Nina Manzi

Afton State Park Phenology, November 6 to November 19

Nature settles into winter ways.

Raccoons get ready for the long season of torpor.

Migration continues, mammals prepare for winter, and some insects are seeking places to hibernate.

Migrating birds are passing through while male deer develop antlers and a few amphibians can still be found.

Prairie birds prepare to bid farewell and squirrels are storing seeds and nuts.

Monarchs make first moves toward migration while late season blossoms bloom.

Life of all kinds emerges from winter’s grip.

Male red-winged blackbirds have returned and owls await hatchlings.

Hours of daylight have been gained since the winter solstice, and it shows.

The first migrating birds are finding their way back north while maple sap will soon start running.