Mystery tracks. I discovered a set of tracks on a 15-18-inch diameter log lying in the water (ice) of the Wetlands. The 12-foot-long log is just below the circular platform, halfway down the boardwalk which leads into the Wetlands. The animal that left the tracks came up from a hole in the ice and onto the log, continued along the log for approximately eight feet and then headed out across the surface of the ice towards the opposite side of the Wetlands. The following morning (1/22) there were more tracks on the thin layer of snow that covered the ice closest to the boardwalk (in winter, this part of the Wetlands is in shade throughout the day). The tracks led to another log below the boardwalk, then back across the ice and directly in front of the boardwalk. The tracks were left by a River Otter (see “Mystery tracks” image at left – the tracks on the log after the otter emerged from the water).

Perhaps this otter was just investigating the Wetlands’ suitability for future habitation. It may have been a one-time visit. Otters, when present for any length of time, often leave telltale signs of their presence – they usually have a fairly well-defined “latrine” area. Perhaps the otter’s been in the Wetlands before and this “sign” has been in an area that is not easily accessible. The truth is, I don’t know if the otter had visited the Wetlands previously, or since, but if it hadn’t been for the snow, the otter’s visits during January 21-22 may never have been realized. It pays to get out and have a look around.