Native Species

The American beaver was almost hunted to extinction in Maryland and across the continent. Read about this nocturnal herbivore that scientists are helping to conserve, and that in return, are discovering the benefits of having beavers in a variety of ecosystems in need of help.

The downy woodpecker is the smallest of seven species found in Maryland, and can be found in a wide variety of natural and human-made environments.

Registration for the spring session of "The Woods in Your Backyard" online course is now open. Our Regular features include the Woodland Wildlife Spotlight, Invasives in Your Woodland, our events calendar, and the Brain Tickler challenge.

The News and Notes roundup for this issue reminds you that now's the time to order tree seedlings for your spring tree planting projects in Maryland and Virginia, looks at a proposal to reintroduce an extirpated species to Pennsylvania's forests, and how you can get your green industry business listed with the Woodland Stewardship Education program's online directory.

Say the word “porcupine” and the image that immediately jumps to mind is its quills. However, the quills are only one feature of this rodent. In fact, it is the second largest rodent native to North America; only the beaver is larger. Its range includes most of the continent, stretching from Alaska in the northwest, through the Great Lakes area, to the Canadian maritime provinces in the east and south to Virginia.

Twenty-five years of "Branching Out" - read how it all started. Plus, read our "Woodland Wildlife Spotlight" and "Invasives in Your Woodland," and take the Brain Tickler challenge. This and much more inside this issue.

This issue has a year in review, the Woodland Wildlife Spotlight, Invasives in Your Woodland, the Brain Tickler challenge, how native trees and shrubs can benefit wildlife, and more.

Maryland is home to ten different species of bats, all of which are listed by the state as Species of Greatest Conservation Need. They are generally divided into two groups: ”cave bats” and “tree bats.” In this spotlight, we'll look at the tree bats in Maryland.

Read about some of the changes to the Woodland Stewardship Education program and News and Notes about stories you might have missed. Our regular features include the Woodland Wildlife Spotlight and Invasives in Your Woodland, and the Brain Tickler challenge. 

Maryland is home to three species of falcons. The American Kestrel is the most common, and resident populations can be found across the state. Read about the kestrel's unique features and ways to observe it.