The City of Burlington: March Ecology

As March begins in Burlington, phenological changes can be seen throughout the city, not just in mores secluded natural areas like rock point or centennial woods. These changes can be observed on an ordinary errand run, by observing species of street trees and herbaceous plants, as well as the wildlife that inhabit these smaller ecosystems. Bird activity is flourishing, and it is easy to hear many different kind of bird songs on a walk. Different species, including the wood thrush and the common tern, can easily be seen walking on sidewalks or flying through street trees. The street trees are still without leaves, but are no longer coated in snow or ice. Right now, these trees can be most easily identified by their twigs and bark, and many buds have still yet to appear. There are still patches of slightly frozen herbaceous plants, but the vast majority of snow has melted, leaving mud on the ground.