We recently returned from a 7 night western Caribbean cruise aboard the beloved Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas, combined with spending time exploring Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, Florida. Before diving into the information about our 2025 Western Caribbean cruise, we must first discuss our adventure exploring Wekiwa Springs State Park. Wekiwa Springs … Continue reading 2025 Western Caribbean Cruise + Wekiwa Springs State Park Adventure
Now that we are settled into our home in Coeur d’Alene, we are eager to explore the lakes, rivers and trails that we have not yet been on, in addition to enjoying ones we are familiar with. Last weekend, we enjoyed a 30-mile bike ride on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, which we have … Continue reading Kayaking Spirit Lake, Idaho
The yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota flaviventris), is a captivating species of marmot found primarily in the mountainous regions of western North America. Known for its distinctive yellowish fur on its belly, this rodent is a member of the squirrel family Sciuridae. Yellow-bellied marmots are notable for their burrowing habits, social structures, and hibernation behavior, contributing significantly … Continue reading POTW: The Yellow-bellied Marmot
More mountain goats (Oreamnos americanus) are fascinating creatures that thrive in the rugged terrains of North America's mountainous regions, including the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. These remarkable animals are well-adapted to their harsh environments, showcasing a blend of physical and behavioral traits that enable their survival in some of the most … Continue reading POTW: More Mountain Goats
Prairie dogs, small, burrowing rodents native to the grasslands of North America, are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They are known for their complex social structures and sophisticated communication systems. Prairie dogs belong to the squirrel family and are closely related to ground squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots. There are five … Continue reading POTW: Black-tailed Prairie Dog
The National Elk Refuge, established in 1912, is a beacon of natural preservation and wildlife management in the United States. Situated in the heart of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, this refuge provides a critical winter habitat for one of the largest elk (Cervus canadensis) herds on Earth, along with many other wildlife species. Spanning over 24,700 … Continue reading POTW: National Elk Refuge
Wildlife Wednesday, the pika, a small but remarkable alpine mammal, plays a vital role in its mountainous ecosystem. They are known for their distinct whistling calls and adorable appearance. Pikas are incredible in their ability to adapt to life in the harsh alpine and subalpine environments. They inhabit talus slopes, rocky outcrops, and boulder fields, … Continue reading POTW: Wildlife Wednesday