Spring arrives later in New Hampshire than places I’m used to, and people like to talk about the changes spring brings. With the arrival of the colorful season, there have been big changes in the LRCC world. On Wednesday, the summer crew arrived and began their session, which will last into October. It was incredible how much their presence has already brightened the atmosphere at SLA, and I’m happy to work alongside more conservation members.
The next big thing we’re in the midst of is SCUBA diving! Who’d have thought I’d have a chance to become SCUBA certified in a state that barely has a seacoast? I’m grateful to be learning in a safe environment alongside my co-servers and can’t wait to explore beneath Squam’s surface. It’s been a difficult adventure for me so far (though my co-servers are doing so well!), but I’m trying my best to be able to obtain my Open Water certification.
Spring has brought other new friends to SLA: seasonal songbirds! I try to identify those I can and am happy to learn about ones I’m not yet familiar with. Red-winged blackbirds are consistently by the water, raucous and warning others of the presence of humans. Robins and mourning doves are building their nests around campus, and some Baltimore orioles flew by to say hi! I also found an American tree sparrow sitting on a railing with nest materials in its mouth, looking around for safety. They’re so cute!
It’s a great thing to be able to be outside so much and hear the songs of wildlife, some of which are becoming more recognizable to me as I try to learn them. Mostly I hear a unique sound and try to find the culprit, and that’s how I learn what birds make what noises! Using apps is also helpful when the bird can’t be found, or I find it and don’t know what species it is. I recommend just getting outside and using your own investigative skills to learn more about who visits your own backyard!
Meaghan is a full-year member at the Squam Lakes Association. You can learn more about them here!