Underdogs of the Understory

Jan. 12, 2017

Getting out an about on the trail this time of year in western Oregon is always more of a challenge due to low temps, short days, and the fog/rain/snow/ice that tend to linger around, reminding us of our 45 degrees north latitude and proximity to the ocean. But the worst winter in years and cabin fever has a way of motivating us to make the leap. Fortunately, by the time Groundhog Day rolls around, we are usually looking at the short end of winter around here, despite the whims of certain celebrity woodchuck rodents back east.

Conditions for getting out are improving but the storms of the past two months have taken a toll. Unfortunately, extensive tree damage from several ice storms is evident in most of our local natural areas. And the wetlands continue to be wet - as in under water!

Nevertheless, while out scouting the trails that are open, we managed to capture a few interesting images between coffee breaks and the yearly tax preparation panic. Mostly, we saw the fascinating "underdogs of the understory:" fungus, lichen, ferns, and moss. But these underdogs do offer interesting structures, shapes and colors to the casual observer, so I'm a fan indeed!

I'm no expert when it comes to these curious organisms, so exact identification may elude our wildflower hounds. Here's a sampling:

Gills on a football sized tree fungus.
Cooper Mountain Nature Park

Lipstick Cladonia lichen on a stump. Cooper
Mountain N.P.

Moss and Sword ferns at Tualatin Hills N.P.

Colorful fungus on a dead Pacific Madrone branch.
Cooper Mountain N.P.

Tiny silver cap mushrooms, about dime-sized.
Tualatin Hills N.P.

Oakmoss lichen and Beard lichen on an Oak tree.
Cooper Mountain N.P.

Turkey Tail fungus at Dairy Creek park

     

Beard Lichen on oaks (left) and moss and lichen on stump (right)

Cooper Mountain N.P.

Wild rose hips add a splash of color.

The good news is that our daylight is more than 30 minutes longer since the winter solstice; and our average daily high temperatures are on the upswing. But don't cancel your spring vacation to Mexico just yet - the rainy season may stay around, like crazed yellow jackets at your summer barbecue - the one you invited your boss and family to.