Visitor Center Report

The snow is sticking to the ground now, so it has become easier to spot Pteromys volans orii tracks.
During the summer, the thick vegetation makes finding traces of the squirrels difficult. Additionally, they are active at sunset and sunrise, which is also the time that Ursus arctos yesonesis are about. This makes going into the forest a bit tricky.
However, conditions are now just about right for finding animal tracks, which is one of the fun things to do during winter.
*Notice:
It has been reported that snow at Mt. Kurodake’s 7th Station has reached 80 cm. Consequently, the long-awaited opening of the ski area is scheduled for tomorrow. For more information, please visit the Kurodake Ropeway’s website.
http://www.rinyu.co.jp/modules/pico01/

Photo: Pteromys volans orii Nov. 14

There was clear sky in the early morning, but it did not last long.
Large snowflakes began falling suddenly and the wind has picked up, creating temporary blizzard conditions.
The wind has calmed somewhat at the present time, but the snow continues to fall heavily. Some 10 cm have accumulated outside the center.
The weather report predicts clearing later. However, the snow cover could remain as the temperature will stay low.
Photos: Even the trees are covered with snow (the river is the Ishikari River). Snow is spraying in the air due to the strong wind. (November 13)

Even though it’s mid-November, there is no snow on the ground here in Sounkyo. The snow that fell last month has melted in the hot spring village.
However, the weather forecast predicts snow from tomorrow. The temperature should stay low after that, meaning that Sounkyo is going to get cold again.
Meanwhile, the Sorbus commixta berries are growing thick again this year.
There are various possible reasons for their remarkable growth this year. One is the good weather we enjoyed during the blossoming season. And another is that the low rainfall allowed the pollen to remain in the air, which in turn led to a higher pollination rate.
In recent days, flocks of Turdus eunomus and Coccothraustes coccothraustes have appeared to feed on the berries.
I wonder if Bombycilla garrulus will also make their usual appearance this year.
Photo: Sorbus commixta berries Nov. 12

The snow has finally arrived even in Sounkyo.
The first snow fell on the 16th last year, which means this year is about two weeks behind.
The forecast predicts higher temperatures in the days ahead, so it will likely only last a little while before melting. Nonetheless, repeated snows such as this mark the full-scale arrival of winter.
Photo: Sorbus commixta berries hidden by snow Oct. 28