GUS Wildlife camera

the den site

During our chilly February Vacation Camp at GUS this year, our campers discovered an intriguing site along the wooded trails behind the school. A mound of earth that rose up near a large fallen tree appeared to have two holes dug into it like a burrow or a den. Because we had been practicing looking for signs of local wildlife all week and following clues to become super aware humans, we investigated the area for clues to what might live here. We observed Red Squirrel tracks in the small snow patches near the den as well as a “cache” of pine cones stored nearby with evidence that some of their seeds had been eaten recently.

wildlife footage

Because the den opened up many questions about who exactly might be living in and using this part of the forest, we decided to turn to some handy wildlife technology to uncover more clues. We placed two motion-sensing trail cameras at the site in order to see both entrances of the den and some of the surrounding features.

It turns out, this spot is just full of life! Check out the galleries below to see our favorite videos and photos of all the surprising, exciting visitors who came by. We did the sneaking, now you can do the scanning!

(We’ll add our species list on a separate page, so check back here if you’re stumped and want to know who’s who)

video gallery

photo gallery

Click on a thumbnail to make the photo larger.

How many different types of animal do you see? In some of the images, you may need to practice using your sharp observation skills to notice well-hidden creatures or to recognize clues about who the visitor is. Do you notice any patterns in the time of day or night certain animals are active in this area? What types of behaviors do you observe? Who do you think might be using this den? Get in touch and tell us what you see!

Have some questions about these visitors or some of the things you’ve been finding at home this spring? We at Kestrel are still getting out and discovering nature in our neighborhoods every day, and we are here to help you connect with your local wildlife this season. Visit our Naturalist Connect page to sign up for one-on-one naturalist lessons from our enthusiastic staff, and check out our other online resources for Engagement in the Natural World right from your own home.