HabitChat

Nature Watch: In the Still of the Night

In his latest blog entry of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis shares a host of creatures that take up the night shift, and gives a play-by-play of some common nighttime activity taking place this time of year. Tides are low, insects are on the move and the forest floor is crawling with energy. Read more to discover an “owl prowl” and what can be seen if you take part in this venture during the month of February.


1,000 Hours Outside Challenge

In 2010, a global movement called the 1,000 Hours Outside Challenge was initiated in response to the rising concern that children are spending too little time outside, and too much time in front of screens. In 2023, Land Trust stewardship assistant, Taylor Schmuki, and her family attempted the feat, and the following is their motivation and experience taking part in this challenge last year.


Nature Watch: Dabbling in Winter Waterfowl

Ring in the new year with winter dabblers! In his latest blog entry of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member, Steve Ellis, dives into some fun facts about the ducks known as dabblers that migrate to the islands during the winter months and where you might spot them. Read more to learn about several waterfowl species and discover more plants and animals you can find in the month of January!


Nature Watch: The Woods in Winter

The stormy season is here! In his latest blog entry of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis highlights the important role conifer forests play in protecting life below the tree canopy from strong wind and rain events. Deciduous forests, on the other hand, give up much of their protection with their leaves, but life persists, nevertheless!


Nature Watch: Birds of Different Feathers

Is there proof that birds of different feathers do indeed flock together? In his recent blog entry of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis shares his knowledge on mixed flocks and where we might encounter them. Read more to discover the nature spotlights of November.


Nature Watch: Fall’s Dilemma – Flee or Fight?

In his recent blog entry of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis breaks down the big decision wildlife grapple with each year – should I stay or should I go? – and the consequences of each. Read more to find out the answers to these questions and discover the plants and animals you might see in October.


Nature Watch: Gone to Seed

In his latest blog installment of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis sheds light on seed dispersal and the various strategic and accidental ways that nature makes it happen. Steve also highlights a precocious little mammal that lives its life in the trees, the Douglas squirrel, in all its glory. Click the button below to learn more about the sights and sounds of September!


Nature Watch: Bug Out

In his latest blog installment of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis draws attention to the small critters that make themselves seen this time of year, and those that take a little extra effort to find. Read more to learn about these fascinating insects and discover other species you might encounter throughout the warm month of August.


Nature Watch: The View Down Under

In his latest blog installment of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis takes us underwater, and elaborates on the life we don’t always see from land, and how you can catch a glimpse. July’s warmer water temperatures bring fish and other mobile marine invertebrates closer to the surface. Read more to learn about the different species you might see during these summer months, and the local docks that provide the best viewpoints.


Nature Watch: Bird Parenting 101

In his latest blog installment of “Nature Watch,” Land Trust member Steve Ellis brings us into spring, a time of new plant blooms, emerging insects, pollinators galore, and much more! The lengthening daylight brings nature to life. Read more to discover the wonders that can be seen on the Islands in May, including the beautiful echo blue butterfly.


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