As the temperature moderates and the snow melts, you will undoubtedly start to see critters out and about. They will appear dazed and a little disoriented as they look around at a landscape that appears much different than what they saw when they went to sleep last fall. They aren’t sick. This will pass in short order and they will begin preparing for another year and in many cases, a new family. There isn’t much time as they prepare nests and dens for the babies that will be born soon. The ice storms over the winter will make finding the right tree for their dens and nests difficult for tree dwelling moms like squirrels, raccoons and porcupines. There will be signs of activity around a chosen tree before the babies are born. Observe the activity in the area for a few days to see if there is an expectant mom around. If you need to cut the tree down or otherwise disturb it, please try to wait until the babies are old enough for mom to take them out of the den. As much as I love babies, their moms can give them the best care and we all need to do what we can to keep the babies with her. Enjoy your critter watching!
