Phenology Talkbacks

Green leaves have circular and oblong portions removed from their edges.

Naturalist cred: How to recognize signs of leafcutter bees

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of June 9, 2026, we enjoy reports of porcupines, leafcutter bees, and loon eggs. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a spittlebug, yellow lady's slipper, and forest tent caterpillar.

Science and Nature

Students sign off as summer break begins

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of June 2, 2026, we enjoy reports of hummingbirds, blooming lady's slippers and an abundance of wood ticks. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a wild columbine, red oak, Scarlet Tanager, American Redstart, and painted turtle.

Science and Nature

Seeing red: Students spot a profusion of Scarlet Tanagers

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of May 26, 2026, we enjoy reports of nesting loons, Scarlet Tanagers, and wild strawberry flowers. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a downy blue violet, Jack in the pulpit, bellwort, wild ginger, and trout lily.

Science and Nature

Who would pet a porcupette?

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of May 19, 2026, we enjoy reports of porcupettes, nesting loons, and a badger wandering in Little Falls. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustration show a trillium flower, Baltimore Oriole, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, spring azure butterfly, and morel mushroom.

Science and Nature

Teenagers spot tanagers!

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of May 12, 2026, we enjoy reports of migratory arrivals, spring azure butterflies, and leafing plants. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a wood anemone, wild strawberry, fiddle head fern, Tree Swallow, marsh marigold, and Chipping Sparrow.

Science and Nature

Little Falls students reach goal of spotting 100 bird species this year

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of May 5, 2026, we enjoy reports of migrating dragonflies, Broad-winged Hawks, and early May snow flurries. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a fairy shrimp, wood tick, bloodroot, and Common Loon.

Science and Nature

American Bitterns call 'glug-glug' from the wetlands

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of April 28, 2026, we enjoy reports of bird calls, insects emerging, and spring wildflowers. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

A round bird with a long bill stands in a winter field.

Science and Nature

Students watch woodcocks dance at Long Lake Conservation Center

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of April 21, 2026, we enjoy reports of life awakening and migrating across the state. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a hepatica flower, a Wood Duck in its nest, baby rabbits, and an Eastern Bluebird.

Science and Nature

Have you felt the intimidating presence of a Sharp-shinned Hawk?

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of April 14, 2026, we enjoy reports of blooming bloodroot, Fox Sparrows, and a two-footed coyote. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.

Chalk illustrations show a Great Blue Heron, a Sandhill Crane, and a Turkey Vulture.

Science and Nature

First frogs begin calling in Northfield while irises sprout in Duluth

Charlie Mitchell

During the week of April 7, 2026, we enjoy reports of Eastern Bluebirds, frogs calling, and buds beginning to break. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.