The Eric Shipton footprint was made into a footcast in the 1950s and then reimagined by Jeff Meldrum before he passed away. See both at the International Cryptozoology Museum in Bangor, Maine. 2026
@CryptozooMuseum@CryptoLoren
A new generation of elk is arriving across the West. 🩷
During calving season, cow elk are highly protective and can become aggressive without warning.
Stay at least 25 yards away and use extra caution near buildings, vehicles, and blind corners where calves may be hidden.
Each spring, eastern monarchs leave the oyamel fir forests of Mexico and begin their journey north.
They follow the growth of milkweed, laying eggs along the way. Each generation lives only a few weeks, but the migration continues through those that follow.
Photo by NPS
Harken back to the heyday of mass market paranormal books with TERRIFYING ENCOUNTERS. The perfect pocket paperback size to carry and read anytime. Volume 1 available now: https://t.co/iNojZ8wfQS
Fun fact: Baby snowshoe hares are known as leverets.
It’s not the Easter bunny, but this adorable leveret is sure to warm your heart! And if you do happen to spot one in the wild, leveret right where you found it! 🐰
Photo by Tim Rains / NPS
🌸 As of 7:46 am today, spring has arrived! 🌸
Today marks the first day of spring at Grand Canyon National Park — a season of longer days, blooming desert plants, and incredible canyon views. It’s also one of our busiest times, with Spring Break crowds filling the South Rim.
If you’re planning to visit, here are two easy ways to avoid the biggest crowds:
• ⏰ Arrive early (before 9 am) or later in the day (after 4 pm)
• 🚍 Park once, then use the free shuttle buses — instead of searching for limited parking
🔥 Important: An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect this weekend. Temperatures in the inner canyon are expected to break records — making conditions dangerous for hiking during midday.
• 🥾 Avoid strenuous hiking during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• 💧 Drink plenty of water and balance water intake with food or electrolytes.
• ☀️ Plan ahead and know your limits—heat illness can happen quickly in the Inner Canyon.
During peak midday heat, consider visiting the Village Historic District, walking the Canyon Rim Trail, or touring scenic overlooks.
• 🚌 Tour Hermit Road on free shuttles. (closed to private vehicles).
• 🚗 Drive 23 mile (37 km) Desert View Drive in your car.
Spring is beautiful here — just be prepared and stay safe! 🌄
Happy Spring Equinox! March 20, 2026.
NPS Photos from Yavapai Geology Museum/M. Quinn
The revealing of what the true appearance and height of the Denisovans (aka Homo longi, Dragon Man, Harbin Skull, Penghu Jaw) are, shall send shockwaves through paleoanthrology, anthropology, and hominology.
@CryptoLoren
Happy birthday to the National Wildlife Refuge System!
It all started in 1903 when President Theodore Roosevelt protected Pelican Island for nesting birds. Today, the Refuge System includes 570+ refuges across the country.
By the Numbers:
2.63M annual hunting visits
8.61M annual fishing visits
4,197 miles of public trails and boardwalks
7,352 lane miles of public roads
📷American avocet at Don Edwards San Francisco Bay Wildlife Refuge National by Jean Zuo (STE)
Oh look. A prehistoric swamp log with legs.
This trail camera caught a large American alligator cruising through Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. It looks slow, but don’t be fooled. Over short distances, alligators can sprint up to about 11 miles per hour on land.
The challenges posed by Burmese pythons and other intentionally released captive animals in Everglades National Park show why prevention matters. Once invasive species become established, removing them is extremely difficult.
Photos by NPS