February Nature Almanac: What to Look for

Vultures are often overlooked, underappreciated, and unloved, despite the vital role they play in healthy ecosystems. Worldwide, vultures are more likely to be threatened or endangered than any other group of raptor, but in the United States turkey and black vultures may actually be increasing in number.

What is phenology? Why phenology can help us understand the ecological impacts of climate change? How can you join thousands of community scientists around the world in phenological monitoring? What can you do at home to create pollinator gardens and restore habitat in your community? Join us March 8 for the answers!

See more birds this spring and throughout the year! Buy bird seed and suet to keep birds from getting hangry (that’s hungry + angry), give migrating and breeding birds a boost, and attract more species to your yard to enjoy. Our premium seed means less waste while you support our mission to connect people to nature at the same time!

To my fellow New Yorkers: there are cool critters shuffling through your yard this winter—and I’m not talking about your dog or the neighbor’s cat that’s always getting out (you know, the one who conveniently finds its way to your bird feeder).

These visitors fly and flutter, they’re the raptors and songbirds you hear from the window; and now that winter’s in full swing, they’re writing their visits in snow. From Snowy Owls to fiery red Northern Cardinals, here are 5 tracks you didn’t know were in your backyard—and the tricks you need to spot them.

What are Young Forests, and why are they important? What is the New England Cottontail? Join the DEC’s Kevin Clarke for a lecture exploring this ephemeral habitat, and the elusive New England Cottontail that relies on it.