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
In 1700s Europe, pineapples were a symbol of luxury and rented for parties In 1700s Europe, pineapples were a symbol of luxury and rented as centerpieces for parties. Learn more at https://www.ancient-origins.net/weird-facts/pineapples-0016728 Ancient Egyptians buried watermelons in tombs so that the dead could stay hydrated on the journey to the afterlife Ancient Egyptians buried items …
The smoke that forms over the Great Smoky Mountains is actually created by plants The name “Smoky” comes from the fog that forms over the mountain range. The fog is caused by the mountain vegetation as the plants emit volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere. A fog begins to form due to the high volume …
“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 …
January’s birth bird is the Owl—symbolizing thoughtfulness and wisdom January’s birth bird is the owl. January babies are thought to be thoughtful and wise like the owl. January’s birth flower is the carnation—symbolizing unconditional love January’s birth flower is the carnation which symbolizes unconditional love. January’s birthstone is the red garnet—symbolizing trust, loyalty, and compassion …
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 January full Moon is called the Wolf Moon and will be a Supermoon The January full Moon, called the Wolf Moon, will be a Supermoon. A Supermoon is when the Moon is at its closest to Earth and will appear slightly larger and brighter around Moonrise just after sunset. The Super Wolf Moon will reach peak illumination …
Traditional names for each full moon in a year often come from various sources, including Native American, Colonial American, and other North American folklore. These names were used to track the seasons and often reflect the nature or activities common during that time in the Northern Hemisphere. Here is a quick guide to the names …
