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Nature

Parks, wildlife

City of Fort Worth saves urban prairie from development

City of Fort Worth secures a 50-acre undeveloped area next to Tandy Hills Natural Area, enhancing the preserve to over 210 acres. With the city's $620,000 purchase, supported by Friends of Tandy Hills, future residential development is prevented, ensuring the land remains a natural sanctuary.

Owl meets shocking end in Fort Worth alley

A great horned owl met an untimely end in our Fort Worth neighborhood last month. My husband and I discovered him one Sunday morning. We kept hearing crows yelling in a nearby tree. Like bluejays, crows will join forces to scare predators away.

Nearly 100 bird species seen in suburban Arlington yard

Charley Amos, a Texas Master Naturalist, attracts 97 bird species to his Arlington yard by offering water, native seeds, and shelter without using chemicals. He warns of habitat loss and encourages using native plants. Amos’ favorite bird-watching spot is Big Bend National Park. His global bird count approaches 1,200.

Rockwall author offers witty hiking guide

Rockwall author Mick Tune advocates exploring the wilderness in his book "Wildering." Tune combines advice with engaging stories to inspire readers to embark on safe and educational outdoor adventures. His curiosity-driven approach led him to paleontology, finding joy in learning alongside community experts and outdoor experiences.

North Texans step-up aid for migrating monarchs

North Texans are increasing efforts to aid migrating monarch butterflies by creating waystations like those in Fort Worth and Flower Mound. Local groups and cities participate in conservation, addressing population decline due to habitat loss and herbicides. These initiatives support monarchs' survival by providing essential milkweed and nectar sources.

Will dam repair impact Lewisville nature preserve?

Lake Lewisville dam's rumored risk is overstated, though repair is needed for serious but fixable seepage. Impact on the Lake Lewisville Environmental Learning Area is minimal. During the $150 million, multi-phase project, access will be restricted, but the enhancements may improve wildlife habitats.

Centuries-old tree dedicated at Arlington preserve

A 200-year-old oak, discovered by arborist Wes Culwell at Arlington's Southwest Nature Preserve, was designated a historic tree. Named "Old Caddo Oak," it was preserved thanks to officials and local residents. Recognized by the Texas Historic Tree Coalition, it highlights the preserve's ecological value and historical significance.

Centuries-old tree dedicated at Arlington preserve

A 200-year-old post oak, recognized as "Old Caddo Oak," was dedicated as a historic tree at Southwest Nature Preserve in Arlington. The Texas Historic Tree Coalition's four-year effort honored arborist Wes Culwell’s discovery. The tree, tied to indigenous histories, enriches the nature area's unique ecological and cultural heritage.

Austin-based group to bring Big Bend to Big D

Oct. 8, 2019

For most people, Big Bend is a myth. They’ve never been there. They’ve read an article perhaps, seen photographs, maybe a documentary. Big Bend is what they conjure it to be in their mind, undoubtedly romanticized to the max. 

So how do you get people to care about the land they’ll never experience? Can the urgency of a live arts performance convey enough sense of place to create compassion for a landscape and its inhabitants? 

Arlington creek project will sacrifice mature trees, homeowner says

Tammie Carson faces losing her backyard haven, including nine mature trees and parts of her deck, due to Arlington’s Kee Branch creek restructuring, affecting 73 homes by removing 240 trees to combat erosion. Opinions on the plan are mixed, with ecological concerns from residents and support for improved drainage from city officials.