The hottest Nature Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Soaring Twenties β€’ 100 implied HN points β€’ 13 Nov 24
  1. Walking can help clear your mind and inspire new ideas. Many great writers are also big walkers because it allows them to think and create.
  2. A good essay is like a walk without a strict path. You explore, get distracted, and discover new things along the way.
  3. Taking a moment to breathe and enjoy nature lets you see things differently. It's a reminder that we all need time to pause and reflect.
Bet On It β€’ 90 implied HN points β€’ 06 Dec 24
  1. There are five possible events happening in California from December 9-24, where people can meet up. Locations include national parks and restaurants like Maria's Italian Kitchen.
  2. The author is excited to return to Spain around March 17-23, with major events planned in Madrid. They feel hopeful about Spain's future, despite its socialist background.
  3. The author believes that national parks should be privatized for better management and service. They think changes in places like Argentina and Cuba could influence this idea.
Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 179 implied HN points β€’ 29 Sep 22
  1. Seattle experiences all four seasons, but they might not be as extreme as in other places. Some people see Seattle's spring and fall as longer and less distinct.
  2. Each season brings its own unique beauty and activities. Winter has cozy feelings with snow, spring is colorful with blooming flowers, summer is for outdoor fun, and fall has lovely leaf colors.
  3. Sadly, there's also a fifth season of smoke caused by fires. This adds a new layer to how we experience the seasons in the area.
The Analog Family β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 09 May 23
  1. The magnolia tree is very special and loved, serving as a beautiful centerpiece that draws admiration from others. Its flowers make a big impression, and even passing strangers can't help but notice it.
  2. The tree has a lot of personal memories attached to it, as it's been a part of a family's experiences and adventures, especially with children climbing its branches. It's considered irreplaceable and deeply cherished.
  3. Trees provide important emotional and aesthetic value to a home, often being more valuable than the house itself. The presence of trees creates a comforting and serene environment that is loved and respected.
Ammon’s Substack β€’ 2 HN points β€’ 14 Aug 24
  1. Sailing alone can be both beautiful and challenging. It can feel lonely at times, but there are many adventures and experiences to cherish.
  2. Preparation is key when sailing, especially solo. Checking equipment and managing sleep are crucial to ensure safety and success during long passages.
  3. The ocean offers a stunning, untouched environment that can bring deep joy and appreciation for nature, reminding us of our smallness in the grand scheme of things.
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Passing Time β€’ 368 implied HN points β€’ 08 May 23
  1. Alpine starts involve waking up early for adventures like mountain climbing.
  2. The early mornings are about mental transportation and self-actualization, not just physical movement.
  3. The experience and camaraderie during alpine starts motivate and push individuals to achieve goals.
The Abbey of Misrule β€’ 210 implied HN points β€’ 18 Jan 24
  1. The cold is described as the worst element due to its physical effects.
  2. The wind is considered the worst among the elements for its impactful force.
  3. The tree is personified and serves as a home to birds, offering protection and sustenance.
backstory β€’ 339 implied HN points β€’ 20 May 23
  1. The author struggles with writing in the presence of wild animals in their writing space.
  2. Wildlife interruptions have affected the author's writing projects in various locations.
  3. A recent encounter with a pygmy shrew disrupts the author's writing plans, leading to no story for today.
backstory β€’ 290 implied HN points β€’ 05 Aug 23
  1. Communities can have obsessional collective delusions like paranoia about sorcerers or other irrational beliefs.
  2. Supernatural stories and irrational beliefs can be baffling and hard to understand.
  3. Survival often involves adapting and finding ways to coexist within challenging environments.
Erik Examines β€’ 89 implied HN points β€’ 13 Nov 24
  1. Cats and dogs have very different bodies and strengths. Dogs are built for endurance and can run longer distances, while cats have strong, flexible bodies that are better for short bursts of energy.
  2. Cats are independent and don't need as much exercise as dogs. This makes them more suited to relaxing with humans, while dogs expect more active playtime and walks.
  3. Giving a dog a cat's body wouldn't work well, and vice versa. Each animal is designed for different tasks and environments, which is why they act and serve us in unique ways.
Splattern β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 24 Nov 23
  1. The writer enjoyed a Thanksgiving run on a beautiful trail, appreciating nature in their home state.
  2. This year was special because the writer's entire immediate family got together for Thanksgiving, which hasn't happened in a long time.
  3. The gathering felt healing and fun, marking a positive change since the family's previous issues.
Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 239 implied HN points β€’ 17 Mar 22
  1. Spring brings joy and beauty to everyone, no matter where they live. It's a time when nature reawakens, reminding us of simple pleasures and hope.
  2. Connecting with nature can boost happiness and help create a better future. Embracing the world around us can be a powerful antidote to life's challenges.
  3. In spring, we notice new life all around us, like colorful flowers and singing birds. These signs remind us to appreciate the small wonders in our everyday lives.
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.
The Digital Anthropologist β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 04 Mar 24
  1. The concept of a global human consciousness, although seemingly unlikely amidst current world issues, has been a topic for centuries and may have significant impacts on our understanding of humanity.
  2. Advancements in technology, such as AI, could potentially play a role in facilitating connections and common values across societies, but it also poses risks and challenges.
  3. Humanity is evolving towards a greater awareness of our interconnectedness with nature and all living beings, suggesting a potential shift towards a more unified and conscious global perspective.
Into the Hedge β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 16 Nov 23
  1. The story of the Exceptional Tree illustrates the transformation from loss and decay to new life and growth.
  2. Despite experiencing winter and appearing lifeless, the tree eventually reveals new growth, showcasing forces of decay and growth shaping its exceptional form.
  3. The constant cycle of seasons highlights the ever-evolving nature of the tree and how change doesn't erase the essence of what once was.
Autoscriptorium β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 04 Feb 23
  1. Poetry is about the line, which contains thoughts spilling beyond; the breaks and movements are perceived differently by the eye than by the ear.
  2. A.R. Ammons was a prolific American poet who had a unique background outside of the typical academic path, with origins in rural North Carolina.
  3. In Ammons' poem 'Hymn,' he explores themes of seeking unity with something beyond oneself, incorporating precise scientific language into his work.
The Digital Anthropologist β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 04 Nov 23
  1. Techno-Optimism focuses on using technology to evolve and overcome biological weaknesses imposed by nature.
  2. Techno-Optimists often misunderstand the origins of technology, which actually stem from nature and natural resources.
  3. Harmonizing technology with nature can lead to greater chances of human evolution and discovery, showing the importance of working alongside nature.
Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 119 implied HN points β€’ 10 Nov 22
  1. Birding can be fun and doesn't need to be perfect. You can enjoy simply sitting and observing while learning with tools like bird identification apps.
  2. Barred Owls are common in places like Seattle and they have a unique call that can be fun to recognize. Learning about their history adds to the joy of birding.
  3. Seeing different types of birds like the Pileated Woodpecker and Cedar Waxwing can be exciting. Watching them interact with their surroundings gives a new appreciation for nature.
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.
Silentium β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 09 Mar 23
  1. The post is about the experience of walking in silence and nature.
  2. The author highlights the importance and value of taking silent walks.
  3. Readers can access more content by subscribing to Silentium for a 7-day free trial.
Into the Hedge β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 07 Aug 23
  1. Ticks are attracted to humans when in the woods, but there are ways to protect yourself like tucking pants into socks and wearing light-colored clothes to spot them easily.
  2. Ticks are slow-moving creatures, mostly found below the waist and tend to climb higher on the body once making contact.
  3. Active observation is key when dealing with ticks; understanding their behavior and knowing where to look can help in spotting and removing them from the body.
Based Meditations β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 15 Aug 23
  1. Change is a constant force shaping our lives, leading to a yearning for stability and constant ideals, which serve as ideological anchors.
  2. The pursuit of truth drives human progress and curiosity, intertwining with beauty and goodness as guiding principles in our lives.
  3. Human creativity, expressed through art, structures, and belief systems, aims to impose order on a changing world, driven by the desire for expression and greatness.
10x your mind β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 20 Apr 23
  1. Solitude is not loneliness; it's necessary for recharging and creative thinking.
  2. It's important to plan and prioritize moments of solitude in our busy lives.
  3. Embracing solitude can lead to self-reflection, improved relationships, and overall mental well-being.
lifeboat β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jun 23
  1. Orkney experiences endless daylight around midsummer.
  2. Self-employed individuals struggle to take breaks, but it's important to give yourself permission to slow down.
  3. Taking a holiday and easing off work can lead to a more enjoyable and refreshed mindset.
Splattern β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 02 Oct 23
  1. Connecting with friends is important, and spending time one-on-one can strengthen those bonds. It can be nice to express desires clearly and spend quality time together.
  2. Outdoor activities like mushroom foraging and fishing can create fun and memorable experiences. They also allow for laughter and playful moments, which bring people closer together.
  3. Trying new activities, like a friends triathlon, can be a great way to bond as a group. Enjoying nature and good food together makes the experience even better.
Splattern β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 18 Sep 23
  1. The author received a stuffed dinosaur as a prize after a 50k race, marking a personal embrace of stuffed animals after not being into them as a child. It's a fun way to reconnect with childhood memories.
  2. During a camping trip, the author helped a woman who had lost her electrolytes and car keys after swimming. This led to a light-hearted adventure for the woman and her son, showing how unexpected situations can create memorable stories.
  3. The author learned to advocate for their own needs during weekend plans, finding it easier to express wants like finishing a hike early. This skill in self-advocacy is important for personal well-being.
Splattern β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 24 Sep 23
  1. The author enjoyed a run in Lone Elk State Park in Missouri, where they discovered interesting mushrooms that resembled those on their burger.
  2. They caught up with an old math tutor who shared an exciting new discovery in logic and math, which could change how math is taught.
  3. Missouri's geography is significant, showcasing limestone and being a key area for studying river flooding due to the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.
Cornerstone β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 14 Jul 23
  1. Highland Park in Pittsburgh exemplifies a beautiful blend of closely spaced homes, walkability, and a large park.
  2. The neighborhood showcases the potential of human-scale urban planning with diverse housing types and economic integration.
  3. Highland Park's organic beauty and timeless charm highlight the possibility of creating similar communities if granted permission and freedom in development.
Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jun 22
  1. A beautiful backyard can transform a house into a home. The presence of large trees and wildlife makes the space special and enjoyable.
  2. Seeing local wildlife, like bald eagles and Cooper's hawks, enriches daily life and connects people to nature. It's exciting to observe their behaviors and know they're nearby.
  3. Urban areas can still hold wildness and beauty, making life more interesting. Appreciating the nature around us can create a sense of wonder and gratitude.
lettersonbeing β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jan 24
  1. The power of stillness and gentleness in finding true strength and creating new things
  2. Endings are important too; embracing fear, doubt, and sadness is part of moving forward
  3. Recognizing and connecting with nature as a way to find peace and inspiration
Passing Time β€’ 234 implied HN points β€’ 22 Apr 23
  1. The desert moments hold a higher density of profundity
  2. Memories from the desert linger like red dirt, finding their way back to you
  3. Taking time to appreciate the stars and nature brings a sense of peace and contentment
Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind β€’ 99 implied HN points β€’ 20 Oct 22
  1. Animals move in different ways, like marmots and chipmunks scurrying quickly, while bears just stroll. Observing these movements can make us appreciate the natural world.
  2. Walking slowly and enjoying our surroundings, like with the Italian concept of struscio, helps us take in details and connect with our environment and others.
  3. Exploring a city by strolling can reveal hidden details and experiences. It's a great way to learn about new places or rediscover familiar ones.
Creating Inequality β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 12 Jan 24
  1. Vacancy chains are a way resources are distributed where one person's success leads to success for others too.
  2. Resources distributed through vacancy chains have common abstract qualities, regardless of species or social development.
  3. Vacancy chains are not optional but necessary for groups when resources have specific abstract qualities. These chains may occur even in unknown creatures on other planets like Mars.
In My Tribe β€’ 121 implied HN points β€’ 07 Feb 24
  1. Consider using Rehoboth, Delaware as a base for a 5-day walk and talk group trip.
  2. Opt for loops or out-and-back walks for simplicity in logistics.
  3. Plan the trip for off-season in late September or early October for availability and a more relaxed experience.
The Abbey of Misrule β€’ 197 implied HN points β€’ 07 Jun 23
  1. The author announced the penultimate chapter in a series they've been working on for over two years will be ending soon.
  2. After the chapter ends, the author plans to take a summer break and then return with new projects and ideas.
  3. The author is excited about exploring new avenues while building on their previous work.