Abbi Kenyon’s Phenology Blog

The first thing I had noticed when I got to my phenology spot was the intermediate wood feens that remained green under the new fallen snow. I knew this would occur as it was mentioned in the Naturally Curious December Chapter that this species has evergreen leaves that will persist through Vermont’s harsh winters. Another observation I had was large somewhat rectangular holes within trees which I believe were made by a Pileated Woodpecker, as the book mentions they make these for feeding on ants. I searched for more implications of animals being in the area, yet I had no luck with tracking. I believe this is because I ventured out while it was snowing, which would let the snow fill in tracks as they were made. I also could not find many cones on conifers which was surprising as the book mentioned that they are everywhere during this time of year. Lastly I saw some red winter berries.