The hottest Nature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Art & Illustration Topics
Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 219 implied HN points β€’ 10 Aug 23
  1. Baby animals, like marmots and geoducks, can be very cute and inspire joy in nature. People often feel a nurturing instinct towards baby animals, similar to how they feel about human babies.
  2. The recovery of wildlife can surprise researchers, as seen with western toads at Mt. St. Helens after the eruption, which thrived in new conditions.
  3. Many baby marmots survive their first winter, which is good news for their populations. Cute baby animals help us connect with nature and remind us of the importance of wildlife conservation.
Erik Torenberg's Thoughts β€’ 416 implied HN points β€’ 02 Sep 23
  1. The debate of growth limits involves prophets advocating for living within our means and wizards innovating to overcome limits.
  2. The sustainability question divides opinions - from Cowen's optimism to concerns about exponential growth and hitting future limits.
  3. The distinction between Progress Studies and Transhumanism showcases a shift from wizards versus prophets to wizards versus transhumanists, creating new fault lines in technological advancements.
SJF β€’ 98 implied HN points β€’ 09 Feb 24
  1. The author shares things that have recently inspired them, such as a magazine website with beautiful imagery and a moving video about living a fulfilling life as a craftsman.
  2. There is a reminder about minimizing unnecessary mental clutter by re-evaluating how we use social media during work breaks.
  3. An interesting website called Tree.fm allows users to listen to sound recordings of forests worldwide, offering a serene escape.
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Splattern β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 07 Mar 24
  1. Running on tough, snowy roads is challenging, but using techniques like increasing cadence can help manage pain and keep you going.
  2. Emotional support from people around you can provide a great boost during tough times, reminding you that you are not alone in your journey.
  3. Staying warm and organized while camping is important. Setting up your tent correctly can make a big difference in comfort during cold nights.
Splattern β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 07 Feb 24
  1. Skiing at resorts can be overwhelming and less enjoyable, especially for those who are not frequent skiers. It's easy to feel lost and disconnected when surrounded by so many people in a busy place.
  2. Experiencing backcountry skiing can be much more rewarding. The sense of adventure, fresh snow, and connection with nature can create a more fulfilling experience.
  3. Just because something is expensive, like a resort lift ticket, doesn't mean it's better. Sometimes, more affordable options, like backcountry skiing, can bring more joy and satisfaction.
Splattern β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 03 Mar 24
  1. Kids in the community get a chance to go heli skiing, which is a great opportunity for them. It's hard to imagine complaining about waking up for such an amazing experience!
  2. Working on a computer can really take a toll on your body, especially when you get caught up in what you're doing. Taking breaks is important to keep from feeling drained.
  3. Facing insecurity can be tough, but it helps you stay present and aware. It's a balance between finding comfort and pushing yourself to grow.
Slack Tide by Matt Labash β€’ 96 implied HN points β€’ 07 Oct 24
  1. The writer reflects on how quickly three years can pass, noting it's been a busy time filled with many words and thoughts shared on various topics.
  2. There’s a strong message about embracing life’s complexities, including tackling serious issues like politics while also celebrating simple joys, like pets and nature.
  3. The importance of supporting independent writing is emphasized, showing appreciation for subscribers and encouraging new ones to join in.
Surfing the Future β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jan 24
  1. System change can often creep up on us, and we adapt without realizing it, leading to the 'shifting baseline syndrome'. We tend to imagine today's world as how it was yesterday, which may not be the case.
  2. The concept of rewilding offers a chance to reset our baselines, allowing nature to rebound faster than expected. This shift could lead to 'Knepp' potentially becoming a verb symbolizing unexpected transformation.
  3. In the sustainability space, there has been a dilution of the original system change ambition over time due to mainstreaming. The concept of triple bottom line has evolved and must continue to adapt to drive urgent systemic changes.
The Recovering Academic β€’ 257 implied HN points β€’ 13 Dec 22
  1. Epiphanies can be triggered by sudden insight, which is distinct from gradual problem-solving.
  2. Creating the right environment, like changing scenery or engaging in diversion, can aid in experiencing epiphanies.
  3. Epiphany is a complex concept, often arising from a combination of external stimuli and internal mental processes.
Technology, Environment, and Art β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jan 24
  1. Wildlife photography can reveal beauty that is hard to see in real life, but it may not capture the feeling of peace of just observing wildlife.
  2. Our consumerist and hyper-capitalistic system hides its destructive nature by providing entertainment and analgesics for its killing. It destructs relationships with nature.
  3. The need for a global philosophy and moral resolve to live harmoniously is essential for a sustainable future. Being around nonhuman life can inspire us to fight for solutions.
Weekly Wisdom β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 11 Oct 23
  1. The author reflects on a year of writing with acknowledgements and a tribute to writing colleagues who provided support and inspiration.
  2. The author talks about heading into the backcountry desert for a trip, acknowledging the break in the streak of publishing as a moment of reconnecting with nature.
  3. The author expresses excitement and fears about the upcoming trip, highlighting the anticipation of stargazing in the desert and concerns about being perceived as the weakest link in the group.
Splattern β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 25 Mar 24
  1. It was extremely cold at night, leading to difficulties in sleeping and some emotional moments remembering a beloved pet.
  2. The author had a surprising encounter with a ski expert who turned out to be their favorite ski author, leading to valuable information about local skiing.
  3. The author plans to explore Kootenay National Park next and values the experience of skiing in the backcountry.
Splattern β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 16 Mar 24
  1. Maligne Canyon is a unique slot canyon in Jasper National Park, known for its special ice formations and ice climbing opportunities. People love visiting it for its stunning natural beauty.
  2. The tour of Maligne Canyon can be challenging, especially on the ice. It’s important to help each other out, especially those who may have difficulty walking.
  3. The writer plans to run along the Icefields Parkway, expecting a week-long adventure. They share their appreciation for winter and the beauty of nature as they embark on this journey.
The Analog Family β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 28 Aug 23
  1. Canoe trips are tough but rewarding. Carrying gear and paddling makes you feel accomplished after a long day of hard work.
  2. Traveling slowly allows you to notice the little things in nature, like animals and plants. It helps you appreciate the journey rather than rushing through it.
  3. Being in nature helps families bond. Shared experiences create special memories that bring you closer together.
Microanimism β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 20 Jun 24
  1. The setting described is unique and surreal, with rose bushes and mysterious elements creating a vivid picture.
  2. The story delves into a narrative involving gods, non-gods, and their impact on a strange world, with themes of environmental change and conflict.
  3. An invitation to explore more by subscribing, offering a 7-day free trial to access additional content on Microanimism.
Opaque Hourglass β€’ 159 implied HN points β€’ 25 Sep 23
  1. The wind can be both powerful and gentle, guiding us while also allowing us to feel undeserving of its kindness
  2. Nature's elements, like the wind, can disrupt and transform the ordinary, leaving behind a new perspective
  3. Silence can be as impactful as sound, creating moments of reflection and depth
Splattern β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 05 Feb 24
  1. The author enjoyed staying with a kind host named Danna, who suggested a beautiful walking spot for them to explore later. They were also invited to an upcoming retirement party.
  2. A stranger named Shelly cheered the author on during their journey and even donated to a fundraiser, showing the kindness of people they meet along the way.
  3. The author found creative ways to stay comfortable while traveling, like using a Nalgene bottle filled with hot water to relax their legs after running.
Neckar’s Notes β€’ 144 implied HN points β€’ 09 Mar 24
  1. In a world that may feel like a wasteland, it's vital to find what makes you feel alive and follow that path, regardless of external circumstances.
  2. The current culture is saturated with distractions that cater to the dopamine loop, leading to addiction to stimulating activities and a loss of genuine connection and creativity.
  3. To combat a dead culture, one must embrace mindful attention, direct experience, creative expression, and deep connections in order to create an alive culture filled with authenticity and humanity.
The Outpost β€’ 157 implied HN points β€’ 19 Jun 23
  1. Shark skin reduces water drag - Michael Phelps once wore swim trunks based on it.
  2. Tiger shark attacks are rare but impactful - a recent fatal attack went viral, highlighting human vulnerability.
  3. Evolution of the Soldier - from hero to a commodity of the attention economy, visible by all on social media.