Learn To Identify Deciduous Trees In The Winter

Tree identification always requires a little detective work. In the winter months, identifying trees takes a bit more scrutinizing. Since there are no leaves – on the deciduous trees, that is - it’s best to study the twigs, buds and bark. Things to look for include twig markings, bud characteristics, branches, and bark.
Twig markings, such as the bundle and leaf scars, offers information as to how leaves are arranged when present. They can also tell you where the buds grow. The shape, size, color and texture of the buds are never the same in species. The number and arrangement of the buds on the twigs are also important. Be sure to look to the branches. All trees have either opposite or alternate branching. Alternate branching means that the twigs and buds grow off a main branch one at a time. Opposite branching is when twigs and buds grow off a main branch in pairs. Those who are more experienced when it comes to identifying trees may find the answers in the bark. Learning the feel of the bark with your hands will help you remember the bark more quickly than remembering its visual pattern. Now head out to the woods to test your winter tree ID.

Tom Howick, Education Director

Test your winter tree ID skills at the Chattahoochee Nature Center during winter break at Winter Woods and Toasty Theatre Time
January 2-5
Toasty Theatre Time: Jan. 2-5 at 3 pm - Warm up and come indoors for a family friendly film in the Cowie Weiss Theatre. Films range 20 - 60mins, a new film each day! Before or after the film check out the other activities available indoor and outdoor at the nature center to explore the winter woods while the kids are out of school.
Enchanted Woodland Trail - Back by popular demand, fairies and gnomes have been busy building whimsical houses along Kingfisher Pond Trail. Slow down as you search for the houses made from tiny natural objects. Bundle up and head out to the trail with us this winter. (daily through the end of February)
Wildlife Feeding Time - Tuesday, Jan. 2 at 4 pm
Creature Feature - Thursday, Jan. 4 and Friday, Jan. 5 at 2 pm
Outdoor Scavenger Hunt - Get outside and search high and low for enchanted clues all about our winter woods. Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet from Nature Exchange before you head outside. The more clues you find, the more Nature Exchange points you can earn. (daily through the end of February)
Indoor Scavenger Hunt - Come inside to warm up in the Watershed Gallery and check out the Nature Exchange indoor scavenger hunt and learn about plants and animals that thrive during the cooler months. (daily through the end of January)

Included with General admission: $6 for Child/$10 Adult/$7 Seniors 65+/$7 Students 13-18/Free CNC Members & Kids 2 and under. Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, GA - 770-992-2055 - www.chattnaturecenter.org