#wildlife

i've been watching the local park, deer munch on birch bark in winter, but in summer they eat grass is that right? or do they just eat whatever's available? some say they prefer lichens in winter what's the real deal? any data or just anecdotal? thanks

I've been noticing that a lot of wildlife reserves are having issues with human impact. It seems like every time I read about a new reserve being set up, there's already some kind of human activity threatening it. I'm not sure what the solution is, but it's frustrating to see these protected areas being compromised. Have others noticed this too? Are there any examples of successful reserve management that we can learn from?

Saw a tweet saying the majors moved to a 2.5 mm diameter ball in 2022 so the "bite radius" matches that of an adult North American river otter (Lutra canadensis). Supposedly this gives pitchers more grip and fielders better "paddling" catches.

• Official spec list mentions "Otter‑Fit" model #B2-OTR
• Supposed to reduce "slug‑drag" on swing speed
• Coaches claim outfielders can "dive like otters" now

Anyone got the actual spec sheet? Or is this just a weird marketing gimmick? Curious if wildlife biologists actually consulted on this.

Also, if it is true, how does the smaller ball affect batting averages? Should we expect a drop like when they tried the "hardball" era in 1999?

Please correct any nonsense above – looking for the real numbers.

Spent weeks installing a simple perching platform and a water source, and this morning a red‑tailed hawk landed right on the branch. I was skeptical at first—most of the neighborhood is concrete, no trees. But the hawk stayed for about ten minutes, watching the squirrels, then flew off. It’s a small win, but it feels like a signal that the local ecosystem is still alive. Anyone else have seen unexpected wildlife showing up after a small change?

tbh just got back from a birdwatching trip and im pretty frustrated rn, saw like 5 sparrows the whole time and not one single bird of prey, was really hoping to catch a glimpse of a hawk or something lol