Driveway to parking spot
Kanokolus Bog Sign and Trailhead
Wildlife Sign- Wood Ducks
Bogs are ideal habitat for a myriad of waterfowl species, and wood ducks are no exception to this. Wood ducks (Aix Sponsa) are a medium duck species that is found all across North America. They are migratory, but spend their summers in the northern United States. These birds have been observed in the Kanokolous Bog, as it provides ideal habitat. “Wood ducks feed upon native bog and wetland species, such as acorns, soybeans, smartweed, water primrose, panic grass, duckweed, millet, waterlily, blackberries and wild cherries (Wood Duck - Mattamuskeet - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2015).” These are all species that are present in bogs, and Kanokolous is no exception. In addition to this these birds are cavity nesters, and are often observed to have an established nest in the cavity of trees like Red Maples. This is definitely the case at our study area as a large percentage of the trees skirting the bog are a mix of young and adult red maples, making suitable nesting locations for these birds. “They typically choose a tree more than 1 foot and often 2 feet in diameter, with a cavity anywhere from 2–60 feet high (higher sites seem to be preferred)(Wood Duck Life History, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 2015).”
Environmental Factor- Water
Water is a crucial component for living things, and plants are no exception. Water is used to move nutrients through the plant. With that in mind, too much water can be a bad thing for some species in our study area. “Of the known 250 000 angiosperm species, only about 3–5% are adapted to the wetland environment. Some ferns and fern allies (Pteridophyta), such as floating water fern (Ceratopteris pteridoides), and some gymnosperms, such as bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), and tamarack (Larix laricina), do grow in wetlands”(Likens, 2021/2009). This is a prime example of how few species can live in an environment like a swamp or bog. This is due to the fact that high levels of water can cause the roots of plants to rot, and plants will often drown in the anaerobic environment, as cellular respiration becomes difficult without available oxygen. To combat this, species like the red maple have developed adaptations to combat the threat posed by high water levels. “These include aerenchyma, which allows for the transfer of gasses from the body of the plant to the roots, adventitious root systems, which allow for roots to remain above the water level, and more” (Bedford, Gibbs, 2001). In our site we observed how the water amount increased, and the type and diversity of plant life changed as the water level rose. For example, in the forest surrounding the bog, there are species like Eastern Hemlock, White Pine, Red Oak, along with wildflowers and grasses along the trail, but as you encroach on the bog and water becomes more prevalent, the environment becomes dominated with water adapted species like Red Maple, Tamarack, Cattails, various fern species, and others.
Red Maple- Sapindaceae Acer rubrum
Leaves typically have three lobes, separated by notches with sharp V cuts.“Smooth gray bark in young trees, and broken segmented bark in older trees. (Petrides et al., 1986)”Tree also produces red buds, and leaves turn red in the late summer and fall months.“Leaves are between two and eight inches in length. (Petrides et al., 1986)”Smooth leaf texture“Trees grow to be approximately twenty to forty feet in height.(Petrides et al., 1986)”Red Maple is found all across the east coast, and as far west as Texas.Red maples are typically found in areas with high amounts of water, such as bogs, swamps, and marshes. (USDA Plants Database, n.d.)In the fall months, leaves turn red, along with yellow occasionally. (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin, n.d.)
Vegetation Structure
This point is placed in the center of the study area, on the trail. Since this trail goes throughout the habitat, this point is relevant for more than just this location. The plant community here is mostly small saplings, low bushes on the trail edges, many mosses & grasses, and low herbacious species. This is due to the fact that there is human disturbance along the trail, and because there is high light availability. The amount of light here is high because the canopy is broken, once again due to the trail. This location is important to note becuse it gives a good sense of the habitat which is on or on the margins of the trail leading to and at the study site. This area does not speak for the range of plants and factors within the forested area or the wetland area.
Bunchberry Dogwood- Cornaceae Cornus canadensis
“Typically, this plant has six leaves oriented in a whorl, with either a four white petaled flower, or a cluster of red berries.(Newcomb, 2011)”“Leaves are egg shaped, but come to a sharp point at the end. (Newcomb, 2011)”“The stalk of this plant is typically three to six inches in height.(Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin, n.d.)”“Bunchberry Dogwood is found in all across the northern United States and Canada. Its ranges reaches as far south as Virginia, but it also has populations in Colorado and New Mexico.(USDA Plants Database, n.d.)”“Bunchberry Dogwood is found in cooler regions, such as temperate forests, and areas with an abundance of water, like bogs and riversides.(Newcomb, 2011)”The red berries pictured in the previous slide are found on these plants in the late summer and early fall months, and are eaten by a multitude of animals.
Black Cherry- Rosaceae Prunus serotina
Leaves are long, narrow and serrated bluntly.Leaves are oriented alternately. “The lower region of the mid rib is coated with a brown hair.(Newcomb, 2011)”Leaves are a dark green, narrow and taper to a point at the end.“When flowering, black cherry flowers are white, and both fruit anf flowers form in long clusters on the branch. “(Newcomb, 2011)“Black Cherry trees can grow to be between sixty and eighty feet in height. (Newcomb, 2011)”“Black Cherry is native to the United States, can be found east of Arizona, and in the Pacific Northwest. (USDA Plants Database, n.d.)”“In older trees, the bark is dark in color, and a dark reddish color can be seen in the inner bark.(Newcomb, 2011)”“Black Cherry is very adaptable, as it can be in sun or shade, hot or cold climates, and can thrive in moist or dry soils. (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin, n.d.)”
Balsam Fir- Pinaceae Abies balsamea L. Mill
Long, straight trunk, that comes to a point at the top.Flat needles that are white/ lighter underneath.Needles are ⅜” to 1 ¼ in. long.Two stripes can be seen underneath the needles.Cones are between 1’ and 3’ in. in length.“Bark is somewhat smooth, but contains resin blisters.(Petrides et al., 1986)”Twigs are smooth once needles are removed.“Balsam fir is native to north america, from Alberta east, and from VIrginia north.(USDA Plants Database, n.d.)”“Theses trees on average grow to a height of 40’ to 60 feet in height.(Petrides et al., 1986)”These trees are notable for their use as Christmas trees when they are around 4 to 6 feet in height.The blisters of this tree’s resin is a very useful survival asset, as it it can be used to start fires.These trees are also highly valued by wildlife, as birds like grouse will eat the seeds, deer and moose will eat the twigs, and the bark is consumed by porcupines.
Calico Aster
Scientific name: Symphyotrichum lateriflorumLocation and environmental description: This plant was found in an area with a lot of mosses on the ground. There were not many other asters around this particular plant. High amount of sunlight, due to being in the middle of the trail (low canopy cover).Key identifying factors: Tubular disk flower and ray flowers. The flowers are not radially symmetrical. Leaves are lance shaped, and the margins are usually slightly toothed near the middle section of the leaf.Wildlife: They are of low palatability to most animals. However, rabbits will often consume asters. Rationale for including: This aster in particular stands out because plants can have both colors of flowers at one time (yellow, dark purple/red).
Northern Red oak- Fagaceae Quercus rubra
Red oak leaves are lobed and have bristle tips.Buds are hairless, and not angled. The dark bark is also darker compared to other oaks.Northern red oak is a medium sized, deciduous tree with a rounded to broad-spreading, often irregular crown. Grows at a moderate rate to a height of 50-75'. Native to the northeast region of the United States and southeast Canada Red oak is an adaptable tree that can be found in a range of natural environments, includes areas where drought are common due to their ability to adapt in both wet and dry soils. It provides great shelter for mammals and birds. Acorns, particularly red oak acorns provide an important food for wild turkeys, woodpeckers, ruffed grouse and many species of waterfowl. dark grey or brown bark with broad, shiny strips on the trunk's ridges.
Eastern White pine (Pinus strobus)
Evergreen, needles in groups of 5. long, soft, velvety, blue-green appearance. The bark on a young Eastern White Pine tree looks smooth and greenish-gray. Mature trees begin to develop a reddish brown tone and layers of scales forming ridges that are broken into irregular shapes.Evergreen gymnosperm tree that may grow 50 to 80 feet tall. The tree has 3- to 5-inch slender needles in clusters of 5. As the tree ages, the bark turns reddish-brown with prominent finely-scaly, as well as rounded ridgesEastern white pine grows in acidic, moist, well-drained and dry soils. While it does best in moist soil, the tree can has been known to tolerate everything from dry, rocky ridges to bogs. Full sun and partial shade are best for this treeEastern white pine seeds are favored by black bears, rabbits, red squirrels and many birds, especially red crossbills.White pines provide nesting sites as well for many birds including woodpeckers, common grackles, and mourning dovesOften used as construction lumber and for building boats. This wood is also used for interior millwork and for carving. Crates and boxes may also be made out of white pine.
Quaking aspen(Populus tremuloides) Salicaceae
Quaking Aspen leaves are somewhat heart shaped, with finely saw-toothed margins. The twigs are hairless, with dark bark.Also called trembling aspens, Quaking aspens are named for their leaves. Flat leaves attach to branches with lengthy stalks called petioles, which quake or tremble in light breezes.It grows best where soils are moist and sunshine is plentiful. Aspen is intolerant of shade, and does not compete well with more shade-tolerant species like conifers. Deer, moose, and elk seek shade from aspen groves in summer. These same animals consume bark, leaves, buds, and twigs of quaking aspens throughout the year. Ruffed grouse are especially dependent on quaking aspens for food and nesting habitat. quaking aspens for fuel and to make paper, particle board, furniture, and hamster bedding. In terms of height, quaking aspens are relatively small. They usually grow just shy of 50 feet tall.
Common ash (Fraxinus excelsior) Oleaceae
Opposite leaves, toothed margin dark green leaves contains 7-11 leaflets which turn rich shades, Compound leaves. Bark is light gray and smooth on young specimens. As they mature, the bark becomes rougher, with diamond-shaped patterns. Black rounded buds. Native to Europe, Common ash, or European ash is a medium-sized tree. Dense, broad, rounded crown and upward-reaching branches.Ash trees often grow in groups and can be found in woods, along hedgerows and in streets and parks. Prefers moist, rich, deep soil and will grow well in a wide range of pH levels. Common in parks as well. Can grow as high as 80 ft tall. grow best in full sun.Their assorted cracks and hollows also provide valuable nesting sites for many woodland birds as well as roosting sites for bats. Important for fungi and other invertebrates that live in dead wood. When seasoned, the wood of European ash is particularly flexible and is therefore used for ladders, oars, airplane parts, tool handles. Critically threatened by the emerald ash borer, an insect pest.
Paper Birch
Scientific name: Betula papyriferaLocation and environmental description: This paper birch was found on more of the upland/forested part of our site. It was on the edge of the trail as well. Typically paper birch prefer younger forests, which makes sense in the area which this was located.Key identifying factors: Leaf margins are double toothed. The leaves are not long, but pointed. Leaves are alternate and simple, and there is one leaf per node. The bark is white and peeling and or hangs off the trunk.It is mostly thin and smooth as well.Wildlife: The paper birch is of high palatability as a browse plant. Rationale for including: This species is a favorite because of the white peeling bark.
Velvetleaf Huckleberry
Scientific name : Vaccinium myrtilloidesLocation and environmental description: The habitat this plant was in had mostly smaller wetland grasses surrounding it, and low level or young shrubs and bushes. It was close to the bog/ wetland margin as well.Key identifying factors: This huckleberry is the only variety with smooth or not toothed leaves. They are also velvety or wooly on the underside of the leaf. When in bloom, the flower is radially symmetrical, and can be pink, purple, yellow, white or green. The fruit is a small fleshy berry that is blue in color. Wildlife: Animals will eat the soft leaves, and sometimes the berries as well. Rationale for including: This was included because of the distinct wooly feeling underside of the leaves.
Interrupted Fern- Osmundaceae Osmunda claytoniana
Pinnae are alternate and symmetricalInterrupted Ferns can grow to an average height of approximately two to three feet in height.Pinnae are approximately twenty to forty inches in length.“Interrupted ferns are found in North America, from Minnesota eastward. (USDA Plants Database, n.d.)”“The name interrupted fern stems from the plants structure, in which the spore bearing pinnae, which grow vertically, are separated from the sterile pinnae, which grow outwards.(Osmunda claytoniana - Plant Finder, n.d.)”“These ferns are typically found in moist soil areas, like swamps, shaded forests, and low water tables. (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - The University of Texas at Austin, n.d.)”
Sensitive Fern
Scientific name : Onoclea sensibilisLocation and environmental description: The habitatwhich this plant was in, was in the trail where the canopy cover was less. However, this plant was also seen in the more forested area as well. It was found more toward the wetland margin then in the forest habitat. Key identifying factors: The leaf margins are lobed, and the topmost leaflet on the blade has a smooth or lobed edge as well. The leaves connect to the stem like webbing. The seeds or spores in this case areconcealed in hardened capsule structures.Wildlife: Sensitive fern has a low wildlife valuehowever, turkeys are said to sometimes consume the spore pods in the winter . Rationale for including: The spore capsules on this plant stand out from other species.
Upland Bentgrass (Agrostis perennans) Poaceae
Simple, thin bluish green leaves, alternate arrangement when not rolled up in buds, 1-6 mm long. Stem is thin and rounded. Hairless, grows upright. 1' to 3' tall native perennial warm season grass with a native distribution over all of the eastern half of the US. This grass grows and produces airy panicles that may be half of the height of the plant.Open woods and along roadsides and is adapted to many conditions from dry to moist soils. It tolerates many environmental conditions including sunny or half-shade, moist to dry conditions, and multiple soil types; can be found in multiple woodland environments. provides excellent ecosystem benefits in terms of food for wildlife. It is best used in seed mixes as a biodiversity enhancer for many herbivores and insects. Commonly found in wet soils, can adapt according to climate.
Environmental Factor- Light
Light from the sun is essential for plant in Kanokolus Bog. The light provides the energy needed for plants to carry out photosynthesis. Sunlight also provides Plants with the energy to change water and carbon dioxide into a sugar(glucose), which is what plants need to survive. (Detenbeck, N. E., Hermanutz, R., Allen, K., & Swift, M. C. 1996). The sunlight across Kanokolus bog the diversity of plants in the area. The area in the wetland is dominated by flowering plants that are in direct sunlight that influences faster plant growth throughout the area. There isn't much competition for plants like cattails and goldenrods because they all are under sunlight. On the edge of the bog trail, the tree species that were on the edge of the trail exposed to sunlight are going to grow faster. The tree species that are in the shade will have a slower growth rate. Shade-tolerant plants grow broader, thinner leaves to catch more sunlight relative to the cost of producing the leaf. The areas where the forest floor is exposed to sunlight is dominated by various pieces of fern. The woody plant species that are exposed to sunlight the most grow a much broader structure and thinner leafs to absorb sunlight, the herbaceous plant species tend to grow taller with more sunlight and grow straight up. (Grime, J. P., & Jeffrey, D. W. 1965).
Wildlife sign- Beaver
Bogs are a suitable habitat for beavers because of open space and access to water. Beavers play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, such as being able to alter their habitat by building dams, creating wetland habitat and recharging aquifers. Beavers help create wetlands which are very diverse areas for plant variety. (Law, A., Gaywood, M. J., Jones, K. C., Ramsay, P., & Willby, N. J. 2017). damming streams and cutting down trees they create new ecological niches and ecotone habitats where various species thrive. Beavers will chew on any species of tree in Kanokolus Bog, but preferred species include Quaking aspen, Paper birch, and Red maples. They will also eat herbaceous species like cattails. By opening the tree canopy by taking the wood from the trees, sunlight reaches the water and triggers an explosion of biological activity. Algae and aquatic plants grow in the sun drenched, nutrient rich water which changes the types of plants growing in the wetland and extending the area. Weather varies in a wetland from sun to storm which too much to either can result in the plant species not doing so well. Too much flooding from precipitation can cause the damns to start flooding because of the massive amounts of water. Too much sun can dry out plant species during dry seasons. (Puttock, A., Graham, H. A., Carless, D., & Brazier, R. E. 2018).
