NATURE

Waterfall and bridge at Watkins Glen State Park, New York.

The Summer’s Most Popular State Parks, According to Google Maps

These stunning U.S. state parks garnered the most attention—and map searches.

5 Awesome Facts About the Atlas Moth

This giant moth rivals any butterfly with its beauty and grandeur.

The Meditative Art of Hikaru Dorodango: How Japanese Schoolchildren Turn Mud Into Shiny Spheres

These decorative mud balls can end up so shiny and colorful you’d assume they’re some sort of jewel. But you can actually make them at home.

This one‘s a juvenile female, according to the Marine Megafauna Foundation.

Newly Identified Manta Ray Species Can Grow as Big as a Van

The newly identified Atlantic manta ray is officially a distinct species.

A massive thunderstorm turns the sky dark over a field in Sweden.

11 Powerful Facts About Thunderstorms

Storms are used to set an ominous tone in spooky stories, even as they bring much-needed relief to parched fields or distressed humans on a hot day.

Tears are a treat for some butterfly species.

7 Disgusting Things Butterflies Eat

Blood, sweat, and tears (and a few other choice substances): It’s all on the menu.

Aspen trees have seen better days, but gray wolves are helping them out.

How the Return of Wolves to Yellowstone Helped Aspen Trees Thrive

A new study shows that reintroducing wolves to Yellowstone sparked a massive comeback for aspen saplings.

This Backcountry Mug Cake Will Sweeten Up Your Next Camping Trip

With a few ingredients and minimal gear, you can enjoy a rich, portable backcountry cake on any camping trip.

13 Fascinating Facts About Bees

Sure, you know that bees pollinate our crops and give us honey. But there's so much more to these buzzing insects than that.

This view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge is from the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney, Australia.

20 Greenest Cities Around the World, According to Locals

Time Out surveyed 18,500 people around the world to find the greenest cities—here’s who topped the list.

Sorry to this little guy but feral swine are a huge problem.

Which Invasive Species Are Near You? Find Out With This Interactive Map

EDDMapS’s database has more than 9 million records of invasive species. See which ones hit close to home.

10 Most Dangerous States for Hikers

If you want a hike that will test your limits, maybe you should visit (or relocate to) one of these states.

A walkway winds through Missouri’s Onondaga Cave.

10 of America’s Most Spectacular Cave Trails

Whether you’re into stalactite symphonies, prehistoric shelters, or just love your trails dark and damp, these 10 U.S. underground wonders have you covered.

10 Best Beginner Hiking Trails in the U.S.

From waterfall views in Yosemite to canyons in Zion, these beginner trails are fun for the whole family.

Fireflies Are Surging This Summer, in a Rare Win for the Insects

Firefly populations have been declining, but there may be light at the end of the tunnel for the glowing bugs.

The cocoon is on the left and the chrysalis is on the right.

Chrysalis vs. Cocoon vs. Pupa: What’s the Difference?

Confused about pupae, chrysalises, and cocoons? Discover the key differences between these metamorphic terms.

Trekking poles help you keep your balance on uneven terrain.

How Trekking Poles Can Boost Your Hiking Game

They’re not just for folks attempting the Appalachian Trail. Here’s how trekking poles can improve any hiker’s performance and fitness.

A Simple Trick for Catching (and Killing) Spotted Lanternflies

Here‘s one quick and easy way to get rid of spotted lanternflies when you don’t feel like stomping on them (and a few other methods, too).

How Your Android Phone Can Alert You to Earthquakes Before You Feel Them

Every second counts when it comes to earthquakes, and Android‘s AEA system is changing how people prepare for one of nature’s most unpredictable disasters.

Surprising Partnership Between Ocelots and Opossums Captured By Trail Cameras

Scientists in the Amazon have discovered a rare and puzzling bond between ocelots and opossums—two species typically seen as predator and prey.

6 Campfire Hacks for Building a Better Blaze

Don’t get left in the cold on your next camping trip. Build a better campfire with these easy hacks.

The giant panda’s comeback shows that conservation works.

25 Species That Have Made Amazing Comebacks

From the world’s tiniest water lily to the second-largest baleen whale, these animals and plants have beaten the odds (with a big assist from dedicated conservationists).

This Foil Packet Shrimp Boil Is Perfect for Your Next Camping Trip

Looking for a simple yet flavorful camping meal? Try this shrimp boil in foil, packed with sausage, veggies, and spices.

Watch out for angry falcons on Acadia National Park’s Precipice Trail.

12 of America’s Most Dangerous Hikes

With their terrifying cliff drop-offs, extreme climates, and flimsy handholds, these hiking trails have caused more than a few close calls.