Wildlife Acoustics, maker of the Song Sleuth bird-identifying app, has announced the launch of a birding sweepstakes. It is presented by L.L. Bean Co., maker of outdoor wear and gear. David Sibley, renowned artist and author of “Sibley’s Guide to Birds,” is the prize. The winner of the sweepstakes will have the opportunity to enjoy […]
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Posted inGarden
Small Birds with Big Voices
As summer slips into fall, bird activity in West Sound gardens and yards begins to change. Both insect-eating birds and those with a taste for ripening fruit move throughout this region. The wild and domestic fruit crops tempt birds like the robins, cedar waxwings, band-tailed doves and other fruit-eating species to gorge themselves on nature’s […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
September Is the Month for Migrants
Two bird-related events make September one of the most exciting and interesting months for bird watching. Bird population numbers are the highest they will be for an entire year due to all of the young birds raised this year. The other reason for the month’s excitement is that migrating bird numbers reach their peak in […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Unsung Hero — Rosemary Collins
Rosemary Collins founded Pony Up Rescue for Equines in Olalla in 2006 because she saw a need for a rescue organization. In early 2007, Pony Up received 501(c)3 nonprofit status, and its mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome horses in need due to neglect, abuse or abandonment. Collins serves as president and in addition […]
Posted inGarden
A Walk in the Woods
Once summer settles in, bird activity throughout the West Sound region changes. The young of most species have left the nest and are exploring their world. The adults that worked to feed and raise their families are no longer guarding territories. The bird population becomes more fluid as it moves throughout the area following the […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Enjoying Birdwatching from Aboard the Local Ferries
A ferry ride is an inexpensive way to do some birdwatching on the water. You don’t pay for an expensive guided tour. You don’t need to own or care for your own boat. Birding surprises often occur on many of the available ferry crossings throughout Western Washington’s “Inland Sea.” All ferry runs can produce good […]
Posted inGarden
Our Bees are in Trouble
Bees are in trouble — in recent years, the bee population has plummeted. A compilation of problems is to blame: Bees are essential to the production of one out of every three bites of food that we eat. A growing body of science has implicated neonicotinoids (neonies), the world’s most widely used pesticide, as a […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Harbor WildWatch — Making Environmental Education Fun
Consider this: The Kitsap Peninsula has more than 370 miles of coastline with some of the most magnificent marine environments on the planet. That’s a lot of territory to learn about and explore. Harbor WildWatch makes it its mission to introduce people of all ages to the wonders of Puget Sound. Based in Gig Harbor, […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Why You Should Become a Citizen Scientist
Citizen scientists are the new science superheroes, volunteering their time and experience to gather data in support of research projects from astronomy to zoology. So, what is Citizen Science all about. Citizen science is a collaboration between scientists and members of the public to expand opportunities for data collection and analysis. There are many benefits […]