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Is the Big Dipper a Constellation or an Asterism? What's the Difference?
As a planetarium presenter, I'll occasionally overhear somebody say, "The only constellation I can find is the Big Dipper," as he or she walks into the planetarium theater. I've also heard people say that the Big Dipper is their favorite...
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How Do Fireflies Glow (and Why)?
Many of us watch in fascination as fireflies light up our lawns on summer nights. What makes fireflies glow, and why do they do it?
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Endangered Birds: The Kakapo Parrot
New Zealand's Kakapo parrot is critically endangered. What is this bird like, why is is endangered, and what is being done to save it?
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Endangered Birds: The Egyptian Vulture
The Egyptian vulture is an endangered bird species from Europe, Asia, and Africa. What is an Egyptian vulture, and why is this bird endangered?
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How to Find the Pleiades Cluster in the Night Sky
The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is easily recognizable once you know how to find it. Where and when should one look to find the Pleiades star cluster in the night sky?
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What's So Special About the North Star (Polaris)?
Have you seen Polaris? The North Star is one of the most famous stars in the sky, even though it is not the brightest star. What kind of star is the North Star, and why is it so special?
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What is a Marabou Stork (Undertaker Bird)?
Sometimes called "the undertaker bird," the Marabou stork is common in Africa. What are some facts about this unusual-looking bird?
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Locust vs. Cicada: Are They the Same Thing?
The words "cicada" and "locust" are sometimes used interchangeably. Are locusts and cicadas the same? If not, how are they different?
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Weird Cat Behaviors Explained
Why do cats drink out of the toilet? Why do they lick our hair? Here are the reasons behind these and a few other common but weird cat behaviors.
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Meows, Purrs, Hisses and Chirps. What Do Cat Vocalizations Mean?
They may not speak English, but domesticated cats "talk" to us and to each other. We're all familiar with the meow, purr, and hiss. What do these (and other) feline sounds mean?
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Common Myths and Misconceptions About Animals
There are many misconceptions floating around, and several of them have to do with our furry and feathered friends. Here are just a few of the more common animal misconceptions.
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Why do Cats Leave Hunting Trophy Gifts?
Does your cat leave small animals (dead or alive) at your back door? Does she leave toys at the foot of your bed? Did you ever wonder why cats leave such "presents?"
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Why Do Leaves Change Color in Fall?
As Autumn arrives, the leaves in many trees lose their green color and put on a bright display of red, orange, yellow, and purple. Have you ever wondered about the science behind these color changes?
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Do You Need to Worry About West Nile Virus?
With the resurgence of reported cases of the West Nile virus, news stories about this virus have been circulating once again. I work and volunteer at a nature center, and many of our visitors have been asking questions about their risks. A few of my...
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Ethics of Keeping Pet Birds: Is It Cruel to Keep a Bird in a Cage?
Some people believe keeping caged birds is cruel, even if the birds are well-cared-for and allowed plenty of time outside. Here's a bird owner's take on the subject.
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Is There a Difference Between a Vulture and a Buzzard?
The words "vulture" and "buzzard" are used interchangeably in parts of North America. Is there really a difference between the two birds, and if so, what is it?
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Why You Shouldn't Feed Junk Food to the Peacocks at the Zoo
Many zoos, parks, and petting farms have free-roaming peacocks on the grounds. These places also post signs asking visitors to please not feed the animals. Many people ignore this and offer the peacocks French fries, chips, and other junk food. Here's why you shouldn't do that.
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Horse Idioms and Proverbs (and Their Possible Origins)
Horses and humans have had a close relationship for thousands of years. The bond between the two species may have weakened in recent times with the invention of "motorized carriages" and tractors, but horses are still common in rural areas, our...
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Bird Idioms and Proverbs (and Their Possible Origins)
Birds often show up in common English idioms and proverbs. Have you ever wondered where phrases such as "a little birdie told me" or "it's for the birds" came from?
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Cat and Dog Idioms (and Their Possible Origins)
Cats and dogs have made their way into our hearts and homes over the past several thousand years, so it's understandable that they frequently appear in our language. The origin of a phrase such as "fighting like cats and dogs," is obvious, but have...
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Can Cats and Birds Live Together in the Same House?
Did you know that it's possible for cats and birds to enjoy each other's company in the same house? Here's how it can be successfully done.
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Should You Add Fruits and Vegetables to Your Pet Bird's Diet?
Did you know that birds need more than store-bought seeds and pellets to stay healthy? Find out which fruits and vegetables are safe for your bird and how to successfully convince them to consume these foods.
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Why I Love "Ugly" Vultures
When people think of their favorite birds, vultures are rarely on the list. Here's why vultures are special to me, and why they are among the earth's most important species.
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Five Birds that Don't Get Enough Love
Birds have enchanted humans for millennia with their songs, colors and their ability to fly. We put out bird seed and set up bird baths and bird houses. Avid birders buy expensive binoculars and cameras, and even go on special trips to watch birds. While your average person appreciates cardinals,...
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What Not to Say to Your Unemployed Friend
It's hard to figure out what to say or do to help your unemployed friend feel better. Here are few things that you probably shouldn't say.