Nature thrives in local parks, backyards, and even on neighborhood sidewalks.
You don't have to go far to discover local plants and wildlife. Here are some ideas for exploring and getting to know the amazing nature near you.
Get to know your neighborhood trees
- Check out this DC neighborhood tree map
- Consider the beauty of a leaf
- Collect acorns and seeds and try to figure out what trees they are from
- Notice what the trees and shrubs in your backyard or on your block are doing. Are they budding? Evergreen? Changing color? Growing berries?
- Learn more about Washington DC area species in City of Trees and the Casey Trees virtual and printed species guides
Take a weekly or daily nature appreciation walk
- Find a loop you like and walk at a leisurely pace
- Take time to observe the light, the leaves, and to smell/feel of the air
- Stop for a butterfly, or a really interesting weed
- Say thank you to the trees
- Listen for the sounds of birdsong, crows, or local insects
- Notice how things are the same or different over time
- Go on a forest bathing walk in a nearby park
Discover local wildlife
- Notice signs of wildlife during your neighborhood walks or in your yard. Do you see any prints? Hear bird calls? Notice squirrels scampering up trees? Butterflies and other insects on plants?
- Stop and observe the movement of a snail. Observe a bee collecting pollen.
- Learn to identify wildlife with the iNaturalist app. Take a photo and the app will help you identify the plant, animal, or fungi species. Kids love using Seek by iNaturalist.
- Learn how you can help wildlife from City WIldlife
- Use the Anacostia Watershed Society’s Beginner’s Guide to Plants and Animals as a scavenger hunt
- Find classes on wildlife through your local parks department or nature center
Get to know your neighborhood birds
Observe a garden through the seasons
- Do you have a garden or one you can visit nearby? Make it a point to observe and appreciate its evolution through the seasons.
- Notice the buds in the spring, the abundant colors in summer, and beautiful fading blossoms in fall. Notice the bark, twig colors, and textures in winter.
- Look for insects that visit, get nourishment from, or make their homes among the plants: bees, flies, wasps, moths, butterflies, and more.
- Get inspired to start a wildlife-friendly garden from Doug Tallamy and Plant NoVa Natives
Find a loop you like and walk at a leisurely pace
Notice signs of wildlife during your neighborhood walks or in your yard. Do you see any prints? Hear bird calls? Notice squirrels scampering up trees? Butterflies and other insects on plants?
Watch birds from your window and see who shows up!
Do you have a garden or one you can visit nearby? Make it a point to observe and appreciate its evolution through the seasons.