Untold numbers of insects, reptiles, amphibians and other creatures live, feed and hide in the leaf litter. Numerous songbirds forage in it, and it plays a major role in water conservation.

So, perhaps the leaves that pile up on the ground in autumn should get more respect — as they do when they are sporting their dazzling colors on the trees.

IN THE SKY: From David Dundee, Tellus Science Museum astronomer: The North Taurid Meteor shower will reach a peak of about 15 meteors per hour on Monday night in the east. Best viewing times are from about midnight until dawn.

The moon will be first quarter on Thursday. Mercury is low in the west just after sunset. Venus is very low in the east just before sunrise. Mars is in the southwest at dusk and will appear near the moon on Thursday night. Saturn is very low in the southwest just after dark and will appear near the moon Saturday night.

IN OTHER NEWS: