The forest edge is where field and forest meet. Plants and animals from both habitats overlap and interact here, making it a center of activity. Many field inhabitants nest in the protective tangle of plants along the forest edge.
There are also “edge specialists”, animals that prefer edge habitat over either field or forest because the diverse vegetation allows them to meet very different needs. One example is the indigo bunting; the iridescent blue male sings from high, open tree tops hoping to attract a mate, whereas the female builds her nest low in dense thickets.
As you walk along to the next station, take note of the small grove of trees on your left. They are persimmons (Diospyros virginiana), whose fall fruit is a delicacy for fox, opossum, raccoons, birds, and people. Persimmon wood is used for golf club heads.
View a map of the Nature Walk