Stories

Explore the natural beauty of Ogemaw County through "An Ogemaw County Year," a project celebrating its diverse flora and fauna across the se

The American robin is most abundant songbird in North America. It was named the state bird of Michigan in 1931. Some robins spend the...

The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a small songbird found throughout much of North America. It is gray-blue on top with a white belly and...

These birds are just about everywhere. From cities to suburbs to the peaceful pair in our forest, they are able to thrive in most...

This owl has a distinct presence with a round face and large yellow eyes.

The Great Horned Owl, scientifically known as Bubo virginianus, is a formidable predator that thrives in the varied landscapes of the...

The Barred Owl (Strix varia), is a resident of North American woodlands. It draws attention not only for its distinct appearance, but also

Contrary to its name, the Red-bellied Woodpecker sports a striking red cap on its head, while its belly, though tinted with a blush of pale

Hairy Woodpeckers are skilled foragers, primarily feeding on insects like wood-boring beetles, ants, caterpillars, and spiders found beneath

Pileated Woodpecker boasts a wingspan of up to 30 inches and can measure around 16-19 inches in length. Its prominent red crest, black body,

Ruffed Grouse. Known scientifically as Bonasa umbellus, these birds captivate with their drumming displays and natural adaptation

Wild turkeys, often associated with Thanksgiving, are more than just a holiday symbol. They are an integral part of our ecosystem, and their

The Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), is not native to Michigan but have become an integral part of Michigan’s avian heritage....

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, the American Woodcock, scientifically known as Scolopax minor, is a fascinating bird that thrives in...

Sharp-shinned Hawks are small hawks characterized by their short wings, long tails, and distinctive slate-blue plumage in adults. They...

As fall stretches across Michigan, ospreys embark on their annual journey south. The osprey, scientifically known as Pandion haliaetus,...

Michigan is blessed with a diverse range of wildlife, and among its avian residents, the American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) stands out...

The scientific name for stick insects is Phasmatodea, from the Greek word phasma (“phantom”), which refers to this insect’s ability to...

Praying mantises belong to the insect family of Mantidae ("mantids"). All mantids have enlarged forelegs (“raptorial legs”) adapted for...

Monarch butterflies have bright orange wings covered with black veins and rimmed with a black border and white dots. This brilliant...