Phenology

Chalk illustrations show a large-leaf aster, Carolina grasshopper, Northern Flicker, and pelecinid wasp.

Students spot migratory birds, dragonflies and butterflies

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of Sept. 15, 2026, we enjoy reports of changing leaves and migrating birds and insects. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

A Ruby-throated Hummingbird visits a cardinal flower before migrating south for winter. The bird is relatively large for a hummingbird, and is hovering next to red flowers. The background is blurry.

Science and Nature

Hummingbirds depart as fall color begins

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

During the Phenology Report for the week of Sept. 15, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer discovers Nevada flora and fauna and notes seasonal transitions in Northern MN.

A Black-capped Chickadee has a bad hair day while snacking on sunflower seeds in St. Louis County on Feb. 24, 2025.

Science and Nature

Chickadees and chimpanzees: Two geeks gab about the joy of science

Charlie Mitchell, Stella Mayerhoff, Report for America

Co-hosts Charlie Mitchell and Stella Mayerhoff geek out about primatology, evolution, and fantastic teachers.Send us a voice memo through Speak Pipe!

Chalk illustrations show a bald-faced hornet and butter-and-eggs flower.

Science and Nature

The school year begins with a phenology report from Little Falls

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of Sept. 7, 2026, we enjoy reports of fireflies, bald cardinals, and more from our friends in Little Falls. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Two round, russet and tan colored groundhogs gaze out over a rock in St. Louis County on June 19, 2021.

Science and Nature

What's the difference between a groundhog and a woodchuck?

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

Heidi Holtan and Charlie Mitchell discuss detailed observations, the joy of pursuing a snake, and the calming sound of nature names.Send us a voice memo through SpeakPipe!

A red maple shows off its vibrant orange and red leaves in mid-September.

Science and Nature

Scoping out September: A preview of early fall phenology

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

During the Phenology Report for the week of Sept. 1, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer anticipates the many happenings of early fall.

A garter snake flicks its tongue while being held. The background shows green, out-of-focus bracken ferns.

Science and Nature

In pursuit of a garter snake: A wild adventure with John Latimer

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of Sept. 1, 2026, we enjoy reports of garter snakes, frogs, and a woodchuck. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

A black bear's paw lies on the ground while it is anesthetized for long term radio-collared bear research near Graff during March 2024.

Science and Nature

Bear hands are better than bare hands for climbing trees, eating ants

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

Co-hosts Charlie Mitchell and Heidi Holtan enjoy learning about hungry black bears with Andy Tri, DNR bear biologist.Send us a voice memo through Speak Pipe!

An Aphrodite fritillary (left) and meadow fritillary sit next to each other on sandy soil. They are orange butterflies with checkered black-and-orange wings. The meadow fritillary is much smaller than the Aphrodite fritillary.

Science and Nature

Fritillaries flit around excited outdoor adventurers

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of Aug. 25, 2026, we enjoy reports of butterflies, bog adventures, and low water levels. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

An eastern cottontail browses on grass in Minnesota on July 25, 2020.

Science and Nature

A good summer for rabbits heralds a good winter for predators

Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan

During the Phenology Report for the week of Aug. 25, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on rabbit populations, changing leaves, and wildflowers.