MAINE SUNDAY TELEGRAM • March 14, 2021
Noting the timing of such natural events – the study of phenology – can be a gauge of climate change. “Phenology is often linked with climate change, which is really important,” said Joe Horn, co-host of the Maine radio show “The Nature of Phenology.” Al Cowperthwaite, of North Maine Woods, has noted the St. John River now peaks earlier than it did 40 years ago. Jen Brophy, owner of Red River Camps in Aroostook County, is certain spring is coming earlier than it once did to northern Maine because of the persistent patches of snowpack that linger in shaded areas in the forest. There isn’t as much rainfall in May as there used to be. Birding guide Derek Lovitchn said, “I can now expect red-winged blackbirds in the last week of February. This is due to climate change.” Kristen Lamb of the Center for Wildlife said in the past 10 years baby-squirrel season at the center has occurred more often in March than April. Hazel Stark, co-founder of the Maine Outdoors School, said the American woodcock’s sky dance Downeast used to occur in April. Lately it’s happened in March.