The trail was very crowded today as the warm weather and late light brought people out of their homes and cars. Take care: many of these folks are not familiar with trail etiquette and some have a tendency to wander all over the place, allow their dog leashes to stretch across the path, and let their youngsters wobble into oncoming trail traffic.The wildflowers are starting to show themselves. Marsh Marigolds are in bloom in Banneker Park near Mile 5 (left). Better yet, the Spring Peepers (right) are calling evenings in the wetlands along the trail. Actually, it is the males that are calling. In case you don't know what these little frogs sound like, this Fairfax County web site has a couple of good recordings and numerous photos. http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/spring_peeper.htm
