A gloomy day for a solemn occasion. Today, I spent some time at Pioneer to conduct my final phenology session. I’ve really grown fond of my little spot: the ever-changing fungi, the magical ledge of over-hanging tree roots, the little tree learning the methods of its elders. Nature planned some pleasant wonders for me, which I will take as a heart-felt good-bye!
There were growths of fungus on both stumps, specimens I had never seen before. The common “burnt-orange bubble” fungus also had new developments. On the first stump, there were mushrooms that I have officially named “cream and dark brown umbrellas.” They resemble more your “typical” mushroom. The south side of the second stump had the other new variety: something I call “very dark orange umbrellas.”
I saw a lonely male mallard attempt to interact with a happy duck couple, but they left him in the dust. I wish we could have seen baby ducklings during our phenology experiences!
Phenology has helped me create a personal experience with the natural world, even if that natural world is simply a city park. We too often forget to enjoy the simple beauty of the world around us. Thanks, phenology, for rekindling my appreciation for all things wonderfully ordinary, from mushrooms to a tree’s first buds of spring!
The tree in my site.
The lonely male mallard, attempting and failing relationships with others.
"Very dark orange umbrella" fungus
A particular very dark orange umbrella that was flattened out.
"cream and dark brown umbrella" fungus
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