INTRODUCTION
Welcome to a walking tour of Cowen Park in the University District of Seattle, Washington. The ten stations of this walking tour will introduce you to the natural history of this small park by letting you explore the plants, animals, and histories of this land. The trails on this tour are well established and mildly sloped. The tour is approximately 0.1 miles with a 15 foot elevation gain. This tour falls within the "easy" hiking category - appropriate for new hikers!This walking tour will contain a combination of photographs and hand drawn pictures of notable features. All of the hand drawn pictures were drawn by me during my nine weeks of observation at this site. I will also include useful links for further information about many of the stations. For a more detailed look at some of the plant and animals species living in Cowen and Ravenna Park, check out my iNaturalist page to see a full list of species I have cataloged throughout this quarter. Additionally, you may want to carry along a small trowel for a station that allows you to dig!
Fig. 1 Hand drawn map of Cowen Park and surrounding streets
Fig. 2 Digital map of the walking tour
Overview of the Tour
1. Bird Sighting - Steller's Jay & American Robin
2. Land Use History - 15th Avenue Bridge
3. Lichen - Bark Barnacle
4. Biotic Interaction - Big Leaf Maple and Moss
5. Invertebrate - Bees, Slugs, and Snails, Oh my!
6. Animal Behavior - Eastern Grey Squirrel
7. Plant Identification - Western Red Cedar
8. Plant Identification - Dawn Redwood
9. Geo-morphology - Sediment Layers
10. Ecological Disturbance - Erosion
STATION ONE: Bird Sighting - Steller's Jay & American Robin
Here, you will find a knee-height stone wall partially covered in moss. This spot is often visited by two species of bird: Steller's Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri) and American Robin (Turdus migratorius). Patiently wait to observe a Steller's Jay that frequently picks moss from the surface of the stone and forages along the top of the wall. I would recommend following the trail downward 25 or 50 feet to allow the bird space to approach the wall. While Steller's Jays are not particularly shy birds, they will fly away into the canopy if approached.
Fig. 3 A Steller's Jay collecting moss from the surface of a stone wall
Above is my own observation of a Steller’s Jay
collecting moss and foraging for bugs in the grass. To spot this bird, keep an
eye out for the iridescent blue feathers and listen for the bird’s call.
Fig. 4 Photo of the wall you will look for to spot the birds at this station
Fig. 5 Steller's Jay range
The image above, found on the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website, depicts the natural range of the Steller's Jay. The Steller's Jay is a North America native species known for being quite curious and bold - often found in camp grounds and urban park areas. Steller's Jays eat nuts, seeds, berries, and bugs, and will forage for foods either in the canopy or on the forest floor.
Fig. 5 Male, female, and juvenile American Robin
This image, found on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, depicts the male, female, and juvenile American Robin. This is a common bird of North America that can be found foraging atop the stone wall at this station. Male American Robins have a darker head, often dark brown or black, while the female has a brown head that continues in coloration with the back of the bird. Note the slender beak of this bird, used for plucking worms from the dirt.
You may be able to approach a robin while it is foraging to get a closer look. American Robins are often found in parks and forests and are particularly vocal.
What Robin Told
How do the robins build their nests?
Robin Redbreast told me.
First a wisp of amber hay
In a pretty round they lay;
Then sime shreds of downy floss,
Feathers too and bits of moss,
Woven with a sweet, sweet song,
This way, that way, and across,
That's what Robin told me.
Where do the robins hide their nests?
Robin Redbreast told me.
Up among the leaves so deep,
Where the sunbeams randy creep,
Long before the winds are cold,
Long before the leaves are gold,
Bright-eyed stars will peep, and see
Baby robins, one, two, three;
That's what Robin told me.
- George Cooper
STATION TWO: Land Use History - 15th Ave Bridge
Looking underneath the 15th Ave bridge, there is clear evidence of the human changes made to the land. Note the highly compacted soil beneath the bridge. The soil has been packed firmly to prevent erosion. Long holding walls have also been built horizontally along the slope to prevent dirt and rocks from falling onto the hiking trail below. The ground is noticeably bare directly beneath the bridge where the soil is highly compacted and the area is shaded year around by the bridge. Soil compaction and lack of sunlight make this area a particularly inhospitable environment for plants to grow.
Fig. 6 View of the trail and forest below the 15th Ave bridge looking South
Fig. 7 Photograph of the 15th Ave bridge in 1941
STATION THREE: Lichen
Near where the two trails meet at the bottom of the ravine, there is one species (and most likely more!) of lichen living on the bark of a Red Alder. The alder is located several feet uphill from where the trails meet. The species present on this tree is Bark Barnacle (Theotrema lepadinum), a scaly, light green lichen. It may be difficult to see initially but do not worry! This lichen does look similar to the bark of a tree but when looked at closely, an observer can begin to distinguish the difference in color (light green) and texture (scaly).
Fig. 8 Hand drawn picture of Bark Barnacle lichen
Above is my own observation of this lichen. The white splotch in the center is meant to be colored light green to indicate the surface of the Bark Barnacle. Lichens exist as a result of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an algae or cyanobacteria - creating a system to provide food for the fungus and the algae are protected by their covering of fungus. Lichen are small but complex organisms! Lichen are often highly sensitive to pollution and can serve as an indicator of air quality.
Fig. 9 Photo of the tree with light green lichen growing on the bark
Lichen
Who listens
like lichen listens
assiduos millions of
black
and golden ears?
You hear
and remember
but I'm speaking to the lichen.
The little ears prunk,
scorch and blacken.
The little golden
mouths gape.
- Jen Hadfield
STATION FOUR: Biotic Interaction - Big Leaf Maple & Moss
On the West side of the trail there is a small group (2-3) of young Big Leaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum) trees. The branches of the tree are covered in a thick, dark green moss! Finding moss (and lichen or licorice ferns) covering the limbs of a Big Leaf Maple is common. Moss loves to grow in the shade and finds a comfortable home in the canopy of these massive trees.So, the question is: Does the moss hurt or harm the tree? The answer is that it can do both! As moss grows on the limbs of a tree, it begins to generate soil from the continual break down of organic matter. This means that small soil ecosystems begin to develop in the canopy of trees, which is amazing! The creation of rich soil and new habitat for invertebrates is a good sign for the health and diversity of an ecosystem. However, soil is also heavy and as it generates, the weight can begin to stress the limbs of the tree, causing them to weaken or break.
Fig. 10 Photo of the young Big Leaf Maples with moss
Above is a photo of the trees you will be looking for during the walking tour! Note the variation in thickness and coloration of the moss.
Fig. 11 Me in the Hoh Rain forest on the Olympic Peninsula, WA
In this photo, I am standing beneath the bow of a Big Leaf Maple covered in moss in the Hoh Rain forest on the Olympic Peninsula. Here, you can see a great example of moss and maples living together. Moss covered trees can give forests a wonderfully magical appearance. In Cowen Park and Ravenna Park, the moss adds new color and texture to the forest scene!
"Leaves shaped like some giant's hand, give shade in the summer then go out in a blaze of yellow glory in the fall."
- Arthur Kruckeberg, "The Natural History of Puget Sound Country
STATION FIVE: Invertebrates - Bees, Slugs, and Snails, Oh my!
Beside or underneath the small foot bridge that crosses Ravenna Creek is the home of many invertebrates. You may find the invasive Black European slug along the side of the creek, lounging in the shade of the buttercups and ferns. Another invertebrate to look for is a honey bee or bumble bee buzzing around, pollinating flowers along the creek, or a Northwest Hesperian snail tucked beneath a log. Remember to tread carefully and respectfully! These little creatures can be delicate and slow moving.
Fig. 12 Photo of the small footbridge that will be a great place to search for inverts
Fig. 13 Hand drawn picture of a European Black Slug
The European Black Slug (as you may have guessed by its name) is not a native species in the Pacific Northwest. The native slug, Banana Slug, is being rapidly out competed in the ecosystem by its European counterpart since it was introduced two decades ago.
Fig. 14 Hand drawn picture of a Northwest Hesperian snail
These snails will not be found in the water but may be discovered by gently turning over a log or two. They are Washington native snails frequently found in woodlands.
Fig. 15 Hand drawn picture of a honey bee
STATION SIX: Animal Behavior - Eastern Grey Squirrel
Looking South, back up the slopes you have just come down, you will see a grove of large Big Leaf Maples (Acer macrophyllum), Douglas Firs (Pseudotsuga menziesii), and Western Hemlocks (Tsuga heterphylla). There are several Eastern Grey Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) that live in this part of the forest. Often, they will be found foraging on the ground, running up through the canopy, or chasing one another from branch to branch. From my observations, these squirrels appear to engage in a mix of play, foraging, and protection of their territory.
Fig. 16 Photo of the hillside grove in which squirrels live and play
Fig. 17 Hand drawn picture of an Eastern Grey squirrel carrying a sprig of holly
This is an example of a foraging or collecting habit that I observed. This Easter Grey Squirrel carried a sprig of holly across the forest floor and up into the canopy of a Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata). Based on the breeding season (Jan-Feb, May-June), this squirrel may have been foraging to provide for newly born babies.
In animals, it is difficult for me to distinguish between play and protection of territory. I often see these squirrels chasing one another along the forest floor or in the branches of trees, accompanied by squeaking. However, these chases never seem to end in aggression.
Eastern Grey squirrels are a non-native species in the Pacific Northwest and are considered invasive as they out compete the native Douglas Squirrel. The easiest way to spot these small creatures is to listen for the rustle of leaves or breaking/rattling of branches. They often move quickly and loudly through the canopy of trees. You may also be able to listen for the vocalizations.
The Mountain and the Squirrel
The mountain and the squirrel
had a quarrel;
And the former called the latter "Little Prig".
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together,
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not as large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry.
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track;
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put,
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
STATION SEVEN: Plant Identification - Western Red Cedar
On the Southeast side of the pond you will find a Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata). This tree can be identified using several distinct characteristics: needles, bark, and branch shape (see photos below).
Fig. 18 Western Red Cedar Needles
Fig. 19 Western Red Cedar bark
The bark of Western Red Cedar was used by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest to create baskets, clothing, mats, and many more items.
Fig. 20 Silhouette of Western Red Cedar
Fig. 21 Photo of the Western Red Cedar at this station
Take a moment to enjoy the shade of the Western Red Cedar. The flat, thick needles provide a buffer from wind and sunshine. Additionally, you may enjoy the fresh, woody aroma of the bark.
STATION EIGHT: Plant Identification - Dawn Redwood
Just up the path from the Western Red Cedar you visited it another member of the Cypress family: Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)! When I first noticed this tree I was stunned by the bright new leaves covering the entire tree. At first glance, it looked a bit like a Cedar to me - though I was sure it was not a Western Red Cedar. After taking several clippings and sharing them with various fellow plant enthusiasts, I discovered that the tree was a Dawn Redwood (thank Victoria and Tim for the stellar ID). A unique feature of this tree is that it is a deciduous conifer, meaning that it looses all of its leaves in the fall - giving it a stunning new leaf cover in the spring!
Fig. 22 Photo of the Dawn Redwood, capturing nearly all of the tree
Standing at the trail, it is easy to observe some of the difference between the Western Red Cedar we just saw and the Dawn Redwood here. The Dawn Redwood has spaced out branches that do not curve up like the Cedar. The leaves of the Dawn Redwood also splay out in a flatter fashion, making the different levels of branches clear.
Fig. 23 Closeup photo of a clipping from one of the branches of the Dawn Redwood
While stunning, the Dawn Redwood does look unusual in this Pacific Northwest forest. The Dawn Redwood is a non-native species originating from the Lichuan region of China. Thought to be extinct, small populations were rediscovered in 1944 and the species has been actively revived since.
STATION NINE: Geo-morphology - Sediment Layers
If you are someone who likes to get their hands in the dirt, this is the station for you! At this station, you have the opportunity to dig a small hole to expose sediment layers in the hillside. First, a few ground rules for digging in an environmentally sustainable and respectful way!- Dig in the spot that does not appear to have many plants currently growing. As much as you can, avoid uprooting any plants as your explore this station.
- When digging, place dirt beside the hole in a neat pile so that you can replace it when you are done.
- After you have made your observations, fill your hole back in with the saved dirt and gently pack down the fill.
Fig. 24 Photo of the hillside you may want to dig on
I chose this hillside (indicated on the map) because it is sparsely vegetated. The vegetation present is English Ivy, which is an aggressive invasive species. I was not worried about disturbing this particular plant! I dig down about one foot and was able to distinguish some layering.
So, what are you looking for?
Fig. 25 Graphic of sediment layers in the Puget Sound
The Puget Sound sediment layering was created by the advance and retreat of the Vashon Glacier. Three distinct layers will be found: Clay, sand, and glacial till. Each type of sediment was deposited at different times throughout this time period. Slow moving waters first deposited the light weight clay. Next, quicker waters deposited the slightly heavier sand. Lastly, rapid water moving beneath the glacier deposited the bulkier glacial till. As you did, can you distinguish any different in sediment? I found a strong presence of sand just below the humus layer!
STATION TEN: Ecological Disturbance - Erosion
The last station is an example of an ecological disturbance: erosion. Erosion can be caused by a number of factors including wind, water, landslides, or glaciation. The spot is well sheltered by trees on both sides that would block much of the wind that may cause erosion. There is no evidence of landslides occurring on the hillside. The trail below is well maintained and showed no sign of damage from a previous slide. In this case, I believe the erosion of this hillside has been caused by water. Mostly likely, the runoff of rainwater down the face of the hillside has caused the dirt to slide of the hillside slowly, creating this bare patch. Initially, I thought the patch may have been human caused, but upon further investigation, I saw that it could not be a social trail as any trail like features end about two feet outside of this photo.
Fig. 26 Photo of hillside with eroded, washed out area
Erosion is a natural phenomenon and is caused by abiotic factors, meaning that it was not created by a human or animal, rather a weather event. The photo above shows that some of the roots of the tree have been uncovered due to dirt being carried away. There is also a noticeable lack of vegetation here as well.
I hope you enjoyed this tour of Cowen Park! | ||||||
The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut."
Source: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/the-mountain-and-the-squirrel-by-ralph-waldo-emerson
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut."
Source: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/the-mountain-and-the-squirrel-by-ralph-waldo-emerson
The mountain and the squirrel
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut."
Source: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/the-mountain-and-the-squirrel-by-ralph-waldo-emerson
Had a quarrel,
And the former called the latter
"Little prig."
Bun replied,
"You are doubtless very big;
But all sorts of things and weather
Must be taken in together
To make up a year
And a sphere.
And I think it no disgrace
To occupy my place.
If I'm not so large as you,
You are not so small as I,
And not half so spry:
I'll not deny you make
A very pretty squirrel track.
Talents differ; all is well and wisely put;
If I cannot carry forests on my back,
Neither can you crack a nut."
Source: https://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/the-mountain-and-the-squirrel-by-ralph-waldo-emerson
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