Provincial Parks This Spring 
     
    
   
   
    
     Provincial Parks are once again beginning a more active time of the year. While 
     
     some animals were present all winter, to keep hardy skiers 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. Have you heard the geese or 
     
    

    
     red winged black birds yet? They're here. 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 fill in 
     
    

    
     the accompanying record form 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 virorously to tresspassers entering his domain. The chipmunk and some 
     
     species of mice, who have spent the winter in hibernation may soon be seen. Toads, 
     
     frogs, and salamanders will also make their appearance. Their voices around the 
     
     ponds and bogs were a sure and loud sign that real spring is here, even if it 
     
    

    
     is already spring according to the calendar. 
     
    
   
   
    
     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 barbecue/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 Bowl or Green Park. 
     
     Brochures for these can be obtained from the Provincial Park Officers in Charlottetown 
     
     (892—743l) or Mill River. 
     
    
   
   
    
     The Provincial Parks are yours, why not use them. 
     
    
   
   
    
     -14;