Furnace in the Forest

Hiking in Wawayanda State Park, you cannot miss the massive remains of the iron furnace and the little village the surrounds it. It is a landmark and people often use it when giving directions. Built in 1846, it operated for 10 years and the ore was of such high quality it was used for train wheels. But cheaper Pennsylvania coal drew the smelting business away and now the stone furnace sits in the woods a testiment to history. North Jersey is full of rocks and you can often see the rust stains on them from the iron.

Green Frog

On a hike in Wawayanda State Park, I walked around a vernal puddle in the middle of the path checking for tadpoles only to discover a frog had taken up residence. It did not shy away even though there were many people in the woods. I originally thought it was a Wood Frog, but it did not have the mask, so I have come to the conclusion it is a Green Frog. Look at that ear drum.

There are three things that struck me when I read the description in the field guide. "Males have swollen thumbs." Why thumbs? I guess this one is female, her thumbs look normal. Their voice is like "the twang of a loose banjo string" I have absolutely no idea what that would sound like. Would most people? And, "They seldom scream in alarm when caught." Do other frogs scream in alarm?

Inquiring Bluebird Spouse

"Honey, I'm going out for a snack, can I get you anything?"