No, that’s not snow amongst the green, it’s actually Reindeer Lichen, found while hiking our hill behind Johnnycake Flats last week when the temps were in the high 60’s. Lichens are unique, in that they are actually 2 organisms coexisting together; a fungi and and either an algae or cyanobacteria. The fungus makes up the majority of the organism while providing a way for the algae to attach to a substrate, such as a rock, log, tree or manmade object (ie. gravestones etc.). The fungus also offers protection to the algae from extreme weather conditions like freezing and drought. So that means that they can live pretty much anywhere! The algae/cyanobacteria in turn provides the fungus with the food (carbohydrates) it needs through photosynthesis. Lichens, themselves, are good for us, removing CO2 and other pollutants from the air and for animals as a food source, as well as a nesting material, particularly for the Ruby Throated Hummingbird. There are around 14,000 different species worldwide with about 580 found in Vermont. So the next time you’re out and about in the woods, go looking for lichens. Look up, look down, lichens are all around! (USDA Forest Service)