Welcome to September, where the air smells like freshly sharpened pencils, lunchboxes are back in action, and the woods have started whispering, “sweater weather is coming…”
At Sheldrake Environmental Center, we think of September as nature’s soft launch into fall. The sun still warms our trails, the bugs have calmed down (slightly), and the trees? They’re just beginning to question their summer choices.
Whether you’re a parent dancing your way out of morning drop-off, a curious kid with an acorn obsession, or a local with a love for squirrels and science—September at Sheldrake has something for you.
Leaf It to Nature
While the full fall color show hasn’t arrived just yet, behind the scenes, the trees are getting ready. Right now, they’re cutting off their chlorophyll supply—nature’s version of saying, “Pool’s closed. Time to shut it down.”
That’s when the hidden pigments—golds, oranges, and reds—start to emerge from their summer slumber and show off like they’ve been waiting all year (because they have).
Fun Fact: Those fiery red pigments? They’re called anthocyanins. Scientists think they help protect leaves from sun damage…or maybe they’re just trees being extra. We support both theories.
Squirrel Drama
In case you haven’t noticed, squirrels are unhinged right now—leaping through branches, stuffing their cheeks like it’s a competitive sport, and zigzagging across trails like they forgot something important (they did).
This is acorn-hoarding season, also known as “prepare for winter and misplace half your stash” time.
Thanks to Jonathan Thaler for kindly granting Sheldrake permission to use this image of a scurrying squirrel spotted at Sheldrake
Goldenrod vs. Ragweed: A Cautionary Tale
Our Meadow is glowing with goldenrod this month—tall, yellow, and unfairly accused of making everyone sneeze. But let’s clear the air (literally):
- Goldenrod = totally innocent
- Ragweed = the real allergen villain
Goldenrod’s pollen is heavy and sticky (like your favorite glue stick). Ragweed’s is light and sneaky, hitching rides on the wind like it’s headed for allergy stardom.
So next time your nose twitches, thank goldenrod for being pretty—and give ragweed the side-eye it deserves.
The Sheldrake meadow is resplendent with pollinator-attracting goldenrod this time of year.
September To-Do List at Sheldrake
✔️ Take a fall nature walk – Leaves are turning, critters are prepping, and surprises await around every bend.
✔️ Sign up for Little Sprouts or After-School Programs – Fresh air, muddy shoes, and big discoveries guaranteed.
✔️ Grab your binoculars – Fall migration is here! Monarchs, hawks, and warblers are all en route.
✔️ Tune into nighttime concerts – Crickets are chirping louder than a PTA group chat the week after Labor Day.
Come Explore September Magic
So lace up your sneakers, grab your reusable water bottle, and come visit Sheldrake this September. Whether you’re here for leaf peeping, squirrel spying, or just a peaceful stroll—we promise, there’s wonder waiting. Just maybe leave a snack for the squirrels (kidding…kind of).
See you under the changing leaves,
Jennifer Keefe
Executive Director, Sheldrake Environmental Center