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Ice forms early on little Lac des Roches

Many South Cariboo residents enjoying the early winter
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Early ice on Little Lac des Roches may still have holes above the springs near the shore. Anyone using the ice for recreation is urged to use caution.

Despite the allure of open and calm water in late November, cold air and water temperatures kept even the hardiest sportsman off Lac des Roches.

On the other hand, early ice on the lake, due to the same cold temperatures, is a welcome winter bonus for many. Little Lac des Roches has been iced over for two weeks with ice depths exceeding five inches around the shore. A hockey rink has already appeared in anticipation of hours of play.

Ice travel by any means on these lakes requires caution due to thin ice and holes, which form above the many underwater springs, particularly in the shallower areas.

Potluck poultry

The grouse population at Lac des Roches has increased considerably since summer, that is, until last week when two spruce grouse ended up in a resident’s stew pot.

One grouse flew into the glass panel on a residential balcony. The other was surprised by a hiker and in its flurry to fly into the trees for safety, glanced off the shoulder of the hiker and flew into a tree. For both birds, the impact was fatal resulting in a delicious feed of grouse – with very little effort – for one lucky resident.

Winter hazards

Last winter’s snow and weather conditions were quite rare and the lack of daytime warm weather and sunshine through much of the winter prevented the snow from sliding off many of the low-pitched roofs.

Residents are reminded to take care for their own safety and that of their families, pets and guests who might be unaware of the hazard of sliding snow or falling icicles from overhead structures.

Warm weather following the surprising wet snowfall earlier this season cleared most structures of their snow with no reported incidents or close calls but residents must be cautious if the temperatures continue to fluctuate.

Unexpected critters

Abundant tracks in the snow are once again proving the area is either packed with thousands of critters on the move or perhaps only dozens of animals that can’t keep still.

Among the expected tracks of deer and coyote in the fields and grouse and chipmunks among the trees, cougar tracks near the boat launch and otter tracks near the rest stop were a little out of the ordinary.

One resident was in the right place at the right time to witness an otter making its way down the slope, across Boultbee Road, toward the lake.

Night noises

Active logging is still underway in the hills south of Lac des Roches.

The drone of equipment is heard late into the night and early in the morning.

Residents speculate that the contractor may be working around the clock during the week to keep expensive equipment utilized but no one can confirm that as few are willing to stay up through the night.

One resident walking his dog at different times of the late evening notes that on several occasions, the howls from distant wolves are loud enough to momentarily drown out the sounds of the logging equipment.

Early sledding

The third week of November is very early for snowmobilers to take their machines out, but there is enough snow for enthusiastic neighbours to do just that.

Tracks indicate the first ride occurred on Nov. 23 and there have been several since.

Bird watching

The Christmas bird count has been scheduled for Jan. 4.

As always, Wendy Marshall will lead the group to popular local observation points. Everyone is welcome to join this entertaining and informative excursion. Call 250-593-2327 for more information.