Shared by Rachel Toward, as Guest Blogger.

Recently I’ve realized that there’s so much happening this time of year as I enjoyed a hike on the Lake Trail at Hungry Mother State Park. I saw signs of spring arriving everywhere.

In fact, there are signs right in front of you if you know where to look. So here is a short list of "You know it's spring at Hungry Mother State Park  when…"

From the Clyborn Overlook you can see Hungry Mother State Park come alive

The Birds

The constant chatter of the songbirds throughout the day is the classic tell-tale sign of spring. As I walked along the trail, I heard a Pileated Woodpecker drumming in the distance, the signature call of the Nuthatch, and the silhouette of a robin hopping around in the leaves before me. As the variety of chitter chatter echoed throughout the forest, I wondered what they’re actually saying? Maybe they’re striking up a casual conversation with one another or searching for the perfect mate. But in my opinion, I think they’re really saying “Guys, spring is here!”

The Frogs

Now that the snow has melted and the ground is thawing the frogs are on the move. Some of the first frogs you’ll hear are the Wood Frogs and ironically, the Spring Peepers. There is nothing more relaxing than enjoying the Spring Peepers’ call enveloping the warm spring air of the evening.

The Salamander

Much like the frogs, a salamander making an appearance is a sure sign that spring is near. These intriguing amphibians are on their way to vernal pools. To us, a vernal pool is a shallow puddle as a result of the winter thaw. The pools provide a place for salamanders to lay their eggs, then returning to the damp ground for the remainder of the year.

The Weller's Salamander is one species that can be found at the park

Wildflowers and Trees

As I continued along the trail, I noticed wildflowers beginning to sprout and the buds on the trees becoming more apparent. In a few weeks, as you walk around the park or even drive along the roadways you’ll see the vibrant shades of wildflowers grabbing your attention.

The Coltsfoot is one of the first to bloom this time of the year but the Spring Beauty and Bloodroot aren’t too far behind. The Redbud, Dogwood, and Serviceberry trees also show their colors this time of year. It won’t be long until the various shades of green will consume the forest again.

Coltsfoot is one of the first wildflowers in spring

Spring is a refreshing sign that the dreary winter months are behind us. It’s truly incredible how much goes on this time of year between the songbirds chirping, the salamanders roaming, and the wildflowers blooming, Mother Nature definitely has a lot on her plate.

So this spring I hope you too can spend some time outside enjoying what Mother Nature has to offer, because if you experience any of these signs first hand, you’ll officially know that spring has come to Hungry Mother State Park.

Directions to Hungry Mother State Park, and more information about the park can be found here.