Compared to my last visit at Rock Point and the Marsh Beech Trailhead, a great majority of the leaves have fallen; however, select species, such as the Allegheny blackberry, are still holding on to their last few leaves. The area is covered in a moderate amount of snow and ice, forming a muddy walkway as it melts. At this time, there are no persistent fruits or berries for the winter months or any recognizable decomposers.
In addition to the drastic changes in leaf and vegetation patterns, there were no identified insects or birds still present in the area due to dropping temperatures. This differs heavily from the beginning of the semester when bird nests filled the nearby trees and caterpillars lined the main trail. While there were also no wild animal tracks seen in the snow, other than dog paws near the trailhead, a small group of deer were present a few feet away from the area.
My favorite aspects of my phenology place are its seclusion, recreation, and proximity to Lake Champlain and its beaches. The Marsh Beech Trail is not along the main trail of Rock Point, making it feel less congested during popular times for hiking. Additionally, the trail is rated easy in difficulty, creating a calm environment for a nature stroll. My phenology place is located in the heart of Rock Point, with its conserved lands providing an opportunity to escape bustling downtown Burlington.