It’s December and leaves are falling and changing colors! Curious how this happens? It’s the time of the year when days become shorter and deciduous trees drop their leaves. Before leaves are shed, they often provide a show of color—sometimes gold, yellow, ochre, and red! Color changes occur because leaves have pigments that absorb light in a process called photosynthesis. Shorter days mean less sunlight and the chlorophyll begins to break down. Once this happens, other pigments, like reds, oranges, and yellows that were hidden by the chlorophyll, become visible. However, it’s important to remember that leaves changing color is unpredictable and weather dependent.
Visit one of the Natural Areas and look for the color RED.
How many types of leaves, seeds, flowers, and animals can you find?
Check off your discoveries below, on your phone or tablet, or download a printer-friendly version HERE.
