275. West Springfield: Mittineague Park

Norway sprcues always tell you you're somewhere unnaturally planted and maintained in Massachusetts. That's not a judgment, just a statement of fact.

The park here in West Springfield was dedicated in 1935, and it's obvious that some decorating went into the early stages of its design. Norway spruces are typical more of cemeteries. They have a a tall, robust stature juxtaposed by drooping, seemingly sorrowful branches and needles. You don't find them when you're just walking around the woods in the Bay State.

But this park rambles on! I was amazed to find so many habitats - woods, fields, a brook - as I spent my thirty minutes. I could have spent much more.

Two things caught my eye. First, a squashed eastern box turtle on the side of the road in the park. It's always so sad to see. Second, slightly less depressing, blue jays have begun caching. Yes, like small mammals sharing their habitats, blue jays store food for the winter. If you see one carrying an acorn or something similiar in its bill in fall, that's what's happening. They're preparing for cold weather.

Noooooooooo!!!