Backyard Naturalist Stories

Ode to a Toad

Emma Kluge,

Lumpy, grumpy, and utterly charming, the American Toad does it all.

Sweet on Sap

Susie Spikol,

It’s sugaring season, and humans aren’t the only species who look forward to the sap rising.

The Little Warbler That Could

Brett Amy Thelen,

A Yellow-rumped Warbler says “nah” to migrating south, opting to experience a real New Hampshire winter instead.

My, What Big Feet You Have!

Emma Kluge,

Adapting to new climate realities, snowshoe hares can survive the harshest winter conditions New England has to offer.

Wrascaly Wrabbits: Who’s Hopping in Your Neighborhood

Susie Spikol,

While they may be hard to tell apart, these two cottontail rabbits have different needs, and different concerns.

Fire, Wind, and…Wolves?

Emma Kluge,

Mount Mondanock’s dynamic history has shaped the unique ecological character it has today, especially above treeline.

Species that Skirt the Season’s Edge

Nate Marchessault,

While we may still be hunkered down waiting for spring, these animals get a strategically early start.

Walking Every Day

Brett Amy Thelen,

Walking can be a peaceful, meditative, and healthy practice. It can also offer moments of surprise and delight just outside your door.

A Favorite Haunt

Brett Amy Thelen,

In cemeteries, the human and more-than-human worlds find common ground.

iNaturalist: Stay Connected to Nature

Nate Marchessault,

With iNaturalist, technology can enhance your experience of the natural world, not distract from it.

The Patron Saints of Play

Brett Amy Thelen,

Keep your eyes peeled this winter for the frolicking, rollicking otter!

Loons on Thin Ice

Brett Amy Thelen,

Every winter, courageous biologists take to frozen lakes and ponds to rescue loons in trouble.