Ah, cornbread—the quintessential Southern staple that has graced American tables for generations. The first recorded recipe for cornbread dates back to 1796, when it appeared in the book “American Cookery” by Amelia Simmons.1 Since then, this humble dish has become a beloved comfort food across the nation. But what if we told you that you … Read more
Corgis, beloved by Queen Elizabeth II and internet denizens, have garnered interest worldwide with their distinctive short legs and big personalities. These Welsh herding dogs come in two distinct breeds: the Pembroke and the Cardigan. While both share a rich history dating back thousands of years, they differ in appearance and temperament.1 Despite their royal … Read more
Suburban birds need native plants to thrive, as they host the native insects that are essential food for nesting songbirds.1 When you plant bird-friendly native trees and shrubs, you can create a haven that sustains robins and other birds throughout the year. Here are 10 top picks to keep robins and other birds coming back … Read more
In the world of cat breeds, few are as intriguing as the Balinese. Despite their exotic name, these elegant felines have a surprising origin that has nothing to do with the Indonesian island. Born from an unexpected twist in feline genetics, Balinese cats have existed since the mid-20th century and are known for their striking … Read more
Hummingbirds face an array of surprising threats in our backyards and gardens. Several North American hummingbird species have experienced significant declines since 1970.1 While habitat loss and climate change play major roles, predation remains an often overlooked factor in hummingbird conservation. From unexpected insect ambushes to stealthy feline hunters, the list of potential predators is … Read more
If you’re looking for a pet that is gentle and easy to care for, a land turtle might be the perfect choice for you. Tortoises are ancient creatures that have been around for over 230 million years,1 making them some of the oldest living animals on our planet. While all tortoises are turtles, not all … Read more
Horses are strong and beautiful animals, but some breeds are tougher and live longer than others. If you’re looking for a horse that can handle different conditions and stay by your side for many years, here are 15 of the hardiest and longest-lived horse breeds for you to choose from. 1. American Cream Draft The American … Read more
As autumn’s chill creeps in, gardeners face the looming threat of frost and its potential impact on their beloved plants. The first frost can be a game-changer for gardens, marking the end of the growing season for many plants. Cold temperatures affect plants in various ways, from damaging cell structures to interrupting nutrient pathways. Even hardy … Read more
In the avian world, hawks reign as fierce predators, but even these aerial assassins aren’t immune to becoming prey themselves. A study ¹ found that up to 36% of hawk mortality in some regions can be attributed to predation, challenging our perceptions of these seemingly invincible birds. Which creature will surprise you the most as … Read more
In an innovative approach to rehabilitation and animal welfare, prisons across the United States are implementing programs that pair inmates with shelter dogs. The Paws in Prison (PIP) initiative transforms lives on both ends of the leash, offering second chances to those behind bars and homeless canines.1 As overcrowded shelters struggle to find homes for … Read more
