Studying the cryptic and beautiful Mompha moths

Most butterflies and moths featured in popular magazines and other media are large, well-known species, such as monarchs and luna moths. Within scientific communities as well, species descriptions are biased toward larger moths, overlooking the multitude of tiny ones. Despite this tendency to favor larger species, the average moth is actually quite small, though far from … Continue reading Studying the cryptic and beautiful Mompha moths

A 20-Year Legacy of Conservation Conversations

For more than two decades, leaders in conservation science have come to the Chicago Botanic Garden each summer to discuss timely topics from monarch butterflies to assisted plant migration. Seeds will be planted again on Monday, June 13, when regional stewardship professionals, academics, restoration volunteers, and interns gather for the Janet Meakin Poor Research Symposium. … Continue reading A 20-Year Legacy of Conservation Conversations

Give a Gift to the Planet

We’re not afraid to geek out on all things eco-friendly (looking at you, backyard chickens and organic leafy greens), but World Environment Day gives us an excuse to devote a full day to greening the planet. Join the global day of action—with people in more than 70 countries—in a daylong celebration of free events and … Continue reading Give a Gift to the Planet

Save the Earth, Watch Dandelions Grow

I am often asked, “What can kids do to help the Earth?” There is a standard litany of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” suggestions that almost everyone can tell you: recycle your garbage, turn the lights off when you leave a room, turn the water off while brushing your teeth, and so forth.  We’ve been saying these … Continue reading Save the Earth, Watch Dandelions Grow

What’s a Little Frass Flicking Between Friends?

I am sure that most of you know what I am referring to when I say “leap year.” Although this is not a leap year, I am suggesting that we unofficially call 2015 “Lep Year”—“lep” being short for Lepidoptera (from the Latin “scaly wing”), the order of insects that includes butterflies and moths. It has … Continue reading What’s a Little Frass Flicking Between Friends?