When we think of autumn, the first image that comes to mind is colorful leaves falling from the trees. Leaves, however, arenāt the only thing falling in the fall. This is the season of the nut as well, and many species of wildlife rely on nuts for survival.
Nuts are produced exclusively by deciduousĀ trees and shrubs. Ā Peanuts are not true nuts, they are legumes that grow underground, and pine nuts are technically edible seeds. The botanicalĀ term for nuts is āhard mast,ā as opposed to āsoft mastā likeĀ berries and other fruit. Ā Just like soft mast, nuts are formed when the blooms of trees and shrubs are fertilized by wind or by pollinating animals.
NutsĀ are high in carbohydrates, protein and fat, and also contain the seed of the plant. The carbs, protein and fat lure hungry wildlife in fall looking to fatten up for migration, for hibernation, or to build up a reserve for the oncoming winter. Animals consume the nut and then plant the seed in their droppings or by caching nuts and forgetting about them, allowing the seeds to germinate and form new plants.