Snakes: Hygiene Engineers

In “Creature Feature: Nonvenomous Snakes” (The Woodlands Township Blog, 5 May 2022), Environmental Services writes: Most snake species are shy and generally keep out of sight. They travel alone and prefer brush, rocks and woodpiles. Multiple snakes will share a den for winter hibernation, emerging in late February through early March. They are active during …

Vultures Sunning on the Playground (16May2022)

In “Why do Vultures Spread Their Wings – Feathered Solar Panels” (Max Bird Facts), Maxfield Weakley writes: Vultures will routinely seek patches of light in the morning before taking flight, and there are three leading theories to this behavior:1. The vultures use the sun as an energy boost to start the morning.2. The heat absorbed …

The Children & Nature Network

We believe that the well-being of children and the wild places we love are inextricably linked. And while research tells us that regular time outdoors is essential for children’s healthy development, today’s kids are less connected to nature than ever before. We also know that longstanding systems of injustice have impacted the design and distribution …

Butterfly ID

Alabama Butterfly Atlas Wow! What a resource! They have all kinds of good info about butterflies, including, by species, habitat, host plants, descriptions, sighting frequency and occurrence, and more. Check out their “Species List!“ On their “Spicebush Swallowtail Pterourus troilus” page, they say: Butterfly: Wingspan: 3½ – 4½ inches (8.9 – 11.4 cm). The upper surface of the forewing is …

Texas Children in Nature Network

Texas Children in Nature Network (TCiNN) is a grassroots network of over 500 partner organizations and individuals dedicated to connecting children and families with nature in Texas to be healthier, happier and smarter. Our eight regional collaboratives across the state work directly with local communities to fulfill our mission through community outreach and engagement, nature-based …