WALNEY POND WALK CONTINUED....

 The tree is across the road from where we parked our car.  We were getting ready to leave and for a short spell, followed this lovely dog enjoying a walk with its family.  She was very well behaved, though her eyes were looking across the pond, maybe seeing those 'swans' or....perhaps the turtles peeked her interest.Interestingly, the sign's illustration shows a Canada goose on what looks like a nest.  The turtles, however, were making good use of Wildlife Island.In the following photo you can see the beaver lodge.  It all looks very quiet.  I wondered if the beavers vacated along with the geese?  Come to think of it, I haven't seen any chewed-on trees for quite a while and there was no activity near the lodge.  Could be the time of day of course.  Perhaps they were asleep?  There is a bridge where the trail continues on to the visitor center I mentioned.  It crosses a small stream.  In years' past we have  hopped over those blocks, when son was young and we were more limber.Gregg and I have walked the trail many times, but not today.  However, we cross the bridge, usually standing at the half-way point for a few minutes to look at the water in both directions.

Look at the root system on that old tree.

It is amazing to me that it hasn't fallen over and made its own bridge.  No doubt it gets checked regularly.

There's a well-trodden path that takes you down one side of the stream, but only a short way.  

The root system from all the trees can be a bit hazardous sticking out of the ground like this.  You really have to watch where you are putting your feet.

There have been benches added, and there are also picnic tables which have been there for many years.

This sign is just before you get to the bridge.  "Wipe your feet!  Please brush your shoes before entering and leaving this area."   We have seen these signs in other parks and nature reserves.  It is hard to read but on the left it says, "Tiny seeds can hide in the soles of your shoes.  Wiping your shoes on the brush at the base of this sign helps prevent seeds from entering or leaving this natural area."  Below that, "Wavy-leaved basket grass is an invasive species from Asia that is spreading throughout Virginia and Maryland. This plant spreads sticky seeds in summer and fall that easily attach to your shoes, socks and pant leg.  It can invade mature forests and blanket the ground in only a few years."  

On the left it reads, "Plant Invaders from Afar. Non-native invasive plants thrive from outside their area of origin and harm the local environment.  These highly aggressive species often spread uncontrollably in natural areas.  Their rapid growth can choke forests, suppressing native plants such as wildflowers, and damaging wildlife habitat." It then shows images of Garlic Mustard with this info. "Garlic Mustard is native to Europe and Asia.  Settlers brought it to the United States to use as medicine and for food.  It is considered an invasive species.  Garlic Mustard contains compounds that make it taste bad to herbivores.  Garlic Mustard also produces chemicals that alter the soil.  The small, dark seeds can germinate for up to five years and are easily spread."  

Coming to these places is always an environmental education.  Can we stem the tide?  I hope so!

Just as we get to our car, Gregg sees a Red-winged Blackbird hopping around in the grass.

It flew up into a tree.

Their red epaulettes with that touch of yellow makes them a very striking bird...

 and its call is very distinctive.  If you would like to hear it, click here.  

A fitting end to our walk.  

Thank you for coming with us to Walney Pond.  I have enjoyed sharing it with you.  

Have a great week!