Back again at the Sea Caves! For this visit, we were instructed to sit quietly at our spot and engage with it using our senses. As I walked to find a spot to settle in, I noticed the thick layer of fallen leaves. They made a lovely swishing noise, and of course, I stopped to make a small pile to jump into. The trees were now so naked, and I could see the pond from the trail! When I was here a couple weeks ago, there was barely any visibility through the thick foliage. How quickly things change! The ferns and undergrowth seem to still be holding on, I wonder how long until they hide away for the winter. I observed the birch that lined the trail and remembered what we learned in class. Birch love disturbed soils! As I continued my walk, I considered how the pond may change for winter soon. Lake Champlain has been freezing over less consistently each year, so I wondered how the pond would react. It is much smaller and shallower, so I think there is still hope!
At my spot, the ground was damp, so sitting was a little less than ideal. However, the weather was perfect, so sit I did! While I sat, I noticed how barren the trees have become, except the American Beech. In lab, we learned that beech trees hold onto their leaves for far longer as they follow a process called marcescence. The sun was shining though, and I want to say the pond looked absolutely beautiful, but the algae bloom from before still hung around along with some other scum. It was still a nice sight though! The air smelled fresh with a slight undertone that seems to be warning of winter coming soon. I could hear bustling of critters through the woods and the leaves gently blowing around in the air and on the trail. On the ground, I noticed a plant I hadn’t seen last time poking through. After some debate with iNaturalist, I identified it as skunk cabbage sprouts. I have never come across this species before, so it was rather exciting! Finally, I noticed the soil around me. It was so dry, and it seemed to be composed of clay. I wasn’t too sure though. Its texture reminded me of how when limestone is rubbed, it will turn into dust. I wouldn’t be surprised if some limestone is present under the soils.
Can’t wait to see what next time brings!
- A new view now that the leaves have fallen!
- Hand-drawn, birds-eye view map of my Phenology spot! Note: I have yet to actually see the caves. I think to see them, you need to be on skates. I have marked where I assume they are, but there is no guarantee!