Since my last visit to the crossing over Centennial Brook, there have been some dramatic changes. Last time I was there, a thin covering of snow blanketed the landscape. Now a thick layering of snow and ice have covered the entirety of the site. The Brook is partially frozen, however, it is still running at a faint pitter-patter. In the photo to the left, you can see the water still running under the snow and ice.
The sight was lacking in terms of tracks. This can be partially attributed to the fact that I went exploring after a recent rain, so in many cases, there was evidence of past tracks, that was indistinguishable from the recent rain and snow. I found evidence that some animal had come through, based on the presence of urine on the path. Due to the location of the urine on the walking path, it was hard to find evidence tracks.
Using a winter tree identification guide, I was able to make an educated assessment of the possible deciduous tree species at my sight. I was able to identify the following species, including but not limited to
– American Beech (Fagus grandifolia) p
– Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus)
– Honey Suckle (Lonicera)
– Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)
– Boxelder (Acer negundo)
– Striped Maple (Acer pensylvanicum) 
Of the following species that I was able to identify, I decided to draw the bud of a striped maple tree, as seen to the right. I was able to determine that it was a Striped Maple by using a Dichotomous twig key. I have listed and labeled in the diagram the key characteristics that indicated that it was a Sugar Maple. Some of those characteristics were the narrow tall and pointed end bud, there were three or fewer end buds, the bud had 2-4 valvate scars, the twig had opposite budding, the twig had over 5 bundle scars, and the twig maintained a straight shape. By using these key characteristics I was able to identify it as a Striped Maple.
Addy's Phenology Blog 