As snowflakes fall to the ground and accumulate, pockets of air get trapped in the snow. So, like your down parka, snow can be a good insulator. Even though snow is cold, the air temperatures can be much colder and the wind carries heat away.
In winter, mice, voles, squirrels, and other small mammals travel in tunnels under the snow and are insulated from the cold air.
A ruffed grouse will tuck its wings in close to its body and dive into the snow. Then, with a few wiggles, it has formed a well insulated snow cave. Making a snow cave, or quinzee, is a fun snow activity.
Start by creating a large mound of snow in a safe place. Shoveling the snow into a fresh pile fluffs it up and traps lots of air. Pile it up high and wide, you’ll want to carve a big enough space to crawl inside later.
Then let your pile rest in the sun, or sinter, for a couple of hours. Sintering allows the snow to bond together tighter making it really strong. This is a good time to make a hot meal around the fire.
Poke sticks, about 16 inches long, into your snowpile all around it. These “porcupine sticks” will help keep your walls thick enough to be sturdy. Now it is time to start carving! Stop if you reach the end of a stick and make a vent hole in the ceiling if you are going to spend a lot of time in there. An elevated platform will allow for a cold air sink below where you will be hanging out.
Bring some friends into your quinzee and experience the warmth of snow! Burning a small candle in there can add a little heat as well.
One thought on “Snug Under the Snow”