By Terry W. Johnson

Acorns rank as one of the very best wildlife foods. For generations stately oaks have been rooted in backyards across the state. Although the beauty of these trees has long been recognized, their importance as valuable food plants for backyard wildlife remains largely unappreciated.

With more than 30 species of oaks native to the Peach State, regardless of whether you live in the city or country, the mountains or the coast, there is an oak that will grow in your backyard.

By Terry W. Johnson

Nowadays most folks enjoy having a cornucopia of wildlife living just outside their backdoor. However such has not always been the case. In times past, people often either took their wildlife neighbors for granted or honestly believed that many of them were imbued with frightening magical powers, or worse yet, cavorting with witches and ghosts.

by Terry W. Johnson

By Terry W. Johnson

Most Georgia hummingbird enthusiasts are delighted that the numbers of hummingbirds visiting their feeders are increasing weekly. On the downside, more ants, yellow jackets, honeybees and wasps are also converging on feeders in search of a sugary meal. This can cause problems for hummingbirds and humans alike.

By Terry W. Johnson

By Terry W. Johnson

We Americans have harbored a long-standing love affair with the ruby-throated hummingbird. This affection is so widespread that, without any hesitation, I would say this feathered sprite is the most popular bird in the Georgia.

With that in mind, I have often wondered just how long we have been enamored with this flying dynamo.

By Terry W. Johnson

A few weeks ago when snow sifted down out of leaden skies and first covered much of the state with a stark white blanket, Georgians were filled with mixed emotions.

Terry W. Johnson

For most of us, Dec. 21 came and went without much fanfare; it was simply just another day. However, in the grand scheme of things, it was very important because it was the shortest day of the year and marked the end of fall and the onset of winter.

The American robin is inexorably linked to spring. This is because many Americans believe that after a long, cold and bleak winter, the appearance of a robin in their backyard is a sure sign that winter’s icy grip on the land is weakening and spring is just around the corner. 

By Terry W. Johnson

If I asked you to make a list of the animals that inhabit your backyard, I am sure that list would include scores of birds, butterflies, squirrels, toads, the chipmunk and an assortment of other critters. I would venture to say most people would not include the Virginia opossum.

One reason for this may be that since the animals are nocturnal, they are rarely seen wandering about in backyards. Yet, whether you live in the country, suburbs or city, chances are opossums visit your yard.