Wildlife Signs of Autumn - September

As September arrives, so too does the beginning of autumn. Wildlife is preparing for the upcoming season, and there are many signs to look out for. From migratory birds to hibernating mammals, the changing season brings about changes in the wildlife around us. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the wildlife signs of autumn that you can observe in September.

Migratory Birds
September brings with it the beginning of autumn, and along with the changing leaves and cooler temperatures, it also signals the arrival of migratory birds. As the days grow shorter and the nights become cooler, many species of birds start their long journeys to warmer climates. This is a fascinating time for bird enthusiasts and birdwatchers, as they can observe the annual migration of various species.

In the UK, September is an exciting month for birdwatchers, as they can witness the departure of summer visitors and the arrival of winter migrants. It's a time when gardens and nature reserves come alive with the sights and sounds of different bird species. From colorful warblers to majestic birds of prey, the skies are filled with their graceful flights.

Birdwatchers often gather in key locations, armed with binoculars and guidebooks, to catch a glimpse of these remarkable creatures. Whether it's at a local park or a dedicated bird reserve, these birdwatching enthusiasts patiently wait to spot rare and elusive species.

Migratory birds not only add diversity to our avian population, but they also play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They help control insect populations, aid in pollination, and even disperse seeds. So, while birdwatching may seem like a recreational activity, it also contributes to the conservation and understanding of these incredible creatures. 

As September progresses, keep an eye out for the telltale signs of migrating birds. Look for flocks of birds flying in formation, listen for their distinctive calls, and keep your feeders stocked to attract garden birds. Migratory birds are a testament to the wonder and beauty of nature, and observing their journey can be a truly awe-inspiring experience. So, grab your binoculars and venture out into the great outdoors to witness the marvels of bird migration in September.

Deer Rutting Season
The arrival of autumn not only brings a change in the weather and the landscape, but it also marks the beginning of the deer rutting season. This is a time when deer, particularly the majestic red deer, engage in intense competition for mates. The woods and open fields come alive with the echoes of loud roars and clashes of antlers as male deer, known as stags, fight for dominance and the right to mate with the females, or hinds.

The deer rutting season is a truly captivating spectacle, attracting nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers from far and wide. It offers a rare opportunity to witness the power and intensity of these incredible creatures. From September to October, the stags' antlers are at their prime, with fully developed branches and a magnificent display of dominance. As they bellow and roar, their calls can be heard echoing across the countryside, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing atmosphere.

For those interested in wildlife photography, the deer rutting season presents a unique challenge. Capturing the energy and drama of the encounters between stags requires patience, skill, and a keen eye for composition. Photographers often venture out early in the morning or late in the evening, when the lighting is soft and adds an ethereal quality to their shots.

Birdwatchers and other nature enthusiasts can also find joy in the deer rutting season. While their focus may be on wild birds or other animals, the presence of deer and the spectacle of their courtship displays add an exciting element to their outings. They can observe the stags' behavior, learn about their mating strategies, and witness the formation of harems as dominant stags gather groups of females.

Changing Leaves and Migration
The arrival of autumn brings a dramatic transformation to our surroundings, as the vibrant green leaves of summer gradually give way to a stunning display of colors. As September unfolds, the trees become adorned with hues of gold, orange, and red, creating a picturesque backdrop for the changing season. This breathtaking spectacle of nature not only captivates our senses but also plays a crucial role in the migration patterns of various wildlife species.

Birdwatchers are in for a treat during this time, as they witness the synchronized dance of birds through the autumn skies. The changing leaves serve as a compass for migratory birds, guiding them on their long and arduous journeys. These intrepid travelers rely on the abundance of insects and seeds found in autumnal forests to fuel their flights and prepare for the challenges of winter. From small songbirds to majestic raptors, the air becomes alive with the sights and sounds of their migration.

But it's not just birds that are on the move during this season. Bats, too, take to the skies, embarking on their own migrations to find suitable hibernation sites. They play an essential role in controlling insect populations, ensuring a balanced ecosystem. While often unseen and underappreciated, bats are remarkable creatures worthy of our attention and protection.

While you enjoy the changing leaves and marvel at the avian travelers overhead, keep an eye out for signs of other migratory wildlife. Look for badgers scurrying about, busily collecting food to prepare for their winter slumber. And as dusk falls, listen for the rustling of leaves and the fluttering of wings as bats venture out in search of food.

Increasing Squirrel Activity

As the crisp autumn air settles in, another sign of the changing season becomes apparent: the increasing activity of squirrels. These lively and agile creatures are preparing for the colder months ahead, and their actions provide a fascinating glimpse into their behavior and survival strategies.

In September, squirrels become more active as they gather and store food for the winter. They scurry about, frantically collecting acorns, nuts, and seeds to stash away in their secret hoards. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them busily burying their treasures in the ground, a behavior known as caching. This activity is crucial for their survival, as they rely on their hidden reserves to sustain them during the lean winter months when food is scarce.
While their foraging habits are impressive, squirrels also bring a lively and entertaining element to our outdoor spaces. Their acrobatic leaps from tree to tree and playful chases are a delight to witness, and they can provide hours of entertainment for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

For those interested in bird watching, squirrels can be both a friend and a foe. They often visit bird feeders in search of a quick snack, sometimes even hanging upside down to steal a bite from the seed tray. While this behavior may be frustrating for bird enthusiasts, it adds a dynamic and humorous aspect to the bird feeding experience.

Preparing for Hibernation
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, another fascinating wildlife sign of autumn begins to unfold – animals preparing for hibernation. From hedgehogs to bears, many creatures have developed the incredible ability to survive the cold winter months by entering a state of deep sleep.

Hibernation is not just a prolonged nap; it is a carefully orchestrated survival strategy. During this time, animals slow down their metabolism, conserve energy, and rely on fat stores they have accumulated throughout the year. It is a remarkable adaptation that allows them to survive when food is scarce and temperatures are harsh.

Some of the most well-known hibernators are bears. As autumn sets in, bears start to consume vast amounts of food to put on weight for the long winter ahead. They then seek out a safe den, usually a cave or a hollow tree, where they will spend the entire winter in a state of hibernation. During this time, their heart rate slows down, and their body temperature drops, allowing them to conserve energy and survive until spring.

Other animals, like hedgehogs, also prepare for hibernation by increasing their food intake and building up fat reserves. They then find a cozy spot, such as a pile of leaves or a hidden burrow, and curl up into a tight ball. In this state, their heart rate and breathing slow down dramatically, and their body temperature drops significantly. They remain in this deep sleep until the warmer temperatures of spring awaken them once again.

Observing the preparations for hibernation can be a rewarding experience. Keep an eye out for signs such as animals feeding more frequently or appearing noticeably plumper. You might also come across cozy dens or nests they have created in preparation for their winter slumber. Witnessing these animals' remarkable ability to adapt and survive in harsh conditions is a true testament to the wonders of nature.