Give a Hoot! Get to Know NC’s Owl Community
These silent predators add mystery and serenity to the night soundscape — learn about the three species you’re likely to see around Raleigh
Tag: nature
Bucks & Does: White-Tailed Deer are Delightful… and Destructive
Once an almost-decimated population in North Carolina, these deer are considered a conservation success — but they can be a nuisance
Natural Wonders at Shelley Lake
With its diversity of wildlife — including a heron rookery and nesting bald eagles — this park inspires legions of avid fans
Masked Bandits: Raccoons are Curious Creatures
These easily recognized wild mammals are ubiquitous in the Piedmont, both in undeveloped lands and urban areas
Turtle-y Awesome: Eastern Box Turtles
This native species is the official amphibian of North Carolina. Each turtle has a shell as distinct as a thumbprint.
A Sprinkle of Yellow From the Northern Spicebush
The deciduous shrub Lindera benzoin is an early-spring delight in the Piedmont when its delicate yellow blooms light up its bare branches.
Trees at Eye Level: How Well Do You Know Your Bark?
It’s easy to identify trees by their leaves — but could you do it without looking up? Take this quiz before your next woodland walk.
Watch Out for Zombies! At Least, in Fungus Form…
A bizarre fungus that infects different kinds of insect can cause strange behavior — and frightening alterations to their bodies.
September Poem: A Dance in the Field
Cassandra May Howell compares the twinkle of fireflies to dancers and her childhood self to the hunter against a twilight sky.
Wild, Wacky & Wooly Caterpillars in Your Backyard
Lepidoptera — the larval stage of butterflies and moths — come in all shapes and colors. Here are a few especially cool ones you can find.
The Incredible Journey of Monarch Butterflies
These beautiful insects travel thousands of miles each year to get to their winter homes in Mexico. Right now, they’re in North Carolina.
August 2024 Poem: Letter to C. From Ashe County
The writer of this poem finds himself noticing the intricate amazing details of blooming flowers and captivating hummingbirds
Simple Life: The Quiet of Nature
In an increasingly loud world, this writer encourages us to be still and listen to what the owls, crickets and birds have to say to us.
7 Questions with Local Entomologist and Author Eleanor Rice
The author of the book Your Pets’ Secret Lives talks about what inspired a niche career writing about the wonders of the natural world.