Nature

We’ve all marveled at the transformation of the caterpillar into the butterfly. We think of it as a singular mystery of nature, but nearly three-quarters of all animal species undergo some form of metamorphosis. In Oren Harman’s new book, "Metamorphosis: a Natural and Human History," he explores the scientific, philosophical, and artistic aspects of transformation. How does it fit with the questions about individuality, struggle, and the life cycle?

Here in Texas you are probably used to seeing and even interacting with white-tailed deer. They stride into gardens and could end up on the side of a road after an unfortunate vehicle collision. We have a long and complicated relationship with deer. They are part of our myths and evolution. In the new book “The Age of Deer” author Erika Howsare hunts for the tales about deer.

Here in Texas you are probably used to seeing and even interacting with white-tailed deer. They stride into gardens and could end up on the side of a road after an unfortunate vehicle collision. We have a long and complicated relationship with deer. They are part of our myths and evolution. In the new book “The Age of Deer” author Erika Howsare hunts for the tales about deer.

When was the last time you topped off that backyard bird feeder? San Antonio’s climate and its growing urban footprint can mean bird feeding is a needed benefit for the local avian population. What are the best practices for bird feeding? What bird do you see chowing down at your feeder?

This Saturday the 9th Annual Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 1p.m. at Brackenridge Park. Over 30 educational partners will provide hands-on, nature-based experiences for children and adults to over an expected over 3,500 attendees. This is a free event and open to the public.

How are the bees doing these days? While there was a significant decline in bee populations in recent years, there's been a surprising uptick lately. However, this doesn't mean the crisis is over. Honeybee populations are increasing – but wild bee populations are still struggling.

Nightly in the summer months, between 10 and 20 million bats stream out of Bracken Cave to dine on bugs.

Chirping frogs fill the night air with strange squeaks and whistles all over Austin, but they are nearly impossible to see.

Michael Holinsky oversees the planting and maintenance of trees in city spaces.

The project just released their Trails Plans this week, which gives Texans an idea of the trail’s proposed route.