January is the Month of Greatest Cold

JANUARY is the month of greatest cold, of frozen lakes and ponds, and of deep snow.

The northern woods in January are full of surprises. Though it is very cold, you can still see green leaves on some trees and bushes. You can even find red berries in the woods during this month.

Although some animals are sleeping, winter is a good time to watch many four-footed animals.

The raccoon, for example, has very short legs. So he stays at home when deep snow covers the ground, and even when the weather is not very cold, he does not walk far from his den. Raccoons like to live in pairs.

Grey squirrels are very active in winter. It is easier to see their nests when the trees are bare.

It is hard to see flying squirrels in winter because they leave their homes in hollow trees only after dark.

Rabbits do not like to dig. They live in holes made by other animals. Rabbits must always remember their enemy — the red fox, who hunts during the day. The fox often has to walk long distances looking for food. But he does not need to return to his den to sleep — he lies down in the snow and uses his tail as a blanket.