but a few among … Continue reading
Colors of Autumn
Fall colors in Southcentral Alaska often don’t last long. Predominantly yellow with some orange and crimson hues, the challenge is always the weather. Mid-September is peak time for color, and is also often when storms roll through with rain and … Continue reading
Harvest Time
Summers are short and autumn comes early in Alaska. Fall colors are already evident in many areas, and small creatures—like the Collared Pika below—are working diligently to lay up stores for the winter. It’s a busy time between now and … Continue reading