September 25th, 2009 What in the Woods is That?

What in the Woods Is That?

Play our biweekly guessing game!

Whatever draws us into the forest—be it birdwatching or logging, hiking or hunting—all of us are unified by the sense of wonder we feel in the outdoors. The forests, fields, and streams of our region are full of mystery, and if you stop and look closely, you’ll see all sorts of oddities.

Below find a picture of one such woodlands curio. Guess what it is and you’ll be eligible to win a Northern Woodlands woodpecker magnet designed by artist Liz Wahid. A prize winner will be drawn at random from all the correct entries. The correct answer, and the winner’s name, will appear when the next column is posted and in our newsletter (sign up here!).

Red or Green Seeds

Depending on the time of year, the seeds from this plant can be green or red. What in the woods is it?

Answer

By now, these green jack-in-the-pulpit berries that were photographed in mid-summer have ripened and turned bright red. They are eaten and dispersed by birds and reptiles, which, unlike most mammals, can see in color. Wild turkey, wood thrush, and box turtle are among the many species that favor these seeds. People, however, are advised not to follow their example, because all parts of the plant are toxic to humans unless they are cooked.

Thanks to photographer Jim Block for sharing this wonderful photo. To see more of Jim’s work, go to his website.

This week’s contest winner was Carolyn Haley of East Wallingford VT

Visit the What in the Woods is That? archive…