We’re immersed in winter but nature is still busy outdoors.

Chuck Tague published his “What To Look For” phenology for mid-to-late January, so get ready to brave the cold.  Here’s a hint of what to expect in southwestern Pennsylvania.  Click here for Chuck’s complete list.

• Great horned owls are nesting now. Listen for owls hooting to establish territory and make contact.
• Red-tailed hawks are courting too. Watch for pairs soaring together and calling.
• Songbirds begin to sing again: northern cardinals, song sparrows, carolina wrens and tufted titmice.
• Winter finches are still here.  I’m hoping for an evening grosbeak.
• As the northern lakes freeze over, watch for unusual gulls on Pittsburgh’s rivers.
• Foxes and raccoons are breeding.
• The days are getting longer.  Since December 21st, we’ve gained 18 minutes of daylight in the afternoon – but we’ve lost some in the morning.  By the end of January daytime will be 10 hours long!
• Don’t forget to look for tracks in the snow.

As Chuck says, “During winter expect the unexpected.”  I agree!  There’s more to see than you’d think.

(close-up of a Great Horned Owl by Chuck Tague)