Browsing Bliss Awaits You

It appears you're using Internet Explorer or an early version of Edge, which is a bit like watching a black-and-white TV with "rabbit ears." You're missing symmetry, joy and actual knowledge — not only here on my website but across the internet. I suggest you upgrade to Chrome or Firefox. You’ll discover a lot more nature, maybe even actual rabbit ears.

— Bryan

Hold Nature in Your Hand

Susie Spikol is a naturalist and writer who helps connect people of all ages to nature.

Book Trailer to The Animal Adventurer’s Guide

Thank you to SALT Project for this video.

A child's hand holding a red eft salamander.

Rain Walkers

Red efts, the eastern newt—they are a kid’s dream come true, so small and touchable, and their tangerine color so outlandish in a world dedicated to camouflage. No teeth, no fangs, claws, or quills. They are damp but not slimy, and it looks like they are smirking as if the joke’s on you.

A ruby-throated hummingbird in mid-flight against a green background.

Your Hummingbird Heart on Mother’s Day

I am holding a teacup-sized hummingbird nest in my hands. The outside is covered in silvery green lichen flakes, stitched together with spider silk. The silk not only holds this home together; it allows the nest to stretch and grow as the babies grow. The inside, no bigger than a thimble...

 A red fox standing in a meadow.

Fox Time

We're in the zone, totally caught up in the moment, and hot on the trail of a red fox.

Hope on Silent Wings

We try calling, a plaintive “who-cooks-for-you.” I see their faces full of anticipation, straining to hear a response. Children nestled tight against parent and grandparent, eyes wide, bright like those stars up above.

Upcoming Events

A single bat flies through trees at night.

Kids Count for Wildlife: NH Bat Count

June 24, 2022 from 8 to 9 p.m. Willard Pond Wildlife Sanctuary in Antrim

Calling all kids ages 9 through 18 who care about wildlife! Try your hand at field research by joining the Harris Center for an evening of bat counting. You’ll need sharp eyes, fast reflexes, and a healthy sense of nighttime adventure. For more information »

A single honeybee is hovering above pink flowers.

Ask a Naturalist--Summer Edition

July 7, 2022 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. via Zoom

Join us for a fun, informal, nature-focused happy hour — via Zoom! Come prepared with questions about nearby nature, or just sit back and listen to our team of talented Harris Center naturalists as they share their own observations. For more information »

A garter snake spotted hiding in reeds.

Snake Search

July 11, 2022 from 3:30 to 4:30 at the Harris Center in Hancock

Join Matt Patterson and Susie Spikol for an afternoon snake search along the Harris Center grounds. Find out if any snakes have moved into the Harris Center’s snake hotels, hunt for snakeskin, and discover the incredible natural history of these slithery reptiles. For more information »

Naturalist Susie Spikol holds a worm out for several preschoolers to see.

Babies in Backpacks and Toddlers in Tow

July 12, 2022 from 10 to 11 Casalis State Forest in Peterborough

Join Harris Center naturalist Susie Spikol for a wild ramble in search of summer birds, wildflowers, salamanders, and other amazing finds. Spend time with other families interested in being outside and exploring this magical world we live in. A perfect hike for little legs! Foir more information »