Garden for Wildlife

Five Tips for Nesting Box Success

As winter wanes and our thoughts turn to springtime, it’s time to think about nesting boxes for birds.  Many cavity nesting birds scout out and select nest sites starting in late February through May, … Read more

Monarch Butterfly

Six Ways to Save Monarchs

Monarch butterflies are in trouble. Over the last few decades, populations of these iconic orange and black butterflies have declined by over 90 percent. The National Wildlife Federation is teaming … 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

It’s for the Birds! Certifying Baltimore as a Community Habitat

For years Baltimore has been known as Birdland and now, we can make it official. Baltimore plans to B’More Wild, and bird-friendly, by becoming certified as an NWF Community Wildlife … Read more

Celebrate the International Year of Soils! Some things you never knew…

The United Nations has declared 2015 the International Year of Soils, and it’s high time that we all show the soil a little love. Soil isn’t just for farmers; the … Read more

Love is in the Air: Courtship Behavior in Backyard Birds

February is the month of love, and not just for those who celebrate with a Valentine’s Day card and a box of chocolates.  As spring approaches you may be observing … 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

Frogs That Freeze Solid

Different animals use different strategies to survive winter. Some species migrate south, others grow thick coats, and some fatten up or stash food reserves. Many species hibernate or go dormant to … Read more

Animal Prints by Charlene Clark.

Who Goes There? Identifying Animal Tracks In Your Backyard

Are you eagerly awaiting the snowy season in order to take a peek at what critters have been scurrying through your backyard? Studying prints left by animals is an ancient … 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