Helping people enjoy the natural world around them

Dia Dos - I Eat a Moth

February 18, 2013 by Shari in Birds, Buds, Bugs, Great places, Other critters, Things to do, Writing

I had no idea what the problem was until lovely husband inquired "Did you just swallow that moth I brushed out of my way?"

Salt Flats to Mountain Tops

August 27, 2012 by Shari in Birds, Buds, Bugs, Great places, Other critters, Things to do

Light on words, heavy on images for this post. Some snaps from our recent trip to Utah - 5 days spent within 2 hours of Salt Lake City. Stunning place with such diverse landscapes, flora and fauna!

War Games

July 16, 2012 by Shari in Bugs

I have seen the enemy and it has compound eyes and six legs. Right now, a war is on against a few members of the class Insecta. This crafty enemy is armed with efficient mouth parts and, shall we say, energetic reproductive systems. I am outgunned.

Hometown Pride or, Queens -- We've Got Good Stuff!

June 03, 2012 by Shari in Great places, Things to do

No secret here -- I can wax poetic about city life and I'm particularly eager to talk about nature in my fair city. Sure, those big national parks are great but where else can you see endangered bird species AND catch a Broadway play all in one day?

Salt Marsh Safari

May 22, 2012 by Shari in Birds, Buds, Bugs, Great places, Other critters, Things to do

While it may not be as exotic as an outback excursion to Kenya or similar far-off land, the salt marsh is an ecosystem just as robust.

The Restorative Power of Nature (or, Pennsylvania: Land of Adorable Rodents)

September 17, 2011 by Shari in Birds, Buds, Bugs, Great places, Other critters

Each September finds us making a solemn trip to the western Pennsylvania mountains for a memorial. It's not a trip we relish but feel compelled to continue. There is a hidden treat: after six or so hours on the Turnpike, we are transported to a lovely countryside that softens the experience.

A Delightful Dog Day Afternoon

August 22, 2011 by Shari in Bugs, Great places, Things to do

So goes the saying (though probably only known by bug enthusiasts!), but as I walked along the paths at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge's East Pond, I wondered about the female cicadas' point of view. The males' songs were deafening!

Delightful spring walk at Queens Botanical Garden

April 15, 2011 by Shari in Birds, Buds, Bugs, Great places, Other critters, Things to do

Moving on to this week's topic: I am, like many others, pining for a proper spring day. Between our recent chilly air, rain, and wind, the promise of sun and pleasant temps lured me outside yesterday to probably my favorite spot for botanical beauty and all that comes with the package: Queens Botanical Garden. Trust me, I work there and happily visit on a day off, so it must be worth it!

Wonderful seal watch

February 12, 2011 by Shari in Birds, Other critters, Things to do

Thanks to the great folks at American Princess Cruises, city dwellers can now look for seals and not even leave the five boroughs!

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