November 3

The early afternoon temperatures are in the mid 50’s under sunny skies and a stiff east breeze as I begin my hike east through the Runway Disc Golf course toward the Pine River. Walking down one of the fairways, I notice the leaf litter consists mostly of large heart-shaped leaves from a Catalpa tree. Looking up, I’m not surprised to see one of the trees displaying several of its foot-long seed pods dangling from its branches.  Up ahead, I come upon a loose flock of small birds, where I spot one of them perching- a Yellow-rumped Warbler displaying its muted fall plumage. These birds are often the first warblers to arrive in Michigan and one of the last to leave in the fall. Their name refers to a bright yellow rump patch that also refers to their nickname, "butterbutt" (stock photo). Nearby, I stoop, pick a Motherwort leaf and take in a pleasing aroma, though not particularly minty. While most sources suggest an unpleasant scent, a few descriptions do note a "peculiar, aromatic or pleasant fragrance”. Finally, I reach an extensive backwater section of the Pine River. While these wetlands are not part of the main river channel, they are an essential part of the riparian ecosystem. Hiking along the bank, I pause to watch the afternoon sunshine reflect off the water surface. Looking around, the bright red fruit of a Japanese Barberry shrub catch my eye. This plant, native to Japan was introduced to the United States in the late 1800s as an ornamental plant. The berries are edible but extremely tart and bitter. They are more palatable when cooked and used as a flavoring for jams, jellies and teas. Working my way back toward the car, I spot an unusual situation where a Prickly Wild rose shrub with its large red hips (on the left) is growing next to a Multiflora rose shrub with its small red hips (on the right). One difference is that the Prickly rose is native while the Multiflora rose is an invasive non-native.  Both types of hips are edible and rich in vitamin C, though they contain small, hairy seeds that can cause digestive irritation. Along the way, I spot a Pear-leaved Crab Apple tree loaded with fruit. This tree is native to East Asia and northern China. While the apples are edible for humans, they are too tart to eat raw, making them best for use in jams, jellies or cider.  They are also a valuable food source for deer and small mammals, especially in late fall and winter when other food is scarce. Near the car, I pause to watch a tiny Sweat Bee feeding on a Bull Thistle blossom, realizing this maybe my final time witnessing such an event this season as both blossoms and adult insects will soon die off.

Gone from the fields

Luster of gold

Warmth of summer

Turning cold

Gone are redwings

That ruled the marsh

Winds of November

Blow stiff and harsh

Gone is the green

Of leaves and vines

Nature in autumn

Seasonal signs

 

D. DeGraaf