The Landlocked Forest is home to many species of animals. Herds of deer graze in the upland and sleep in the hemlock and pine groves. Fox and coyote hunt along the banks of the swamps, while flocks of wild turkey forage the forest floor. Vernal pools, with their unique assortment of species, are dotted throughout the forest even though only two have been officially certified. Fishers and otter have been seen along the streams through the year, and even a bear was seen visiting a few years ago. Other animals spotted in the forest include Catbirds, Towhees, Woodpeckers- Downy, Hairy, Pileated and Flicker, Scarlet Tanager, Blatimore Orioles, Great Horned Owls, Barred Owls, Wood Ducks, Raccoons, Possums, and Beavers. Also, of course, Chickadees, Titmice, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Robins, Mallard Ducks, Chipmunks, Squirrels- Gray and Red, Starlings, Cowbirds, Goldfinches, and Carolina Wrens.
For them the Landlocked Forest is not landlocked. This large open space is a significant part of the wildlife corridor that extends into conservation lands in Lexington and down the gas lines into Bedford and Lincoln and north toward Billerica. It is core bio-habitat that sustains wildlife and without which they would be forced to find a home elsewhere.
These wonderful photos were taken by Phillip Keyes, who was the Executive Director of the New England Mountain Bike Association.