Discover
Nature Where You Live
Discover the #everydaymagic of nature where you are…
Nature's Hidden Gems: A Dose of Magic in Every Corner
Nature isn't confined to sprawling forests or mountain ranges. It thrives even in the concrete jungle, waiting to be discovered. Look a little closer on your daily walk –
a bumblebee buzzing on a dandelion, a symphony of birdsong overhead, or the vibrant roses peeking through a neighbor's fence. These seemingly ordinary moments hold the power to transform your day.
A brief encounter with nature can shift your mood, replacing stress with a smile. It fosters a deeper connection – a reminder of where we belong and the intricate web of life we're part of. So, open your eyes to the beauty that surrounds you, and let nature's hidden magic enrich your world and way of thinking.
Can you find these things where you live?
Trees lining the streets:
Even a simple line of trees on a city sidewalk can provide a welcome escape. They offer shade on hot days, and their leaves change colors in the fall, creating a beautiful display. If you look closely at leaves, branches or trunk, you can usually find ants or other insects.
Parks and green spaces:
Cities often have parks and green spaces where you can relax, have a picnic, or go for a walk. These areas provide a habitat for wildlife and a place for people to connect with nature.Community gardens:
Community gardens are a great way to get involved in your local community and grow your own food. They also provide a pollinator haven for bees and butterflies.Pocket parks:
Pocket parks are small, urban parks that can be found in unexpected places, like between buildings or on traffic islands. They provide a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.Rooftop gardens:
Rooftop gardens are a great way to add green space to cities. They can help to insulate buildings, reduce stormwater runoff, and provide a habitat for wildlife.
Butterflies/Moths:
Butterflies flitting between flowers in a city are gathering pollen needed to grow our food.
Bodies of water:
Cities can have rivers, lakes, streams, and even ponds. These waterways provide habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife. It’s also a great place to relax your mind or ponder your thoughts.Squirrels:
Squirrels are common in many neighborhoods. They are fun to watch as they scamper around trees and buildings. Watching their silly behavior brings a smile.Wildflowers:
Wildflowers can be found growing in cracks in the sidewalk, in vacant lots, or even in parks. They add a touch of color and beauty to the urban landscape.Birds:
Our own neighborhoods are home to a surprising variety of birds. You might see pigeons, sparrows, hawks, doves, or even owls.Insects:
Insects are an important part of the our ecosystem. They pollinate plants, provide food for birds, and break down organic matter. You might see bees, moths, butterflies, ladybugs, or even fireflies where you live. Observe them to see what you can learn!
Do you know you can even just sit on your porch or by a window
and identify birds in your neighborhood easily?
Download the FREE Merlin app to your mobile device! It does all the work for you and even shows photos of the birds identified and records the bird sounds for you. We don’t benefit in any way from telling you this…
we just love the app that much and wanted to share this magical tool with you!