Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind

Street Smart Naturalist explores human and natural history in the Pacific Northwest. Themes include nature's resilience, the cultural significance of flora and fauna, impact of climate change, historical events, and Indigenous perspectives. The posts often highlight personal connections to local geography and ecosystems.

Nature and Wildlife Cultural History Indigenous Knowledge Climate Change Geography Historical Events Ecology Local Flora and Fauna

The hottest Substack posts of Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind

And their main takeaways

Robin: The Gateway Bird

399 implied HN points • 15 Aug 24

Robins are often the first birds people notice, making them a great introduction to birdwatching. They are recognizable and often found in urban areas, but many people overlook them.
Despite being common, robins have interesting behaviors and adaptations. For example, they use their eyesight and hearing to find food, like earthworms, in clever ways.
Connecting with local nature, like watching robins, can help us appreciate our surroundings and understand the ecosystem better. Observing these familiar birds can be surprising and fulfilling.

Mount St. Helens - An Awful Place

499 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24

🔬 Science Geology Ecology Environmental Science Natural History

Mount St. Helens had a huge eruption in 1980, which produced a lot of dramatic scientific observations and remarkable descriptions. Scientists used strong words to convey the massive impact of the event.
The landscape at Mount St. Helens has undergone significant changes since the eruption, showing how nature can recover and adapt after destruction. Visitors can see new growth, diverse plants, and wildlife returning to the area.
The experience of visiting Mount St. Helens is filled with awe and inspiration. It's a reminder of nature's power and resilience, making it a special place for reflection and appreciation.

Pikas Hit the Trail

399 implied HN points • 08 Aug 24

🔬 Science Biology Ecology Evolution Climate Biodiversity

Pikas are cute animals that have traveled a long way from Asia to North America over millions of years. They didn't just hop across in one go; it took many generations to spread out.
Pikas have a unique relationship with their parasites, which helps scientists understand their history better. These tiny creatures help tell the story of the pikas and how they adapted over time.
Climate change is a big threat to pikas today. As their homes warm up, they may struggle to find suitable places to live, especially since they can't go any higher into the mountains.

An Ode to Age

599 implied HN points • 11 Jul 24

🎭️ Culture Aging Nature Family History Environment

Aging can be appreciated by looking at both people and nature. For example, the author's mom turned 90, which is an incredible milestone.
Many local marine animals, like rockfish and orcas, have long lifespans and play important roles in their ecosystems. Their age brings wisdom and stability to their communities.
Trees and geological formations in the region can be thousands, even millions of years old, showing us that age contributes to resilience and strength in nature.

Swindling Geologist 2 (Pt 2 of 2)

319 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24

💾 History 19th century Biography Crime Naturalism

A swindler pretended to be a geologist to steal valuable books and fossils. He was caught and went to jail but continued his con artist ways after being released.
The swindler used different names and identities to deceive people and even stole microscopes from a university. His actions led to long prison sentences, but he kept going back to his old ways afterward.
The success of these con artists was partly due to the trust placed in them by local naturalists and scientists. They were often seen as experts, which made their scams easier to pull off.

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Raccoon: 1 Mole: 0 Crow: 1/8

339 implied HN points • 04 Jul 24

Moles are important for the ecosystem. They help aerate the soil and keep it healthy by tunneling underground.
Raccoons are skilled hunters and will eat moles when they find them. This is part of the natural food chain, showing how animals interact.
Crows also play a role in nature. They clean up leftovers, like when one picked up the remains of the mole after the raccoon was done.

Death Comes to the Beach

359 implied HN points • 13 Jun 24

🔬 Science Marine Biology Natural History Ecology Wildlife Conservation Bioethics

A small bird was saved from a drainage pipe, showcasing the joy of saving wildlife. It’s a reminder that nature can surprise us and that we can make a difference.
Opalescent squid lay their eggs in clusters that wash ashore, but most will die out of water. This highlights the fragility of marine life and how conditions affect their survival.
Pelagic gooseneck barnacles live on floats in the ocean but end up on shore after they die. Their life cycle shows the interesting connections between different marine creatures and their environments.

Backcountry Coffee n' Donuts

319 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24

🎭️ Culture Nature History Travel Arts Lifestyle

Finding old objects in nature, like the donut insulator, can remind us of the people who built things in the wilderness. It's interesting to think about their challenges and dreams.
Many trails in the mountains were created by miners and builders long ago, showing how humans have changed the landscape. These paths help modern hikers enjoy nature today.
Nature has a way of recovering even after human impact. This is a hopeful reminder that the forest can bounce back despite our past actions.

High Water and Lake Washington

279 implied HN points • 27 Jun 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Ecology Restoration Conservation Biodiversity

Lake Washington's water level is controlled artificially now, which is different from how it used to fluctuate naturally by as much as nine feet each year. This change was mainly due to the building of the Lake Washington Ship Canal in 1916.
The current management of the lake helps local properties but is not good for the environment. Plants that normally thrive with seasonal changes are struggling because they can't grow properly in the constant water level.
Union Bay has seen a lot of restoration work from being a dump to a vibrant natural space. It shows that even after mistakes, communities can come together to create a healthier ecosystem.

Things I Like About Geology

439 implied HN points • 23 May 24

🔬 Science Geology Earth Science Paleontology Natural History Environmental Science

Geology shows us that a lot of Earth's history is missing in the rocks we see. For example, not all ancient events are recorded, which creates a unique beauty in how landscapes look today.
The constant fight between uplift and erosion shapes our mountains. Mountains grow tall, but erosion, through water and wind, continuously wears them down, making them more interesting.
Geology helps us understand deep time but also captures small moments in history. Trace fossils show us detailed actions of past life, connecting us to individual stories from millions of years ago.

Memories of Place

539 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24

🏝 Travel Nature Experience Memory Adventure Lifestyle

As we get older, we may find physical activities that used to be easy can feel more challenging. This change can be surprising and humbling.
Our memories of places can fade over time, especially if we have done something repeatedly without truly engaging with it. Different kinds of experiences can create stronger memories.
Our interest and pride in specific knowledge, like plant names, can help keep those memories fresh even when other things fade away.

Desperately Seeking Solar Storms

379 implied HN points • 16 May 24

🔬 Science Astronomy Environmental awareness Public Engagement

The excitement of viewing natural events like the Aurora Borealis brings people together, showing a shared interest in nature. It's nice to see so many others wanting to connect with the beauty around them.
Sometimes you might not see what you expect, like missing the Northern Lights, but there's still beauty in simply being outside and enjoying the night sky.
Experiences in nature, like camping or watching the stars, can create lasting memories and inspire a continued appreciation for the universe.

The Possibility of Pikas

419 implied HN points • 02 May 24

🔬 Science Biology Ecology Conservation Wildlife Climate

Pikas are small mammals that usually live in rocky areas at high elevations, but some have been found at lower elevations, like the Columbia River Gorge. These unique habitats help them survive despite the warmer climate.
Researchers found that moss plays an important role for pikas at lower elevations by keeping them cooler and happier. Moss helps create a nice environment for these little creatures as temperatures can often be too hot for them.
Pikas are adapting to their new lower habitats by spending less energy storing food for winter and more time in the shade of trees. This shows they might have the ability to adjust to climate change better than some other animals.

Monkey Puzzles and Muir

519 implied HN points • 11 Apr 24

🎭️ Culture Nature History Botany Geology Travel

Monkey puzzle trees, native to Chile, are known for their unique look and have deep cultural connections with the Indigenous Araucano people who use the nuts for food.
John Muir traveled to South America to find these trees and wrote about his admiration for them, showing how much he valued nature.
The arrival of monkey puzzle trees in Seattle is somewhat mysterious, tied to early 20th-century expos and possibly explorers, but their history goes back millions of years.

Neanderthals in the House

359 implied HN points • 09 May 24

🔬 Science Paleontology Geology Anthropology Urban Nature Natural History

A person found part of a jawbone while visiting their parents' house, and it could be related to ancient humans like Neanderthals. This discovery shows that fossils can be hidden in unexpected places, even in our homes.
Many buildings, like the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, are made from a stone called travertine that has preserved fossils of leaves and other plants. This means you can see ancient life without going to a museum.
Cities like Seattle are full of building stones with hidden fossils, encouraging people to look closer at their surroundings. Exploring urban areas can reveal fascinating pieces of our natural history.

Wolverine: The Creature Most Voracious

239 implied HN points • 06 Jun 24

🔬 Science Animal Behavior Ecology Natural History Mythology

Wolverines are known for their huge appetites and can eat a lot of food at once. They are so gluttonous that they can overeat and need to find narrow spaces to relieve themselves.
These animals have a varied diet and are both hunters and scavengers, eating everything from birds to rodents. They do face tough winter conditions without hibernating, relying on their hunting skills.
People often view wolverines negatively, calling them destructive and cunning. However, they are simply doing what they need to survive in harsh environments and shouldn't be unfairly blamed.

When the Mosquito Fleet Ruled

259 implied HN points • 30 May 24

💾 History 19th century Transportation Cultural impact

The Mosquito Fleet was a group of small, steam-powered boats that traveled across Puget Sound, significantly improving transportation in the area during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
These boats acted like a lifeline for isolated communities, providing essential services like mail delivery and cargo transport, which helped settlers connect with the outside world.
Despite many boats failing due to various issues, the Mosquito Fleet was important because it adapted and continued to meet the needs of people living in hard-to-reach places.

Seattle's Most Remarkable Day

339 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24

💾 History Local history Transportation Economic Development Civic engagement Cultural Events

Seattle's citizens wanted a railroad to connect them to the rest of the country. After being rejected by the Northern Pacific Railroad, they decided to build their own railroad instead.
On a notable day in 1874, the community came together to start building the Seattle and Walla Walla Railroad, marking a moment of pride and determination.
Although the railroad never reached its ambitious goals, it opened new opportunities for Seattle, particularly in coal supply, showing how local efforts can make a big impact.

As Long as There is Life

859 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23

🎭️ Culture Nature Literature Travel Hope Wellness

Spending time in nature can help calm your mind and bring you peace. It's a way to focus on the beauty around you and escape from daily worries.
Hope can be found even in tough situations, as shown by a past Arctic expedition. Just like finding a flower in the cold, small moments can inspire us to keep going.
Facing challenges and finding renewal is possible anywhere, regardless of the circumstances. It's important to look for signs of hope and courage in our lives.

Seattle's First Map

379 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24

🎭️ Culture Local history Urban Studies Cartography Cultural Identity

Seattle's first map, drawn in 1856, shows a small area with just a few buildings and the beginnings of the town. The map reflects a very early time in Seattle's history.
Many of the original settlers were optimistic about the city's growth, even though they faced challenges like dense forests and high tides that isolated their settlement.
The early vision for Seattle was a bustling city with straight streets and large homes, but over time, much of the natural landscape changed and was transformed for business.

Festooning Ferns

399 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24

🎭️ Culture Nature History Literature Architecture Botany

The Stone Bridge, built in the 1930s, is a beautiful example of WPA architecture that blends with the natural landscape. It's made from local sandstone and has striking arches that enhance its charm.
Licorice ferns are unique plants that grow on trees and bridges, adding to the natural beauty around us. They were also used by Indigenous peoples for their sweet flavor and medicinal properties.
In the Pacific Northwest, many plants thrive in the moist climate, often found decorating trees and structures. This shows how nature can adapt and flourish in urban settings.

Monsters of the PNW

359 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24

🎭️ Culture Folklore Nature Mythology

PNW is known for its love of mythical creatures like Sasquatch and the Cadborosaurus, a sea serpent that arose from sightings in 1933. This makes the region full of fascinating stories.
One funny event involved a theory that geoducks were actually eggs of the Cadborosaurus. It led to ridiculous plans to catch them using mothballs, showing how far some ideas can stretch.
There's a possibility of large fish, like sturgeon, living in urban lakes like Lake Washington. This reminds us that nature holds many surprises and we often don't know everything about it.

Hope is a Book In Hand

359 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24

📚 Literature Author Events Diversity Storytelling

Books have a powerful ability to help people understand and care about different experiences. They can bring hope in tough times, especially when diverse stories are told.
Indigenous authors are important because they share stories that show their real lives, not just stereotypes. Their books help everyone learn about different cultures and perspectives.
Seeing people come together at book events is inspiring. It reminds us that books can create community and spread joy and compassion.

Green Seduction

459 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24

🎭️ Culture Nature Literature History Plants Environment

Plants are amazing and can be found everywhere, even in unexpected places. They are essential for life and create environments where other creatures can thrive.
Experiencing and enjoying plants can really connect us to nature, especially in cities. Whether it's in our backyards or parks, plants can bring us joy and comfort.
It's important to keep the language around nature alive. Losing words related to plants and nature can dull our connection and understanding of the world around us.

The Tethers of the Tide

379 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Water Historical context

Tides affect various aspects of life in Seattle, like ferry schedules and historical horse racing. The Meadows racetrack, for example, benefited from the speed changes brought by tidal flows.
During World War II, Boeing planes might have been impacted by tidal movements affecting the plant's floor, leading to manufacturing inconsistencies. Although this story is plausible, there isn't much official evidence to confirm it.
Buildings in Seattle face challenges with both too little and too much water due to tides. Some buildings have rotting support pilings from low tide exposure, while others struggle with flooding from high tides and storm runoff.

Street Smart Support

119 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24

🎭️ Culture Nature Literature History Community Arts

Supporting the newsletter helps keep it going and allows the writer to share interesting topics about nature and history.
Sharing previous newsletters with friends can spark fun conversations and encourage outdoor adventures together.
There are different subscription options available for those who want to support the newsletter further and receive regular updates.

Dungeness Spit

299 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Geology Ecology Natural History

Dungeness Spit is a five-mile-long sandy spit named by Captain George Vancouver in 1792, originally known as Tsi-tsa-kwick by the S’Klallam people. It's interesting how names can connect us to history and culture.
This spit is about 5,000 years old and was formed as glaciers melted, causing the land to rise and create new sediment. Nature shows us how changes over time can create beautiful landscapes.
Dungeness Spit is always changing, with natural forces moving materials like rocks and logs. It's a reminder of how dynamic and alive our natural world is, constantly evolving and adapting.

DNA goes to the Dogs

519 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23

🎭️ Culture Animal studies History Genetics Ethnography Cultural Practices

Woolly dogs were kept by the Coast Salish people for their fur, which was used to make warm blankets. Unfortunately, these dogs went extinct in the late 1800s, leaving only one pelt known today.
Recent research used genetic studies and the historical context of Mutton, a woolly dog, to learn about its unique traits and the care it received from Indigenous people. This shows how important these dogs were to their culture.
The extinction of woolly dogs is connected to historical racism and policies that targeted Indigenous practices. Understanding this context is just as important as studying the genetics of the dogs.

Street Smart Support

359 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24

🎭️ Culture Nature Community Writing Outdoors Support

The newsletter has over 3,000 subscribers, mostly from Washington, and is reaching readers in 49 countries. It shows that there's a wide audience interested in nature and history.
The author appreciates support through paid subscriptions, which help him continue writing the newsletter. Paid subscribers will receive more content and benefits.
Readers are encouraged to share the newsletter with friends and family to spark conversations and outdoor activities together. Sharing can help grow the community and encourage new subscriptions.

A Streetcar Named Seattle

299 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24

💾 History Urban History Transportation Public Transit City Development

Seattle once had a large trolley and cable car system used by millions before it was replaced by buses in 1941. It was a major form of transportation before most people owned cars.
Many physical reminders of the trolley system still exist in Seattle, like special street corners and widened streets made for the trolleys. These features show how the city was planned around this transportation method.
The modern electric trolleys in Seattle run on routes that often follow the old trolley paths, preserving a piece of the city's history in its current transit system.

Of Piscivory and Political Capital

359 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24

🎭️ Culture Literature Nature Art History Philosophy

Cormorants have been unfairly hated throughout history, often seen as symbols of greed and gluttony by famous authors. Those views were likely from people's own faults rather than the birds' behavior.
The cormorants are skilled fish-eaters and have even been trained for fishing in some cultures, showing their unique relationship with humans.
People's negative opinions about cormorants appear to be changing, as awareness and sympathy for these birds grow, suggesting a shift in how we view wildlife.

Becoming A Geogeek

459 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23

🔬 Science Geology Education Nature Environment History

Taking a geology class can change your perspective on the world. It helps you see the connections in nature and understand different landscapes.
Field trips in geology are about more than just learning; they are about observing and appreciating the natural world closely.
Whether living in a city or a rural area, geology influences where you go and how you experience your environment.

Words of Place

239 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24

🎭️ Culture Language History Geography Literature Society

Seattle has a unique vocabulary that reflects its history and culture. Learning these words helps people connect with the city more deeply.
Many terms in Seattle's lexicon come from local geography and community, like 'The Mountain' for Mt. Rainier or 'Skid Road' from the logging industry.
The relationship between language and place is important. Understanding local terms can enrich our appreciation of the environment and the people around us.

Rattler Killing Roadrunners

359 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23

🎭️ Culture Wildlife Natural History Birding Folklore Environmentalism

Roadrunners are not just cartoon characters; they're real birds that are beautiful and have unique colors. They can be seen running around in their natural habitat, which is pretty thrilling.
These birds are skilled hunters and eat various creatures, including rattlesnakes. They even have clever methods to catch their prey, like using cholla pads.
Roadrunners have a fascinating relationship with humans and many legends surrounding them. They are known to bring good luck and can even help lost travelers find their way.

Happy Thanksgiving

419 implied HN points • 23 Nov 23

🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Personal Reflection Local history Conservation

Hope is important during Thanksgiving and we should strive for a just and equitable world.
Nature plays a big role in our lives, whether it's hiking in beautiful places or enjoying the sights and sounds of urban wildlife like coyotes.
It's essential to appreciate the little things around us, like unique plants and animals, and share our experiences with others.

Rainshadows and other Ephemeralities

499 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23

🌞 Climate & Environment Ecology Biodiversity Urban Nature Environmental awareness

Rainshadows, or ghost leaves, show us signs of plant life, reminding us of the interactions in nature. They are a fascinating way to notice how the environment communicates with us.
Flight maps are shadows left by birds flying above, which can help us spot them better. They add excitement to our walks as we try to find the birds that made those marks.
Crows exhibit interesting behaviors like mobbing to protect themselves from predators. Observing such actions gives us insight into how animals interact and learn from each other.

Happy Valentine's Day

219 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24

🎭️ Culture History Art Maps Traditions Social

Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate love and joy with good friends and family. It's a chance to show appreciation for those we care about.
A historical map of Seattle from 1907 shows how the city was envisioned to grow. It highlights how places change over time and the importance of urban development.
The story of Denny Hill's removal and the city's growth reminds us that progress can be slow. Cities evolve in their own time, often influenced by economic factors.

A Brilliant Insight

339 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23

🎭️ Culture Nature History Ecology Birding Environmentalism

Steller's jays are unique birds that have a lot of personality. They helped a naturalist realize he was in America during his explorations, showing the importance of paying attention to nature.
Observing birds can spark curiosity and help you connect with your surroundings. Noticing animals and plants enhances our understanding of the environment.
The ongoing debate about naming birds after people might distract from more pressing issues like climate change. It's crucial to focus on the roles animals play in ecosystems instead.

The Politics of Names

379 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23

🎭️ Culture Names History Community Language Nature

Place and species names often reflect who named them, usually white men, which can ignore the stories of local people and cultures. It’s important to understand the history behind these names.
The American Ornithological Society wants to change bird names that honor problematic people to make them more inclusive and focus on the birds themselves. This change means letting go of some historical stories that are tied to those names.
Exploring new names can help build connections to nature and understand different perspectives. Learning from the local knowledge of traditional communities can enrich our appreciation of the natural world.

Urban Umwelt in Awe of Animals

199 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24

🔬 Science Biology Ecology Animal Behavior Urban wildlife

Animals have unique ways of sensing their world that we often can't understand. For example, dogs like Taylor use their amazing noses to gather information that goes beyond what we can perceive.
The concept of 'umwelt' shows that each species experiences their environment differently. This means animals interact with their surroundings in ways that are complex and rich, not simple or automatic.
Learning about how animals sense the world can help us appreciate their lives and experiences more. It reminds us that our way of sensing things isn't the only way and that every creature has its own valuable perspective.