Monday, April 11, 2011

They're back!

The sights, smells and sounds of spring are a delightful assault on winter-weary senses. And for the last few weeks I've been noticing -- and savouring -- many of the classic signs: succulent daffodil tips poking their sunny crowns through the soil, red-breasted robins punch drunk on juicy worms and mild breezes kissed by the scent of rich earth. But tonight, it sounds like spring.

There is nothing like the profound depth of winter's silence, as the earth sleeps under its white batting-like comforter. While the snow has been slowly receding over the past week, and much of it is now melted under the lashing of last night's thunderstorms (save for a few pockets deep in the woods), this place felt like it was suspended in that in-between dream state -- when you're neither deeply asleep nor fully awake.

But tonight the spring peepers are back and the night is alive with their melodic chorus! Anyone who says that the country is a quiet place has never experienced the orchestral and incessant call of these diminutive frogs. Measuring only the size of a paperclip, the males serenade the lady frogs with a huge voice; a high pitched, ringing chirp that has been likened to sleigh bells.... that keep ringing, and ringing, and ringing.

While March 20 may have been the official first day of spring on the calendar, tonight it truly feels -- and sounds -- like spring.

7 comments:

Judy T said...

I noticed our spring peepers late last week. You're right, when they start up, it is REALLY spring.
Judy

Mama Pea said...

I think our peepers are still stuck under the ice floes in our pond!

fiona@fionacampbell.ca said...

Judy -- so true! For me, I guess it's the difference between feeling like spring and being spring!

Mama Pea -- two of our four ponds only thawed yesterday and one is still frozen, and yet the peeps are in full swing tonight! They're tenacious creatures, that's for sure!

Tracey ~ Clover said...

I always know it's spring here when I see the daffodils poke their heads up! Enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

David said...

Daffodils are in full bloom as well as the tulips. Crocus have come and gone. Being an urban dweller, I miss out on the country spring night sounds. I do miss that. Unfortunately I have become accustomed to the late night sirens and the dull background city roar of flowing traffic. On occasion I do get to the country to enjoy the night time country sounds.

Have a great country sounds night.

Erin said...

So happy that spring is there to stay, enjoy!

Kim said...

I am so happy it's spring! It's even arrived on the prairies...a bit late, but much appreciated!

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