Dear Rogers,
What animal do I keep hearing on the trails?
Sincerely,
Call Curious
Dear Call,
Most of our animals that live at Rogers Center have a particular call. If you listen carefully you can learn what critters are making what sounds. Looking at where you are and the habitat you are in may also give some key information to what animals you have been hearing.
You likely heard some insects out on the trail. Cicadas are known for their distinct chirping from the trees. A very loud high-pitched song is a mating call sang by male cicadas. Each species has its own song that calls only attracts females of the same species, allowing different species to co-exist.
Perhaps you heard an amphibian jump into the water. Green frogs are often heard jumping into the water with a characteristic squeak, sounding a bit like a plucked banjo string. This sound is to distract predators as they make a speedy escape. The American Toad may also be heard with a trill that normally lasts for five to up to thirty seconds.
Birds are diverse in both looks and vocalization. With the honk of the Canada Goose always present at the center, to a chickadee warning all animals in the area with “chicka-dee-dee-dee” or a two toned “fee-be-ee” or “Cheese-bur-ger” song. Rogers Center is a great place to observe birds and learn their songs.
Often Herpers, those who enjoy looking for reptiles and amphibians, Birders, and Scientists rely on the calls animals make to know what is in the area. There are always more animals in the forest than visitors see. Humans tend to be loud and startle wildlife.
If you hear an animal that you cannot identify yet, online resources may help! All About Birds from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology has many calls that can help narrow down your search for a bird.