Forest Society Blog - News & Features

Seeing moths in the cold? They’re likely Bruce spanworm moths—a native species adapted to fly in chilly late fall, emerging after most insect-eating birds have left.

This reflection weaves together the rhythms of ecological change with a transition behind the microphone at Something Wild. As forests, wildlife communities, and seasons evolve, so too does the show—marking Chris Martin’s retirement as co-host and welcoming Grace McCulloch to carry the conversation forward, reminding us that change is not an ending, but a continuation.

Extreme birder Gino Ellison joined Something Wild to share how his 2023 Big Year led him across 78,000 miles and to an incredible 802 bird species. He reflects on what drives dedicated “listers” and why anyone can try their own Big Year—right in their backyard.

The Something Wild team visited Black Mountain Forest to see northern saw-whet owls up close. On a record night at the banding station, 15 owls were banded and released, helping researchers track these tiny, elusive nocturnal hunters.

The Something Wild team visited NH’s largest sycamore at Concord’s Kimball-Jenkins Estate. Over 300 years old and 100 feet tall, its massive trunk spans 18 feet around. Rare in NH, sycamores thrive along rivers and support diverse wildlife. This historic tree is a natural treasure in the heart of the city.

Step into the forest and reignite your sense of wonder! We explore how fairy houses—crafted from twigs, acorns, moss, and a whole lot of imagination—can open a bridge between childhood magic and adult curiosity. Listeners are reminded that nature isn’t just to be understood—it’s to be felt, imagined, and cherished.

If you’ve noticed more fireflies than usual lighting up New Hampshire’s summer nights, you’re not imagining things. A wet spring created ideal conditions for firefly larvae to thrive underground, leading to a noticeable surge in adult fireflies this season. In this episode of Something Wild, discover the fascinating lifecycle of these glowing insects and learn how you can help protect their habitat.

We celebrate the American beech — a majestic, smooth‑barked tree that makes up nearly 40% of northern hardwood forests and supports wildlife with its nuts and canopy. However, this iconic species is now facing serious threat from Beech Leaf Disease, which could leave up to 40% of forests in central New Hampshire standing dead if not addressed.