It appears that the late autumn weather is finally over. Autumn is my favourite season, in part because it was in October when Marie and I decided to get married back in 1976.
Autumn was always a little quieter and more peaceful in the world of nature, as things were winding down and getting ready for winter. It was also one of the main seasons when we went on some of our longest travels to somewhere on the continent.
The colours can be amazing as the trees of the forest change from rich greens to golden yellows and/or bright reds, before ending up a duller brown and on the ground. Some maples can be exceptionally bright, such as this one shown above in late October. It was in the campground, on October 21
This post will feature the changes from a single vantage point at Rondeau, that being along Bennett Avenue.
I started documenting the beginning of the change in later October, since before then there was hardly any differences in the leaf colour at all.
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| Oct 24 |
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| Oct 29 |
In this case, the photo of Oct 24 seems to be more vivid than the one on Oct 29. One of the factors in determining the intensity of colour is the brightness of the sun at the time I took it.
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| Nov 1 |
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| Nov 7 |
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| Nov 11 |
As you can see, the entire change over doesn't take long, so I tried to get out regularly before it advanced too quickly.
While I focused on this particular spot, I did meander along several other roads and trails.
The photo above was taken along the closed to vehicles section of Rondeau Road on Nov 1. As you can see, the road is fairly covered with fallen leaves, with a few less in the middle. I think that is due to bicycle traffic or hikers. So it was an attractive scene. With so much leaf cover either here or on some of the designated hiking trails, it was hard to walk quietly due to the sound of footsteps shuffling through the dry leaves.
I did see a few people out and about but not many. One of the things I found curious was seeing a few people out for a brisk walk along this or another road, but with their head down looking at the pathway in front of them, and with headphones or ear plugs listening to whatever! They were missing some of the ambiance of nature, the rustling of the leaves and the occasional bird sound like a Pileated Woodpecker tapping away. But I guess each person has their own priorities.
For anyone interested in acquiring either of my two books, Life on a Sandspit or Natural Treasures of Chatham-Kent, for Christmas or whatever, be advised that they are currently available at the following locations:
Book Brothers, 25 King St East, in Chatham
Lavender & Honey, also on King St. East, Chatham
Bayview Market, just outside of the gates of Rondeau. Due to the end of the camping season, Bayview Market is only open Thursday through Sunday.
Mindful Market and Ecohub, 104 Talbot St W in Blenheim
Mitton's Jeweler's and Gifts, 10 Main St East, Ridgetown
If you would like to subscribe, or unsubscribe, to Nature Nuggets, send an email to: prairietramper@gmail.com
The change in colours through your pictures along the road in the park certainly brings us to the realization that autumn beauty has come to an end as we await the beginning of winter. I, too, have a hard time understanding why people walking in nature don’t give their full attention to the beauty and sounds around them. I think they miss so much….
ReplyDeleteYes, they could get just as much benefit walking a city street if they don't pay attention to the beauty in the natural world. Fortunately I only see a few people doing it this way, but it still amazes me as to why.
DeleteWhat a gift we have in the changing seasons. I loved how you captured the brief but spectacular autumn changes.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Paula. The changing seasons are awesome and it never ceases to thrill me.
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