We have a profusion of wild Winterberry fruit this year, which means a tough winter is coming, according to some folklore.
These little red berries are a major ingredient in nature’s winter survival kit for 49 species of birds, deer, raccoons, and white mice. The birds and other animals tend to visit this deciduous holly bush later in the winter because its berries contain less fat than other winter berries.
This is a good deal for us: We get more time to enjoy the Winterberry bush’s contrasting red sprays among gray branches and above snowy landscapes. (Brooklin, Maine)