Chances are most nature goers will experience the dreaded poison ivy rash at least once in their lifetime. Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a native plant that is valued by wildlife—humans are one of the few species vulnerable to its “poison.” The easiest way to avoid the painfully itchy reaction is to steer clear of the plant. Learn about a few common look-alike species that are often confused for poison ivy or download a handy field guide to take with you during your next nature walk.
By:
David R. Jackson and Sanford S. Smith, Penn State Extension
There are many commonly held myths about forests and forestry in Pennsylvania and it is important to dispel these myths so we can promote sound and sustainable management of those forests. In this article, Dave Jackson and Sanford (Sandy) Smith from Penn State Extension detail some of the most common and damaging forest myths and misperceptions.
When you’re outdoors, you may not have a first aid kit handy for bug bites, skin scrapes or skin irritations. Luckily, some common plants can relieve pain and help heal minor scratches, burns and itches.
This past spring and summer, a team of avian researchers spent their days observing the breeding season of Bobolinks in the agricultural and preserved lands of the iconic King Ranch area in southern Chester County. Learn about the team’s research into the lives of bobolinks and what they’ve learned so far about their habitat preferences and the impact of the land on their survival.
If you have a flower garden or just enjoy looking at the wildflowers that spring up every year, you’re probably familiar with the flashy pollinators hopping from flower to flower. But they are not the only pollinators crucial for maintaining a healthy ecosystem. At night, when bees are asleep and butterflies are roosting, their pale moth cousins punch into their shift.
In 2020 alone, the spotted lanternfly have spread to 12 new counties, bringing the total to 26 Pennsylvania counties. Spotted lanternfly have also crossed state lines making their way into Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.