Blog

May – August 2021 Announcements

MEMORIALS: Donations were made in loving memory of Chuck Adams, Karen Bock, Sara (Sally) Carlson, Donald L. Garnett, James Lechenet, Lois Pearce, August Pupedis, Cleo Hansen Ruppel, Charles Rollinger, & Adele Schultz. HONORARIUMS: Donations were…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Vernal Ponds

Vernal, or seasonal ponds, are vital to the life cycle of many species of animals. These ponds lack fish species, which would feed on smaller amphibians and invertebrate that use the ponds as part of…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Periodical Cicada Emergence

It’s been 17 years since the last brood 10 periodical cicada emergence. This spring, in late May and early June, parts of Michigan, as well as parts of fifteen other states in eastern United States…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes

Eastern massasauga rattlesnakes are a native species protected through state and federal laws and deemed a federally threatened species due mostly to habitat loss and human persecution. They typically occupy areas such as prairie fens,…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Birdfeeder Hawks

Your backyard birdseed feeders may be attracting more than the songbirds and squirrels. The concentration of small birds and mammals with feeders also attracts birds higher up on the food chain, such as hawks. Typical…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Animal Tracks

With snow on the ground, we can get a glimpse into the secret life of animals living around our houses and the trails we hike on.  The best time to find good tracks is after…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Conifers

‘Tis the season of evergreens, also known as conifers. Michigan is home to many different native and non-native species of conifers, commonly called evergreens because we perceive these trees to be ever green, with the…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Nuthatches

The food resources up north must be scarce this year. Local yards have become a winter home for red-breasted nuthatches which normally hang out in the north. Fortunately for me a pair has been hanging…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Nature Apps

Technology and nature are combined more than ever these days. Staff at Sarett have found so many useful (and free) smartphone apps that help us, and can help you, become a better naturalist! Here are…continue reading

Nature Notebook – Fall Migration and Window Strikes

Fall bird migration is in full swing and with it comes deadly dangers:  window collisions.  Glass reflects the landscape and birds think they can continue flying into the “trees.” Predators take advantage of the increase…continue reading