Last vestiges of autumn
Autumn has made its last turn on the road to winter. Sunshine is dwindling, the days are getting shorter, the weather is becoming increasingly cloudy, windy and rainy, and temperatures are dropping.
The forest changes. Deciduous trees become bare and prepare to go dormant. The leaves of deciduous trees, swaying in the wind, now litter the ground, creating a mosaic of colors and textures.
This thick carpet plays a vital role in the forest ecosystem. The slow decomposition of leaves feeds the soil with organic matter known as humus, releasing essential mineral elements that the tree roots need for nourishment.
This plant litter is also a valuable habitat for animals and insects. It acts as insulation, providing food for small animals and protection from the harsh climate.
Nature does its job well in every season. Let's protect it!