Community members, local organizations and Academy scientists are working together to find just solutions to environmental issues.
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Latest Posts
Even After Rain and Snow: What a Drought Watch Means for the Northeastern Region’s Ecosystems
A single dry autumn might seem like simply a nuisance or an ongoing news headline, but it can have rippling effects for many local species far into the future.
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New Exhibit Examines the Interconnected Ecology of the Fashion Industry
The Academy enters the world of fashion in collaboration with the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection of Drexel’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design
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A Blueprint to Reparative Practices in the Archives
Consciously editing catalog records of certain archival records to include or redress the absence of Indigenous knowledge
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Open to Collaborate
The Academy of Natural Sciences Botany Herbarium is opening its collection of more than 1 million dried and pressed plant specimens to collaboration with Indigenous scientists living on the tribal lands where many of the plants were originally collected.
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Recent Acquisitions to the Academy’s Archives
New pieces in our Archives shed light on our mission to preserve and represent diverse voices in the field of natural history
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New Role at the Academy is Activating the Vast Network of WINS Alumnae
New WINS alumnae manager, Ninette Bennett, has big plans to embrace, share and build success with WINS students and alumnae across the globe.
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Celebrating Latin and Hispanic Heritage in the Sciences at the Academy
In English, Spanish and Portuguese, Academy scientists open up about their careers, cultures and creating diverse opportunities for excellence in research.
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“Our Voices Need to be Heard”: Latin & Hispanic Drexel Co-ops Helping to Enrich Representation in the Sciences
Three Drexel students discuss their cultural identities and scientific aspirations
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For the Oranges of Sargodha District: Pakistan, Podcasts and Environmental Policy Work with Living on Earth
Born into an agricultural tribe in rural Punjab, Drexel co-op Shanzay Asif nutures the art of storytelling to environmentally advocate for her home
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Groundtruthing: Using Scientific Data to Support Local Communities Across Philadelphia
To accurately and equitably determine environmental justice neighborhoods, Academy scientists create a digital tool
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Telling Our Stories: Gender Minorities in the Sciences at the Academy
Five phenomenal figures with diverse scientific backgrounds each spoke of their experiences growing up and entering the STEM field.
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A Great Shell Milestone: Malacology Dept reaches 500K cataloged specimens
The collection officially crossed the phenomenal half-million mark. How did we get here?
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Cataloging a Shared Love of Natural History and Books
Fashion student Ellie Sear from Drexel’s Westphal College discusses her love of books, nature and a very exciting project to make L&A works more accessible
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Learn About Urban Birding: A Q&A with Christian Cooper
On June 1, the Academy will host Black Excellence in Birding: An Evening with Christian Cooper, the 3rd annual black-tie gala and fledgling sneaker ball in support of Black Birders Week with special guest Christian Cooper, renowned New York Times best-selling author and National Geographic host.
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Five Ways You Can Celebrate Earth Day – All Year Long
Celebrate Earth Day all year long with these tips.
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Are Solar Panels Right for You?
April is Earth Month, a time when many are considering how they can make changes to their homes and their lives to be more sustainable. Could solar panels be the answer?
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Washed Away: “Freedom Hill” Explores Flooding Caused by Environmental Racism
In her film “Freedom Hill,” Resita Cox is sharing the story of Princeville, and in doing so, she is sharing the story of all of the towns that were built in flood-prone areas.
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Studying Quality of Life with Aquatic Macroinvertebrates
Brenda Vong, a recent BEES student, gets outside and learns about the importance of water and our local macroinvertebrates
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Illustrating the Importance of Women in Science
In the Academy’s Library and Archives, there are many examples of the important contributions of women.
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A Case of Mistaken Identity in the World of Crane Flies
Curator Jon Gelhaus and BEES student Bryan Eichen set out to clarify who was really who among the spotted wing species in the genus Dicranomyia.
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Q+A: Lights, Camera…Ants!
Sean O’ Donnell, PhD, a professor of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science in Drexel University’s College of Arts and Sciences, believes putting insects on camera can help society see the integral role they play in the preservation of our natural world – and ultimately humankind.
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Empowering the Future with Plastic-free Philly Champions
Ale Gonzales, a BEES student, has a real drive to make environmental science truly accessible for students in Philly.
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Take a Look Under the Canopy
A new exhibition showcases immersive animal habitat displays with live animals, including a two-toed sloth, along with life-size, climbable animal sculptures and other interactive and dynamic features designed for all ages.
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Simple Ways to Support Spring Bird Migration
Plants, feeders, birdhouses and even a few small alterations in our daily habits can go a long way in supporting the livelihood and diversity of avian species.
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Updated USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map Spotlights Changing City
In the coming years, Philadelphia gardeners may try out some new plants and retire old favorites after an updated government map was released this fall.
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Evolution is the Story of All of Us
But what exactly does it mean? Research Associate Jason Downs, PhD, explains.
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How to Have a Green and Sustainable Holiday Season
If you find yourself wondering how to be more environmentally conscious, then you can start with a few of these simple tips.
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New Exhibit Gets Up Close and Personal with the Real Tiktaalik
Life Onto Land: The Devonian centers around the Academy’s internationally celebrated paleontological research and the incredible discovery of Tiktaalik roseae.
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What Exactly Are the Archives and Why Are They Important?
The Academy celebrates Archives Month by delving in the wondrous world of accessible history
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Finding Latin American Inspirations in the Library & Archives
Drexel student and co-op Nathan Nazario details his research into the scientific fascinations of Latin America
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Studying Geology and Water Chemistry in the Delaware River Basin
Recent BEES grad Kayla Aughenbaugh discusses her research into local geology and human impacts
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Malacology Collection Supports Scientific Discoveries in Unexpected Places
A new book will be a major mollusk resource for biologists and conservationists studying the 45th state
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Fall Garden Guide
Whether you live in the city, suburbs or out in the woods, you can help local communities and biodiversity flourish with a few of these simple autumn garden tips.
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Create Your Own Pressed Botanical Specimen
An easy step-by-step guide on pressing and preserving your plants and flowers
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Science Is for Everyone: Grant Support Helps Share a Love of Birds
BEES PhD student Emily Griffith has been awarded over $10,000 in grant funding this year alone to further her ornithological research.
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The Unexpected Diversity of Philadelphia’s Bees
Academy co-op and BEES student Liz Otruba surveyed the bee population at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum to see how many species were really there
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Through the Sands of Time: Giant Clams as Paleoclimate Timekeepers
Measuring stable isotopes in giant clam fossils can be one of the most accurate proxies for reconstructing past ocean conditions and in turn, reveal the changes caused by anthropogenic climate change
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Studying New Hawk Communities Through Genetics and Collections
Therese Catanach, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher in Ornithology who primarily studies hawks and their parasitic lice tells us about using genetics to understand birds of prey
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Exploring Skin’s Fascinating Roles for Organisms
Our newest exhibit opens at the Academy and delves into the wild, strange and complex functions of skin, hair, feathers, fur, scales and more
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One Tiny Mollusk, One Big Discovery
Tobias Tagliaferro, a recent Drexel co-op in the Academy’s Malacology Department, discusses a very small bivalve, freshly discovered and scientifically named, that has a monumental impact
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New Tumbler Leaves Bird Specimens Hide and Dry
Engineering students from Middle Bucks Institute of Technology have successfully designed and developed a foldable hide tumbler in partnership with Academy scientists
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From Coastal Ecosystems to Cultural Exchanges, a Fulbright in Fiji this Fall
Curatorial Assistant Daouda Njie, a recent graduate of Drexel’s Department of Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science was awarded a Fulbright study research grant to Fiji
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Freshwater Fishes in Equatorial Guinea
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Summer Garden Guide
Whether you live in the city, suburbs or out in the woods, you can help local biodiversity flourish with a few of these simple summer garden tips.
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New Exhibit Looks Into Drawing as a Way of Knowing Birds
Illuminating Birds welcomes visitors to celebrate and feel inspired by ornithological illustrations
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Testing Soil for Lead in West Philly Vacant Lots
The Academy joined forces with local organization and university to create a clearer picture of potential contaminants in our city’s empty spaces
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Honoring the Silvermans: Creating a Passionate Community For the Love of All Living Things
Arthur and Carol Silverman have not only been long-time friends and supporters of the Academy, but also absolutely integral to our mission to inspire everyone to care about the natural world.
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Mary Gibson Henry’s Extraordinary Botanical Collection Digitized
A volunteer BEES alum sheds some light on an innovative botanist and the importance of making her work available to everyone digitally.
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Searching for Snails in the Delaware River
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Get Involved with iNaturalist!
Learn how you can join an amazing network of nature lovers who explore and share observations that contribute to biodiversity science.
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Academy Guide to Local Bird-watching Spots
Discover new and fascinating local bird populations or spot astounding migrators that fly through the tri-state regions, simply by visiting one of these amazing nearby parks, preserves, refuges or gardens.
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Phenomenal Migration and Transformation of American Eels
Spring is that time of year when freshwater creeks and streams all along the Philadelphia region are swarming with native, migratory eels — and it’s just one stage of their wildly complex life story.
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Spotting Spring On Philly’s Nature Scene
Spring is here and as the days lengthen, more and more characters will take their place on nature’s stage all around the city.
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Academy Scientists Make Important Discoveries
Knowing our biodiversity is the first step to conservation
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Familiar Flora in Newfoundland and Labrador
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Crafting Scientific Leaders and Community this Summer Through DESLA
A weeklong outdoors summer adventure for high school students that gets everyone out in the field doing real environmental research, right alongside our very own Academy scientists and BEES professors.
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Results Show Lights Out Philly Works
Get ready for the bird migration starting April 1.
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Spring Garden Guide
Whether you live in the city, suburbs or out in the woods, you can help local biodiversity flourish with a few of these simple spring garden tips.
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Black Excellence in Local Birding Communities Is Creating Change at the Academy
New ANS partnerships and events with local Black Birders who are creating communities around the city and region to support equity and getting outdoors
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Conversations With Birds, They’re Everywhere
New exhibit anticipates spring migration season in Philly region
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There Is a Fungus Among Us! Killer Fungi in the Flesh at the Academy
Specimens of a certain parasitic fungi found in our collections with those otherworldly growth traits that have long been the inspiration for science fiction
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The Art of Tidying Up in the Entomology Collections
Drexel BEES student talks about the real scientific power (and fun!) of an orderly insect collection
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Embrace Winter and Explore Philly’s Nature
Bundle up, there’s still a lot to take in outside. Here are some ideas to get you started.
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The Big Dig this Summer at Bighorn Basin
A joint field study between the Academy and Elevation Science Institute promises to be an amazing experience for all naturalists and nature lovers, and you can join in, too.
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Finding Frogs in the New Jersey Pine Barrens
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Now That’s Funky! Recent Fossil Discovery Honors Academy Scientist
Once-in-a-lifetime fossil finding at the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona honors the mentorship of Academy’s beloved scientist, Ned Gilmore
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Four Ways to Get Involved in Science!
Discover environmental communities who are making a difference in our natural world and learn how you can join, too!
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Celebrating 10 Years of BEES With Department Head David Velinsky, PhD
Q&A about the history of the BEES Department, how it has grown over the last 10 years and its many success stories
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Highlighting Biodiversity: Spectacular Birds and the Amazon River
As the Academy celebrates biodiversity — the remarkable, beautiful tapestry of life on Earth — this year, we are delving into some of the fascinating locations our scientists have visited in the region and across the globe to study and help protect our planet’s phenomenally diverse and incredible species.
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Alternatives to Road Salt
Road salt impacts our waterways, aquatic wildlife and infrastructure. This winter, think sustainably and make a change.
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Academy Gift Guide for 2022 Holidays
Happy Holidays! Great gift ideas for those special bookworms, young environmentalists and nature-loving enthusiasts
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Mural Brings Watershed Daydreams to Life
New public artwork illustrates U.N. Sustainability Goal for clean water, sanitation
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Get Outdoors with Philly’s Nature!
Salamanders, lichens, raccoons, birds — autumn is the perfect time to join many of our non-human neighbors in enjoying the outdoors.
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A Day in the Life at the Academy’s Ornithology Department
BEES co-op takes us through their interesting work cataloging historic eggs, stuffing birds and even catching louse.
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New Exhibition Presents Insects Like You’ve Never Seen Them
Microsculpture: The Insect Portraits of Levon Biss opens Nov. 19
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Leave the Leaves for Understory Habitats
Leaving those fallen autumn leaves in your yard is one part of a complex system that supports and sustains biodiversity
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Drexel Students Host the Nation’s First Local Conference of Youth
The Academy hosted the opening event Sept. 23
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Confronting the Effects of Coastal Climate Change
Students apply hands-on research with Academy scientist
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What Has the Clean Water Act Done for You?
Rowing, fishing, birding, and providing basic drinking water — fifty years later, the Clean Water Act still impacts us all
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In Search of the Hidden Cooper River
An historic expedition of the Cooper River, from its mouth at the Delaware River to its source at Gibbsboro, to uncover its hidden story
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Winterize Your Home (the Green Way)
Helpful and simple indoor tips on staying warm and environmentally conscious this winter.
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An Expedition Flag Conserved
A piece of exploration history associated with Matthew Henson and Robert Peary
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Otteo Sound Project, Music to the Ears
As told by a Drexel co-op
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Cheers! To 40 Years of WINS Success
An exceptional weekend celebration to honor our award-winning Women In Natural Sciences program.
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Orchids: The Royal Family of Plants
The Library and Archives delves into some fantastic works to peek at the history of this well-loved plant.
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Academy and Drexel Host America’s First Local Conference of Youth
In preparation for U.N. Climate Change Conference
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Bird Migrations: Timeless and Threatened
New York Times bestselling author Scott Weidensaul talks about the wonders of bird migration, Lights Out Philly and what we can do to help
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The Seeds of Belonging
Three successful women talk WINS, sisterhood and the power of science to change your life.
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Community Science to the Rescue, One Flipped Horseshoe Crab at a Time
Horseshoe crabs and shorebirds benefit from the amazing work of BEES instructor and volunteers in the Delaware Bay
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Award-Winning Women In Natural Sciences Marks 40 Years
Free museum Sept. 17-18 gets the party started
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Winterizing the Garden
As autumn arrives, preparing your garden for cold weather is easy, helping support your wallet and native wildlife.
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How to Save the World, Part 2
Ideas for coping with a changing planet
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New Exhibition Shows How We All Affect the Ocean
Ocean Bound this summer!
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How to Save the World, Part 1
Ideas for coping with a changing planet
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Capturing the Crane Fly
Drexel BEES student works to document and describe the amazing biodiversity of this truly interesting insect
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Birds and Biodiversity at Lacawac Sanctuary
Reflections by two students on their impactful DESLA experiences in nature
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Returning Home
WINS alumnae and new project assistant reminisces about the beauty of deep connections forged at the Academy
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Clean-Up on Aisle One
Surprising discovery from mussel surveys in Delaware River Basin
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On the Wings of Research
BEES alum and first author on a recently published Nature paper talks butterflies, data and student experiences
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City Residents Help the Academy Map Urban Hotspots
Community scientists collect data on heat and air quality for NOAA study
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Engaging Mindfully with Nature
Finding small and simple ways to reflect on the environment has numerous benefits
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WINS Founder Donates Treasure Trove of History
The gift comes as WINS celebrates its 40th year in September
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The Heat of the Moment
As the temperature rises, Academy scientist confirms that climate change is causing dire problems for people everywhere, including Philly.
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Changing Water, Changing Climate
With greater knowledge of the ocean’s abyss, we can better understand the scope of human influence.
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Trapping Lanternflies with Innovation
A BEES student investigates a cutting-edge trapping method for the spotted lanternfly, while adding her own scientific touch.
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Simple Ways to Reduce Plastic
Easing off plastics in our day-to-day lives is simple and impactful.
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Effecting Change with a Fulbright Fellowship
Akilah Chatman, BEES graduate, aims to create green spaces in Cambodia with prestigious award.
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Multi-Part Art Exhibition, Watershed Experience Opens This Summer
Watershed Moment focuses on the importance and vibrancy of the watershed
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The Story of A Lifetime
Senior fellow at the Academy is elected into prestigious society for his life’s work in understanding nature.
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Awardees of The Environmental Collaboratory’s Inaugural Research Grant
From the Vice Provost and Executive Director of The Environmental Collaboratory
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Coyote and Fox Populations on the Rise?
The Academy asks BEES professor and urban wildlife ecologist Dane Ward for the answers
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Being in Nature: Good for Mind, Body and Nutrition
Drexel researchers find getting outdoors promotes a healthy diet
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Fast Facts About Plastics Pollution
Bottled water is not regulated by EPA
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Plastic-free Philly, Philly’s Solution to Plastic Pollution
New initiative aims to put a lid on single-use water bottles
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Meet Our New Executive Director, Library and Archives
The Academy welcomes our new executive director of library and archives to help manage one of the finest natural history libraries in North America
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Protect Our Water
Protecting and conserving our water are critical to the health of our planet and ourselves. Fortunately, there are many simple ways to keep it clean.
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Floodplains and Redlines
Drexel BEES students research Philly flood hazard zones that overlap with marginalized communities
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New Sound Installation Gives Voice to the Schuylkill
The River Feeds Back reveals a new way to experience water
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The Future Ghost Forests of New Jersey
Careful research of loblolly pines can help prevent tree death in NJ marshes
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Birding in the Great Outdoors
Perspectives from Black Birder Anwar Abdul-Qawi, lead keeper at the Academy, on getting outdoors
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Let’s Talk about Climate Anxiety
Introducing the topic of climate change to young minds
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10 Hikes to Explore Our Watershed
Get up close and personal with our watershed on these 10 hikes.
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New Species of Ancient Fish Discovered Along PA Roadside
Important discovery of great scientific interest
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Academy leads effort to map Philly’s heat and air quality
NOAA-funded project involves dozens of community scientists
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Helping a Still Life Come Alive
For Earth Day, Academy experts illuminate famous PMA painting
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Join the Philadelphia City Nature Challenge
From April 29 to May 2 participate in friendly global competition
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Extreme Deep: Mission to the Abyss
An exhibit review by a 12-year-old visitor
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The Royal Connection
About those unusual illustrations in the Extreme Deep exhibit
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Drinking Water and Disease: The strange partners that shaped Philadelphia
Part 1: Fairmount Water Works, the right answer for the wrong problem
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Getting Creative in the Field
A BEES student finds a fun way to engage the community in science with stickers
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Meet Our New VP of Community Learning
He’s got big plans for women in science and Black birders
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Golden Eagle Artwork Finds a Home
Scratchboard artist Jim Lish gives his life’s work to the Academy
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Create a Water-Wise Garden
Preserve water and keep the environment beautiful by simply creating a water-wise garden
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Explore the Mysteries of the Deepest Oceans
Extreme Deep: Mission to the Abyss Opens April 2
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The Fish With the Fishy Name
“Great fish do not swim in shallow waters”-Matshona Dhliwayo
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Lights Out Kicks Off for Spring 2022
Save the migrating birds
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