I have become convinced that there are some black spruce (Picea mariana) or black and red spruce hybrids mixed in with the red spruce on Canaan Mountain. The largest tree in this photograph is one. Compare the branch structure to the tree on the left, which is clearly a red spruce (Picea rubens). Notice that the branches of the larger tree are much shorter, arch distinctly downward, and have upturned tips. Though it is not evident in this image there is a distinct difference in the needle color, more blue-green to our red spruce’s yellow green. The needles are a bit shorter, too. Even the edge of a bog habitat is correct for black spruce. There are a number of these trees of varying sizes in this general area, indicating reproduction. I suspect the Forest Service planted some black spruce years ago, knowingly or otherwise. There is also at least one black spruce at the Cranberry Visitor Center.

35-70mm Zeiss Vario Sonnar CY, Sony a7R3, Lr 6, Ps CS6.