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An American Kestrel sits at the top of a bare tree in early spring.

Helping a Falcon in Decline

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Have you spotted North America’s smallest falcon around Hamilton County? While American Kestrels are quite adaptable, they sometimes need a little assistance. Conservation Biologist Jack shares why American Kestrels need a specific kind of nesting box and how it can help boost their population.

A hand holds Fewleaf Sunflower and Bee Balm plants.

Saving Native Seeds: Preserving Biodiversity & Local Ecotypes

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Both native plants and animals depend on diverse populations of seed. What’s so significant about seed biodiversity in Hamilton County’s ecoregion? Conservation & Parks Technician Lauren delves into how this helps native plant survival.

It’s Always Been About the Future

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Beyond the outdoors, the busy world waits with traffic, task lists and screens. But not here. At Great Parks, you immerse your senses in the wilderness that thrives beyond the concrete and glass of our daily lives.

A barred owl sits next to a pumpkin. The word "Boo" is carved into the pumpkin.

Animal Enrichment Tales: Playtime with Pumpkins

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Great Parks’ animal ambassadors have an extremely meaningful job of connecting with guests. How do these hard-working animals explore the world around them when they aren’t on duty? Nature Interpreter Stephanie shares why animal enrichment activities are incredibly important for their quality of life.

A young boy and his grandfather play on the rocks at the edge of a small waterfall in a park.

Great Parks Passes Tax Levy

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On November 2, 2021, Hamilton County voters elected to support Issue 29, Great Parks of Hamilton County’s proposed tax levy.

White Snakeroot

The Need for Seed: Fall Flowering Plants

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November is typically a time when nature seems to slow down. The hustle and bustle of the growing season during the warmer months has passed, and now animals are setting themselves up to survive the colder temperatures. But, what about plants? How do they make it through winter? Director of Programming Amy dives into the phenomenon of fall flowering plants and the importance of their seeds.

Here for the Future: Reforestation at Mitchell Memorial Forest

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On a chilly, sunny Saturday in October, nearly 100 Great Parks staff and volunteers gathered on an undeveloped edge of Mitchell Memorial Forest to plant 120 trees and shrubs as part of ongoing restoration efforts. How do plantings like this one help improve habitats for local wildlife? Conservation Biologist Daniel dives into how reforestation projects help Great Parks continue to be here for you now, and here for the future.

The cordyceps genus of fungus infects an ant, beginning to grow out of the ant's head.

Real Life Zombies in the Animal Kingdom

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Zombies have long been featured in movies, games and television. But did you know that there are real-life zombies out there in the wilderness? Nature Interpreter Lisa delves into the creepy world of parasites and how they control their hosts.