2010 June 09 « Hike Our Planet – Lee Hiller Nature Photography

Ahead Of The Storm

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas Upper Dogwood Trail

I am writing this with hind sight, as the skies darken and a storm is blowing in. I can understand now why wildlife was scarce as I hiked this morning. Rain, wind, thunder and lightening with a dash of hail all incentives to stay under cover.

Overcast skies as I head into the park today, sunlight has been evasive in the early morning as of late. As I head up the Floral my head is filled with my upcoming wedding. Unfortunately it means I am not paying attention to a particular detail. A deer is in the upper levels of the forest along the Floral Trail. I hear it run and catch only a glimpse as it disappears into the deep forest above me.

I head up to the North side of the Lower Dogwood Trail and sadly I spot another dead baby Opossum. It seems strange that last time and now on this trail I see a dead Opossum. It is puzzling to think a predator would leave behind the body in the middle of the trail each time. As I hike in the glorious green of this trail I wonder, what animal would kill for killing sake?

From the Lower Dogwood I hike down to the Upper Dogwood, I always like looking down this trail from the top it seems to go on forever. Looking up from the bottom I imagine what might be be up over the rise. This one of my favorite places on North Mountain.

I hike over to the Hot Springs Mountain Trail and connect with the Honeysuckle Trail. When I reach the Peak Trail I realize I have not seen any Squirrels or Chipmunks today. As I reach the promenade and head toward home I am treat to a quick peek from behind a tree by a juvenile Squirrel. I am so happy to see this sweet face.

Nature can heal a wounded heart!
Love,
Lee

PS I still have not seen the wounded Mom Squirrel and I hold her in my heart with hopes she will reappear.