Fourteen people came out to hike the trail in the Ministik Bird Sanctuary from Spilstead road to Horseshoe Lake. It was an easy walk on a well-used path with views of ponds and marshes at almost every turn.
As the hike continued, the weather got warmer into the mid-20s. It was the warmest day so far this year. The trees and bushes were just starting to sprout their leaves. But among all the vegetation, the new greenery on the gooseberry bushes and the twining honeysuckle vines were the most conspicuous.
Still visible are abandoned bird’s nests and a squirrel’s drey.
On the return, we carefully stepped through the mossy bog under the canopy of towering white spruce, past the labrador tea, sphagnum moss, and club moss (lycopodium).
Thanks to Helen for scouting and leading the hike. You can find more photos on Flickr.
