Carolina Bays are among the most mysterious and ecologically unique natural formations in the southeastern United States. These elliptical depressions—found throughout the Carolinas and parts of Georgia—are home to rare wetland ecosystems filled with specialized plants, amphibians, migratory birds, and invertebrates. Unfortunately, many Carolina Bays have been drained, farmed, filled, or altered, leading to the …
The Arctic and sub-Arctic tundra of Alaska is one of the most extreme ecosystems on Earth. With permafrost beneath the soil, fierce winds, long winters, and short growing seasons, this landscape challenges every form of life. Yet, despite these harsh conditions, the Alaskan tundra hosts a breathtaking array of hardy plant species that have evolved …
High-elevation alpine meadows are among the most fragile ecosystems in the world. Found on mountaintops, ridgelines, and glacial basins, these meadows endure extreme winds, shallow soils, intense UV radiation, and short growing seasons. Despite these harsh conditions, they host a dazzling diversity of tiny wildflowers, cushion plants, grasses, and shrubs—many of which grow nowhere else …
Wetlands are among the most biologically rich ecosystems on Earth, providing habitat for countless species of plants, birds, amphibians, insects, and fish. Yet they are also some of the most threatened environments due to drainage, pollution, urban expansion, and altered hydrology. Today, more than half of wetlands in the United States have been lost, pushing …
Butterflies are some of the most enchanting insects in the natural world—symbols of transformation, beauty, and ecological health. Yet across North America, many butterfly species that were once common are now rare, threatened, or rapidly declining. Habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and the disappearance of native host plants have pushed several butterflies toward endangered …
Tropical pitcher plants—known scientifically as Nepenthes—are among the most extraordinary carnivorous plants on Earth. Native to the misty cloud forests of Southeast Asia, Madagascar, and parts of Oceania, these plants have evolved spectacular fluid-filled traps that lure and digest insects. Their unusual appearance and ecological significance have earned them global fascination, but many species are …
New Mexico’s desert landscapes are world-renowned for their rugged beauty, extreme climate, and remarkable biodiversity. Among the state’s most iconic plants are its rare and endangered cactus species—small, resilient, and uniquely adapted to the harsh Southwestern environment. With increasing habitat loss and pressure from illegal collection, cultivating nursery-propagated endangered cacti at home has become an …
Minnesota’s bogs are among the most magical and ecologically unique habitats in North America. Characterized by cool temperatures, acidic water, sphagnum-rich soils, and constant moisture, these environments support some of the rarest and most beautiful orchids found in the northern United States. Although many bog orchids are threatened and must never be collected from the …
Georgia’s pine forests are central to the state’s ecological identity, shaping everything from wildlife habitat to watershed health and long-term forest stability. Although the Southeast is known for its pine diversity, several native Georgia pine species are now considered threatened or of conservation concern due to habitat loss, disease, invasive competitors, unsustainable forestry practices, and …
Vermont is famous for its vibrant autumn foliage, maple syrup tradition, and forested landscapes dominated by several species of maple. While maples remain iconic throughout New England, some native Vermont maple species face ecological pressures that threaten their regeneration. Climate change, invasive pests, soil degradation, and erratic seasonal patterns are influencing maple seed viability, germination …