Thread | Brutkey

I have to modify my tactics to better protect the aspen saplings on my hill.

Two aspen saplings in a wire mesh cage that protects them from deer and elk, but it doesn't protect them from chipmunks and other small animals that periodically strip them of leaves.

The sapling on the left has been trying to grow for years, but gets mown down every season. The very young sapling on the right shows very large leaves and has doubled in height in two months.

If they survive next spring, I will cover this cage with very tight wire mesh to keep out the small animals.

#Habitat #Ecology #Aspen #Forest #Mountains #NewMexico #Environment

Two aspen saplings in a wire mesh cage that protects them from deer and elk, but it doesn't protect them from chipmunks and other small animals that periodically strip them of leaves.

The sapling on the left has been trying to grow for years, but gets mown down every season. The sapling on the right shows very large leaves and has doubled in height in two months.

If they survive next spring, I will cover this cage with very tight wire mesh to keep out the small animals.

AI6YR Ben
@ai6yr@m.ai6yr.org

@KrajciTom@universeodon.com Wow, are Aspen that tasty? 🤔

TomKrajci 🇺🇦

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@KrajciTom@universeodon.com

@ai6yr@m.ai6yr.org

They appear to be tasty in May and June before monsoon rains arrive. Aspen saplings are juicy and a source of water. Everything else is bone dry and ready to burn at the slightest spark.

Now that it's mid-monsoon, the saplings are not getting mauled.

I hope this one survives and puts out shoots next spring. I'll reward it with 1/2-inch wire mesh protection.