Although im not sure he counts as wildlife, you wont be able to visit the farm without meeting Rüdi, our beloved friend, confidant and lover of all things farm related. Hes a best friend like no other.

Its hard to ignore toms love of our wildlife, isn’t it? He loves listening to the “gung” call of the green frog (Rana clamitans). These guys get up to 10cm in size and like to live in the wetland that is part of our 200 acre property. They love eating the insects and invertebrates that frequent those water ways and hibernate under water during our winter.

I found a spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer) after hearing its typical mating call in the spring ad recognizing that dark X on its back (that you can barely make out in the photo, sorry). These little tree frogs chow down on small invetebrates at night and are a cool and very audible part of our wildlife. :)

After having it confirmed by our naturalist neighbor, we love to see and hear our resident Great Barred Owl. This incredible animal immediately took to the hopyard and is seen at night swopping down the rows picking off unsuspecting voles that wander into the rows. Its so incredible to see this animal at work. Its also interesting that she seems to wait for me sometimes in the morning and will watch me working away while sitting quietly watching in one of the old growth maples before she slips into the shadows of the canopy for her daytime nap. (picture credit: https://guide.sportsmansguide.com/view_of_day/great-barred-owl/ )

This incredibly cool amphibian (Ambystoma maculatum) is found under rocks, boards, tree stumps around the more woodland parts of our property. Its not uncommon to see them chewing on some invertebrates. The colours are somehow more impressive on live animals and seeing one of these guys is a treat every time.

This formidable predator (Lithobates pipiens) can be seen patrolling the hopyard on a regular basis. We really enjoy watching these guys doing their thing - chowing down on crickets, flies and worms.

On the flipside, seeing this animal preyed upon by the resident predators - garter snakes, raccoons and even a fox have all been seen feeding on leopard frogs on the farm.

Seeing one of these guys (Ambystoma laterale) out at night is always a cool treat. Weve seen them eating snalis, crickets, worms, slugs and even a spider once. They tend to leave the hopyard for a nearby wet spot in the woods by the yard to lay their eggs and prepare for winter, so seeing them out and about is always worth a stop and second look.