800 Hz hi-pass filter applied on sound file to reduce wind noise. Canon PowerShot SX620 HS built-in microphone.
800 Hz hi-pass filter applied on sound file to reduce wind noise. Canon PowerShot SX620 HS built-in microphone.
Shrike sounds like a slur if I'm being honest
After reviewing 8 previous iNaturalist observations of firs on Apple Orchard Mountain, I decided to go up and investigate for myself. Apple Orchard Mountain is the highest point in Botetourt and Bedford Counties at 4225 feet of elevation. While it is only ranked as the 40th highest peak in the Commonwealth, it ranks as the most prominent peak in Virginia, with 2825 feet of clean prominence. This high level of exposure creates a unique microclimate where wind, ice, and snow from raging winter storms gives most of the trees a gnarled “apple orchard-like” appearance.
While surveying the exposed ridge top, I measured and recorded a total of 37 trees (42 stems ranging from 0.6 to 15.2 inches diameter) of what I believe to be a reproducing population of Fraser firs. Whether this is a relict population or was originally planted by the Forest Service, my findings were inconclusive. However, the presence of numerous unplanted saplings and seedlings in the understory and vicinity of the stands combined with the suitable habitat for firs, indicates a self-sustaining reproducing population. In determining this was Fraser fir as opposed to balsam fir, I noted the toothed reflexed bracts on cone fragments found on the forest floor, which were consistent with photos of past observations at this site.
@steinm
https://www.peakbagger.com/peak.aspx?pid=7687
https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/ag_654/volume_1/abies/fraseri.htm
I couldn't get any closer, the lake was on private property (took the picture from the road).