Phenology

Chalk illustrations show a buckthorn branch, British soldier lichen, Brown Creeper bird, and wooly bear caterpillar.

Charlie Mitchell

Staff phenologist John Latimer responds to nature reports from around the state. On Nov. 10, 2026, we hear of heavy rainfall, first frosts, and cold-hardy insects.

A fluffy red and gray squirrel sits on top of a woodpile. The background is blurred but gives the impression of a forest.

Science and Nature

Why do red and grey squirrels pick fights with each other?

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

During the Phenology Report for the week of Nov. 10, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on introduced trees, migratory birds, and the beef between red and gray squirrels.

A white-tailed deer buck stands among dried grasses, staring at the camera.

Science and Nature

Deer ye, deer ye: It's time to take to the stand

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

Co-hosts Julia Schrenkler and Heidi Holtan chat about the traditions of deer camp, reverent hunting, and the surprising birds that eat meat.Send us a voice memo through SpeakPipe!

Chalk illustrations show a bird's nest fungi, star-nosed mole, linden looper moth, highbush cranberry, and crane fly.

Science and Nature

Spot, Tiny, Fubbles, Mr. Stretchy Legs and Wibbits: Students consider frog names

Charlie Mitchell

Staff phenologist John Latimer responds to nature reports from around the state. On Nov. 3, 2026, we hear of a hunting bobcat, falling leaves, and possible frog names.

A seeding dandelion grows in St. Louis County on May 22, 2020.

Science and Nature

Dandelions have impressive adaptations for spreading their cottony seeds

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

During the Phenology Report for the week of Nov. 3, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on dandelions, hunting season, and young ravens' destructive habits.

A photo of a grey wolf has graphics of devil horns and theater curtains superimposed on top of it.

Science and Nature

A dramaturgist, a journalist, and an ecologist walk into a podcast...

Charlie Mitchell, Stella Mayerhoff, Report for America

Charlie Mitchell and Stella Mayerhoff discuss the intersection of monsters and conservation with Michael Chemers, professor of dramatic literature and founding member of the Center for Monster Studies.Send us a voice memo through SpeakPipe!

An adult Barred Owl perches near its chick in an oak tree near the Twin Cities in June 2022. Both birds have a pale beak. The adult has brown wings and a pale chest with dark brown streaking. The chick is fuzzy and gray with white circles around its eyes.

Science and Nature

The screech of the Barred Owl can be haunting

Heidi Holtan, John Latimer

During the Phenology Report for the week of Oct. 27, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on sandhill cranes in Aitkin county, active chipmunks, deer scrapes and the colors of the family of willows.

Chalk illustrations show ballooning spiders, wooly alder aphids, a harvestman, and a lady bird beetle.

Science and Nature

A bobcat hunts in full view of student phenologists

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of Oct. 27, 2026, we enjoy reports of a hunting bobcat, cooling weather, and a decapitated rabbit. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

A snoozy raccoon rests in a tree cavity in Minneapolis on March 8, 2022.

Science and Nature

In defense of naps and highbush cranberries

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

Co-hosts Heidi Holtan and Charlie Mitchell ponder the importance of rest, the benefits of sugar, and celebrate the first full year of the Season Watch Podcast.Send us a voice memo through SpeakPipe!

A Northern Harrier flies near Hastings, Minnesota on November 1, 2022. It has an owl-like face and a distinctive white rump patch.

Science and Nature

Northern Harriers soar low over open areas as migration continues

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

During the Phenology Report for the week of Oct. 20, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on migrating birds, the taste of cranberries, and first frosts.