The hottest Nature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Art & Illustration Topics

Top Links 633 Van Gogh and the end of nature. How the UK kicked coal & China's approach to modernization

Chartbook • 515 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Van Gogh's artwork reflects a connection to nature and highlights the changes happening in the world around us. His pieces can show the beauty of nature, but also hint at its decline.
  2. The UK's transition away from coal energy showcases a significant shift towards more sustainable practices. This change is a crucial step in fighting climate change and preserving the environment.
  3. China's modernization is an interesting blend of tradition and innovation. It highlights how countries can evolve while balancing their historical roots with modern advancements.

Piss Man

Into the Hedge • 119 implied HN points • 09 Apr 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Nature
  1. The author discovered a connection between relieving themselves outside and growing a robust tuft of greenery.
  2. The post also discusses farm updates like the hatching of geese, chickens transitioning to pasture, and the story of a chicken named Holy Shit that came back from the dead.
  3. There's a poetic element in the post about Piss Man, with a unique story and poem shared by the author.

The Ravineous City

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 219 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Seattle has many natural ravines formed by a mix of geology, climate, and time. These ravines provide unique landscapes in the city.
  2. Different places use different terms for similar features; for example, Tacoma prefers 'gulch' over 'ravine'. This shows how local culture influences language.
  3. Ravenna is a well-known ravine in Seattle with interesting historical and linguistic connections. Its name reflects a mix of culture and nature.

To the Pacific and back

Wait! Just Listen • 393 implied HN points • 12 Feb 23
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The beauty of Papua New Guinea's natural landscape is striking, even amidst challenges.
  2. Communities in Papua New Guinea have a deep connection to the land, transcending material ownership.
  3. Regardless of location or circumstances, the universal human longing for respect and validation is evident.

Under the Old Ginkgo

Tech and Tea • 476 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. The ginkgo tree in the backyard, despite being a nuisance with its smelly fruit, holds deep meaning and connection for the family. It represents the changing seasons and has special memories tied to it.
  2. Being 'useless' can actually mean thriving on your own terms. Instead of chasing traditional success, it's okay to embrace your unique path and focus on what really matters to you.
  3. You don’t have to scale and fit into conventional molds. Finding a small, appreciative audience for your personal gifts can be just as fulfilling as chasing big success.
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Angel Lake reward

PASSAGES • 259 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Sometimes the best travel days are when you don't go anywhere.
  2. Enjoying a day of relaxation can be a rewarding part of a trip.
  3. Anchoring a tent is important to prevent it from flying away.

Kimberley

Splattern • 119 implied HN points • 31 Mar 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Litter on the roadside can tell you a lot about the area’s habits, especially drinking culture. It's surprising to see how much trash is left behind by people.
  2. Meeting locals can lead to unexpected kindness, like being invited for dinner and a place to stay. It's great to connect with others while traveling.
  3. Being outside regularly can bring new experiences and even teach you things, like learning about buttercups from friendly hikers. Being out of the loop can sometimes lead to fun discoveries.

Reality: A Lesson on Love from John Muir

Meaning || Matter • 19 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. John Muir believed that to truly love nature, you have to understand it deeply. It's not just about enjoying beautiful views, but learning about the details and the science behind them.
  2. Muir's connection to Yosemite went beyond a short visit; it was a lifelong love. He spent years studying and exploring, showing that genuine love for something requires commitment and care.
  3. Sharing your passion for nature with others can inspire them to appreciate it too. Muir used his writing to invite more people to see and love the natural world around them.

Unexpected dangers

PASSAGES • 239 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Camping can have unexpected challenges like dealing with other campers and high-speed traffic on narrow roads
  2. Dumping waste from trailers involves specific steps like first releasing black water from the toilet
  3. Exploring small towns during road trips can lead to unique and memorable experiences

Sung to by wolves in the Lamar Valley, Yellowstone National Park

PASSAGES • 219 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park is a captivating place where you can hear wolves howling.
  2. Listening to the wolves' howls in the Lamar Valley feels primal and stirs both fear and fascination.
  3. Experiencing the eerie yet mesmerizing sound of wolves in the wilderness can be a powerful and unforgettable encounter.

Icefields parkway

Splattern • 119 implied HN points • 24 Mar 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Exploring the Icefields Parkway is a breathtaking experience that leaves a lasting impact. The beauty of the mountains and nature can really make you feel alive.
  2. Connecting with locals and fellow adventurers can greatly enhance your journey. Meeting kind people who share your passion can make your experience more memorable.
  3. Finding balance between solitude and connection is important in any adventure. While solo journeys are enriching, sharing experiences with others can bring an added layer of joy.

In the Country of the Tswana

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 199 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. In 2007, earthquakes changed the landscape in Botswana, reopening the Savuti Channel and making it a year-round wetland again. This has impacted local wildlife and the ecosystem.
  2. The careful movements of predators, like lions and leopards, show their hunting strategies in the wild. They often use teamwork and stealth to catch their prey.
  3. Seeing wildlife interact in their natural habitat is a unique experience. It highlights the delicate balance between nature and the animals' survival instincts.

The Time of Big Walking

Wild Information • 216 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Different indigenous peoples have unique ways of measuring time that are closely tied to nature and subsistence.
  2. The Sámi people have a calendar with eight seasons and twelve months that reflect changes in the environment.
  3. A year for Arctic peoples is not just a fixed number of days but a flow of natural events like bird migrations and frozen lakes.

Fall Talks and Walks

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 339 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. There are several upcoming public events focused on nature and local history. People are encouraged to attend and connect with the speaker.
  2. The speaker will discuss various topics, including their book on the history of Puget Sound and interesting places in Seattle.
  3. There will also be a book launch for a new book on fossils in Washington State, highlighting the state's diverse natural history.

God's Gardeners

The Abbey of Misrule • 228 implied HN points • 25 May 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Nature
  1. Eastern and Western Christian traditions view nature differently, and we can learn from these perspectives. Understanding these differences can help us better connect with the environment.
  2. As climate change and pollution impact our world, Christians are encouraged to reflect on their relationship with nature. It’s important to consider how faith influences our actions towards the environment.
  3. The talk explored how Christians can engage positively with the wild and green aspects of creation. Embracing nature might lead to more sustainable practices and a healthier planet.

Why is Albuquerque Interesting?

Why is this interesting? • 2232 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Albuquerque is a unique intersection of various strands of the American mythos.
  2. The layout of Albuquerque includes the North Valley, South Valley, Downtown, Old Town, Nob Hill, and Rio Grande.
  3. Explore local experiences in Albuquerque like New Mexican food, Sandia Peak Tramway, and the Albuquerque Isotopes baseball team.

Notes from a contemplative traveller

Silentium • 219 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Nature provides a shelter for the soul at Monastery Santa Cristina in Ribas de Sil, Galicia, Spain
  2. Explore 'the sacred river bank' of the river Sil in Galicia
  3. Subscribe to Silentium for 7-day free access to full post archives

Marble Canyon and Cache Creek

Splattern • 139 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The journey from Lillooet to Marble Canyon presented diverse landscapes, including deserts and ranch lands, which was surprising and beautiful.
  2. Meeting friendly people along the way provided support and fun experiences, like getting fresh salmon and snacks from fellow adventurers.
  3. The warmth of the night and kindness of campground owners highlighted the simple comforts that make camping enjoyable after a long trek.

Old Rossland-Cascade Highway Ski Traverse

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Adventuring can be about using creativity to solve problems, like making a sled from a baby stroller for tough terrain. It shows that you can think outside the box in tricky situations.
  2. Meeting new people can add a lot to your journey. Talking to locals can give you valuable tips and make the trip more enjoyable.
  3. It's important to keep moving forward, no matter how slow you go. Progress is progress, even if it feels slow at times.

Welcome aboard The Life Boat

lifeboat • 216 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Nature
  1. Art and writing can help us find balance and resilience during turbulent times.
  2. Engaging with art and writing requires concentration and attention.
  3. Creating and sharing art and writing connects us with ourselves and the world around us.

Welcome to Christina Lake

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The Old Rossland Cascade Highway used to be the only route from Rossland to Vancouver until 1962, but it's not very popular today.
  2. Rossland, known as 'the golden city', started as a mining town where gold literally shook off trucks on Main Street.
  3. A local named Rob shared interesting history about the area, adding to the adventure exploring its past.

The perfect place to be a sheep

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 142 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Exploring Scotland is full of fun experiences like hiking, visiting castles, and enjoying local food and drinks. It's nice to soak in the culture and scenery.
  2. Weather can really affect people's mood, and even a sunny day can feel like a special treat when it’s unexpected.
  3. It’s great to appreciate smaller words and traditions in a new place, like how often they say 'wee' in Scotland.

Third times the charm

Splattern • 159 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Camping alone in the snow can be tough but also rewarding. You can learn a lot about yourself and how to handle challenges when you're outside.
  2. It's okay to ask for help and rely on others sometimes. Friends and strangers can support you in your adventures, making the experience more enjoyable.
  3. Listening to your body is important. Pushing through pain might lead to injuries, so it's better to take care of yourself and recognize when to take a break.

How Slocan you go?

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 14 Apr 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The Slocan Valley is a laid-back place where people enjoy a slower pace of life. Locals embrace the idea of taking your time, whether it's running errands or building a house.
  2. Meeting friendly locals like Helen, Daniel, and Steve made for memorable experiences. They shared their passion for gardening, making chocolate, and personal stories, which enriched the journey.
  3. Exploring the natural beauty along the Slocan Lake and running on rail trails was refreshing. It felt good to immerse in nature while enjoying delicious treats from local bakeries.

Seattle beckons

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 06 May 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Returning to Seattle feels familiar but also makes me realize I'm slipping back into old habits. It's easy to fall into routines that aren't helpful.
  2. Even though life feels normal again, I've been feeling a bit aimless without a job. It's a reminder that new goals can give life purpose.
  3. I started training for my upcoming trip to Africa, which should help me feel stronger and more focused. It's exciting to set new challenges for myself.

No More Good Vibes Only

Grandmotherly Wisdom • 255 implied HN points • 23 Feb 23
📖 Philosophy Nature
  1. Positive energy can come from things, places, and people we encounter.
  2. We are all interconnected with modern civilization and its impacts.
  3. Creation of a better world involves acknowledging and transforming all types of vibes, not just the good ones.

He, she, it

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 499 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. Using 'it' to refer to animals can make them seem less important. Referring to them as 'he' or 'she' helps us remember they are living beings with feelings.
  2. Language shapes how we see the world. When we use more respectful pronouns for animals, it helps us connect better with nature.
  3. Changing how we talk about animals can be difficult, but it's important for building a better relationship with all living things.

10 books of women's awakenings: nonfiction

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 758 implied HN points • 24 May 22
📚 Literature Nature
  1. Reading books that showcase women breaking boundaries and embracing change can inspire personal growth and empowerment.
  2. Exploring nonfiction literature can provide insights into hidden societal norms that suppress women, prompting reflection and action for change.
  3. Books that focus on feminist ecology and the connection between women and nature can foster a deeper understanding of strength and interconnectedness.

Welcome to the USA

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. The journey from Canada to the USA showed that surprising connections can happen anywhere, like bonding over coffee with a stranger who had strong opinions about politics.
  2. Meeting different people along the way, from local shop owners to military veterans, highlighted diverse life stories and unique perspectives on adventure and history.
  3. Experiencing both kindness and challenges in new places reminded how people are often welcoming, but the rules and attitudes can vary widely, especially when it comes to camping or local customs.

Magic Mangrove Tunnels

lettersonbeing • 235 implied HN points • 26 Mar 23
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. You can find magic and beauty in your own backyard or local area.
  2. Exploring natural wonders like mangrove tunnels can be a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience.
  3. Disconnecting from technology and immersing yourself in nature can lead to a deeper appreciation of your surroundings.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

The Big Yard • 235 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🔬 Science Nature
  1. The author observes various bird species in their yard, documenting their sightings and behavior.
  2. The yard attracts a diverse range of bird species, including flycatchers and woodpeckers.
  3. The author reflects on unexpected wildlife encounters and wonders what future sightings October may bring.

#38: Traveling with a microscope 🔬

Game of One • 235 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
🏝 Travel Nature
  1. Traveling can lead to unexpected and memorable moments in everyday activities.
  2. Being in unfamiliar environments heightens awareness and appreciation for details.
  3. Exploring close to home with a curious perspective can reveal hidden wonders.

Ómós Digest #112: The Irish Connection in Iceland

Ómós Digest • 235 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Nature
  1. The Westman Islands in Iceland have deep historical connections with Ireland, influencing culture and gene pool.
  2. Iceland's hospitality and tourism marketing are top-notch, making it a popular destination.
  3. The rugged landscapes of Heimaey, Iceland reflect a harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and community resilience.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

The Big Yard • 235 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Nature
  1. The author shares observations from their yard and how wildlife interactions have been impacted by a severe monsoon season
  2. The author discusses using spray to deter skunks and the challenges of dealing with their presence in the yard
  3. A focus on the variety of bird species that visit the yard, highlighting the importance of intimacy with the environment