The Call of the South

Migrating Monarch on Blue Mistflower (Conoclinium coelestinum). Photo taken at Montreal Botanical Garden by Rob Beaton. As fall approaches, eastern monarch butterflies are beginning their migration southward in response to a combination of environmental cues. Shortening daylight hours, cooler temperatures, and the declining availability of nectar sources signal to the monarchs that it’s time to…

Birdability

Birdability is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making birdwatching and outdoor recreation accessible to all, regardless of physical ability, health concerns, or other challenges. Founded by passionate birders who believe that nature should be enjoyed by everyone, Birdability works to break down barriers by promoting inclusive practices, providing resources, and advocating for accessible birding locations.…

Morning Moths

If you are an early riser like me, thank you Navy, maybe the sight of various moth species fluttering about in the soft morning light or perched on the side of a building is something that has gone previously unnoticed. I live on the outskirts of Waynesboro surrounded by farmland and woods and first noticed…

Trail Maintenance

Photos by Judy Barlett. Top from left to right, Michael Seth, Jean Stephens, and Jim Fye. Bottom left: American toad. Bottom right: Dogbane leaf beetle. On July 25, two Master Naturalists, Jean Stephens and Judy Bartlett, joined three other volunteers to clear a half-mile stretch of briars from the Crawford Knob Trail in the George…