The majority of the area is blanketed with dead leaves, remnants of the autumn season. However, amidst this brown carpet, there are small patches of vibrant green, resilient against the harsh cold of winter. These hardy plants are identified as Garlic Mustard, a species known for its ability to thrive in less-than-ideal conditions. Despite the surrounding dormancy, these lively green spots stand out, showcasing the plant’s remarkable adaptability and persistence in surviving the winter chill.
How Has The Foliage Changed?
- Are there any leaves still hanging on any trees, and if so, what species?
- There are no leaves still hanging on the trees
- Is there persistent vegetation or fruit?
- Yes, that would be the Garlic Mustard
- How has the fall leaf litter changed—are there signs of decomposition and decomposers?
- The fall leaf litter has most definitely increased since my first visit here. I see little to no presence of decomposition or decomposer.
- Are there any animals to observe or traces of their presence, such as nests, tracks, scat, marks in tree bark?
- During my visit today I saw no animal presence or any sign of animal activity.
- How much has the animal activity decreased, if at all?
- There typically are not too many critters in this area since there is a walking path that people typically go through.
What aspects of your phenology place do you enjoy the most?
I really enjoy that it’s just a few steps away from my dorm. I live on Trinity Campus, where there’s practically nothing nearby, so having a little place to go is great. I also appreciate that this spot allows my friends and me to hang out without the harsh fluorescent lighting found in nearly every building.