National Scenic Trails are routes that are primarily non-motorized continuous trails and extend for around 100 miles or more. Appalachian Trail The Appalachian Trail (AT) is over 2,190 miles and spans the Appalachian Mountains from Maine to Georgia. The AT goes through Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West …
Many Native American tribes see cardinals as messengers between the spirit and natural worlds—connecting us to departed loved ones. Learn more at https://www.cherokee.org/media/hwzdck5e/cardinal.pdf
“Knock on wood” came from the belief that spirits resided in trees and knocking would call for their protection or prevent bad luck. Over time, the practice evolved into a common superstition to avoid jinxing yourself after saying something. Learn more at https://www.history.com/articles/why-do-people-knock-on-wood-for-luck
In American folklore, women accused of witchcraft were believed to have black cats as their familiars, offering companionship and protection In the United States, especially around Halloween, black cats are often linked to witchcraft and spooky superstitions that date back to Puritan times. The association with witchcraft is an old European belief brought to America, …
Field Notes is Naturalist’s Guide blog written and edited by publisher and producer Ashley Deese. Naturalist’s Guide is supported through advertising products, events, and resources from our trusted partner organizations. Every product featured is vetted, tested, and approved by the Naturalist’s Guide team. As the producer behind Naturalist’s Guide, I try to spend a lot …
As part of the Appalachian mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains, or the Smokies, are one of America’s oldest mountain ranges forming approximately 200-300 million years ago. The Smokies run along the border of Tennesee and North Carolina in the Southeastern United States. The 522,427 acres of Great Smoky Mountain National Park is relatively untouched and …
Pigs can breathe through their butts Pigs can breathe through their butts. So can mice and rats! Scientists discovered this by researching alternative methods for ventilators traditionally used to pump oxygen to the lungs. Turns out, oxygen gas via the anus into the intestines worked in reoxygenating blood. Source Ventilating the rectum to support respiration …
The skin on a turkey’s head, neck, and snood can change color—red, white, and blue—depending on their emotions The skin on a turkey’s head, neck, and snood can change color—red, white, and blue—depending on emotional state. These color changes are due to blood flow controlled by the bird’s autonomic nervous system, often in response to …
Flies that bite are attracted to the color blue Flies that bite are attracted to the color blue. Some biting flies include deer, tsetse, and horse flies. This is why you may see blue fly traps in some wilderness areas. It may be best to avoid the colors blue and black when going outdoors. Learn …
