Naturalist Notes: Love is in the Air

In the enchanting wilderness of February, love is in the crisp, wintry air for some of our feathered and furred friends. 

High above in the treetops, bald eagles are putting their own spin on love this time of year. They exchange impressive mid-air acrobatics, soaring and diving like Olympic figure skaters, showcasing their strength and agility. Nothing says "be mine" like a majestic dive with talons intertwined. However, the eagles must be careful not to get too carried away; crash landings in the snow can lead to some rather ruffled feathers. 

As February casts its chilly spell, coyote mating season unfolds in a flurry of social antics and flirtations. The canny coyote pairs engage in elaborate courtship rituals, involving spirited chase, playful tussles in the snow, and the offering of food to the female. Females keenly assess the prowess of their suitors. If the chemistry is just right, love blossoms amidst the frosty landscape. 

The wise and majestic great horned owls engaged in a courtship duet, their haunting hoots echoed through the forest like a symphony…back in the late fall. Now, picture this: snow-covered branches transformed into cozy love nests for their two to four eggs. These love birds are some of the first to get busy. 

Now why is there so much love in the air, when we think of spring as mating time for wildlife? This timing ensures there will be an abundance of young rodents and other prey when these predators are trying to hone their hunting skills before they strike out on their own.

So, as February blankets the world in snow, these wild creatures embark on their quest for love, reminding us all that nature has its own quirky and charming way of celebrating the season of romance.

Submitted by naturalist Cathy Wesley, January 2024