From autumn into winter on the Melrose paths

As we step into the cooler months, the Scottish Borders transitions from autumn into winter. This year many of us have noticed something special. The leaves on the trees seem to be lingering a bit longer, holding onto their vibrant colours as the days grow shorter. In this blog, we’ll explore the beauty of the seasonal shift, the behaviour of some of our feathered friends and the joys that nature brings as we march into winter.

The changes of the leaves through the seasons

Traditionally, autumn is a time when the vivid greens of summer give away to an array of warm hues, from bright gold to deep browns. This transformation occurs primarily because chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the green colour of leaves, is broken down as the tree is prepared for the winter months. The by-products are stored away in the roots and bark, the true colours of the leaves emerging, creating a wonderful display that paints our surroundings.

This year’s extended leaf season is attributed to a mild autumn. The drop of leaves, or abscission, can depend on various factors such as temperature, rainfall, light reduction, and even wind. It brings on its own uniqueness and this year’s lingering foliage brings a special charm to a customary seasonal scenery.

Our migratory friends. A journey south …

As we admire the colourful leaves, we also noticed the absence of some of our favourite feathered friends. The Swallows and Sand Martins have completed the migration south and left the Melrose paths for warmer climates – to sub Saharan Africa. The journey takes them across the UK, France, Spain, and over the vast Saharan desert – all the way to the wintering grounds in South Africa, where an abundance of invertebrate food awaits them.

However, not all birds have departed for the winter. In the coming weeks, you can expect to welcome back new arrivals in the winter visitors from Scandinavia, Iceland and Russia. Fieldfare and Redwings are among them. These Arctic thrushes, known for their striking plumage and harsh calls, will flock onto the very late berries of our region.

A very bountiful, berry autumn

This year nature has rewarded us with an incredible harvest of berries. The Rowan, Blackthorn (sloes), Elderberry, and Hawthorn are all brimming with sugar-rich fruits eagerly awaiting the arrival of our winter visitors. The sight of these berries adds a splash of colour to the dull days.

The berries play a crucial role in supporting wildlife during the colder winter months. These vibrant foods provide essential nutrition for birds and other animals, ensuring they have the energy to thrive as the temperature drops. What better way to appreciate the bounty and take a stroll along the Melrose paths, taking in the sites and sounds of nature preparing for winter?

Signs of spring? Not quite yet!

Interestingly, while winter creeps up on us, there are signs of a hint of the revival of spring. Among them are the Dippers, our only aquatic song birds. These adorable little creatures’ song resembles the high-pitched tune of the Blackbird, and they are already busy holding their territories along the river near Melrose, with a nesting season approaching even as early as February. They can be seen protecting their chosen spot even in the colder months.

Dippers are fascinating to observe as they in ‘dip’ in and out of the fast flowing water diving for Caddis fly larvae and another aquatic invertebrates. Their behaviour is a reminder that even in winter days, life continues to thrive, although harshly, waiting for the warmer days ahead.

A glimpse of hope. The Skylark song

Just last week on a crisp, sunny day, we heard the joyful song of a Skylark in one of the arable fields nearby. Its melodious notes filled the air, taking the chill of the day and offering a glimmer of hope of the season to come. Well, it may not be a full fledged lark ascending, but this song marked the beginning of new life through the autumn winds and winter months. These little moments in time are what make even the deepest winter days feel vibrant. Nature is bursting with surprises waiting to reveal them to those who take time to listen and observe.

Embracing the outdoors whether it’s as a local on Melrose Paths, or simply gazing out of your window, there’s always something to appreciate in nature during this seasonal transition, especially on those dreich days. The colours of autumn, sightings and the sounds of the resident and migrating birds, and the abundance of berry bushes remind us that every season has its unique beauty. So grab your jacket, venture outside, and embrace everything this time of year has to offer. Who knows what marvels you may encounter? Nature is an ever evolving canvas whose stories unfold daily and are just waiting to be explored.