John Weeks

John Weeks discusses plant life that is rarely found in the index or glossary of nature books: the vine. Some are very important to wildlife, including grape, poison ivy, and morning glory vines.

Wildlife does not stay hidden for long after a blizzard passes. John Weeks suggests that there are plenty of lessons to be learned while exploring after a big storm.

John Weeks discusses his limited experience with snowshoeing and recounts various encounters with wildlife while out on the winter trails.

John Weeks suggests that both man and wildlife need to know their limitations in order for maximum productivity in cold weather.

John Weeks discusses what the conventional thinking regarding bird migration used to be, and how it has advanced in recent centuries through the use of "banding."

Weeks describes that within branches, seeds, soil, and creatures exist promises of the approaching season.

John Weeks discusses the effect snow has on shrubs, trees, and animals. He makes the point that a tape measure snowstorm effects man far more than the creatures in nature.

John Weeks discusses the types of scenes he sees on the Christmas cards he gives and receives. He notes a lack of ecological accuracy and an emphasis on cuteness.

John Weeks discusses all aspects of a pond in winter with the help of a reliable guide, the muskrat. While some creatures remain tethered beneath the ice to wait out the winter, there are fewer signs of life than in other seasons.

John Weeks shares everything there is to know about the flying squirrel and recounts an experience with one earlier on in his life.

John Weeks discusses behaviors and preparations of animals and plants in nature during the winter months. He suggests that the wild world has no time for "cabin fever."

John Weeks describes weasels as beautiful, fearless, and efficient. He points out that weasel's are our ally against rodents, and that every weasel killed equals 100 deer mice saved.

John Weeks discusses how the activities of both humans and wildlife are climate regulated. Wildlife, however, only change their clothes a couple of times per year.

While he has never been convinced of any steadfast signs that a particularly rough winter is ahead, John Weeks shares some speculative short and long-term weather prognostications.

Did you know that snow acts as an insulator and can provide protection to many animals, even those who do not typically burrow? John Weeks discusses the pros and cons of snow.

Weeks discusses exploring during the first snowfall in order to discover anything new. He shares stories of the puzzles in the snow he has encountered during past walks.

John Weeks touches on the embellishment of the current version of Thanksgiving. He recounts the true origin of the holiday through the words of Governor William Bradford.

John Weeks suggests using the found hour brought on by "falling back" late in the year to do things you otherwise couldn't do. Take advantage before your body adjusts and the found hour is lost.

John Weeks discusses critters (good and bad) who may decide to take up residence in your home or garage during the cold, winter months. He offers tips on how you can control the flow of unwanted pests from making your home their home.

John Weeks talks about the sadness of the autumn leaf fall that is tempered by the wonderful colors and the knowledge of the beauty that lies ahead. He explains why leaves fall and the benefits of the yearly occurrence.

John Weeks discusses societal changes that have occurred throughout the course of his life. One thing that has remained constant, however, is his love for nature and the planet.

John Weeks discusses lands that are rich in glacial history, chiefly Chicago Bog. He touches on the aesthetics of the bog, from surrounding shrubbery to bog inhabitants.

Weeks talks about the creative genius involved in autumn leaves falling, only to bloom again in the spring. He also suggests that the late fall environment, especially the month of November, is an open book full of choice reading.

John Weeks discusses the first widespread freeze of the year, and the gorgeous day that proceeded it. He also explains the significance of microclimates and their undetected presence nearly everywhere we turn.

Weeks remembers his first encounter with the fall crocus. He talks about how light wavelength effects plant growth and touches on photoperiodism as it relates to the blooming of various plants.

Weeks recounts a walk along Rice Pond and the interlacing of the sounds coming from various species of waterfowl. He also provides information regarding the colorful ensembles sported by different types of birds that were seen on the hike.

John Weeks discusses revisiting his favorite vistas more than 30 years after he first discovered their beauty. He notes that despite the changes in these areas, they maintain the magic and charm they have always had.

John Weeks discusses the influence of the moon on bird migration and reproduction. He explains how day length have been demonstrated to trigger reproductive cycles and stimulate hormone production.

John Weeks talks about the parallel between the operation of a wild thing and the function of a computer chip. Weeks makes the point that in both cases, a lot of what happens may be the result of stored messages or directives, as in the case of bird migration.

In the wake of Hurricane Isabel, John Weeks discusses how the aftermath of a storm can provide opportunity despite devastation. Nature always makes the necessary adjustments after a natural disaster, begging the question of whether these events are really disasters at all.