Autumn at Kennisis Lake

Kennisis Lake, Autumn

During the autumn season, the lake transforms into a breathtaking display of vibrant colors and scenic landscapes. This season brings about transformation as the leaves on the trees change color, creating a stunning sea of reds, oranges, yellows, and browns. The deciduous trees surrounding Kennisis Lake, such as maple, oak, birch, and poplar, contribute to the vibrant foliage.

During autumn, the Earth's axial tilt causes the Northern Hemisphere, including Ontario, to gradually tilt away from the sun. As a result, the amount of daylight decreases, and nights become longer. This phenomenon is known as the autumnal equinox, which usually occurs around September 21st in the Northern Hemisphere. This change in daylight hours triggers various biological and behavioral adaptations in plants and animals.

Trees begin to reabsorb nutrients from their leaves, leading to the color change and eventual leaf drop. This process allows them to enter a dormant state during the colder months. Bird species begin their migration from Ontario to warmer regions. Loons go to the Gulf of Mexico or Florida coasts, Autumn is the mating season for many species, including deer. Bucks engage in behaviors like marking territories and engaging in competitive ruts. Bears enter a period of hyperphagia, consuming large amounts of food to build up fat reserves for hibernation. If they do not get enough to eat in the fall, mothers will be unable to produce cubs.