By Eric Duran Before our cold-blooded neighbors go into hibernation, I thought I'd take this chance to talk about three non-venomous snakes that are found in the Bellaire-West University area. These three species are relatively common in yards and other greenspaces and are completely harmless to humans. Snakes are reptiles, like turtles, crocodilians and lizards. They … [Read more...] about Playing it safe with local snake species
Wired to Nature
Getting crafty, with an assist from Mother Nature
By Eric Duran Here at the Nature Discovery Center, we're all about doing fun and easy crafts with kids. We especially like nature-oriented crafts that families can do at home with little fuss, especially if it’s too cold or wet to spend much time outside comfortably. This month, I'm going to share three that are family favorites. Pinecone birdfeeders are one of the more … [Read more...] about Getting crafty, with an assist from Mother Nature
Berries in your yard are an RSVP to migrating birds
By Eric Duran For a naturalist, winter is a mixed bag. Most of the wildflowers and insects go away. The reptiles and amphibians hibernate. Many of the plants in our region are somewhat less resplendent. However, as a birdwatcher, the Gulf Coast of Texas is actually an exciting place this time of year. Many birds migrate to the Houston area to spend the winter with us. Ducks … [Read more...] about Berries in your yard are an RSVP to migrating birds
Eric’s advice: What native plans to plant for winter (with our feathered friends in mind)
If you are planting these plants to feed wildlife, you want to get as close to the wild native form as possible. Differently colored or shaped cultivars are less likely to attract and feed native Texas animals. American Holly (Ilex opaca) Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria) Possomhaw Holly (Ilex decidua) American Black Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) … [Read more...] about Eric’s advice: What native plans to plant for winter (with our feathered friends in mind)
Texans in trouble: Our own endangered species
By Eric Duran This month, I wanted to have a look at animals that are in trouble. These are creatures that have experienced problems with human settlement, and their numbers have dropped greatly. Some of them are endangered, and some are just impacted enough so that we should be concerned about them. Let’s have a look at three species that we should all get to know better, and … [Read more...] about Texans in trouble: Our own endangered species