Did you know that bees and other pollinators are an important part of our environment? In fact, bees and other pollinators ensure we have food by pollinating a variety of crops found on farms throughout the world. While you may be most familiar with honey bees, there are an estimated 20,000 species of […]
If you have ever watched a bird fly or a flower move in the wind, you have noticed some of the beauty of movement in nature. We know that movement is an important part of being healthy and we also know that having a connection with nature is good for your well-being. One […]
If you have access to a nearby pond or stream, it’s the perfect time for a pond dipping adventure! Going pond dipping is a bit like carrying out a scientific experiment. Make some predictions as to what you might find and go exploring! Adventure awaits!
Here are some tips for fun and safe exploration:
Bird song once again fills the treetops, the grass is greening, and turtles are emerging. It’s springtime in Minnesota! Each year, as lakes, rivers, and ponds warm, aquatic life takes its cue and begins to awaken. In Minnesota, turtles spend their winters in a hibernation of sorts, waiting out the cold buried deep in the […]
As the weather warms and animals continue to become more active, why not consider observing their behavior? You can even do this activity with any pets or animals you have inside. Or, consider watching a video of animals!
An ethogram is a tool zookeepers and other scientists use to measure behavior in […]
If you have a budding meteorologist in your family or are looking for a way to participate in community science, look no further! The Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) is a project to collect precipitation data throughout all times of the year across North America. Anyone can join and it only […]
“Forest Bathing” / Shinrin-yoku
Have you ever noticed how you may feel better (mentally or physically) after spending time in nature, or watching a natural scene online? You are not alone, and growing research supports the benefits of time in nature on both our physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Doctors in Japan […]
Calling all budding nature photographers! Do you have a favorite plant or tree in your yard, on your block, or in a nearby park? Why not photo document it over the course of a season, or a year, or just for a day? Think about the changes that tell you spring has arrived. […]
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