Unplugged: Life Beyond the Screen

After accidentally breaking my phone last Wednesday, I’ve yet to replace it. This situation prompted me to consciously avoid replacing its convenience with my computer. I’ve embraced the silence I’d usually fill with music, remained present in moments I might have otherwise distracted myself with a quick online search, and relied on my own sense …

Clever as a Corvid: Intelligence, Myth, and Memory

Introduction:  My fascination with Corvidae began in an unlikely place – a junkyard owned by Ingrid, a family friend with a penchant for the extraordinary. Among her treasures was a rescued crow, a talking bird whose intelligence and curiosity captivated me. If the crow wasn’t intriguing enough, Ingrid’s world was filled with other wonders: a …

Sacred Landscapes: The Indigenous History of Deer Creek Canyon

I live in the picturesque foothills of Colorado, Deer Creek Canyon, holds a long unique history that dates back millennia. While the canyon’s natural beauty and rugged landscapes are a testament to the forces of nature, today, it is home to many citizens who seek their solitude, but it is also a place deeply intertwined …

The Physics of Blue Birds: How Birds Refract Light

Feathers, those delicate and colorful adornments of birds, never cease to amaze us with their stunning hues and intricate patterns. Among the vast palette of colors that feathers can display, blue stands out as one of the most captivating and intriguing. Have you ever wondered how birds create those mesmerizing blue feathers and the science …

Connecting with Nature: Exploring Native Plants

Feeling under the weather when I woke up, I decided to take a walk through my local Audubon park in an attempt to both distract myself from my symptoms and find some relief. On this particular day, my walk led me to a profound connection with the native plants in the park, their textures, intricate …

The American Bald Eagle: A National Icon

The American Bald Eagle, scientifically known as Haliaeetus leucocephalus, stands as a symbol of the United States. Officially designated as the national emblem of the United States in 1782, it was chosen for its regal appearance and powerful symbolism. In many native cultures, the eagle holds a special place as a symbol of strength, freedom, …