Fall is Time to Play in the Dirt
The first cold of the autumn hit recently, and with it comes the desire to pack everything into the garage and snuggle up under your nearest blanket. But for gardeners everywhere, this change in weather is all part of the rhythm of life. There is still plenty of work to do at this time, and plenty to enjoy about being outside. Right now is a great time to be thinking about next spring. We gardeners can run to our garden shops and catalogs and picture great color for when the last of the snows melt away, even if we haven't[...]
A Snake In The Grass May Not Be A Bad Thing
Even the words we use to describe one of nature's most misunderstood animals are enough to give you the creeps—slithery, slimy, sneaky, and poisonous—snakes! And summertime in Colorado is when you're likely to have a snake encounter. Eew! But wait a minute. Are snakes truly as bad as their reputation would have you believe? Recently, we talked with Victoria Sutton, Park Interpreter at the South Platte Park Carson Nature Center in Littleton, and learned more about the nature of snakes in our area. "I love snakes," said Victoria. Originally from Arizona, a state that boasts 14 species of these reptiles,[...]
It’s Baby Time—Let’s Keep Our Hands Off
Shh! Someone may be sleeping nearby. It's baby time in Colorado and our state is enjoying a burst of new births. But just as with humans, wild baby animals need to be treated with care. Jennifer Churchill, public information officer for Colorado's Parks and Wildlife, spent some time with your friends at DeckTec to update us on best nursery practices in the wild. "This time of year, the end of March through April, is baby season," said Jenn. "We can see all sorts of wonderful wildlife right now, especially baby birds and small mammals, out and about. The best thing[...]
Colorado, Coyotes, & You
Just about every science and science fiction magazine has a list of "species most likely to survive the Apocalypse." If you want to expand your list of cockroaches and crows, you may want to think about the coyote. This venerable member of the canine family is smart, adaptable, curious, and much more, according to Jennifer Churchill, Public Information Officer of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife department. Far from being on anyone's endangered species list, Jenn says you can find coyotes just about anywhere. "These animals have recorded populations in every state, except Hawaii," said Jenn. "And with Hawaii, there very[...]
Shooting Photos this Holiday Season
As the holidays approach, everyone likes to run for their cameras. Grandma's hugs need to be captured along with the little ones' joy over gifts and holiday lights. The outdoor sights glisten with snow, and promises of winter adventure. Why not make this year's photos, both indoor and out, look better than ever before? We recently spoke with Lakewood photographer Ben D'Andrea to see how he comes up with his best shots. "Good photography always boils down to composition and light," said Ben. "This lesson is easy to understand, but is an ongoing process of learning the entire time[...]
