September 13, 2026: Beech Leaf Disease

Before we look at Beech Leaf Disease let's get an update on our loon chick, Pip.

Pip looks large when alone, but seen next to an adult, still has more growing to do.

Pip spends a lot of time alone these days, though at least one parent - probably the female - is still on the lake.  At this point, the tides have turned:  instead of Pip floating on the surface while mom fishes, it's now Pip that spends most of the time diving while mom soaks up the warm September rays.  I have to assume that Pip is successful with many dives, but still petitions mom for food when they're together.

I learned from the Loon Preservation Committee's most recent newsletter that juvenile loons are considered fledged when their primary (flight) feathers have grown to the point they can fly, which occurs at 11 to 13 weeks of age.  Thus our northern pair has now successfully fledged another loon, though I haven't observed Pip flying yet.

Pip will most likely remain on the lake into November or even December.

Now to beech leaf disease.  On a visit to the Hamlin-Eames-Smyth town forest last week, I came upon a large infestation of the nematode that causes beech leaf disease (BLD). 

Leaves affected by the BLD nematoad.

BLD is an invasive species believed to have its origin in Asia.  It was first detected in North America in Ohio in 2012 and made its way to New Hampshire by 2022.  It has now progressed as far north as Woodstock.  The nematodes enter leaf buds in the summer and fall, and the damage appears the following year when in the leaves exhibit dark bands between the veins.  It's most obvious when viewed from below with a bright sky above. 

Infested trees often die in 3-5 years, with larger trees surviving longer.  If New Hampshire loses its beech trees as currently expected, it will be a huge loss to the forest and the wildlife, especially having already lost the American Chestnut in the 1950s, which used to be the primary food source in eastern forests.  Today, beech is an important mast crop for many animals; it also provides excellent nest cavities in their sturdy trunks which can stand in the forest for years.  You can read more about BLD in this article by the UNH Extension Service.

Now let's move on to more pleasant sights seen this week, including fall wildflowers.

New England Asters

Asters, goldenrod, woodland sunflowers, and many other fall plants are important food for pollinators for their winter survival.

Woodland sunflower with a honeybee, which is not a native insect.

Nodding Ladies Tresses

Bumblebee on Goldenrod

And how about this great photo of a Gray Fox a friend and colleague from my working days at BAE Systems sent me:

He captured this photo with a trail camera, and it looks like a couple of this adult's offspring came back at night to romp around the area.

Thank you JH for sharing these!

I'll close with another video, this one of a bumblebee working the goldenrod.

The animals are starting to build up their reserves for the coming winter!