Brother Nature

If you've noticed your boxwoods are suffering, there are several reasons that may be the case. One of the likely reasons is the box tree moth, which has been eviscerating the bushes for years in Michigan.

The Huron River stretches from within Michigan's Lower Peninsula all the way to Lake Erie. Along the way are all sorts of sights and sounds, from sunbathing turtles to gliding herons. On Brother Nature this week, we kayaked a small stretch of the river with the help of the Huron Clinton Metroparks and Skip's Huron River Canoe Livery. Also on the show this week, our recovering piping plovers, Michigan's only venomous snake, and Mike McKinstry of the Bassquatch Hunter made a visit on the show. 

The wildfires in Canada and the smoke afflicting Michigan has devastating consequences for our health, and solutions to the widening crises are limited. Also on Brother Nature this week, what's wrong with Michigan's boxwoods? The hardy shrub is increasingly under attack from pests.

Getting into birding is as easy as leaving out some seeds and mixing in a little patience. But there's so much more to the hobby for those with enough interest. Carissa with Chirp Nook explains the best way to get involved. Also on Brother Nature this week, freaky fungus, memorial swims, a rare cactus blooms in West Bloomfield, and a campaign to build a fish cleaning station for Lake St. Clair.

In the future, the Great Lakes will have a continuous unbroken trail that spans the entire shoreline. It will connect to a similar network on Canada's side, offering a new way to explore Michigan and the rest of the shoreline. Also on Brother Nature, the trail challenge available at the Huron-Clinton Metroparks as well as rain garden resources available at the Huron River Watershed Council.

Walking through Royal Oak's Tenhave Woods is like walking through a time capsule of Michigan forest history. The city's nature society does walking tours that explores the history of site and the life within. Also on Brother Nature, an interview with a drone pilot who photographs Great Lakes freighters. 

The tree of heaven is already a giant problem across Michigan, and it may be drawing another invasive pest to its bark: the spotted lanternfly. We explore both and their looming threat on Brother Nature this week.

Buckthorn is among the invasive species that has taken the state of Michigan by storm. It covers nature centers, backyards, and more, and fighting it requires years of work. However, one Michigan land bank has found an efficient solution. Also on Brother Nature, National Trails and River Day in Canton Township. 

Native plants are having a moment and there is no better time to explore their benefits and beauty than right now. On Brother Nature, we take a look at a New Boston prairie, the plant options at Michiganense Natives, and a starter program in Oakland County. 

Meet the pheasants of Detroit, which will be the focus of the upcoming Flock Party. Also on Brother Nature this week, an acoustic telemetry project measuring the movements of muskies, as well as a new partnership between Oakland County Parks and Bloomfield Hills schools. 

Predicting the last frost is tedious business with a lot on the line for Michigan farmers. At Spicer Orchards, they deploy a variety of methods to fight freezing temperatures and prevent their apple blossoms from dying from the cold. Also on Brother Nature, the Michigan League of Bicyclists, as well as bird migration on Whitefish Point. 

Hummingbirds are starting to appear around Michigan after making their long migration across the continent.  And baby season has arrived at the Wolcott Mills Metropark in Ray Township. That means adorable sheep, goats, calves, and chicks to see this spring. 

Why is world-class fishing in Michigan? How do you jig? And what does burbot taste like? The Great Lakes offer up the very best angling for walleye, smallmouth bass, and perch. Also on Brother Nature, celebrating Arbor Day, raccoon baby season, and another segment of Boots! Not Shoes. 

Ever wanted to do the Woodcock Walk? Or kayak down one of Michigan's biggest rivers? Wildlife and recreation is abundant at Oakwoods Metropark. Also this week, the science of sod and a pilot compost program launches in Southfield.