Provincial Parks Come Alive. 
     
    
   
   
    
     Provincial parks are once again beginning a more active time of the year. While 
     
     many animals were present all winter, to keep hardy skiiers and snowshoer's 
     
     company, most birds flew south to places where food and accommodations were easier 
     
     to come by. These birds are beginning to return. The wide variety of park lands 
     
     from coastline through marshes, fields, and softwood and hardwood forests, lend an 
     
     opportunity to chart the returning dates of various species. Why not keep a 
     
     record for a park near you. 
     
    
   
   
    
     Mammals are also beginning to become more noticable. The red squirrel, who spent 
     
    

    
     some of the winter under the snow, especially during the stormy weather, will now 
     
    

    
     object vigourously to tresspassers afiawyhis domain. The chipmunk and some species 
     
     of mice, who have spent the winter in hibernation may now be seen. Toads, frogs, 
     
    

    
     and salamanders have also begun to make their appearance. Their voices around 
     
    

    
     the ponds and bogs are a sure and loud sign that spring is here. 
     
    
   
   
    
     Most of all, parks seem to be at their most hospitable at this time of year. The 
     
     insects have not yet made their debut. Many of us look forward to going out on 
     
    

    
     a walk without slogging through the white stuff, as well as a chance for the 
     
     first barbeque/picnic of the year. All of the parks are open, although park 
     
     personnel are not yet present. If you are looking for a place to go on a walk, 
     
     why not try the self-guided trails at Strathgartney, Devil's Punch Bown or Green 
     
     Park. Brochures for these can be obtained from the Provincial Park Officers in 
     
     Charlbttetown (892‘7431) or Mill River. 
     
    
   
   
    
     The provincial parks are yours, why not use them.