The First Signs of Autumn

- Fine weather!......I have heard my late father say this so many times....describing late summer/early autumn weather as we have experienced recently...Mild days (70s), cool evenings and mornings (low to mid 50s), very low humidity, fresh breezes. Great hiking/biking weather, and great weather to open the windows at night!

- A few of the Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica) and Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) leaves are already showing signs of crimson and burgundy coloration...a beautiful contrast to the typically yellow/gold fall foliage of the many species of Hickories (Carya) as well as the Tuliptrees (Liriodendron tulipifera) which are found in abundance within our mountain properties.

- Many of the Oaks (Quercus) are dropping their acorns currently. In many areas, the acorns of The White Oaks, Red Oaks, and Chestunut Oaks, in particular, litter the ground. It is a sure bet, however, they will not be on the ground long, for much of the local fauna has been waiting all summer to gorge themselves on these once arboreal delights. The acorns of the Chestnut Oak, the largest and most visibly appealing (thinking like an animal....) of the group, are the least desired. Attached is a photo of the acorns of the White Oak, arguably the favorite food of the Whitetail Deer. These acorns of Quercus alba are relatively sweet with a pleasant taste.

- Also attached is a photo of what appears to be a Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides). I found this 20' tree in a fence row, and at first, because the leaf stalk was flattened, thought it was another Bigtooth Aspen (P. grandidentata), but the rounded and smoothly contoured teeth, and general leaf configuration has now convinced me otherwise. Both species are uncommon on our part of the Cumberland Plateau.

- Two nights ago the moon was full over the mountains....in a clear, low humidity, no light pollution sky....Priceless!