In October, nature begins to show noticeable changes, making it an ideal time to observe wildlife in and around homes. One of the most visible signs is the migration of wood pigeons, which can be seen in large flocks flying southwest toward Spain, particularly in the early morning. Ornithologists suggest visiting birdwatching trails or simply observing from one's home, as the best time to see this movement is just after sunrise.
Another interesting natural phenomenon in autumn involves the acorn weevil, a small beetle known for its distinctive oversized nose. This insect lays one egg in each acorn, repeating this process about thirty times. In the fall, the hidden larva inside the acorn bores through the shell, creating a small hole before burrowing underground to become a nymph. This nymph will remain underground until spring, when it emerges as an adult beetle.
The autumn season also brings the appearance of the delicious milk cap mushroom, which tends to grow at the base of conifer trees after rain and sun exposure. This mushroom has a distinctive orange liquid that turns green when exposed to air. While it is edible, consuming it may cause a temporary change in the color of urine, turning it reddish orange the following day.
During walks or bike rides, one might also encounter the bramble moth caterpillar, a large and hairy creature that seeks shelter for the winter. These caterpillars are found from coastal areas up to altitudes of 1500 meters and are known to curl up when approached. Meanwhile, the rose gall, which forms during the summer, begins to wither as wild roses lose their leaves. These galls, which can be as small as a grape or as large as an apple, provide shelter for up to 50 rose gall wasp larvae. These larvae will spend the winter in individual chambers before emerging in the spring as small black wasps.
The Little Salamander magazine, created in 1983 by a young naturalist, has spent 40 years connecting humans and non-humans, science and art, and nature lovers and laypeople. The magazine offers content tailored to different age groups, including Little Salamander for children aged 4-7 and Salamander Magazine Junior for those aged 8-12.
Autumn Wildlife Observations and Nature Activities in October
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
natureautumnwildlifemigrationinsectsmagazine



