Above: Mosses and sedges are still
green at the end of December along a
springbranch canyon waterfall at The
Nature Conservancy's Niobrara Valley
Preserve.
Left: The bold zebra stripes and red hood
of a red-bellied woodpecker contrast
starkly with the snowstorm behind it.
Opposite: Snow and ice provide welcome
sparkling texture and highlights to winter
landscapes, especially in early and late day
light.
expanse of white snow. Careful observers
will discover red or gold leaves still
clinging to branches, and clusters of green
moss and other plants hardy enough to
hold on to their chlorophyll through the
coldest months. Even grays and browns
can be captivating, especially if they have
interesting texture or are reflecting golden
light from early or late day sun.
58 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2016
