A Walk in My Autumn Woods in New York State
Autumn--My Favorite Time of Year
Is there anything more beautiful than the colorful trees of autumn? I don't think so. Nature paints her foliage with cheerful and warm colors. I think that She's trying to ease us into the thought of the drab, cold winter months ahead. It's Her way of cushioning the blow! Whatever the reason, the beauty and wonder of this awesome time of year never ceases to amaze me. I wanted to share these views with you, because they will all too soon give way to yet another season.
What's Your Favorite Season?
Mama and Baby Raccoons
Unexpected Encounter
As we head out for the woods, we surprise a raccoon family in action. There are 4 babies, but you only see 3 here. Number 4 is a little smaller and more easily distracted than the rest. It is always bringing up the rear and exploring all its surroundings. I enjoy the comedy as it suddenly realizes the rest of the family has moved on. It must work those little legs as fast as it can to catch up!
Usually mama raccoon and her 4 babies forage at night. I suspect they are anxious to load up on nutrition in anticipation of their long wintertime hibernation. They must be sure to pack away as many fat calories as possible.
This raccoon family has been around since early spring, at which time the youngsters were very tiny. They have gained quite a bit while hunting for food by watching and following in their mama's footsteps. So cute!
Birds Enjoying Breakfast at the Feeders
Click thumbnail to view full-sizeThe Birds Are Very Active This Morning!
When the birds are active, you can bet there's a storm of some sort on the way. As a matter of fact, I just heard the weather report; they are calling for a rainy and windy night tonight. The birds have some sort of extra sense that tells them they had best eat now and then hunker down and shelter from the oncoming bad weather! Mother Nature has provided them with this sense to help them to survive the elements.
When I see all this extra activity, I will add some day-old bread crumbs to the feeders to give them a boost in the fat department. This will keep their feathers healthy as well as help the birds to stay warm while they ride out the inclement weather.
Heading Up Into The Woods
We'll leave the backyard now and head on up into the woods. I just love to pause and watch my birds because they make all my cares and stress float away! I am blessed with a wonderful group of feathered friends and a very peaceful woodland area. Walking in the woods is something I enjoy every day that the weather allows.
These Leaves Are Just Starting To Turn
Just the Right Shade of Blue
Awesome Leaf Colors
Click thumbnail to view full-sizeEverywhere you look there's a variegated tapestry of Nature's colors. The tree leaves are in various stages of coloration depending upon the amount of sunlight that reaches them, and the moisture and chemical content of the soil in which they are growing.
Nature's Colorful Combinations
Click thumbnail to view full-sizeI hope you have enjoyed your walk through my autumn woodlands in New York State. Thanks for visiting me.