Springtime in the Wabanaki Forest

By Rebecca Jacobs, Posted on May 11, 2023

Spring has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to venture into the wonders of the forest. As the snow melts and days grow longer, the whole ecosystem undergoes a remarkable transformation. So lace up your hiking shoes and get ready to discover the wonders of the season.

Here’s what to look out for when exploring the Wabanaki Forest this spring.

Lush Greenery: Witness the forest transform as many deciduous trees sprout their new leaves. The canopy turns lush green, and sunlight filters through the foliage, creating a mesmerizing play of light. Breathe in the invigorating scent of the forest and let nature rejuvenate your spirit.

Blooming Wildflowers: Take a walk through the forest and marvel at the array of wildflowers. Look out for trilliums, violets, and lady’s slippers that paint the forest floor with vibrant colours. Keep an eye out for fleeting spring ephemerals like trout lily, called najine’kwe’jk in Mi’kmaq and mategwis in Wolastoqey).

White trilliums are one of the most common springtime flowers seen in the forest. Also known as nemkewesisk (Mi’kmaq) or Mategwem (Wolastoqey).

Birds in Concert: Listen to the sounds of birdsong that fill the air. Spring is nesting and courtship season for many birds, making the forest a lively stage for their performances. Enjoy the chirping of warblers, drumming of woodpeckers, and cheeps of chickadees. These birds you hear provide many important benefits to the forest, including pollinating plants, dispersing seeds, and helping to control insects.

Mushroom Diversity: Turn your eyes to the forest floor to find a variety of mushrooms. From delicate fairy-tale mushrooms to robust toadstools, mushrooms offer a captivating display of nature’s creativity. And did you know that mushrooms keep a forest floor healthy by breaking down and decomposing organic matter? What’s more, they convert the decomposed material into nutrients that can be used by other plants and trees.

Golden chantarelles can appear anywhere from late spring to early fall, depending on the rainfall and sunshine!

Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature, but remember to tread lightly and respect the delicate balance of the forest ecosystem. Whether it’s practicing leave-no-trace principles, staying on designated trails, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the wonders around you, let your exploration be a mindful and respectful journey that leaves a positive impact on this natural refuge for generations to come.

So, step outside and immerse yourself in the wonders of the forest this spring. And remember to tag us in your forest photos!