April 5, 2020: Blue Water Returns

The ice is out of Lake Wicwas and the sight of precious blue water rejuvenates the soul and reminds us that all things have an end, and will return to their former state in due time.

Liquid water reflects blue for the first time in many days.

This particular change came quickly this year.  Just four days ago there were fox, geese, and otters running around on the ice - on Monday we watched a river otter run, hop, and sliiiide across the lake from one shore to another.  It's an extraordinary treat to watch to these fun-loving creatures out enjoying themselves.

A running start,

followed by a leap

then a dive down onto its chin

for a long slide on the ice.

Then a quick look around for a safety check, 

including a glance at the photographer, 

and he's off again for another free ride on the ice.

That was Monday - on Tuesday there was still full ice cover under a sunny sky.

Tuesday, March 31st.

On Wednesday it had been cold enough overnight for open water to skim over again, and being calm, Jack Frost stopped by to create the kind of artwork usually reserved for those first cold days of autumn.

But then a strong front came through with stiff winds and driven rain, the combination of which took a quick toll on the ice.  In one day much of the ice had broken up.

Getting close on Thursday.

And the next day, Friday, voila, the ice was out. 

Ice blown by the northeast wind.

There were still a few pockets of ice in protected coves, and a lot of loose ice and slush was blown down to the southern end of the lake by the northeast wind.  But all of the major coves were navigable and ice-out was declared on April 3rd.  Though on the early side, it was within the normal range, occurring eight days before the median ice-out date.  (As of Saturday, Winnipesaukee still had ice in Center Harbor and between Meredith and the weirs.)

Seeing liquid water is just one aspect of this glorious time of year when nature returns to life after its long winter slumber.  Animals are becoming more active, birds are returning, plants are bursting with new life.  While clearing water bars on the local hiking trails I found masses of acorns under the wet leaves that had already started to sprout.

Acorns sprouting under the leaf litter.

The beavers commenced their evening patrols as soon as there was a sliver of open water along the shore. 

The moose have also left their calling cards around the lakes, including this large pile up on Arbutus Hill (thanks for sharing MK).

A big pile of moose Scat on Arbutus Hill.  Photo by Mary Kahn.

Ducks, mergansers, buffleheads, and yes, even loons have arrived back on the lake.  I started seeing loons fly overhead four days before ice out, and our early loon spotter (thanks for the report TC) saw a pair of loons on the water the day of ice-out.  We'll have to see a leg-band to know for sure, but their behavior sure implies it's our long-standing resident pair.  I did get out for a paddle yesterday but I didn't see them.

Paddling amongst the ice flows the day after ice-out.

It's a remarkable time of change, hope, and renewal in so many ways.  One other remarkable resurrection that occurred this week:  the transformation of countless wood frogs from a frozen-solid condition to a triumphantly singing chorus.  Serenading frogs and blooming crocuses are sure signs that spring is here.  And though there may be a few more cold nights, the sun will rise, and brighter days are ahead.

Spring beauty.