Outdoors

Wet weather may mean more mosquitoes, ticks across Minnesota this summer
Summer in Minnesota is celebrated, but it does come with some nuisances: mosquitos and ticks. And the above-normal snow and rainfall across much of the state over the past few months may mean those nuisances are worse this summer, compared to recent years.
New study shows surprising connection between deer and earthworms
A new study led by a University of Minnesota graduate student shows that in northern forests, the presence of deer substantially increased the number of invasive earthworms — which can cause severe damage to forest plants and soil.
One mile at a time, outdoor enthusiasts create new Driftless Area hiking trail
Marty Walsh grew up in Chicago, but his love for backpacking and his adopted home of southeast Minnesota has inspired him to create a 100-mile hiking trail that celebrates the topsy-turvy topography of the state's often overlooked Driftless Area.
Dancing lights: Snapshots of aurora borealis across Minnesota
A strong geomagnetic storm caused a grand display of northern lights in Minnesota Sunday night. We asked to see your photos, and you did not disappoint.
Chance to spot the northern lights Sunday night across Minnesota skies
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Space Weather Prediction Center released their aurora forecast for April 23, showing much of the state within range to have a strong chance of seeing the northern lights, if there are enough breaks in the cloud cover.
Loons fall from the sky in Wisconsin; late April cold snap to blame
A mix of cold air and moisture in the Upper Midwest is causing ice to form on the wings of some loons in flight, leading to crash landings known as “loon fallout.” While it hasn’t been reported in Minnesota, conditions for the state bird could be treacherous this weekend.
Winter effects linger on lawns: Unsightly mold and gnawed trees
The deep winter snow melting away is revealing some unsightly effects on lawns. Snow mold and animal damage to trees and shrubs have many homeowners wondering what to do.
New app Yodel will process many Minnesota camping purchases
Running through your camp supply checklist? The Minnesota Parks and Trails Division want you to add the Yodel app to your supply list to make buying supplies like firewood and ice easier and more secure.
Minnesota DNR says bald eagle pair is still defending site where EagleCam nest fell
The Minnesota DNR says the bald eagle pair is still defending the location where the EagleCam nest fell last weekend, raising hopes they may rebuild nearby. But officials also are looking at several alternative sites.