Centennial Woods

Though it can be difficult to spot wildlife, the signs of animal activity throughout Centennial Woods are plentiful and can be easy to point out. As shown above, I came across a few piles of fur down by the stream. This is likely the result of an attack from a predator, and the prey could have been a deer based off the appearance of the fur. The forest is abundant with bird life, leaving their mark with nests in high up branches, and holes in trees as a result of woodpecker activity. As expected, grey squirrels cross my path various times throughout each trip I make to Centennial Woods. They are one species that has almost remained constant throughout all of my visits.

One of the most well known indicators/characteristics of spring is the emergence of buds. There were few leaves that are visible on deciduous trees throughout centennial woods, but the various buds and flowers indicate the forest will be vibrantly green soon. On a lower level, the forest floor has shifted from primarily dirt and organic matter to a dense layer small plants. Some are more abundant than others, and I sketched some of the common ones, attached above. The shift into spring is my personal favorite season to observe the changes in plant life. The forest seemingly rapidly becomes filled with new life and the regrowth of plants that became bare during the winter.