Local Boards Ctd.
March 17
I lied. There was another part of my normal route that had boards. I’m excited to report that the season is off to a good start. Another day, another handful of snakes. I look forward to what these boards bring as the weather dries up. Hopefully some norpacs move in.
That being said, the excursion started off with a pair of gophersnakes in neighboring boards. The first one was decent sized and very defensive. Flattening its head and striking.
The second one, I left under the board and just observed. It had clearly been in a scrap recently as it had two wounds on its body.
My calm watching did not startle it. It just looked for new cover.
Presentation of wound one.
Wound two. I wonder if it was grabbed by a bird or how these came to be.
Last snake of the day was another ring-neck. I am loving finding these after not finding any last year. I’m still blown away by their colors. However, I’m finding that I need to be more creative with my shots. Hopefully this drive will lead to improved photography skills as I look for unique angles on these guys.
One of the more exciting finds was the tiger salamander. This is the first one I have found not crossing a road.
Apparently I was bugging it quite a bit. After this shot I returned it to its cover and let it be.
March 18
Another day at the same boards. I keep finding more and more. Most likely due to an old herpetological survey when this neighborhood was first under construction.
Went past where I did the last couple days and found some more boards. Uncovered another gorgeous king. This one was more on the brown/ivory coloration.
I’m loving these close to the ground perspective shots. Also saw some more arboreal salamanders and mice. Even uncovered a yellow-eyed ensatina!
Now that is the last of the boards in my area. On to hikes for a little while.