"Season of mist and mellow fruitfulness,
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun;
Conspiring with him how to load and bless
With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run."
"To Autumn", John Keats
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| Some Nordic Walking "Strollers" enjoying the autumn sunshine in Bushy Park |
These 2 photos, taken in Lime Walk in Bushy Park, show how quickly Autumn can turn. The above photo was taken October 30th. The one below on November 9th.
Within 2 weeks, every leaf had fallen from the lime trees. Around the park, the mushrooms had disappeared, the chestnuts have been gathered and the deer rut had finished......
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| Nordic Walkers heading towards Diana Fountain, Bushy Park |
As the rut finishes, so things settle down in the deer world, or so the deer would hope......
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| Fallow deer grazing in November sunshine, Bushy Park |
The stags who were not successful in the rut face an uncertain future. Without predators, there is the risk of over-population in a confined space. Food might become scarce, or older animals might be injured and endure prolonged pain. Either way, it's a man-made situation brought about by enclosing the park, centuries ago.
The solution to these problems is also man-made - a cull. During November, marksmen will select deer that are to be removed from the herd. This will help ensure only healthy animals breed in the future, and that there is not too much pressure on grazing within the park confines.
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| Well-camouflaged stag in the bracken, Bushy Park |
However, it has been mooted that wild wolves be reintroduced to parts of Scotland. It's doubtful whether these beautiful animals will ever be seen again running across the heather, but what a sight that would be....
http://www.wolvesandhumans.org/wolves/wolf_reintroduction_to_scotland.htm
If you wish to enjoy local parks and countryside AND gain the benefits of Nordic Walking, please contact me. I organise sociable groups of walkers several times a week. Please call for details,
Peter
07703-404-931
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