The Jungle
Just three weeks ago I could still see half-way through the 18 acre woods I hunt in Hillsdale. This past weekend I visited that woods and couldn’t see three foot into it. There is an old path, where I set up my turkey blind, that was completely over-grown. It is truly amazing what a little rain and sunshine will due to new plant growth. It looked more like a jungle than a woods. Of course that’s the way the “Master Designer”intended it!
All those critters (big and small) that call this piece of real estate home need the protection of that greenery. It conceals, nourishes, cools, and camouflages the inhabitants of the woods. It’s what the forest dwellers have waited all winter for.
In all this new growth I did notice something most people need to stay away from. Poison ivy is on the move! This plant is related to the sumacs and can climb better than most mountain climbers. Hunters do yourself a favor-stay away from vines with three leaves that are greenish in color with small berries and flowers. If you inadvertently bruise or touch these plants, chances are you will end up with a rash, on some part of your body. If you are highly sensitive toward poison ivy it’s probably best if you don’t venture to far from your known surroundings. Better safe than sorry!
Mike