As leaves and temperatures begin to fall across the Big Country, ACU students are preparing for the imminent winter chill.

However, it may not be as chilly as some anticipate. La Niña conditions might mean this winter may have above-average temperatures and below-average precipitation, according to the National Weather Service in San Angelo website.

However, some on campus pay more attention to the environment than the weatherman. Emmett Miller, professor of environmental science, pays close attention to the animals around him for a better perspective on weather patterns.

Old wives tales can tell us a lot about the weather, Miller said. Some say turtles often venture across roads to get to high ground when they sense that rain is on its way.

“They can tell us more when weather is going to change than the weatherman can,” Miller said.

Grant Lawrence, junior range and wildlife management major from Bangs, doesn’t expect a winter like last year.

“It’s tough to say what the winter months will bring to Abilene this year,” Lawrence said. “I wouldn’t expect a full week off from school again, but the probability of snowfall is always welcomed with open arms.”

Students on campus are unpacking their heavy coats and already wearing the in-season boots for colder weather. Kelli Spencer, sophomore marketing and interior design major from Littleton, Colo., said she is excited to wear her winter gear.

“I love wearing scarves during the winter. And boots too,” Spencer said.

Hollie Derrick, sophomore advertising and public relations major from Monahans, said she enjoys how cold weather affects her dorm life.

“I love wearing warm clothes, drinking hot chocolate and bundling up in blankets,” Derrick said.

Some students would rather skip the cold, but still enjoy some the aspects of the cold months to come.

Shelby Richardson, sophomore elementary education major from College Station, wants a repeat of last year.

“I’m not a huge fan of cold weather, but I’m really hoping it snows again this year,” Richardson said.