With fall on the horizon, you may be wondering what makes Vermont such a magical vacation destination this time of year. For Activities Guide, Jake Page, who has spent five years at Twin Farms, his favorite part includes the wildlife that thrive here.

Whether you’re leaf peeping during Vermont’s peak fall foliage or adventuring on a mountain bike, the trails offer plenty to explore with over 300 acres. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the following species:

1. Barred Owl: Known for their distinctive call that sounds like “Who cooks for you,” Barred Owls often hoot high in a hollowed tree. If you’re lucky, you may spot one peering down.

2. Beaver: The Beaver is North America’s largest rodent and is responsible for keeping our ecosystem healthy by creating wetland habitat for other species, increasing biodiversity, improving water quality and retaining water in the landscape. Spot these critters and their work around Copper Pond.

3. Monarch Butterfly: Passing through the Green Mountain State during late summer, Monarchs undertake a remarkable 3,000-mile multi-generational migration.

4. Painted Turtle: Colorful and vibrant as their name suggests, Painted Turtles can often be found basking on logs or rocks, the sunniest of spots around property.

5. Eastern Newt: This amphibian lives three lives. They start as aquatic larvae, then transform into reddish-orange terrestrial juveniles and finally return to the pond as an aquatic adult.

6. Fisher Cat: Despite their name, Fisher Cats don't usually eat fish and they're not cats at all. They’re actually the largest member of the weasel family in Vermont, stealthy hunters that roam the forest floor with pointy noses and bushy tails.

7. Pileated Woodpecker: Largest of the woodpeckers, their loud drumming can be heard all throughout the forest. They also have unique features such as a flaming-red crest and an extra set of eye lids that act like safety goggles when pecking at wood.

8. Wild Turkey: A familiar sight in Vermont’s fields and forests during fall, Wild Turkeys travel in flocks and can often be seen foraging for acorns and seeds.

"Fall is the best time of year for being in the woods," remarked Jake. "Everything is so active: bears are on the move, songbirds are singing and beavers are in full construction mode, preparing for winter to come."

Exploring the woods, ponds and meadows at Twin Farms is just one of the many things to do in Vermont this autumn. Discover more of our all-inclusive activities below.