On my latest trip to Centennial woods, I found what appeared to be deer tracks. After veering off the human-made path for about 10 yards, these deer tracks appeared. The tracks showed a split hoof print and had a diagonal gait. The size of the prints, a little enlarged due to snowmelt, also were about the size of a deer. The animal appeared to be going towards the stream, which would make sense for deer.
Since I last visited Centennial woods, many phenological changes have taken place. There is now very little green that can be seen because we are now well into the winter. There is a decent amount of snow cover, but it is beginning to melt. There is also quite a bit of ice, especially on the paths. None of the trees have leaves, except for some species like American Beech, which are still holding onto dead leaves. I also did not see much wildlife other than squirrels; not many birds could be heard or seen.
The twig I chose to sketch featured alternate branches, alternate buds, and single terminal buds. After examining it, my best guess was that it was a Sugar Maple. Comparing it to more full-grown Sugar Maples, it seemed to match. Sugar Maples, many types of pines and spruces, American Beech, and Birch are some of the common trees that I have seen a lot of in Centennial woods.
Below are my field notes for my visit at Centennial Woods on 1/29/20: