News from the Friends of Reinstein

Nature Sightings

Tree foliage continues to change color despite our current heat wave with temperatures reaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Virginia creeper vines are showing off their bright red colors. Grape vines and black cherry leaves are yellowing. Ash trees and black walnut trees are also changing colors. Red squirrels are busy gnawing through the tough shells of black walnuts. Listen for their alarm call when they are disturbed from their perch. Painted turtles rest on logs soaking up the intense sun rays before retreating to the water. Autumn meadowhawk dragonflies lay eggs in tandem by rhythmically dabbing their abdomen on submerged logs in the ponds. American beech tree branches are loaded with beechnuts this year. These nuts will provide great forage for white-tailed deer, squirrels, turkeys, and other birds this autumn. Milkweed plants are releasing their fluffy seeds in the wind. Monarch butterflies are emerging from their chrysalis and beginning their long flight south. Next time you are on the trails, look for beaver lodges with freshly added mud and sticks.