Have you noticed the summers getting smokier? If you’ve found yourself coughing more, seeing the sky tinged with an eerie orange, or even just catching the faint scent of burning … Read more
Braelei Hardt
Queer Ecology: Identity and Field Research
In celebrating Pride Month, it’s crucial that we not only elevate and celebrate the voices and contributions of queer scientists, but also acknowledge and address the specific obstacles they may … Read more
Queer Ecology: A Spectrum of Perspective
As we continue our celebration of Pride Month and our exploration of queer ecology, we return to the intersection of queer identities and ecological science. In the first part of … Read more
Queer Ecology: Relationships to Nature
Pride Month is the perfect time to recognize the intersection of our identities with the natural world around us. In this spirit, this month we will dive into a topic … Read more
The Dual Nature of Rarity: Understanding Conservation Needs for Artificially versus Naturally Rare Species
Nature’s rarest and most endangered species face threats from all sides—but did you know that ‘rare’ and ‘endangered’ are not interchangeable terms? While some species—like red wolves—are indeed only rare … Read more
Surviving the Snow: The Amazing Adaptations of Three Winter Wonders
When the temperatures start to drop and the days get shorter, it’s easy to assume that the natural world goes into a state of hibernation. But the truth is that … Read more
Are Real or Fake Christmas Trees Better for the Environment?
Displaying and decorating evergreen trees is an age-old holiday tradition originating in the northern Europe to bring comfort and joy during the frigid dark of winter. According to the National … Read more
Why are Bats, Owls, Toads, and Crows Associated with Halloween?
With the spookiest season in full swing and Halloween decorations abound, you might be wondering why certain animals are so often featured in our harvest-themed festivities. Why do plastic owls … Read more
How Do We Know Anything About Migrating Birds?
What is Aeroecology? Each August, billions of birds rally themselves for the long, dangerous migration south. With the abundant foods offered by the summer breeding season now dwindling in supply, … Read more
