Croix des 7 frères (Cross of the 7 brothers): Ski touring in Morillon

4 points of interest

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  Flora

  Flore

  False. Resin is a sticky, fragrant liquid produced by special cells. It flows over different veins compared to sap. Resin is not used to supply the tree with water and nutrients but as a means of protection. Resin in the wood, leaves and cones is always ready to flow and fill in even the slightest wound. It solidifies upon contact with air. Such bandage seals the wound and protects the tissues from dehydration. Rich in toxic resin acids, it also entraps insects and spores. The worker ants collect the resin from the trunks in the form of small pellets and bring them back to the anthill. The fumes from these resin pellets make the adults and larvae more resistant to fungal and bacterial diseases.

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  Geology

  North-facing (ubac) and south-facing (adret) mountain slopes

  Not all mountain slopes are equally sunny. Sun exposure has a major influence on the layout of villages, resorts and mountain pastures, as well as on the different plant and animal species. North-facing slopes are cold and damp and usually get very little sunshine. South-facing slopes are hot and dry and receive the most sunshine. On north-facing slopes, we see mostly coniferous trees (fir trees, spruces), while beech trees are more prevalent on south-facing ones.

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  Fauna

  Overwintering or hibernation?

  Many animals adapt themselves to winter by hibernating or overwintering by reducing their activity or looking for a shelter. For example, insects and birds overwinter. The marmot is known to hibernate. From the end of September, it takes refuge in its burrow and sleeps soundly until April. During this hibernation period, it is in a "comatose state": its heart beats at only 5 beats per minute and its temperature drops to around 10 Celsius ( which can vary depending on the ground temperature). Overwintering = spending the winter in a sheltered place Hibernating = spending the winter sleeping

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  Fauna

  Avoiding disturbance of ptarmigans during winter

  When you're on a ski trip in high-altitude areas, remember to follow the proper guidelines! Enjoy skiing above the treeline, but avoid rocky ridges and snow-free areas. This is where the rock ptarmigan comes to feed. Its diet is quite meagre and is only available there. It prefers to travel on foot, as flying consumes more energy. On the way up you can see its characteristic tracks, alerting you to its elusive presence. It is probably just a little further ahead, well camouflaged! By skirting around these areas, you'll avoid the bird flying needlessly, and you won’t damage your ski equipment!