Zoo New England
Field Conservation Blog
News from the Field
Welcome to Zoo New England’s Field Conservation blog! Here, we share some of the amazing work going on “beyond the zoo” at a variety of field sites around New England. Expect tales from the field, interesting nature facts, and the occasional guest post from one of our local – or international! – community partners.
One fish, two fish, goldfish, no fish
Four years ago, our team began monitoring a uniquely threatened Massachusetts population of the typically saltwater species, the Threespine stickleback. This population is unique in that it inhabits an urban freshwater pond, despite being typically a saltwater species, and is … Continued
An Early Successional Success!
When you think of a thriving natural landscape, what comes to mind? How does it compare to the protected open space in your own town? You may picture a mature forest with towering trees and a full canopy as far … Continued
Acorns, Acorns Everywhere
Have you been noticing all the acorns everywhere this year? Maybe you’ve heard them pinging off the roof of your car, or, if you’re especially lucky, been bonked by one in the head. Oak trees produce acorns in boom-and-bust cycles, … Continued
Give a Hoot for Owls
Have you been hearing owls calling lately? Though many of us normally sleep with the windows closed at night in the fall and winter, with the recent warm weather I’ve had my windows open and have been hearing a Great … Continued
Shine Bright like a Bridle Shiner
Each year in late summer and early fall several of our field staff conduct surveys for bridle shiners. This is a small shiner species that is threatened and declining throughout much of its range and is listed as a species … Continued
Fireflies, spiders, and moths, oh my!
As October creeps in fast, we wanted to highlight some not-so-creepy crawlies as they can get a bad rep during the spooky season! These bewitching bugs all use the autumn leaves in one way or another, so if you find … Continued