For a hairy woodpecker, summer is actually a slight reprieve after a very busy spring of finding and drilling out the perfect hole.
Wildlife
Summer Issue 2025
Naturalist’s Notebook: Beaver Bingo
Bay Area beavers are making a comeback. Here’s how to recognize they’ve been working in an area.
Summer Issue 2025
Annotated Nature: How Jumping Spiders Pounce Like Cats
Jumping spiders have the best vision of any invertebrates, and live in habitats from beaches to mountains.
Science and Nature
Survival of the Flittest: Relocated Butterflies Are Spotted in San Francisco
At a recent release, volunteers help a new batch of silvery blues adjust to city life.
Spring Issue 2025
Spring 2025 Almanac: Madrones and Gophers
Life during spring can take your breath away.
Spring Issue 2025
Behold the Flamboyant Mating Rituals of Grebes
Western and Clark’s grebes strike rakish figures on Bay Area waters. But for all the attention they command, the secrets of their lives are well-guarded.
Biodiversity
Even Ground Squirrels Got In On the Vole Feast Last Summer
For the first time, scientists documented concerted carnivory by California ground squirrels. But why were there so many voles?
Policy
Local Groups Sue Trump Administration to Protect White Sturgeon
Recent federal- and state-level orders to divert water have environmentalists concerned over local impacts on this historic fish.
Winter Issue 2025
Naturalist’s Notebook: The Nuances of Yellow-Rumped Warblers
Yellow-rumped warblers are around in winter. But which variant are you seeing?
