I returned to the bridge over one of the small streams that flows through Centennial Woods today, slipping and sliding on the muddy paths as I traveled. The only trees that shade the forest floor now are Eastern White Pines and Hemlocks. Just about every leaf is the same shade of dull orange; most are on the ground except for a few holding onto the branches of Centennial’s Beeches, Northern Red Oaks and Sugar Maples.
The leaf litter and pine needles are starting to turn to a homogenous sludge that covers every inch of the ground. As for animal activity, the whole forest is quieter without the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves and phragmites. Additionally, I was able to spot a print that looked like deer tracks, and I got to take a closer look at the pieces of the abandoned beaver dam as it continues to deteriorate.
When asked to detail my favorite aspects of my Phenology site, the first thing that comes to mind is how it almost has a musical quality to it. The sway of the plants and the calls of birds, along with the trickling stream and other sounds of the forest, all come together to create a sort of symphony. When the wind causes the forest to switch from silent to musical, I always am inclined to stop and listen to the beautiful sound, especially when near the sea of Phragmites. Additionally, I love the way that the space is used by all kinds of members in the community for recreation or enjoyment; seeing another person that likes spending time in Centennial as much as I do makes me so incredibly happy.
