Humans have recorded natural events since the beginning of time, from sunrise and sunset to the arrival of migratory birds and the ripening of various crops. Recording these natural events is known as phenology. Below is a list of the natural history events occurring in our area right now. You may use this as a guide to exploring Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and Neale Woods. Please note that the timing of events always depends upon weather and various environmental factors.

May

The month of May marks the arrival of the late-comers in the world of migrating. Our floral bouquet becomes a little more colorful with the addition of the blue Siberian squill, and Virginia bluebells, the mauve of the Dame’s rockets, and the delicate yellow of the downy violets. Look closely as you hike our trails to see the hidden green of the Jackin- the-pulpits! If we have a wet April and warm May nights….morels pop up overnight in mid-May. The noise level at the marsh continues to increase as more birds are setting up residence and singing. Baby turkeys can be seen trying to keep up with the hen as she runs back into the grasses to hide her little ones. Herons, ducks, thrushes, and the Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds are found along our trials at this time of year. The mammals are weaning their young by the end of the month. Monarch butterflies return and join the other butterflies at the end of May. Summer is on its way.

June

In June, the color of the month is a background of green covered in the colors of the rainbow as blue flags, white elderberry, yellow jewelweed, and mauve motherwort all show off their flowers. Above the blooms Red-spotted Purple butterflies, Great Spangled Fritillaries, Hackberry, Emperor, and the Monarch butterflies add to the beauty of our gardens and prairies. White-tailed bucks have almost full-sized antlers covered in velvet. Keep your eyes alert to maybe see a fawn or two. Lots of songbirds are hatching as well as the Screech Owls. Soon summer will be in full swing.

NatureSearch

To learn more about what you may see and hear, please explore NatureSearch, our online guide to all living things in Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods.