Braelei Hardt

A small, furry, rodent-like mammal sits on rocks.

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

Bird black capped chickadee

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

American Crow

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

Avian migration appearing on U.S. weather radar scans.

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

Mosquito bite

Innovations in Mosquito Control

While we enjoy sunshine and vacations, it may seem that mosquitoes serve no other purpose than to ruin our summer fun. While that is not true, mosquitoes can be vectors … Read more

Mosquito larvae in a storm puddle

Innovations in Mosquito Control

While we enjoy sunshine and vacations, it may seem that mosquitoes serve no other purpose than to ruin our summer fun. While that is not true, mosquitoes can be vectors … Read more

mosquito

Innovations in Mosquito Control

While we enjoy sunshine and vacations, it may seem that mosquitoes serve no other purpose than to ruin our summer fun. While that is not true, mosquitoes can be vectors … Read more

Japanese macaques

New Science on Same-sex Behavior in Wildlife

In honor of Pride Month, we are taking the opportunity to look at same-sex sexual relationships in wildlife—from sea stars and birds, to monkeys and apes. Thanks to a cultural … Read more

Monarchs on goldenrod

The Goldenrod Allergy Myth

Goldenrod blooms are an autumn delight — both for human admirers and wildlife visitors. Their sunny yellow flowers add beauty and interest to the late summer and early fall landscape … Read more