Imagine a plant that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies and puts on a dazzling display of orange blooms that explode at the slightest touch. Enter jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), a native North American wildflower that’s as captivating as it is easy to grow. But what sets this plant apart is its ability to grow beautifully in containers, … Read more
Soaring above the Amazon rainforest, the harpy eagle reigns supreme as one of nature’s most formidable predators, with its piercing gaze and massive talons. But beyond its imposing presence lies a world of adaptations and behaviors that few people know about. Here are 18 lesser-known facts about this apex predator that will challenge your perceptions … Read more
Birds of prey are feathered hunters who are marvels of evolution, equipped with razor-sharp talons, hooked beaks, and keen eyesight that puts human vision to shame. With over 560 species found across every continent except Antarctica, raptors play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance.1 As apex predators, they help control prey populations and serve as … Read more
Nestled in the rugged peaks of New Zealand’s South Island, a curious and clever parrot has captivated the hearts and minds of locals and tourists. Kea, nicknamed the “clown of the mountains,” is renowned for its intelligence, playful antics, and sometimes troublesome behavior. But what makes these feathered friends so special? A Feathered Einstein Researchers challenged … Read more
Imagine your backyard transformed into a vibrant oasis, buzzing with the iridescent wings of tiny, jewel-like hummingbirds. These fascinating creatures, capable of flying backward and hovering in mid-air, are a delight to watch and play a crucial role in pollination. By creating a hummingbird-friendly habitat in your yard, you’re inviting nature’s most enchanting acrobats and … 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
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
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
Hummingbirds can visit up to 1,000-2,000 flowers per day in search of nectar.1 Native plants like scarlet sage can help attract these birds to your yard and also support hummingbird populations. With its vibrant red tubular flowers and long blooming season, scarlet sage is a top choice for creating a hummingbird haven. If you want to attract … Read more
If you’re looking to perk up your garden with color while attracting beautiful hummingbirds, Rose of Sharon shrubs are a great choice. However, some varieties can spread quickly and become a nuisance. Luckily, there are special types of Rose of Sharon shrubs that offer all the beauty and pollinator appeal without the hassle of invasive … Read more
