Outdoors

Oaks vs. squirrels: A battle is underway in some Minnesota trees, and it’s nuts
You may have noticed some leaves have already been falling around Minnesota — in some cases weeks before the annual autumn color change. That includes oak leaves, and even branches, that are raining down — and wouldn't you know it, squirrels are to blame.
Photos: Northern lights danced across Minnesota overnight
Photographers around the state shared some of their snapshots of the northern lights spreading their beauty overnight into Tuesday. They did not disappoint.
With raptor migration underway, meet two birds that may be passing through your neighborhood
MPR News host Cathy Wurzer talked with Lori Arent, Assistant Director of the University of Minnesota Raptor Center, to get to know two birds on the move in Minnesota this month.
Meet the woman who discovered an invasive insect in Minnesota
Citizen scientist Krista Menzel describes herself as a “crazy bug lady.” She’s the woman who discovered an invasive insect’s presence in Minnesota this summer.
Henderson, Minnesota group drafts vision for a center dedicated to ruby-throated hummingbird
Minnesota hosts an incredible number and diversity of birds, an International Owl Center and a National Eagle Center. Henderson, Minn., bird-lovers want to build a center for one of their smaller migratory visitors.
Growing diversity: The changing face of Minnesota farming
Don’t miss this special North Star Journey Live conversation recorded at the Minnesota State Fair about emerging farmers. What’s being done in our state to encourage more diversity in agriculture?