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Sep 23

5 Natural Wonders Of The US To Experience In Early Autumn – Forbes

Humans aren't the only species that are preparing for the cold weather - as temperatures begin to ... [+] drop, West Indian manatees make the journey inland to Florida's warm natural springs.

Editors Note: *Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak, the potential complications that may arise from recreational travel should not be taken lightly - it is recommended to thoroughly inspectCDC guidelinesbefore making any travel plans.*

Marked by crisp air and the return of the pumpkin spice latte, the weeks of early autumn are celebrated worldwide as endless opportunities for leaf peeping arise - but theres far more to the season than simply colorful foliage. All throughout the natural world, flora and fauna take notice of the changing temperature, embarking on mass migrations and vibrant blooms that are truly spectacular to behold. For an opportunity to spot creatures from all walks of life, ranging from tiny wildflowers to the largest mammals on earth, take a look at the activities listed below.

The American Oystercatcher is just one of many shorebirds to be encountered on the coast of Cape ... [+] May.

While the historic seaside city of Cape May draws tens of thousands of beachgoers during the summer months, birdwatching fosters a surge in tourism as the weather begins to cool. All throughout October, visitors to the southernmost point of New Jersey can witness hundreds of migratory avian species, ranging from colorful songbirds to sleek raptors. Home to lush wetlands and rolling sand dunes, the pristine South Cape May Meadows are a great destination to view a diverse array of hawk species, while nearby Stone Harbor Point is rife with wading shorebirds, brown pelicans, and the occasional peregrine falcon.

During rutting season, bull elk often engage in physical combat, rushing towards each other and ... [+] slamming their antlers together until one concedes.

While cold weather and crimson foliage are two hallmarks of early autumn, those who live around the Rockies may be familiar with a third - the haunting bugle of a bull elk, ringing out for miles during peak rutting season. This natural phenomenon is marked by a major hormonal change in male elks, with increased testosterone flooding their veins as they battle one another for a chance to mate with the areas most eligible bachelorettes. Theres a wide array of destinations across the Rockies to witness the rut, including Rocky Mountain National Park or the iconic Yellowstone, but wherever you go, just be sure to keep a safe distance - a 700-pound bull elk on a testosterone bender is nothing to mess around with.

While these colorful flowers are often referred to as daisies, this species (Helianthus porteri) is ... [+] actually a relative of the sunflower.

Located just half an hour east of downtown Atlanta, the 40,000-acre Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area has undergone a drastic transformation, with huge swathes of daisies painting the typically-barren granite landscape with a brilliant yellow hue. This year, the preserve is celebrating Septembers Daisy Days with an exciting competition perfectly suited for outdoor adventurers: the Triple Hike Challenge. All throughout the month, visitors are encouraged to scale Stone Mountain, Panola Mountain, and Arabia Mountain, snapping a photo of each one as they reach the summit. Those who complete their mission will receive a special prize to be revealed later, but dont hesitate - this contest ends on the last day of the month.

Massachusetts is a particularly popular destination for whalewatching - this hungry humpback was ... [+] spotted off the coast of Provincetown, a community on the tip of Cape Cod.

A region that was once heavily involved in the whaling industry, New Englands seaside towns and cities have set aside the harpoons in favor of cameras and microphones, offering spectacular excursions to spot some of the oceans most gentle creatures. While peak whale watching season runs from April to October, an autumn visit allows visitors to kill two birds with one stone, immersing themselves in vibrant fall foliage alongside humpbacks, finbacks, minke whales, and right whales. Serious nature enthusiasts should consider a trip to coastal Maine, spending a day on the sea with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co followed by a day of exploring iconic Acadia National Park, one of New Englands most esteemed destinations for leaf peeping.

While one may assume that manatees are related to seals or whales, the closest living relative of ... [+] these gentle creatures is the elephant.

After months spent roaming the coast, the cooling temperatures of early autumn begin to drive manatees back to the rivers of Florida, packing the state with huge populations of these iconic mammals. Manatee viewing season peaks in the dead of winter, but those who get an early start in autumn can spot some of the years early movers without the hassle of huge crowds, providing an intimate viewing experience thats tough to recreate once the season really kicks in. Your best bet for spotting manatees in the early season is Crystal River - this area is rife with natural springs that create a safe haven for the gentle beasts, with year-round populations calling the waterways home.

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5 Natural Wonders Of The US To Experience In Early Autumn - Forbes

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