“Autumn is a second Spring when every leaf is a flower.” -Albert Camus
In the fall we track the changing colors of foliage much the same way that we follow the sequence of bloom with spring wildflowers. Leaf peeping is a big event! Early autumn (late September and the first week or so in October in Central New York) is a time of excitement and anticipation, with everyone gazing into a crystal ball to predict peak foliage color and schedule outdoor activities.
A recent trip to my childhood home 400 miles southwest of here reminded me that wishful thinking has no influence on Mother Nature’s timetable! The river bottom watersheds in western Pennsylvania were still very green, leading me to explore the more detailed landscapes in front of my nose.
Kiskiminetas River, viewed from the Roaring Run Recreation Trail; Apollo, PA
Marbled Orbweaver spider, building a web
A tussock moth caterpillar on the move
After returning to Central New York, I began to see a bit more color but summer greens were still dominant. Warm temperatures, plenty of sun and the absence of a hard frost have resulted in a gradual transition from summer to fall, with a pleasing overlap of the seasons.
Woodman Pond and resting geese
Woodland ferns and a hint of autumn
Chenango Canal and the canal towpath trail
Sulphur butterfly on asters
Photos by NB Hunter. © All Rights Reserved.
Nick's Nature Pics 