OCTOBER 7, 2008: This year's foliage peep show might disappoint New England natives and tourists alike.

The traditional changing of the guard will be a little later this year and less eye-popping because the leaves have not been exposed to as much sunlight as they have in years past.

Many rainy days and warm nights are to blame, which has also led to increased amounts of mildew, fungi, and molds that turn leaves brown before they have a chance to generate their characteristically bright colors.

Experts believe peak foliage will appear during the second half of October and early November.