The hottest Nature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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As Long as There is Life

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 859 implied HN points • 28 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Going through the motions

Austin Kleon • 2897 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Starting something can feel tough, but just going through the motions can help get you going. It's a great way to break the ice and find your rhythm.
  2. Roget's Thesaurus has a quirky history that's more fascinating than you might expect. It's not just a reference book; it's filled with unusual ideas about language.
  3. Artists are always in the process of creating, even when it seems like nothing is happening. Like plants staying alive in winter, their work is growing beneath the surface.
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Africa Adventure Concept

Splattern • 199 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The writer plans to run from the Indian Ocean to Kilimanjaro, inspired by Toby Tanser's journey. This run is not just a personal challenge but a way to understand the significance behind Tanser's mission.
  2. The writer reflects on his travel experiences and how they shaped his view of life. He realizes that his adventures often come with a feeling of wanting to profit from other cultures, which he now sees in a more complex light.
  3. He acknowledges the legacy of those who have run or traveled before him and aims to honor that in his own adventures. This journey to Kilimanjaro will also contribute to a new children’s hospital, connecting his personal quest to a larger cause.

How To Go On In A World Full Of Cruelty

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2202 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Nature
  1. Feeling overwhelmed by the world's cruelty is normal. It's okay to take a break and fully experience those emotions before getting back to work.
  2. Finding beauty in everything, even in dark and difficult situations, can help keep hope alive. You can appreciate the world's chaos while still fighting for a better future.
  3. Love for the planet and all its creatures is a powerful motivator. This love drives actions and encourages resilience, even amid challenging times.

Festooning Ferns

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 399 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Ice and owls

Austin Kleon • 2757 implied HN points • 03 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. February often feels repetitive, almost like every day is the same. It can serve as a reminder of life's cycles, feeling like we're stuck in an ice storm each year.
  2. A '30-minute noticing workout' can help people become more mindful and spark creativity. It encourages taking time to observe the world around us.
  3. With the right tools, like a spotting scope and a camera app, you can enjoy and capture nature, like watching owls in your backyard.

Jump Day

Points And Figures • 612 implied HN points • 17 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Ducks need safe places to nest, so duck boxes can help protect them from predators.
  2. After hatching, ducklings jump from the nest into the water the next day to start their lives.
  3. The mother duck leads the way while keeping an eye out for danger, and the chicks learn to follow her guidance.

A window well wonderland

Disaffected Newsletter • 1179 implied HN points • 08 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. The writer enjoys the view from their new apartment, especially the unique window well. It's a cozy spot with moss, leaves, and small creatures.
  2. Each morning, the writer checks on the wildlife in the window well, showing a sense of connection to nature.
  3. The writer has named a frog, Aloysius, which highlights their playful and imaginative perspective on everyday life.

Twice Brewed, For No Damn Reason

Everything Is Amazing • 1710 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Trying new things without a specific reason can lead to unexpected joy and wonder. It's about being curious and open to surprises.
  2. Experiences like seeing a camera obscura in your own home can make science feel fun and magical. It shows how everyday life can be full of surprises.
  3. The story of the village 'Twice Brewed' disappearing from maps highlights how things can change in unexpected ways. It reminds us to seize opportunities before they're gone.

I Went Canyoning in Australia's Blue Mountains (So You Don't Have To)

Brent and Michael are Going Places • 609 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Canyoning in the Blue Mountains involves exploring narrow gorges and ravines with various techniques like climbing and swimming.
  2. Be aware that even a 'family-friendly' canyon route can be physically challenging and more difficult than expected.
  3. Challenging yourself in activities like canyoning can lead to a sense of accomplishment and create lasting memories.

Roadtripping

So Here’s a Thing • 1101 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The journey itself is as important as the destination, offering endless joy and new experiences along the way
  2. Embrace serendipity on road trips, mixing planned elements with spontaneous decisions to make memorable moments
  3. Beware of Californian drivers, as they may exhibit more chaotic and aggressive behavior on the road compared to other states

See You in South America

Bet On It • 85 implied HN points • 21 Dec 25
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. A multi-city tour of Peru and Bolivia runs Dec 30–Jan 16 with stops including Lima, Cusco/Aguas Calientes, La Paz, Santa Cruz, Sucre, Potosí, and Uyuni.
  2. A public keynote for the Santa Cruz Economic and Political Forum is scheduled for Jan 10, 2026 in Santa Cruz de la Sierra; POPULI organizes the event, will cover participation and meals, and registration is free until Dec 25.
  3. There are invitations to meet up during the trip and to join nature outings like Amboro National Forest, Kaa‑Iya, Santa Cruz Wildlife Sanctuary, Lomas de Arena, and the Uyuni salt flats—interested people should respond in the comments or email to join.

What is the colour of water?

lifeboat • 786 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Nature
  1. The color of water can be a blend of various colors like bronze, blue, umber, pink, gold, and silver.
  2. Different cultures and languages may perceive and name colors differently, affecting how we see and describe the world.
  3. Words and language can both reveal and limit our understanding of the world, especially when it comes to describing the ever-changing colors of water.

Monsters of the PNW

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 359 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Putting one foot in front of another

Logging the World • 976 implied HN points • 21 Oct 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Nature
  1. Taking 10,000 steps daily can benefit physical and mental health by providing fresh air, exercise, and a change of scenery.
  2. Walking at a slower pace allows for a better connection with the surroundings, noticing details like street art and wildlife.
  3. Embarking on longer walks can lead to unique experiences, connections with landscapes, and a sense of personal achievement.

A spring bouquet

Austin Kleon • 1978 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Spring is a time of new beginnings and growth. It's a great season to reflect on how we can create and blossom in our own lives.
  2. The interplay of light and darkness is crucial for both plants and personal growth. Sometimes, it takes more than just light to flourish; we need time to thrive too.
  3. Understand which season you're in, whether it's creatively or in life. Recognizing your current phase can help you grow and move forward.

Book Club: Some notes on the strange beauty of energy infrastructure

The Newsletter of (Not Quite) Everything • 530 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Coal mining has a deep history and emotional attachment for many, even as we transition to renewable energy sources.
  2. Renewable energy like wind power is seen as an obvious and compelling solution for energy needs.
  3. Industrial infrastructure, even when old or decommissioned, can evoke a sense of nostalgia and admiration for human achievement.

Climbing London's Least Historic Hill

Londonist: Time Machine • 319 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. London's least historic hill, Stave Hill, was created in 1984 and stands as a modern mound in Rotherhithe, made from old docklands debris within a nature reserve.
  2. The area where Stave Hill now stands was previously occupied by Surrey Commercial Docks, known for handling timber imports, hence the hill's name reflecting the connection to staves used in barrels.
  3. Despite lacking a historical background, Stave Hill has a unique origin story rooted in the transformation of the industrial landscape of Rotherhithe from the 1970s.

River as a verb

The Egg And The Rock • 963 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🔬 Science Nature
  1. A river is more than just a static object, it is a dynamic process that is constantly changing and flowing.
  2. Our language often limits our understanding of the world by categorizing things as objects rather than actions.
  3. The river is part of a larger cycle, influenced by natural forces like gravity and the sun, showing the interconnectedness of all elements in nature.

The Woman Question 5: LSD, Mind Control, The CIA

Egg Report • 963 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Sexual experiences can sometimes leave us feeling hollow and questioning societal expectations.
  2. Intimacy can lead to revelations that challenge our symbolic understandings.
  3. Fear of needing to become someone like Charles Manson for love may stem from cultural influences and not reality.

That’s a wrap

Splattern • 219 implied HN points • 02 May 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The adventure covered 1500 miles with numerous ski days and mountain passes, showing the commitment and challenge involved. It's a big accomplishment, and it took a lot of planning and effort.
  2. The author expressed overwhelming gratitude for everyone who provided support during the journey, emphasizing the importance of community and connection. It's great to feel appreciated for help received along the way.
  3. After finishing this adventure, the author looks forward to new adventures and experiences, highlighting a sense of excitement for what's next. It's all about moving forward and embracing new opportunities.

Of change and stillness, freeze and thaw

lifeboat • 668 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Nature
  1. Water's essential quality is its unsettledness, with various forms and states.
  2. Paying careful attention to water reveals deeper insights about reality and the passage of time.
  3. Observing the flow of time through mundane moments can help us feel more alive and present.

Zen and the Art of Bear Spotting

The Abbey of Misrule • 416 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The goats in the trailer park are carefree and relaxed, showing that a simple life can be fulfilling. They teach us that sometimes, just being present and enjoying the moment is enough.
  2. The road trip to Alaska is a journey for adventure and reflection, reminding us of the importance of being on the move and exploring new places. It’s a chance to disconnect and think deeply about life.
  3. Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed is common, and it's important to take a step back to recharge. Learning from nature and simple things can help bring clarity and peace.

Farewell Canada

Splattern • 239 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The journey involved running and skiing over 1,200 miles, showing a real commitment to adventure. It was not just about the distance but also the experiences along the way.
  2. The support from strangers and friends was incredible, with many people offering help and kindness. Each act of generosity made the journey feel less lonely.
  3. The author felt grateful for the adventure and the people who contributed to it. It was a reminder of how important community and human connections are.

Green Seduction

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 459 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

Desert Bloom & Howling Moon

Seven Senses • 239 implied HN points • 14 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. La Limpia is a cleansing ceremony using traditional methods like eggs to diagnose and release negative energies. It involves participants moving rhythmically and engaging their senses.
  2. The gathering in the Mojave desert allowed friends to support each other through grief while enjoying the beauty of nature and the simplicity of shared meals and conversations.
  3. Experiencing the vast night sky in the Mojave desert adds a magical element to the healing process, helping participants connect with the universe and find joy in renewal after loss.

Bird of the Week: Cowbirds

Discourse Blog • 491 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🔬 Science Nature
  1. Cowbirds are devious birds that survive through deception and thievery
  2. Cowbirds practice brood parasitism, tricking other birds to raise their young
  3. Cowbirds almost drove the Kirtland's Warbler to extinction by parasitizing their nests

On the Two Forms of Primitivism

Grey Goose Chronicles • 471 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Nature
  1. The text discusses two forms of primitivism: egalitarian primitivism and hierarchical primitivism.
  2. Egalitarian primitivism seeks a return to primitive as a form of levelling, while hierarchical primitivism glorifies life and engages in a struggle.
  3. Nature is portrayed as a refuge for those seeking escape from modernity, with some using it for personal solace and others turning it into a morality play.

Street Smart Support

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 119 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Supporting the newsletter helps keep it going and allows the writer to share interesting topics about nature and history.
  2. Sharing previous newsletters with friends can spark fun conversations and encourage outdoor adventures together.
  3. There are different subscription options available for those who want to support the newsletter further and receive regular updates.

Capturing the Lesser-Known Golden Hour

The Planet • 452 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The lesser-known golden hour is a beautiful time for capturing unique moments in photography.
  2. Nature holds a unique magic at dawn, providing moments of peace and connection with the planet's beauty.
  3. Silence in nature can be the best company, offering lessons and solace in the quiet surroundings.

#16: Four alternatives to an Alaska cruise

Bureau of Adventure • 79 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. You can visit Alaska without going on a cruise. Alternatives include flying to Anchorage and taking a road trip to explore scenic spots like Denali National Park and Seward.
  2. Southeast Alaska offers a different experience accessed by flying or taking shorter ferries. You can spend more time in smaller towns and visit places that huge cruise ships don't reach.
  3. The Alaska Marine Highway is a ferry system that connects coastal communities. It's more local and lets you enjoy beautiful scenery while traveling, plus you can camp on the deck for a budget-friendly option.

The Gnome Trail

Culture Study • 2936 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. There are many hidden trails on the island that offer unique and beautiful experiences for those who take the time to explore.
  2. Community, like the trails, requires ongoing maintenance and efforts to be inclusive and welcoming to all.
  3. The existence of gates, physical or metaphorical, in communities raises questions about access and the risk of exclusion.

Southern Bridge and Fort Sumter

Jeff Giesea • 179 implied HN points • 21 May 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Nighttime walks can evoke a mix of real-life experiences and imaginative thoughts. It's a great time to reflect on history while enjoying the beauty around you.
  2. The connection between past events, like the Civil War, and present political feelings can be profound. It often leads to questions about our current society and history.
  3. Interactions with people during walks can vary, but kindness often shines through. Engaging with others can add a positive touch to the experience.