Today marks my last phenology checkpoint to be logged at Nature Study Woods. While I’m not required to update my blog anymore, I have enjoyed this experience so much that when I come back to Nature Study Woods this summer and for the rest of my days here in New Rochelle, I will continue to track its ecology. Its been such a learning experience and its been so enjoyable. It has tied me to my hometown more than before.
The ways in which I think nature and culture intertwine at Nature Study Woods is through its receptiveness and accessibility. Located right behind busy North Avenue and New Rochelle High School, Nature Study Woods is shared by all New Rochellians. I can see every type of person strolling through the woods on a May day, and it makes me happy that it acts as a checkpoint of nature in a relatively urban area.
I consider yourself a part of your placebecause I grew up here, but also because of my hanging definition of nature. Developing a more “kin-centric” approach to nature through taking my environmental science classes has made me feel like I am a playing piece of nature, not something separate, but rather something equal andsomething as a contributor.
The foliage/herbaceous layer of Nature Study Woods besides the trail is now completely covered in new york fern, skunk cabbage, garlic mustard, and ficaria verna as the majority. Narrowleaf bittercress also assume their place as an indicator species directly on the trail which distinguish it as a disturbed area. I found a few examples of the Onoclea sensibilis “sensitive fern” and its unfurling leaves, a species I haven’t accounted for yet! The Red Maple (now full with green leaves) marks the trailhead. The young american beech trees as northern spicebush trees that line the edge of the trails are showing great leaves and defining the edge of the trail as a more disturbed area. I found Hymenochaetaceae fungi as well as Sclerodermataceae on some felled trees. I want to track my mycological phenology in the months to come a lot more! Ficaria verna as well as japanese knotweed are two invasives I saw in all their invasive glory in the herbaceous level. I pulled out the japanese knotweed as to prevent its invasitivity. This is another aspect of phenology I want to track a lot more, as invasives can become much more observable in warmer months. To attribute to my last phenology blog post, I even found an ornamental tree at the head of trail still in bloom, a viburnum native to Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia.
For my last blog post of the semester, I decided to track the nature I find around my own neighborhood. It is much more different than I realized in comparison to my last few phenology spots, so this is what I discovered!
Along my suburban sidewalks I find a lot of common planta growing through the cracks. This is Star-Of-Bethlehem, which I don’t see too often! They look like white shining stars when they bloom.
This is a common sidewalk weed I do see! The dandelion! They are cousins of the calendula, one of my favorite flowers that has bug repellent and medicinal properties. Dandelions grow like weeds in fairly disturbed areas, like the sidewalks in my neighborhood.
Here is a (not so) Red Maple. It has a ton of samaras on it. Red maple samaras are red, in contrast to those of sugar maple, which are green in spring. These samaras disperse in spring before the leaves are fully developed
This is the finished flower of Hyacinthus orientalis, the common hyacinth, which is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to southwestern Asia, southern and central Turkey, and northwestern Syria. Much like a tulip or daffodil bulb, these perennials come up every early spring. They are special because of their sweet fragrance. Many of the plants I see around my neighborhood are nonnative, because it is a residential area in which many people landscape for aesthetics.
I watched this American Robin pull this worm right out of the ground! I wish I took a video of it, but I could only snap this photo before the worm was devoured. Robins, sparrows, and morning doves are the most common birds that I spot around me.
Here’s my common lilac in my year that I have been tracking for the past few months. What was a bunch of sticks in March is now a foliage filled bloomer with the most incredible scent. Another example of a nonnative, Common lilac is native of Europe, and was introduced and naturalized in the United States.
The Japanese Flowering Cherry, are found growing widely in my area for ornamental purposes. While beautiful, they aren’t native. This is a theme I see in almost all of the plants around me here, something different than the plants at Nature Study Woods in New Rochelle as well as Crescent Woods in Burlington.
We have officially surpassed the spring equinox since the past March, it is now mid April with temperatures in New Rochelle, NY at the lowest being only around 40 degrees Fahrenheit at nighttime. All these spring changes lead me to make some great finds at my phenology blog site and around town, as well as explore my artistic abilities and interpretations.
The buds explored in my last post are now beginning to bloom, and here are some of the comparisons and discoveries in terms of plants and foliage that I have made now!
Here is a drawing I did of a lilac bud breaking. A very different look from last month! They already are starting to have a great fragrance, and by May will be in all of their full bloom glory.
As Nature Study Woods is a fairly disturbed area that has seen some phenological succession, it is not surprising to find an invasive plant like the bayberry growing around the swampier bits of the woods. They’ve maintained their red leaves, but new growth coming in is green, and their red buds are flowering yellow.
Nature Study Woods may be able to fall under the definition of a floodplain forest as the Hutchinson River runs through it and allows for low lying, swampier areas. Ferns do great in this type of wetter, shadier conditions, they are one of my favorites, I was able to spot only one displaying its signature curl popping out of the soil.
I saw some chipmunks and bunnies on this trip, and see them at my job all the time. Overturning logs I did find some worms, but something I didn’t really come to search for but found a lot of were spiders and their webs, some with their ant prey inside. A hawk (which I believe is a red-tailed hawk but I can’t be certain) has claimed its perch on one of our highest trees on the property and comes by almost every day, quite the sight to see. We even saw him catch and kill a rabbit. With all this animal activity in play, I was able to come up with this species diagram.
I’ll be honest in saying I had some difficulty with making this, it is vague but does show how these trophic levels interact. I was sure to add the worm because in my opinion they do the most important work, and as a species sometimes go overlooked!
Here is my hawk friend on his perch. We named him Sususs Amongus as a joke. What is a more fitting name? Maybe Walter Poleman the second.
Although the temperatures have still maintained solid 30s and 40s throughout February into early March, the energy of the upcoming spring is being felt by everyone, especially with 60 degree forecasts for next week.
The snow on the ground in New Rochelle, NY has since gone, giving me more access to venture outside and find the early signs of spring. Here are my discoveries as of late.
One of the most common signs of spring are crocuses. They’ve begun to pop up in everyone’s yards, and are sure to put a smile on your face!
Buds on not so much a tree but more a hardy shrub, Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)! Lilac is an early bloomer who in the next month will be displaying its beautiful purples and great scent.
In the next coming weeks, this is what will come of those lilac buds. (Image via Raymore Park in Toronto)
Can you distinguish the distinct red buds of this nonnative tree? Its a Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)! These are very common to see in residential landscapes.Here at my job at a local plant nursery, the winter roosts of crows are just beginning to branch out and become more active in time for spring. Their calls can he heard from far far away.
Another exciting flower poking its head out, common in New York suburbia, the Daffodil! Another early spring bloomer. They are a symbol of new beginnings and friendships.
Here is a hawk I saw on my walk searching for vermin. In winter time, predatory birds are much more conspicuous, and with less daylight hours, can hunt more actively. While spring does approach, observations like this still suggest that winter clings on!
New semester, new updated phenology blog post for New Rochelle’s Nature Study Woods! Today we’ll be exploring evidence of active animals in the woods by tracking the clues they’ve left behind.
Even before we arrive at Nature Study Woods however, animal activity is still commonly seen, an example even right outside of my back door!The phenomena of hibernation is misconstrued. Animals are still making their moves out in nature much more than people think!
What tracks are these right on my own patio? Most likely raccoon!
Snowy entrance of Nature Study Woods! Time to go track hunting.
Being a popular spot for dog walkers and nature goers, its expected that right at the entrance we’ll find a mix of human, dog, AND deer prints!
Our graffitied friend featured in past blog posts making an appearance again, now covered in some snowflakes.Lots and lots of instances of deer tracks following a path. They’ve got somewhere to be!
Even instances of deer scat following those deer track trails.
What tracks are these? They barely penetrate the first inch of snow. This looks partially like dog prints, but it could even be mixed with squirrel or even skunk prints.
Deer and raccoon? They must be mingling.
Something indistinguishable to me… are these tracks deer tracks that have been covered in another falling of snow? Or maybe even rabbit…Finally, what are these big broad tracks? A big goose with broad feet? A bear? Nope. Snowshoe prints!
New Rochelle’s Nature Study Woods and Eastchester’s adjacent Twin Lakes Park arecomprised of sections of The Hutchinson River which section off these parcels of wildland used today as public natural areas. It is 220 acres in total, made of woods, lakes, marshes, and fields all in one!
Nature Study Woods located in southern New Rochelle connects to northern Eastchester’s Twin Lakes Park, following the ins and outs of the Hutchinson River. (via Hudson River Audubon Society of Westchester)
During the full 4.8 mile journey, the trail will diverge under the Hutchinson River Parkway, and with Twin Lakes Farmlocated adjacent, hikers may have to share the trail with horseback riders once in a while. The marshes and ponds along the route are home to waterfowl such as the Hooded Merganserduring these cool months, and in wooded areas one can most certainly spot a deer or turkey.
Hooded Merganser (via The National Audubon Society)Deer I spotted while fishing with my boyfriend between New Rochelle and Eastchester this summer. (my own video)
This entire area, including the river and the highway, are named after the historic Anne Hutchinson, who was expelled in the 1630s from the Massachusetts bay Colony for advocating freedom of religion. After the passing of her husband, Anne Hutchinson moved to New Netherland (now New York’s Pelham Bay), which is east of where the now named Hutchinson River empties. She and a majority of her family was killed by members of the Siwanoy natives of the area during Kieft’s War.
Because of this rich history, the Nature Study and Twin Lakes trails along the Hutchinson River belong toWestchester County’s “Colonial Greenway”, a system of nature trails that all connect to many of America’s historic figures!
Sign along the “Hutch” Parkway. (via AMNY Newsletter)Map of Westchester County’s “Colonial Greenway” trails. (via Westchester County Parks)
Today, Nature Study woods is used by all, as its accessible by the public. Walking, running, hiking, bird-watching, fishing and more. Because of its close location, my old high school even uses it for class settings, such as for labs. I have visited multiple times with my old Environmental Science class, where we have tested soil type and acidity, and identified natural species. Our high school Forensics Class uses the location to stage simulated crime scenes for students to analyze.With now learning its rich history and geography, I can’t wait to go back and keep this in mind!
New Rochelle High School forensics students analyzing a simulated crime scene in the entrance of Nature Study Woods! My best friend’s orange van is actually in the back! (photo via Talk of The Sound Newsletter).
As the semester is comes to a close, and everyone on campus has gone home for the holidays, it is now time for the NR001 students to find a new phenology blog spot close to their own hometown! I have chosen the lovely NATURE STUDY WOODS, located a 30 minute bike ride or 15 minute or ride away from my house. I am extremely familiar with this location, as I have plenty a time taken hikes and walks with friends and family through here, and have even gone fishing a few times here with my boyfriend. It is located directly behind my high school.
Map of New Rochelle’s Nature Study Woods Trail (via Google Maps)
Greeting sign for Nature Study Woods! (Via The Westchester Parks Foundation)
In terms of comparing Nature Study Woods in New Rochelle, NY to Crescent Woods in Burlington VT, they have a lot of similarities, and a lot of differences.
To start with similarities, both Nature Study Woods and Crescent Woods have a source of water running through them. While Crescent Woods has Englesby Brook, Nature Study Woods has the Hutchinson River, named after Anne Hutchinson. Both are also located in an area surrounded by residential neighborhoods.
The Hutchinson River seen from Nature Study Trail. Still a lot of greenery since it has still ben relatively warm in lower New York. (my photograph)
The end of the Nature Study Woods Trail… meeting at the beginning of Reservoir #2 of the Hutchinson River. (my photograph)
Proof of some local folks having some fun in Nature Study Woods. (my photograph)
In terms of difference, Nature Study Woods is a lot larger, as it is a 3.5 mile trail that is relatively flat, unlike Crescent Woods that is smaller but with a much heavier embankment. Nature Study Woods is expansive, and easily has a lot more foot traffic, with wider packed trails and more evidence o human interaction such as footprints and litter. Nature Study Woods also does not have as much of a drastic leaf color change as Crescent Woods likely because of its more southern location.
The wide wide WIDE and long trails of Nature Study Woods. (my photograph)Much more open space, with room for boulders. (my photograph)
With similarity and difference in mind, Nature Study Woods holds a very significant place in my heart as it has for my whole adolescent and now adult life, and it will only grow as I continue to track its pieces, patterns, and processes even further.
On a sunny afternoon I am here again at the quaint Crescent Woods, with a surprising November temperature of 63°F. It is especially shocking, since this past Monday night into Tuesday, Burlington had its first real snowfall, with about 2-3 inches of snow sticking around for about 24 hours. I think the changes I picked up today since two weeks ago stem from that first little storm.
Trees are much emptier, we are past peak fall leaf season, with most leaves now on the ground. (my photograph)
It seems that many more green leaves are covering the ground. This was an odd concept to me at first, but I think I can contribute this to young green maples being weighed down to the floor by the recent snow. (my photograph)
Garlic mustard still hanging on in November. (my photograph)
Asters are reaching their final stages before hibernation through the winter. (my photograph)Englesby Brook is babbling faster and louder than the past, maybe from snow melt runoff. (my video)
Sun setting in the west was hitting the landscape real nice today. It was around 3:30pm. Trees are much less “leafy”. They’re all on the ground now. (my photograph)
In my opinion, one of the most noticeable first signs of winter is migrating Canada Geese. (my video)My lovely little landing spot. (my video)
As what our task permits this week… I made my way through Crescent Woods as I routinely do, but this time really noting some key events that are in play as I make my journey, all which could be sequentially documented. It was a great way to really absorb the present.
Here is my documented EVENT MAP inspired by author Hannah Hinchman. (my drawing and photograph)
In the thick of autumn, we are here visiting Crescent Woods once again on this brisk Sunday afternoon. Approaching the spot and locking up my bike, the difference in the foliage at the top of the wood embankment was already evident. Many more spaced out oranges and yellow leaves with some sparcer young green trees, rather than the full greens that filled out the area only two weeks ago.
My bike locked up on the top of the hill… less understory foliage than I remember. (my photograph)
Trail-marker at the head of the woods. (my photograph)
Many more fallen leaves. (my photograph)
Perennial asters now beginning to go into their “hibernation”. However, there is still evidence of their leaves being eaten. The most common things that eat asters are rabbits, leafhoppers, spider mites, thrips, whiteflies, weevils, and scales. (my photograph)
Still tracking the Rhytismataceae fungi on many of the Norway Maples. (my photograph)
Groundcover consisting of mostly Maple and Elm leaves. (my photograph)
View from my designated spot in Crescent Woods. MANY MANY more colors and fallen leaves. They’re definitely doing their mulching job!! (my photograph)
With a better background from my visit before, I kept equipped my knowledge in cartography and ecology as I attempted to lay out this landscape, trying to better understand its natural processes, and its geological layout from from a bird’s eye view. I can’t wait to understand more about Crescent Woods and improve my knowledge in my upcoming visits.
Evidence of stream bank erosion. (my photograph)
Younger Maples in understory, stand-alone Red Oaks in the overstory. (my photograph)
My bird’s eye map. I must stay I am not the greatest cartographer, hopefully I can improve as I visit. The red arrows indicate my trail I take to my little spot that sticks out onto Englesby Brook. (my drawing and photograph)
Hello! My name is Grace Weckesser, and for my NR001 Phenology Project, I choose the lovely Crescent Woods! From where I call home in UVM’s Athletic Campus, Crescent Woods is only a 7-minute bike ride away! Traveling west through Athletic and Redstone Campuses, you can reach Prospect Street and go south, until veering right onto Ledge Road, then making an immediate left onto Hillcrest Road. The next right will be turned into Crescent Road, and the beautiful Crescent Woods will be on your right three blocks down!
Bike Route to Crescent Woods (Via Google Maps)
When first coming upon Crescent Woods, you’re greeted with a charming staircase leading down a steep embankment. It is lined with plenty of maples, including small Striped maples, young Norway and Sugar maples in the understory, and larger Norway and Sugar maples in the overstory.
Maples in the overstory (my photograph)
Staircase leading down the embankment (my photograph)
Black Tar Spot (Rhytisma acerinum) on a young Norway Maple (my photograph)
Down at the bottom of the staircase and embankment trail, you’re met with Englesby Brook, an urban stream that begins more northeast towards where the UVM campus meets the Burlington Country Club, and ends at Lake Champlain. Walking down the embankment, there are very few herbaceous plants, most plants under 6 ft. are constituted by spotted touch-me-nots, young maples and young wych elms.
Winding Englesby Brook (my photograph)
Young Wych Elm (my photograph)
Spotted touch-me-nots at the edge of the brook (my photograph)
Coming closer to my designated spot in Crescent Woods that I will be tracking until further notice, the herbaceous layer of the landscape becomes more abundant.
Christmas Fern (my photograph)
Patch of White Wood Asters (my photograph)
And here is a view of my spot from today! Is is a great place to view the overstory from a spot next to the brook. More and more maples, with some sparcer Eastern Hemlocks seen in the distance!
