Squirrel Appreciation Day is January 21st. These mammals  can range from half an ounce to four pounds and there are over 300 species worldwide. The most common breeds in Midwest are the fox, gray, red, and southern flying. Red, fox, and gray squirrels are diurnal, or active during the day, while southern flying squirrels are nocturnal. Contrary to their name, flying squirrels have extra skin on their sides which enables them to glide, not fly. Due to predation, lack of habitat, and vehicles, squirrels have a relatively short lifespan. Most squirrels live for approximately one-two years. Squirrels generally make...

Did you know that up to 12% of all species of birds may be at risk of becoming extinct in the next century? Bird Day was founded to raise awareness of the importance of birds and the daily challenges they face. This day was chosen to coincide with the annual Christmas Bird Count. This event lasts for three weeks and is the longest running citizen science survey in the world that helps to monitor the health of our nation’s birds. Avid birders and the public explore their region and record the number of native and wild birds that they...

January 1st offers an opportunity for many people to have a fresh start. On New Year’s Eve, many people resolve to change and improve themselves as they transition into a new year. Most resolutions can be classified into four categories: self-improvement, weight related, money related, and relationship-related resolutions. In a University of Scranton study 75% of resolutions were maintained through the first week, 71% past two weeks, 64% past one month, and 46% past six months. Here are some tips for setting and keeping successful resolutions: Set intentions instead of musts —An intention is an aim towards the direction...

Here is a brief history of this holiday:   When most people think of Christmas, they are reminded of decorating trees, putting up bright lights, and exchanging gifts. For many, this holiday has a more significant meaning as it honors the birth of Jesus Christ approximately 2000 years ago. Did you know that in the early years of Christianity, Christians did not celebrate Christmas? The Bible never mentions December 25th and early Christians could not agree on the date that Jesus was born. It was not until the 3rd century when Christmas became the official holiday celebrating the birth of...