Autumn arrives on the island as the days shorten, the air cools, and frost appears on Roz’s garden. The forest changes around Roz: leaves turn bright colors, fall to the ground, and tree nuts drop noisily, sometimes striking the robot.

The island’s summer richness begins to fade. Flowers wither, scents diminish, and many animals physically prepare for colder weather by growing thicker fur or feathers, while scaly animals begin searching for new shelters.

Roz observes that many creatures are already planning for winter hibernation. Frogs discuss finding holes, and other animals such as bees, snakes, and bears will soon disappear from sight to rest through the cold months.

The chapter then shifts to the birds. Some birds will remain on the island for winter, but migratory birds are preparing to fly south. Because the geese are among the birds that must leave, Brightbill’s coming migration becomes the next major concern.