The Robin’s Nest – How to Identify Bird Nests: When we hike in nature, we only see the things we consider important. When I was studying to be a naturalist, each week’s guest lecturer would take us out … Continue Reading →
Steve’s Best Outdoor Tips
I’m asked for outdoor “tips” quite frequently. So I want to share some of my best with you. I accumulated them over the years, reading Internet forums on nature and … Continue Reading →
Wildflowers and drought
Northern California is experiencing a terrible drought. The snow pack in the Sierra Nevada is 12% of average for this time of the year. This is the lowest level … Continue Reading →
The Forager’s Feast
Wild edible plants intrigue me. The idea of snacking on edibles while walking down the trail appeals to me in a primal way. Most of us explore the outdoors … Continue Reading →
Nature Phobia?!!
I went outside to play wiffle ball with my friend’s seven-year-old child. As I followed him out to the grassy yard he turned back to me, “There’s a bunny … Continue Reading →
Excuse me while I whip this out
A few years back, I spent the day with a small group of local trackers whose skill I respect very highly. They are generous with their time and knowledge … Continue Reading →
Make a Pine Needle Basket
I am fortunate to encounter a number of very skilled people with a great deal to share. As a result, I find myself attending a variety of workshops/classes to … Continue Reading →
Tide Pooling! (Post 2 of 2)
As I mentioned in my earlier post, the coast offers special hikes unlike those in the mountains or desert. Chief among them is “Tide Pooling.” These hikes along rocky … Continue Reading →
Tide Pooling! (Part 1 of 2)
The coast offers special hikes unlike those in the mountains or desert. Chief among them is “Tide Pooling.” These hikes along rocky coastlines allow you to gaze into the … Continue Reading →
Maxpedition Individual First Aid Pouch
I tend to go heavy on first-aid. I would rather have it when I need it than skimp and be sorry. In recent years I scaled back my *individual* first … Continue Reading →
Feline Tracking
One of my three “bushcraft goals” for the summer was to learn more about mountain lions. I hike alone in cat country and am not physically imposing. I always wondered … Continue Reading →