Timber Rattlesnake found on a hike.
We Have to Watch Out for Bites and Ticks While Out Hiking
Even though we can’t go now, this beautiful environment will be waiting for us when we can. You, too. It’s never too early to start thinking about a gorgeous Tennessee vacation. Read more here.
This large hornet is native to Europe and can be common, especially in areas of human development. They are predators of other arthropods, which they bring back to their nest in a cavity such as a tree hole. Despite being large and scary, they are not aggressive.
This is a mournfulthyrsi, a colorful, day-flying moth found in forests throughout the eastern US. As caterpillars, they feed only on the leaves ofgreenbrier (Smilax), a thorny vine that often irritates hikers. It’s fun to associate an attractive day-flying moth like this with the thorny plant that many curse.
Ranch Manager Harold Out in the Field
Scuttle flies are likely among the most ecologically diverse families of all arthropods. The diversity of habits is staggering. Although some scuttle flies specialize on ants, even killing them in interesting ways, these individuals are likely just seeking to snack on an already-dead ant, before scuttling on their way