Whispers of Change: Embracing Autumn’s Arrival in the Midwest

There’s something truly magical about those late summer days in the Midwest when the air begins to crisp just a bit, and the world around us starts its gentle dance toward autumn. The way the golden light filtered through the trees, and the sky filled with flocks of birds like living poetry in motion.

It’s a time of transition, where birds bid farewell to their summer homes, animals tuck away their winter stores, and insects quietly fade into the background. I invite you to step outside, breathe in the changing breeze, and let nature’s rhythm remind you of life’s beautiful cycles. In this post, we’ll explore the migrating birds, industrious animals, fading insects, and vibrant wildflowers of August and September, all while sharing tips to enjoy it safely. Let’s wander together!

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April Wildlife Parenthood


As April dawns upon the Wisconsin landscapes, it brings the magic of new life. In this blog post, we dive into the fascinating world of wildlife parenthood, focusing on some iconic animals that give birth and care for their young during this vibrant season.

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In Like A Lion Out Like A Lamb

Seasonal Nature Reflection Series

The phrase “in like a lion, out like a lamb” is a popular saying used to describe the weather patterns in March, particularly in regions with temperate climates. It refers to the transition from the harsh, wintry conditions at the beginning of the month (represented by a lion) to the milder, spring-like weather towards the end of the month (represented by a lamb).

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February Is the Border Between Winter and Spring

We are halfway through the shortest month on the calendar and February Is the border between winter and spring. At this point, we know that wildflowers and fellow winged ones will be arriving shortly. Eastern Pheobe We have plenty of wildlife coming and going this month. The Eastern Pheobes have returned, I hear them off … Read more

March Phenology

Days Are Getting Longer

March is a month of returning birds, and planting indoor garden seeds. Summer is just around the corner, I can feel it.

As winter’s icy grip begins to loosen in Wisconsin, the arrival of March heralds the much-anticipated transition from the cold months to the vibrant burst of life that spring brings. Nature awakens from its slumber, with wildflowers pushing through the thawing ground, animals engaging in courtship rituals, and the miracle of new life unfolding. Join us as we explore the captivating seasonal changes that grace Wisconsin during this transformative month.

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February Phenology

Holy smokes! It is February 2023 and I have seemed to have misplaced an entire blogging year! Did you wonder where I was hiding? Last January I committed to posting monthly about the seasonal changes that occur in Wisconsin. After I committed myself, I was offered opportunities that made me reevaluate where my time, talent, and commitments were going to be held for the year.

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January Phenology

Well, Happy New Year! Hope you are settling into your new year. January 2022 – It’s cold! But, did we expect anything less from the Wisconsin winter? Welcome to the phenology posts. The posts will be a running listing of what you can expect to see with our plant life and animals over the year … Read more

Understanding Dogwood Leaf Galls

In the world of plants, peculiar growths or abnormalities often catch our attention. One such phenomenon is the occurrence of leaf galls on dogwood trees. These abnormal growths, caused by a tiny fly called Parallelodiplosis subtruncata, might seem concerning to gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike. However, understanding the nature of these galls and their impact on dogwood trees can provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between plants and insects.

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What’s in Your Pocket, Bumble Bee? Summer Wonders in Wisconsin’s Wildflower Fields

Bumble Bee What's in Your Pocket

As the sun rises gently over Wisconsin’s rolling meadows on this crisp summer morning, I find myself wandering the wildflower paths, captivated by the buzz of life around me. It’s moments like these that remind me of nature’s quiet symphony, where every creature and bloom tells a story of resilience and beauty.

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Fall’s Last Hurrah: Fields Of Sandhill Cranes Feasting in Wisconsin’s Golden Fields

As the crisp October air swirls with the scent of fallen leaves and harvest bonfires, there’s no better time to witness one of nature’s most enchanting spectacles right here in Wisconsin. I’m sitting by my window, watching the trees don their fiery reds and golds, and it reminds me why I adore this season—it’s a vibrant celebration of life’s cycles, with the sandhill cranes as the stars of the show. These majestic birds, with their elegant stature and soul-stirring calls, gather by the thousands in our farm fields, feasting on the remnants of the harvest. It’s fall’s grand finale, a moment that feels both bittersweet and exhilarating, and I’ve made it a tradition to venture out and soak it all in. Let me share this autumn adventure with you, drawing from my own explorations, and offer some tips to make your experience just as memorable.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the magic of the cranes’ migration, my personal observations from recent outings, and practical advice for joining in safely. Whether you’re a lifelong Wisconsinite or a visitor chasing fall’s wonders, this is more than just a seasonal event—it’s a heartfelt connection to the wild beauty around us.

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Nurturing Nature’s Allies: Exploring 12 Milkweed Plants in Wisconsin

 I often wander through wild prairies and meadows, marveling at the Milkweed patches that thrive in their untamed splendor. These unassuming plants are more than just lifelines for Monarch butterflies; they’re bustling ecosystems in their own right, supporting a variety of insects and adding a touch of wild beauty to the landscape.

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Gear for Birdwatching

Square collage of a spring warbler, 8x42 waterproof binoculars, and Midwest bird field guide for birdwatching.

Warblers, Binoculars, and Spring Light: Simple Gear for Birdwatching in Wisconsin

Glorious spring mornings in Wisconsin have a way of pulling you outside, whether you planned to go or not. For me, it started with warblers. I became slightly obsessed with tracking down and photographing every species said to pass through our corner of Green Bay. Each migration felt like a treasure hunt woven into the woods.

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