We have been busy but not patrolling very much so far in December. Brief trips over to the beaver bog (see image 2) and a long-awaited visit to the Smithfield plantation conservation (images 1 and 3). Deer hunting is still occurring (for muzzle-loader weapons); we stay on our property if we know any hunters are out back. With the snow being low enough to not require snowshoes, it has made it easier to patrol. One cannot forget that December also means earlier and earlier sunsets which limit opportunity.

Our snow came suddenly and then has gradually melted as temperatures hover between 30F and 35F. Rain and the variations resulting from freezing temperatures sums up our December so far. Rain is coming for Christmas.

Our third image here is from the vernal pool at the Smithfield Plantation; in August, this modest body of water typically does not exist.