Big Country Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist

06/21/2026

Although some people consider them to be weeds, native poppies are incredibly important for ecosystems. In fact, White Prickly Poppy is one of the most beneficial wildflowers native to the Texas Big Country! Their spiny stems deter deer and other browsing animals, leaving the flowers for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Even their seeds are a valuable food source for birds like dove and quail.

Source: https://nri.tamu.edu/blog/2021/april/pretty-and-powerful-six-wildflowers-that-benefit-texas-ecosystems/

Photo Credit: Ann Monk

06/14/2026

Nature is all around us - even in our cities - it’s just about knowing where to look! Take the Common Nighthawk, for example. These aerial insectivores catch insects on the wing and are best seen while hunting at dawn and dusk.

While they can be found in a variety of habitats, from coastal prairies to desert arroyos, one of the easiest places to spot them is surprisingly accessible: parking lots! Parking lots are an ideal habitat because they offer plenty of space to maneuver while feasting on the insects attracted to the bright streetlights.

The next time you're visiting a grocery store or shopping center at dusk, take a moment to listen for the Common Nighthawk’s distinctive nasal “peent” call. You might be surprised by the diversity of wildlife that calls our cities home!

Photos by Elizabeth Brooks and Ann Monk

Sources:
https://texnat.tamu.edu/2017/08/22/notes-about-nighthawks/
https://txtbba.tamu.edu/species-accounts/common-nighthawk/

06/05/2026

Join us at Abilene State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife for our monthly hike tomorrow on the LAKE side starting at 9am.

06/04/2026

Stay up to date and know what to watch for and how to report at: screwworm.gov

First confirmed U.S. case of New World Screwworm found today in a calf in Zavala County, about 100 miles southwest of San Antonio.

We are working with the Texas Animal Health Commission, U.S. Department of Agriculture and partners statewide to respond.

Early detection is critical and it is important to report suspected infestation in live animals

Get details on this case, how to report potential infestations, and what to watch for at screwworm.gov

***
Hoy se confirmó el primer caso en los Estados Unidos del gusano barrenador del Nuevo Mundo, hallado en un becerro en el condado de Zavala, a unas 100 millas al suroeste de San Antonio.

Estamos trabajando en colaboración con la Comisión de Salud Animal de Texas, el USDA y socios en todo el estado para dar respuesta a la situación.

La detección temprana es fundamental, y es importante reportar cualquier sospecha de infestación en animales vivos.

Obtenga detalles sobre este caso, cómo reportar posibles infestaciones y qué señales buscar en screwworm.gov

05/31/2026

The Red-eared Slider is Texas's most common and best-known species of turtle. These turtles are named for the red stripe behind their eye and their habit of sliding off logs when startled. In late spring and early summer, turtles like the Red-eared Slider begin to emerge from ponds, lakes, and streams in search of the perfect nesting spot. This means that you’re much more likely to encounter turtles trying to cross the road, especially in rural areas near water. Help protect our local wildlife by driving slowly and staying vigilant. Happy turtle nesting season! 🐢

Sources:
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/slider/
https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2025/03/25/turtles/

Photo by Ann Monk

05/31/2026

Great program this Tuesday. Note you must register to receive the link to attend virtually. Public welcome. Do not have to be a member.

Our June is in two short weeks! Join Adam Foster, Executive Director of Texas Alliance of Groundwater Districts, as he presents the "Groundwater in Texas: Aquifers, Policy, and Management" on June 9 at 12:00pm CT!

To register for this event and view past TMNTuesday recordings, visit our website at: https://txmn.tamu.edu/tmntuesdays

05/14/2026

Join us this Saturday at Abilene State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife.

05/09/2026

Global Big Day 2026 is here! Last year, birders documented 7,931 species in just 24 hours.

Join the world-wide celebration today!

Tap the link below to learn how you can participate:
https://ebird.org/news/global-big-day-2026

Image Credit: Brown Boobook, Ninox scutulata © Rejaul Karim / Macaulay Library