November 2022 • Nebraskaland 21
Artifacts
of Autumn
H
iking a prairie or wetland in November
can feel like visiting a museum dedicated
to the previous growing season. Relics
and reminders of that season are all around, some
well-preserved and others not-so-much. Most of
the vibrant autumn hues that are characteristic
of September and
October have dulled, but
there are still plenty of treasures to reward an
observant wanderer.
Bright colors are rare in November, but not
nonexistent. For example, rose hips, the tart
Story and photos by Chris Helzer
ABOVE: The fruits (hips) of wild rose provide flashes of bright color in
November prairie.
LEFT: This late blooming black-eyed Susan flower didn't quite finish
flowering before a hard freeze ended its season.
