Unexpected Winter Tenant

This lemon tree is among several wintering over in my den. (Photo by Charlotte Ekker Wiggins)

Unexpected Winter Tenant

I was sweeping my den yesterday; my inside tropical plants drop leaves through the winter, giving my kitten nuggets an excuse to make a joyful mess.

The forecast is for record cold temperatures and snow over the next few weeks. The cold temperatures made me wonder what happens to Missouri tree frogs over winter. I had one last summer my Facebook community named “Norbert” since he was living in a bird house on my deck table all growing season. Purely coincidental but he was great live table decor and good company as I enjoyed a morning cup of tea.

This Missouri tree frog has been keeping warm in my inside greenery. (Photo by Charlotte Ekker Wiggins)

When I turned the inside lemon tree, there he was. I assume it was Norbert since he spent all year last year on my deck. He appeared to be asleep, sunning himself on the side of the lemon tree trunk.

Other friends have shared they have also had tree frogs wintering over in their inside greenery. Hopefully Norbert will find a good place to stay warm for the rest of the cold season and we can reunite back outside later this spring.

Charlotte