The mystery of the disappearing putty

Originally published February 29, 2016

We use duct seal, commonly known as putty, to seal the ends of the conduits and datalogger enclosures in the forest. This prevents moisture and animals from getting in. Nevertheless, we've been wondering why it disappears so fast! Surely there must be a reason! Isn't this stuff supposed to last? 

OH, WAIT A MINUTE....  WHAT IS THIS ON THE FLOOR??!

It seems we have been feeding the snails EXTREMELY well during

the past year.