As another year comes to a close, it is common to look back on the year that was and revisit highlights, memories, and lessons learned. I imagine that whenever we look back, 2020 will always have a giant asterisk next to it. So much about this year was different, thanks largely in part to the pandemic that continues to keep us socially distancing and working virtually as much as possible. It's easy to think of this as an entirely negative experience, and in many cases, correct to do so. But one silver lining that came from this new virtual lifestyle at the UEC was the Urban Ecology Center in my Backyard portal. As the coordinator of this effort, I feel so grateful to have spent my year seeing the many new talents on display from our hard working staff.

WE MISS YOU and look forward to taking you on in-person adventures!

In the meantime, let’s find creative ways to connect! Click here or on the image below for a full-sized coloring page for kids and adults alike! Show your coloring skills and love for connecting to nature by placing your masterpiece in your window. We’d also love to see your creation! Use #UECinmybackyard when you post on social media.

Environmental Educator Regina Miller finds a lot of cool animals and plants in her backyard and nearby areas. Here are her recent cool finds. Check back here for more cool finds and check out urbanecologycenter.org/backyard for more discoveries from our staff (including a three-part video series by Regina)!