With help from local communities, bald eagles are soaring across the Potomac region again

With help from local communities, bald eagles are soaring across the Potomac region again

The decline of America’s bald eagles—and their community-powered rebound—was one of the defining moments for the nation’s environmental movement, especially in the Potomac River region. Their road to recovery highlights the importance of preserving ecological balance.

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Here's the scoop on how these five local critters survive frigid temperatures

Here's the scoop on how these five local critters survive frigid temperatures

Curious about how local critters get through the winter?

We’ve got the intel for you! Whether it’s packing on the pounds, getting out of dodge, or cozying up with some friends, Mother Nature has quite an amazing response to the cold. Find out how five common critters spend the winter.

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5 large birds you can spot along the Potomac River

5 large birds you can spot along the Potomac River

The Potomac River region boasts around 120 bird species thanks to plentiful food and habitat options.

Check out these five large birds you can easily spot on a thirty-minute walk along the river—and read on for inspiration on what smaller species to look out for next!

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15 tips for getting outside this winter

15 tips for getting outside this winter

All of us need the mental and physical health benefits of getting outside—yes, even in the winter. How can you take advantage of the cold outdoors without it feeling like a chore?

Check out this list of how to prepare for cold weather, new activities to try, wildlife you can only spot in the winter, and even how to make a difference for your local community.

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How to become a birder: learn from expert Tykee James

How to become a birder: learn from expert Tykee James

So you've probably heard that birding is a great hobby—it keeps you in touch with nature, it's inexpensive, and you can do it through a window or in a quiet wood. But how do you go from fledgling to eagle-eyed?

We talked to Tykee James, a local expert from the Audubon Society, about easy ways to start birding (and make friends doing it!) and what makes being a Potomac region bird-nerd so special.

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Surprising ways 5 local critters survive the cold

Surprising ways 5 local critters survive the cold

Have you ever wondered how our local critters get through the winter?

Whether it’s packing on the pounds, getting out of Dodge, or cozying up with some friends, Mother Nature has quite an amazing response to the cold. Find out how five common critters spend the winter.

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Genuinely useful tips for getting outside this winter

Genuinely useful tips for getting outside this winter

Now more than ever, we all need the mental and physical health benefits of getting outside. But how can you take advantage of the winter outdoors without it feeling like a chore?

Check out this list of how to prepare for cold weather, new activities to try, wildlife you can only spot in the winter, and even how to stay in touch with the natural world when you’re determined to stay indoors.

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Ask An Expert: How to become a birder

Ask An Expert: How to become a birder

So you've probably heard that birding is a great hobby - it keeps you in touch with nature, it's inexpensive, and you can do it through a window or in a quiet wood. But how do you go from fledgling to eagle-eyed?

We talked to a local expert from the Audubon Society about easy ways to start birding (and make friends doing it!) and what makes being a Potomac region bird-nerd so special.

Read More

Genuinely useful tips for getting outside this winter

Genuinely useful tips for getting outside this winter

Now more than ever, we all need the mental and physical health benefits of getting outside. But how can you take advantage of the winter outdoors without it feeling like a chore?

Check out this list of how to prepare for cold weather, new activities to try, wildlife you can only spot in the winter, and even how to stay in touch with the natural world when you’re determined to stay indoors.

Read More

Surprising ways 5 local critters survive the cold

Surprising ways 5 local critters survive the cold

Have you ever wondered how our local critters get through the winter?

Whether it’s packing on the pounds, getting out of Dodge, or cozying up with some friends, Mother Nature has quite an amazing response to the cold. Find out how five common critters spend the winter.

Read More

What to do when you encounter local animals (and their babies!)

What to do when you encounter local animals (and their babies!)

Spring means animal babies! And as we spend more time outside, it also means more interactions between humans and local wildlife.

Do you know what to do if you come across a fox, snake, or baby bird? We asked the experts from Second Chance Wildlife Center for the answers to some common animal interaction questions.

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Ask An Expert: How to become a birder

Ask An Expert: How to become a birder

So you've probably heard that birding is a great hobby - it keeps you in touch with nature, it's inexpensive, and you can do it through a window or in a quiet wood. But how do you go from fledgling to eagle-eyed?

We talked to a local expert from the Audubon Society about easy ways to start birding (and make friends doing it!) and what makes being a Potomac region bird-nerd so special.

Read More

Surprising ways 5 local critters survive the cold

Surprising ways 5 local critters survive the cold

Have you ever wondered how our local critters get through the winter?

Whether it’s packing on the pounds, getting out of Dodge, or cozying up with some friends, Mother Nature has quite an amazing response to the cold. Find out how five common critters spend the winter.

Read More

Staff Picks: 6 Books to Read by the River

Staff Picks: 6 Books to Read by the River

At Potomac Conservancy, we think the river is the best classroom or teacher anyone could ask for this back-to-school season. But while you’re enjoying a fall breeze by the water, why not read a book that strengthens your connection with it?

For those of us that love to learn, here are six of our favorite non-fiction works that celebrate the wildlife, waters, and wonders of the Potomac Watershed and beyond.

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Ask An Expert: What to do when you encounter wildlife

Ask An Expert: What to do when you encounter wildlife

The leaves are changing, the air is cooler, you’re taking a crisp autumn stroll by the river…and you come across a fawn all by itself. Does it need your help?

What if you come across a large buck, opossum, fledgling bird, or potentially venomous snake? Any of these interactions are possible in the fall and, while thrilling, could be dangerous for yourself or the animal. But don’t fear! We asked the experts from Second Chance Wildlife Center how to deal with many common local species.

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