Health & Fitness
Bullfrogs, Turtles and a Duck Nesting Box – Oh My!
It's not just for pets! The Parker Pet Trail is actually an easy walking trail through a wooded area adjacent to the Parker Homestead. It's a cool way to spend a few summer moments in town.
There is a new aerial map in the display case at the entrance to the Parker Pet Trail behind the Parker Homestead courtesy of the Little Silver Environmental Commission. It's an intriguing perspective of the trail and the surrounding landmarks. And let's face it, who doesn't love an aerial view of their locale? Although the sign says Parker Pet Trail, humans will enjoy taking a cool walk through the area. (I suggest wearing some bug spray before entering and being on the lookout for occasional poison ivy.)
My daughter and I took a stroll this week to check out the trail – especially this much ballyhooed “duck nesting box”. I’ve included some photos to help you identify it!
John Heidema, a member of the LSEC, was nice enough to note down a few items of interest that you can look for as you wind down the paths and cross over the rustic bridges.
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A duck nesting box is along the trail, right after you cross the first wooden bridge (see the aerial map for exact location). If you were coming from Hasler Lane, it’s at the end of the Hasler Lane turnaround and made of beige plastic with openings at both ends, atop a 3.5 foot pole next to the stream. It is visible (with effort) from the trail and has had successful mallard nests. Ponds and streams filter through the area and contain large and small frogs.
Snapping turtles live in the pond next to Parker House and Eastern Painted Turtles live in and near the pond between Sickles' and Alderbrook.
Find out what's happening in Little Silver-Oceanportwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Numerous bird species can be spotted along this trail such as warblers, finches, egrets, ducks, geese, woodpeckers and occasional hawks.
Canada geese have nested at both ponds and goslings may be spotted in season (May).
Fish often spotted in the ponds. Kingfishers hunt fish (and likely frog/tadpoles) from high branches overlooking the northern pond.Deer may be seen all along the trail (as well as in many neighborhoods around town!)
Woodchucks are often seen near Parker House.Several interesting plants and trees of note are in the area: swamp hibiscus scattered along the trail and raspberries and mulberries just north of the "Pet Trail" bridge entrance.
It really is a hidden treasure in our little town and a nice way to spend some cool moments appreciating nature that is right around the corner. Enjoy!
