Only a few rusty oak and beech leaves still cling to the deciduous branches. The forested sides of the valley appear open and grey from the absence of leaves. The white pines are fully revealed. Tree sparrows have returned to our feeders. They will remain here for the winter.
Apples still remain on the old, leafless apple trees around our house.
They hang bright red among the grey branches. Mild weather continues. Chipmunks which usually are hibernating by this time of year, are still active. Honeybees visit our corn feeders, mistaking the corn powder for pollen. The earth is very dry after the long summer, and if the present dry, mild conditions continue, then next summer could bring a severe drought.