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 Barred Owl Photo by Irv Goldman |
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Nature Walk - A Vermont Hillside |
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If the Green Mountain Audubon Center in Huntington, Vermont, could be described in one word, it would be diversity.
On its 255 acres are found forests, fields, thickets, ponds, streams, marshes, Hemlock Swamp, hay fields and the unspoiled Huntington River. Associated with this rich variety of landscapes is an assortment of plants and animals representative of both Vermont Uplands and valleys.
Until the 1940s much of the Nature Center was a working farm with hilly open pastures. Now much of the land is reverting to forest growth. Some of the land is managed to maintain open fields, wetlands, and an operating sugarbush. Because of the past and current farming practices and the addition of ponds and trails, the Nature Center contains much “edge.” Edge refers to the place where two plant communities meet. These borders are extremely attractive to wildlife as they provide a variety of food and cover. Every living thing, plant or animal is dependent on other life. Plants and animals live and interact in groups called communities. This tour describes the major communities you will find at the nature center. The trail map will help you locate them. Consequently, edges are good places for the curious nature observer. Keep this in mind as you hike through the nature center.
Please help us take care of the sanctuary by staying on the trails and carrying out litter. Explore and enjoy the Nature Center with camera, binoculars, field guides, and most important — your sharpened senses. Note: the Green Mountain Audubon Center in Huntington is leased and operated by Audubon Vermont, the state office for the National Audubon Society which promotes environmental protection through science, community-based education and public policy. Next: The Brook Text/art:Green Mountain Audubon Society
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Every living thing, plant or animal is dependent on other life. Plants and animals live and interact in groups called communities. This tour describes the major communities you will find at the nature center. The trail map will help you locate them.