Male bees don’t have stingers. That’s just one of the things wrong with this animated film.
I’m clueless at the decision-making that lead to this bizarre script. Are men in our culture so insecure that they have to depart from the way real bees live?
It wouldn’t be such a big deal, except bees are at risk. There are several theories as to why this is happening. The bottom line is that bees pollinate many of the plants that we depend on for food.
Enjoying nature is in the little things, like this insect (I think it’s a firefly) on a laurel node. Dawn and dusk are the best times for hiking; that’s when I see the most wildlife activity. (more…)
The workshops I attended at this event gave me an opportunity to meet and learn from dedicated naturalists.
Beyond the workshops, there were hands-on opportunities to learn trail-building skills, hikes, excursions to area events, vendors, book signings, and the most patient and helpful support staff anywhere.
I got pointers on nature photography, hanging my hammock, carrying less weight in my pack and fitting my hiking boots. I got a taste of fly fishing, archaeology, and political advocacy.
I really enjoyed spending a few days surrounded by like-minded people wearing cargo pants and hiking boots. The fact that people are willing to travel from Ohio, Indiana, Florida and every state on the AT, gives me hope that we can keep the planet from becoming entirely paved over.
It takes a great deal of cooperation - and just the right combination of vision and attention to detail - to host an event like this. The New York New Jersey Trail Conference, Ramapo College and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy are amazing. (more…)
I love to hike, but sometimes it’s just too hot and humid to move.
One way to practice nature observation skills is to choose a patch of lawn, forest floor, or even the trunk of a tree in deep woods, and study it closely. The list of what you need is short. There’s no end to what you might observe, but I’ve listed a few things you might look for while exploring the natural world. This technique works just fine if you have access to other habitats including wetlands, tide pools, gardens and transition areas.
This is a really good activity if you have ten minutes or more to explore. (more…)
Sweltering heat and humidity provide ideal conditions for insects.
My Permethrin-treated gear and a light breeze make a hike bearable. In the past, I’ve written poetry about insects. And I’m inspired to quote SUMMER by Walter Dean Myers whenever there’s a heat wave.
The line “Bugs buzzin’ from cousin to cousin” puts a smile on my overheated face. Hot summer days and nights are perfect for studying all kinds of insects.
Since I take steps to make myself inedible to insects, it’s much easier to observe and get to know the ones that crawl or fly across my path.
Here is a list of insects you’re likely to see in northeast North America and some interesting facts about each as spring turns into summer: (more…)
by Sy Montgomery has me looking at mosquitoes in a new way.