Natural North Dakota

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What is that hawk circling overhead? Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

A rather common sight across North Dakota during the summer months is a large hawk with broad wings and a wide, rounded tail soaring high overhead. Although there may be other species, the odds are good that it would be a Swainson’s, red-tailed, or ferruginous hawk.

Exploring North Dakota's Heart River Jul 11, 2026

Show notes

It might come as a surprise, but an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 Mandan lived in and around the confluence of the Heart River and Missouri River in the 16th century. And the Heart River, particularly the area around the confluence, represented the “hearth” of the world and was important to their creation story.

Three Grosbeaks to find in North Dakota Jul 04, 2026

Show notes

Are you familiar with grosbeaks? They are birds, similar in size to an oriole, and known for their rather short and conical beaks. Three species can be found in North Dakota.

Can North Dakota save its ash trees? Jun 27, 2026

Show notes

Elm trees, once abundant and widely distributed in North Dakota and highly valued as an ornamental died by the thousands, mostly in the 1970s. Something similar may occur with ash trees and the emerald ash borer.

Why cottonwoods produce millions of seeds Jun 20, 2026

Show notes

A single cottonwood tree can produce a staggering number of small seeds each year. Estimates range from around 25-48 million. But of course, the chances of a seed becoming established and living to maturity are extremely slim.

Dame’s rocket may be pretty, but it's a non-native species in North America Jun 13, 2026

Show notes

Have you been noticing a 2-3 foot tall wildflower sporting a terminal cluster of conspicuous purple flowers? If so, it is probably Dame’s Rocket. That is not a native plant. It might look pretty, but as they say, looks can be deceiving.

How early travelers navigated the Northern Plains Jun 06, 2026

Show notes

Have you ever wondered how Native Americans, early explorers, and settlers got around the region without getting lost? These days, well-marked highways and GPS make modern travel easy. But historically, knowledge of the landscape and landmarks were key to traveling the region.

The interesting survival strategy of Jack-in-the-Pulpit plants May 30, 2026

Show notes

I suspect that most people have heard of the Jack-in-the-Pulpit plant, but may not know that it is native to North Dakota. And it might surprise you, but it is not always "Jack" that is in the pulpit. It could be "Jill."

Why pollinators depend on native weeds May 23, 2026

Show notes

Have you been fighting the weeds yet this spring? Whether it is in gardens, yards, or fields, the weeds seem to be a perpetual problem. But we often give little thought to the native weedy species.

What to watch for in this summer's night sky May 16, 2026

Show notes

Consider making an effort this summer to spend more time observing the nighttime sky.

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