Dani Tinker’s Archive

Fox Den

How to Live Responsibly Alongside Our Wild Neighbors

Urban ecosystems are increasingly becoming critical habitats for wildlife. It’s time we embrace it, roll out the welcome mat and find ways to live responsibly alongside our wild neighbors. This list is … Read more

Humpback Whale

Animals to Give Your Heart to This Valentine’s Day

I’m not a huge fan of all the heart shaped balloons and pink of Valentine’s Day. I find it an exhausting holiday. But I’m not heartless. That’s why I’m more than … Read more

Pileated woodpecker visiting a backyard suet feeder by National Wildlife Photo Contest entrant Beau Liddell.

Feeder Friends: A Few Birds You’ll Want to Meet

I remember my backyard growing up as a natural wonderland, flowers abuzz with bees, bugs under stones and squirrels chasing each other around. Yet, somehow, I don’t remember the birds! My fierce … Read more

Squirrel in the Snow

10 Nutty Facts to Make You Appreciate Squirrels

Why exactly is National Squirrel Appreciation Day (January 21) so popular? Maybe it’s because squirrels are adorable, and extremely fun to watch. Maybe it’s the many hats they wear (not … Read more

6 Birds That Are Champion Flyers

Today marks the anniversary of Amelia Earhart’s solo flight across the Pacific. It seemed only appropriate to compile a few birds with record flights and champion abilities. Like Amelia, these birds are … Read more

Mallard hatchlings by Cindy Bryant.

A Look Back at Our Most Popular Photos of 2014

There’s no question that photography is essential to protecting wildlife, and conservation in general. A photo can inspire action or transform information into a visual experience. We’re absolutely thrilled when our social … Read more

Nuttall's woodpecker fledgling by National Wildlife Photo Contest entrant Anthony Mancini.

8 Wonky and Wonderful Woodpecker Adaptations

Each winter I’m absolutely thrilled to see woodpeckers in the woods of Virginia. Woodpeckers are a welcome part of my cold weather hikes, when wildlife sightings become more rare. I’ve had … Read more

Tule elk at Point Reyes National Seashore by Pat Ulrich.

5 Intriguing Behaviors of Rutting Elk (Videos)

The elk mating season (the rut) takes place every fall, prompted by shorter day lengths. Males (bulls) breed with a number of females (cows) during this time, and exhibit a few fascinating … Read more

Squirrel in a pumpkin by Katherine Flickinger.

How to Recycle Halloween Pumpkins for Wildlife

Updated October 2021 One of the best parts of Halloween is decorating with pumpkins. After the trick-or-treaters clear away and Halloween is officially over, don’t toss your pumpkins in the … Read more

Photo of sea stars along Cannon Beach in Oregon by Dan Klimke.

Sea Stars Still Dying Along the Oregon Coast

I’ve read the news reporting that millions of sea stars have died along the West Coast, but for some reason it didn’t sink in until this weekend. I took a trip back home … Read more