Don't feed the wildlife

People love to feed wild animals, everything from birds to sharks. This is seldom a good thing for the wildlife, and can be bad for people, too. Read about some of the reasons to step away from the chum.

Poachers are using scientific papers to find their targets

When scientists publish about the discovery of a new species, or the rediscovery of one thought extinct, their most excited readers are sometimes poachers. An essay in Science argues that sometimes locations should be kept secret to protect plants and animals from collection and, possibly, even extinction. My take on this problem for Mental Floss.

Dive the Texas Caribbean

The Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, 100 miles off the Texas coast, protects 56 square miles of thriving coral reef ecosystems. See it via a liveaboard dive boat.

The Wide Open Spaces of Big Bend

Welcome to Brewster County, Texas, all 6,169 square miles of it, one of my favorite parts of the state. Take a tour of its offerings with County Judge Eleazar Cano.

Grapevine Hills Trails in Big Bend National Park.

She Sees Seashells Down on the Seashore

A look at the science and pleasure of seashells on the vast Texas coast, including the fine art of beachcombing and the best places for it.

Playing Tag with Sharks

Scientists tag sharks to learn more about their movements and habitat use, which helps identify areas that most need protection. A behind-the-scenes look at a shark tagging expedition off the coast of Florida.

Measuring and tagging a tiger shark.

Cats and Nature

Cats are great in memes and videos on the Internet, but out in the real world, they pose a serious threat to man and nature. Read more here.