Established in 1985, the New York Natural Heritage Program is a partnership between the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. The program’s mission is to determine the location and status of New York’s plants, animals, and ecological communities and provide this information to public agencies and scientific and educational institutions to facilitate conservation. Today, they count multiple non-profits, local governments, federal institutions, and state agencies among their partners — including New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites. You may have heard about their long-term firefly study at several of our parks. Ecologist Julie Lundgren shares more highlights from their year of work in New York State Parks.
Continue reading A Year in the Field With the NY Natural Heritage ProgramCategory Archives: Flora & Fauna
Rare or noteworthy wildlife spotted in New York State Parks
Moths: Friend and Foe
What’s your first feeling when you hear the word moth: irritation or wonder? Anyone who’s gotten an unpleasant surprise when taking winter wools out of storage will agree that moths can be a menace to clothing and bedding. But at the same time, the varied species of moths lend beauty and majesty to nights outdoors and play an important role in our ecosystem.
As a textile conservator, Sarah Stevens works with historic site staff to prevent moth damage and respond to it when it occurs. As a wildlife biologist, Kelsey Ruffino facilitates the study of the moth population in New York State parks and ensures it has the support that they need to thrive. Both share their professional perspectives on these winged insects.
Continue reading Moths: Friend and Foe
Bark, Buds and Beyond: A Guide to Identifying Winter Trees
When the weather turns brisk and the leaves have dropped, tree identification can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. But winter reveals its own set of clues — bark, buds, branch patterns, fruit and leaf scars. By learning to read these signs, you’ll see your winter woods in a new light.
Bark: The Tree’s First Impression
Bark is often the first clue you’ll notice. Some trees have such distinctive bark that once you have learned to recognize it, you can spot it instantly.
Protecting Rare Species in New York’s State Parks
What do a bare-cheeked bumblefly, a brown bog sedge, and a Blanding’s turtle have in common?
Not only are they living organisms that start with the letter B, but more importantly, they are all considered to be rare species in New York State. What does it mean to be a “rare species,” exactly? Rare species are uncommon or few in number and as a result, at a greater risk of extinction than common species. This is because small populations are more susceptible to environmental changes, like flooding or wildfires, and to genetic issues. Some rare species—like the bald eagle, still listed as threatened in New York despite its inspiring national comeback—might be familiar. Others—like the globe-fruited seed-box, grass-leaved ladies’ tresses, hairy-necked tiger beetle, Nuttall’s milkwort, southern pygmy clubtail, or wavy-rayed lampmussel—sound more like they are from a fantasy novel than from New York’s natural areas.
Though you may not see them, our parks and historic sites harbor some of the state’s most imperiled and significant natural assets, supporting 192 species of rare animals and 290 species of rare plants. In some cases, these sites support the only occurrences of a rare species in the state, or even in the world! Read on to learn about a few examples of rare species.
Continue reading Protecting Rare Species in New York’s State Parks
Celebrate the Empire State With the ‘Symbols of New York State’ Scavenger Hunt
For millions of us, “I Love New York” is more than just a slogan. It’s a way of life. The state’s incredible natural beauty makes it easy to love. On your fall rambles, show off your state pride and take on the Symbols of New York State Scavenger Hunt. See how many of these state symbols you can find!
Continue reading Celebrate the Empire State With the ‘Symbols of New York State’ Scavenger Hunt
New York State Parks and Historic Sites Blog 