Final Phenology Blog Post

Upon returning to my phenology spot for the last time, I noticed a significant difference between when I first visited it in October and now in December. While walking towards the spot, I came across a fallen log on the path and saw tracks that appeared to be of a rabbit or hare trying to cross the log. I took a picture of the tracks and continued towards the spot. Now, with a light layer of snow covering the area, most of the trees around the spot had lost their leaves except for the Eastern Hemlock and White Pine, which still had all their needles intact. The Norway Maple had only a few lingering leaves left on its branches before they all fell off. The ground was covered with a combination of decomposed leaves mixed with melted snow, creating a muddy path. I observed no minnows swimming in the water, but I did hear geese flying overhead, migrating somewhere warm. I also saw bird nests and heard the occasional squirrel or chipmunk in the trees. Across the bridge, I had taken photos of the berries of the Round-leave Bittersweet, which were this beautiful bright red and as if they had a little covering protecting them from the snow.

One of my favorite things about my Phenology spot is that I discovered it while taking my parents hiking in Centennial Woods. I also appreciate that it’s easily accessible for me to visit, and it’s a unique location on UVM’s campus. I love that I can identify most of the tree species that inhabit the spot, and I enjoy listening to all the different animal noises. Additionally, I love seeing the changes in the different seasons, from the bright and colorful fall to the snowy and cold winter. Overall, this project was really fun, and I would gladly do it again.

Photos from my most recent visit: