Fall is right around the corner, and New Jersey is the best place to be. The state is a beautiful example of east coast fall because of its diverse trees, migrating birds, and perfect temperatures.
There’s no better way to spend a breezy fall afternoon than walking through one of NJs picturesque hiking trails. (link recent article)
One way to make your hike more memorable and immersive is to learn about the local flora and fauna you might come across. Here’s a simple yet comprehensive guide to some plants and animals you might see while walking through NJ this fall.
New Jersey Trees are Changing Colors and Losing Leaves
Keep an eye out for oak and maple leaves; two of New Jersey’s most common trees. The Essex County Lenape trail is covered with fallen leaves from these trees.
Two oak trees in New Jersey are the red and white oak. Both are similar in structure but are easy to tell apart. Red oak leaves tend to have pointy lobes while white oaks have rounded ones. The lobes are the finger-like parts of the leaf.
Both are native to New Jersey, and the red oak is our state tree.
The most common native maple you’ll see on a walk in New Jersey is the red maple. You’ll find this small, three-lobed leaf covering dirt trails and park paths. Like its name, the red maple takes on a vibrant red hue.
Once you can identify these three trees, you’ll realize how many you have just in your neighborhood.
Look Out For These New Jersey Birds
Fall is peak migration time, and NJ is a stop for many birds.
Hawks are an easy bird to spot when you’re hiking because of their large frame and distinct flying habits.
New Jersey sees a wide variety of hawk species in the fall, and resources like the Mills Reservation Hawkwatch can give you detailed numbers on who is migrating through. Visiting a local hawkwatch always ensures a great view of migrating birds.
Generally, you can look for a rounded wingspan with a short and wide tail. Hawks are soaring birds, meaning they fly long stretches without flapping their wings.
On a smaller note, all New Jersey residents know are blue jays and cardinals. These native birds are resilient to cold temperatures and hang around New Jersey for the winter season. They can easily be spotted due to their vibrant colors.
These New Jersey Animals are Prepping for Winter
These two animals might not be new to you, but it’s nice to know their names.
White-tailed deer frequent New Jersey and are easy to identify when they’re nibbling on your flowerbeds.
As their natural foods diminish in the colder temperatures, you’re more likely to find deer eating the last scraps of your summer garden.
Eastern chipmunks don’t fully hibernate like other animals but hunker down by the end of October. For the rest of September, you might see chipmunks scurrying around to finish storing their cache of food that will last them most of the winter.
Even though it’s getting cooler, fall is a perfect time in New Jersey to be outside. This small guide will remind you that nature doesn’t stop just when summer ends. Take advantage of New Jersey’s many trails and parks and get outside.
Check out our other Fall guides:
10 Scenic Fall Drives in NJ
Where to Go Apple Picking in New Jersey
New Jersey’s Fall Hiking Trails
About the Author/s
Julia DiGeronimo is a freelancer from North Jersey. She loves writing, especially about her favorite things. She writes about her travels and the books she’s reading on her blog.
