Oxbow is alive with creatures big and small that inspire wonder, laughter, and respect for the natural world. From the “crr-eek, crr-eek” of Pacific tree frogs to the zippy “fitz-bew” of a Willow Flycatcher, our team’s (already epic) love of nature grows with every wildlife encounter. While all sightings are delightful, a handful of experiences are simply unforgettable. Here are five stories from 2024 that we can’t stop sharing. 

Mother Goose

Meet Mother Goose, the star of the summer who stole everyone’s hearts. She chose an unconventional spot to lay her eggs—a mulch pile smack dab in the middle of a bustling intersection filled with tractors and curious summer campers. 

 Amid the chaos, her devoted partner, best described as “spicy,” kept a vigilant watch, hissing at anyone who dared to get too close. To give them some privacy and protect their nest from overly inquisitive visitors, we roped off the mulch pile. 

As days turned into weeks, everyone found themselves invested in the goose family’s journey. We nervously realized our predicted hatch date had passed and worried that the warmth of the mulch pile might harm the eggs. But just as our concern grew, two fluffy goslings (both named Ryan) poked their heads out, much to everyone’s delight. Triumphantly, the family set off on an adorable march, waddling down the trails to Oxbow Lake. Their steadfast resilience left us inspired by how, even in the midst of human activity, wildlife adapts and can thrive in shared spaces. 

Aquatic Macroinvertebrates 

While Mother Goose’s story stole the show above ground, a hidden world beneath the water also captured our curiosity. Macroinvertebrates, such as the aquatic larvae of dragonflies and mosquitoes, are not just fascinating—they’re important indicators of water quality. Their unique tolerances to pollution mean that the different species present can reveal a lot about the state of a body of water. When pollution-sensitive organisms are plentiful, it’s often a sign of cleaner water. These organisms, known as “bioindicators,” provide a valuable glimpse into an ecosystem’s overall health. 

At Oxbow Lake, we spent time searching for these tiny storytellers and found an abundance of dragonfly larvae, which sit in the middle of the pollution tolerance scale. Their presence suggests that while the lake isn’t pristine, it supports a thriving and healthy aquatic environment.  

Watching these larvae transform from water-bound critters to dazzling aerial acrobats perfectly demonstrates the magic and mystery of nature. By pausing to observe these often-overlooked organisms, we uncover a world of connection and insight hidden just below the surface. Next time you’re near a pond or stream, take a moment to marvel at the extraordinary lives of these tiny creatures. 

The Playful Weasel

As Beatrix worked her magic in the barn, a weasel brought its own brand of charm outside Oxbow’s nursery. This stealthy little predator had a habit of cleaning out our traps—not by eating the bait but by stealing the mice altogether. Its playful spirit shone when it was spotted hopping in and out of trays, mouse in mouth, as if putting on a show.

In one particularly cute moment, the weasel ran right up to a staff member, paused to place a paw on their boot, and scampered off as if to say, “Thanks for the meal!” Whether hiding in pots or playing peek-a-boo near the compost bags, the weasel’s playful nature sparked joy in the shared space we both call home. 

The Nicole Moth

This fall, an unexpected guest got “caught up” in the Oxtober festivities: the Nicole Moth, a rare and luminous presence that turned every head. Her perch near the Farm Stand reminds us that when an environment is cared for and nurtured, even the most unique creatures can flourish. 

In many ways, the Nicole Moth is an emblem of sustainability and balance. She and her sweet swarm of peers underscore the importance of creating healthy spaces where every being has the opportunity to thrive. Just like the ecosystems we work to protect, it’s the unseen care and dedication that allow extraordinary moments like this to take flight. 

A Call to Connection

Every one of these creatures reminds us that conservation isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about building relationships and recognizing the interconnectedness of all life. Next spring, we invite you to visit Oxbow not just to witness wildlife but to feel a part of it. Walk the trails, watch the swallows, marvel at the insects, and maybe even create your own wildlife story to share!