September is a month of an equinox and of noticeable migrations. There is much to observe this month. Be sure to download the Nature Observation Chart.
In Britain, now is when one can see that:
- Many mammals are preparing to hibernate: the Dormouse, Hedgehogs, Squirrels and the Water Vole,
- Many birds are leaving: the Blackcap, the Garden Warbler, Sand Martins, Swallows and more, and a few birds will arrive, such as Siskins,
- It is also a time to listen, for the Robin will begin to sing again, the Tawny Owl will hoot, and the Stone Curlew will clamour
(You can find these birds on the RSPB website and hear the calls and songs of man of them. Listening to this first will help children know what to expect as they listen outdoors. )
- Rose hips (above) and holly berries ripen,
- Garden Spiders are everywhere!
In the Atlantic Rainforest, it is spring. The fog finally burns away and:
- The beautiful yellow ipê tree (above) blooms and is known in folklore as the sign in nature that means the cold weather is over for another year,
- The Rufus-bellied Thrush returns from its winter in the Amazon region to the north and starts to sing,
- The fork-tailed fly-catcher arrives to catch mosquitos throughout the summer,
- The beautiful bright orange butterfly called the Flame (below) appears.
The drawings above come from the pages for the month of September in:
The Big Field : a Child's Year Under the Southern Cross.
©2010 Anne Morddel
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