Nature

Texas cities exhibit significant biodiversity, as showcased during iNaturalist's City Nature Challenge. Participants from 669 cities documented numerous species. San Antonio and Dallas-Fort Worth ranked second and fifth, respectively. Bioblitzes, which involve groups documenting species over short periods, are vital for citizen science, enhancing our understanding of biodiversity.

Departing council member Gyna Bivens helped Fort Worth enhance tree protections after seven years of advocacy. The new ordinance nearly doubles protected tree species, mandates preserving significant post oak and blackjack oak canopies, and raises penalties for illegal removal. It balances developer needs and aims to expand the urban canopy.

Bob Brennan, a beloved nature photographer, was honored with a memorial bench at Sheri Capehart Nature Preserve, Arlington. Known for capturing the area's beauty, Brennan's images showcased its transformation. A passionate supporter, his legacy continues through his photos and a bench built from local wood, celebrating his deep connection to nature.

In 2021, Kristi Kerr Leonard and I hiked the neglected Ned and Genie Fritz Texas Buckeye Trail with Eileen Fritz McKee. Overgrown trails and invasive privet strangle the buckeyes. Leonard led restoration efforts, reviving the trail and Buckeye Walks in 2023, attracting dozens of first-time forest visitors.

On Feb. 28, 2025, a new trail was opened at Dallas's Kiest Park Conservation Area. Funded by a $75,000 WFAA grant, the WFAA Creekside Trail adds three miles of trails with new features. The area, donated by Edwin Kiest, underwent upgrades for conservation efforts and further enhancements are planned.

In Texas, where 93% of land is privately owned, Wildlife in Focus promotes conservation through a photo contest pairing landowners and photographers to document native wildlife. Proceeds fund educational endeavors like Kritters 4 Kids, fostering both preservation efforts and ecotourism on private lands.

My husband and I put up a screech owl box hoping for owls, but bees moved in instead. Ryan Giesecke from the Texas Association of Professional Bee Removers explained that it's common for honeybees to occupy these boxes in Texas. Leaving the bees can be safe if they are out of the way, offering educational and pollination benefits.

Allison Docker, Fort Worth's new green space champion, aims to preserve open spaces and enhance the city's environment through sustainable initiatives. She brings experience in landscape architecture, contributing to projects like urban parks and streetscapes, aligning with the city’s Good Natured initiative to preserve 10,000 acres by 2028.

Now is the time to sow wildflower seeds in Texas, as the season runs from September to mid-November. Wildflowers need winter weather to germinate for spring blooms. I advocate for native plants and prairie restoration, and sow seeds to support wildlife, with resources available from Native American Seed and Wildseed Farms.

Turtles may need assistance crossing roads, especially during breeding season in spring. Most know their destination, so carry them in their travel direction. Turtles often cross due to development or as released pets. Ensure road safety and avoid relocating far from their home range to prevent their return and harm.