The Wildlife Code

08/26/2026

An ancient and gnarly River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) measuring 9.7 metres in girth. Victoria, AU.
Photo by Alan Deumer

08/26/2026

Not only do we have flying squirrels in Wisconsin, but there are two different species found here!

The Northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus), pictured here, is a special concern species and a legally protected wild animal. They only live in the northern parts of the state in conifer and mixed hardwood forests.

The Southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) is found throughout the state and is also a protected wild animal. They can be distinguished from their northern counterpart by having completely white belly fur in addition to being a smaller and weighing less.

While southern flying squirrels are more common, it’s rare to see either species because they are completely nocturnal. While they don’t actually fly, the loose fold of skin on both sides of their body running from their ankle to their wrist allows them to glide from tree to tree. A typical flight (glide) is 50-60 feet.

Special concern species are those with suspected declining populations where more information is needed. Conservation of these species as well as those that are threatened or endangered is supported, in part, by donations to the Endangered Resources Fund. Learn more here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/EndangeredResources/endangeredresourcesfund

Photo Credit: Larry Master

08/26/2026

Hawaiian name: Unknown (Greensword)
Botanical name: Argyroxiphium grayanum
Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower Family)
Status: Endemic
Where found: Maui
Water/Light: Wet, with partial sunlight
Elevation: 3,900 to 6,800 feet
Height: Up to 6 feet

The Greensword has no confirmed Hawaiian name. This native is found only in Maui and is closely related to the Haleakalā silversword. It can be seen in Kīpahulu Valley in East Maui and near the summit of Pu‘u Kukui in West Maui. Unlike the Haleakalā silversword, which enjoys desert-like conditions of heat and drought, the greensword is a bog plant that flourishes with excessive moisture and a lack of natural sunlight. Certainly, a fascinating case study in evolution!

*Photo courtesy of Jupiter Nielsen

08/26/2026

08/25/2026

Jewel weevil

08/25/2026

Meet “Rhino Foot” — an ancient Sitka Spruce so massive it measures over 11 feet across at chest height. Its distinctive thickset base is the reason for the nickname. Sitka Spruce commonly grow from 125 to 180 feet (38 to 55 meters) tall, with exceptional trees exceeding 330 feet (100 meters). Trunks can measure up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) or more in diameter and often lives for 600 to 800 years, with some specimens reaching up to 1,000 years old. Native to the Pacific coast of North America, stretching from northern California up to Alaska. It relies heavily on coastal moisture, fog, and marine air, rarely growing more than 40 to 50 miles inland. 🌲
Photo by Lucas Cometto Lucas Cometto 🇦🇷🇺🇸

08/25/2026

Wait, where did Mom go?! These two young Moose suddenly picked up the pace when Mom disappeared behind the trees! A little panic, a little running, and a whole lot of wondering where she could be. But as soon as Mom stepped back into view, all was calm again. Just another exciting little adventure in the life of a Moose calf!

08/25/2026

Caption this...

📸 Ofir Drori