Discover the Chilling Stories Behind the Wild West’s Most Haunted Places
If you’re fascinated by the legends, hauntings, and history of the American West, Ghosts of the Wild West: Stories from Deadwood, Tombstone, and the Old Frontierby Jessica Freeburg and Natalie Fowler is a must-read. This captivating book blends true tales of outlaws, lawmen, and ordinary people with spine-tingling ghost stories, bringing the past to life in a way that will thrill both history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts. Part of the Hauntings, Horrors & Scary Ghost Stories series, the book comes out August 12, 2025.
Real Ghost Stories from the Wild West
Ghosts of the Wild West dives deep into the haunted history of famous frontier towns, abandoned mines, and notorious saloons. Each chapter explores the real-life tragedies and legends that shaped the West, from the lawless days of train robbers and gunslingers to the struggles of women seeking survival and dignity.
You’ll meet infamous figures like Tom “Black Jack” Ketchum, whose gruesome execution for train robbery left a lasting mark on Cimarron, New Mexico—and whose ghost is said to still haunt the mountains. The book also tells the tragic story of Maggie Broadwater, a young woman whose dreams were dashed in Deadwood, South Dakota, and whose spirit reportedly lingers in the Fairmont Hotel, a poignant reminder of the hardships faced by women in the Old West.
Haunted Hotels, Ghost Towns, and Supernatural Encounters
What sets Ghosts of the Wild West apart from other ghost story collections is its seamless blend of historical research and firsthand paranormal encounters. The authors, both experienced paranormal investigators, recount chilling experiences in some of the West’s most haunted locations—including the Bird Cage Theatre in Tombstone, the St. James Hotel in Cimarron, and the eerie ghost town of Bannack, Montana. Modern witnesses share their own ghostly encounters, from mysterious footsteps and spectral apparitions to objects moving on their own. These stories are interwoven with historical context, giving readers a deeper understanding of the events that may have left these spirits restless.
This book is more than just a collection of scary stories. It’s a thoughtful exploration of the emotional and historical legacy of the American frontier. The ghosts that haunt these pages are symbols of unresolved history, loss, and the relentless pursuit of fortune and identity. Whether you’re interested in the haunted hotels of Deadwood, the tragic mining disasters of Nevada, or the legendary outlaws who shaped the West, this book offers a tapestry of tales that will leave you questioning what lingers just beyond the veil.
For anyone searching for the best books about haunted places in the Wild West, or looking to learn more about real ghost stories from American history, Ghosts of the Wild West is an essential addition to your reading list. With its evocative storytelling and deep respect for the past, this book ensures that the legends and spirits of the Old West continue to captivate new generations. Pre-order this book or others from the series at https://shop.adventurewithkeen.com/product-tag/hauntings-horrors-scary-ghost-stories/.
Some special recipes are passed down through the generations, while some come from the spirits of those who have crossed over.
Mary Ann Winkowski’s Beyond Delicious Cookbook (available August 12, 2025) is a delightful, unexpected collection of recipes that combines the realms of the living and the dead, all through the universal language of food. The book weaves a tapestry of stories, memories, and supernatural encounters that reveal how food connects us across time, space, and even the afterlife.
Mary Ann Winkowski, known for her unique ability to communicate with earthbound spirits, brings her extraordinary gift to the kitchen table. Since childhood, she has seen and spoken with ghosts, a talent that has led her into countless homes and hearts. But what sets Beyond Delicious apart is how she uses this gift to gather recipes and stories from those who have passed on, preserving not just their culinary secrets but their legacies.
The book opens with a simple-but-profound lesson: Always carry a notepad and pen. For Mary Ann, this advice came from the spirits themselves, who were eager to share not only messages but also their cherished recipes. One of the most memorable spirits is Bess, the first ghost to share a recipe with her. Bess is a lively presence, filled with opinions about baking and a fierce sense of culinary pride. Her attachment to her nut roll recipe is so strong that she even mischievously sabotages the baking attempts of the living, blowing out stove pilot lights or hiding ingredients when she feels her standards aren’t met.
Humor is a key ingredient in Mary Ann’s storytelling. Whether it’s a ghostly grandmother critiquing green bean casseroles or a spectral chef lamenting the misuse of his barbecue chicken recipe, the book is filled with lighthearted moments that balance the poignancy of loss and memory. Her gentle mediation between the living and the dead often results in laughter, healing, and the sharing of a long-lost recipe.
Beneath the laughter lies a deeper message about the power of food to connect us. Mary Ann’s encounters reveal that many spirits linger not out of fear or regret, but out of love—for their families, their traditions, and the recipes that defined their lives. Food, she observes, is a universal language that marks the rhythms of our days and the milestones of our lives. It is both sustenance and celebration, necessity and nostalgia.
The stories inBeyond Delicious are as varied as the recipes themselves. There’s the tale of a woman who embroidered her cauliflower soup recipe to ensure it would never be forgotten, and the bittersweet account of a grandmother who insists her family remember her pickled-beet soup. Each recipe is a bridge to the past, a way for families to honor their ancestors and keep their memories alive at the dinner table.
Mary Ann’s own memories of family gatherings, filled with the aromas of home-cooked meals, remind readers that the act of cooking is about more than following instructions. It’s about love, tradition, and the desire to nourish not just the body, but the soul. Through her paranormal encounters, she has uncovered the emotional weight recipes carry—how a simple dish can evoke comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging.
What makes Beyond Delicious truly special is its invitation to readers: to see food not just as fuel, but as a connection to those who have come before us. Every recipe is accompanied by a story, a voice from the past reaching out to say, “Remember me.” In a world where fast food and convenience often overshadow tradition, this book is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of slowing down, gathering together, and savoring the flavors—and the memories—that make life rich.
So whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or simply a lover of good food, the Beyond Delicious Cookbook offers a unique feast for the senses. It’s a celebration of life, love, and the enduring bonds of food—across generations, and even beyond the veil.
Each spring, as the migration of birds sweeps across North America, another movement takes flight—one that is transforming the face of conservation and outdoors culture: Black Birders Week. What began in 2020 as a response to the racism experienced by Black naturalists and birders, most notably the Central Park bird-watching incident involving Christian Cooper, has blossomed into a vibrant annual celebration of Black joy, expertise, and community in the outdoors.
Black Birders Week is more than a social media campaign. It is a call for visibility and inclusion, with a weeklong series of events, panels, and bird walks highlighting the experiences and contributions of Black birders, scientists, and nature enthusiasts. With hashtags like #BlackBirdersWeek and #BlackInNature, participants share stories, photos, and educational resources, challenging stereotypes and opening doors for the next generation.
The Importance of Representation
Seeing someone who looks like you in a field you love can be transformative. This theme is powerfully explored in People the Planet Needs Now, edited by Dudley Edmondson. The book is a tapestry of voices from the Global Majority—activists, scientists, and community leaders—who share their journeys at the intersection of environmental justice and social equity. Among them is Corina Newsome, a wildlife biologist and one of the co-organizers of Black Birders Week.
Corina’s story, like those of many contributors, underscores the barriers faced by Black and Brown people in conservation and STEM fields. She writes about the lack of representation in her early career and the impact of mentorship from leaders like Dr. Brian Davis, who advocated for paid internships and greater inclusivity in conservation. Corina’s hope is that, through visibility and advocacy, young Black children who love wildlife will grow up expecting to see Black biologists in the field—not being surprised by it.
Another inspiring figure featured in People the Planet Needs Now is Jason Hall, a biochemist and founder of the In Color Birding Club in Philadelphia. Jason’s mission is to open the birding and outdoors space to BIPOC birders, not only for the mental and physical benefits but also for the sheer joy of birding itself. He challenges the traditional culture of birding by emphasizing fun, learning, and community over perfection and posturing. Jason’s inclusive approach creates welcoming spaces where people of color can experience the outdoors without the pressure of “getting everything right,” and where misidentifying a bird is simply an opportunity to learn together.
Dudley Edmondson: Bird Enthusiast, Photographer, and Trailblazer
No discussion of Black Birders Week or the movement for diversity in birding would be complete without highlighting the work and legacy of Dudley Edmondson himself. Based in Duluth, Minnesota, Dudley is an acclaimed photographer, filmmaker, author, and presenter whose passion for birds and the outdoors has inspired countless people across the country.
Dudley’s love for birds is not just a personal hobby—it’s a lifelong mission to connect people, especially those from underrepresented communities, to the wonders of the natural world. He often speaks about the power of bird-watching as a gateway to environmental stewardship, and his workshops and presentations encourage new birders to pick up their binoculars and cameras, regardless of their backgrounds.
For over three decades, Dudley has been capturing the beauty and diversity of birds through his lens; his photographs have been featured in galleries and publications around the world. His keen eye for avian subjects is matched by his commitment to making the outdoors more inclusive. Dudley’s landmark book, Black & Brown Faces in America’s Wild Places, was one of the first to spotlight the stories of African Americans in nature and conservation. This groundbreaking work earned him an invitation to the White House for the signing of America’s Great Outdoors Initiative during the Obama Administration.
As the editor of People the Planet Needs Now, Dudley continues to amplify the voices of BIPOC conservationists, birders, and scientists. His work on the board of the Bell Museum of Natural History and the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council further demonstrates his dedication to conservation and education.
Alex Troutman: From Spark Bird to Author
Another prominent voice in both People the Planet Needs Now and the Critters series is Alex Troutman, a wildlife biologist whose passion for nature was ignited by his “spark bird”—the red-tailed hawk. Alex’s journey is a testament to the power of early exposure and encouragement. In Critters of Georgia, he shares not only his expertise on the state’s diverse wildlife but also his dedication to making nature accessible and welcoming for all, especially children from minority and low-income backgrounds.
Alex is also a co-organizer of Black Birders Week and several other “Black in X” initiatives, including Black Mammalogists Week and Black in Marine Science Week. Through these movements, he and his colleagues are building community, celebrating Black scientists, and encouraging diversity in STEAM fields. Alex knows what it feels like to not see individuals who look like you, or come from a similar background, doing the things you enjoy or working in the career that you aspire to be in. He makes a point not only to be that representation for the younger generation, but also to make sure that kids have exposure to the careers they are interested in and the diverse scientists working in those careers.
Building a More Inclusive Outdoors
Black Birders Week is not just about birds—it’s about belonging. It’s about challenging the historical and cultural barriers that have excluded Black and Brown people from natural spaces, as well as reclaiming the narrative that nature is for everyone. As Dudley Edmondson’s anthology reminds us, environmental justice and social equity are deeply intertwined. The stories of Corina Newsome, Alex Troutman, and others show that when we center marginalized voices, we not only enrich the conservation movement but also inspire hope and action for a more just and sustainable future. Remember the words of these authors and advocates: Representation matters, community matters, and everyone deserves a place in nature’s story.
In a world where technology often takes center stage, Alex Troutman’s Critters series offers a refreshing way for children to connect with the natural world. With books like Critters of Georgia and Critters of Minnesota, Alex has created an engaging, educational, and inclusive resource that inspires kids to explore wildlife while fostering environmental stewardship. These books are more than just field guides—they are tools for empowerment, inclusivity, and conservation.
The Critters Series: A Gateway to Nature
The Critters series is a collection of wildlife guides designed to educate and inspire children. Each book highlights the unique biodiversity of a specific state and introduces readers to a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. With vivid photographs, fascinating facts, and practical safety tips, these books make learning about wildlife accessible and fun for kids of all ages.
The Critters series is produced in collaboration with Wildlife Forever, a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving America’s outdoor heritage. Wildlife Forever focuses on habitat restoration, conservation education, and fostering a love for nature in future generations. Through innovative programs like the Art of Conservation®, the nonprofit engages youth to connect with the environment in creative ways, combining art and science to help them learn about wildlife. A portion of the proceeds from the Critters series supports Wildlife Forever’s initiatives, ensuring that the books not only educate but also contribute to real-world conservation efforts.
Meet the Author: Alex Troutman
Alex Troutman is a Fish and Wildlife Biologist, nature enthusiast, and advocate for diversity in the outdoors. Growing up in South Cobb, Georgia, his love for wildlife was sparked during childhood fishing trips with his family. A fascination with animals like the red-tailed hawk, which he calls his “spark bird,” fueled his lifelong passion for nature and conservation.
Inspired by role models like Steve Irwin and Jack Hanna, Alex pursued a career in wildlife biology, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology from Georgia Southern University. Alongside his professional achievements, he is committed to fostering inclusivity in science and nature. As a co-organizer of initiatives such as Black Birders Week, Black Mammologists Week, and Black in Marine Science Week, he works to promote diversity in STEM fields and encourage underrepresented communities to connect with the outdoors.
Alex’s books are a testament to his dedication to inclusivity. He writes with children in mind—particularly those who identify as Black, Brown, Indigenous, or People of Color, as well as those with neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and dyslexia. By sharing his own experiences, he inspires kids to embrace their unique identities and pursue their dreams with confidence, showing that challenges can be overcome with determination and support.
The Critters series stands out for its focus on representation and empowerment. Alex dedicates his work to children from diverse and underserved backgrounds, encouraging them to explore nature unapologetically. His message is clear: Nature belongs to everyone, and every child deserves the opportunity to experience its wonders. Through his efforts, Alex ensures that all children feel welcome in the outdoors, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
Why These Books Matter
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the Critters series offers a much-needed opportunity for children to reconnect with nature. By combining education, inclusivity, and conservation, Alex Troutman and Wildlife Forever have created a resource that resonates with families, educators, and young readers alike.
Whether you’re a parent looking to inspire your child, a teacher seeking engaging classroom materials, or a young reader dreaming of a career in wildlife biology, the Critters series is a must-have. It’s more than a set of books—it’s a movement to create a future where every child feels empowered to explore, learn, and protect the natural world.
Alex Troutman’s Critters series, in partnership with Wildlife Forever, is a testament to the power of education and representation. By inspiring children to explore the outdoors and promoting inclusivity, these books are shaping the next generation of conservationists. With every page, young readers are reminded that nature belongs to everyone—and it’s up to all of us to protect it.
For whatever reason, some wild animals are near and dear to people’s hearts. They have a universal appeal, resulting in admiration across the masses. For example, many are obsessed with owls. Any kind of owl. Big ones, small ones, it really doesn’t matter.
The same can be said for other wild critters, such as otters. For whatever reason, everyone seems to love otters. This was on full display last week while I was leading a photographic tour of bald eagles and sea otters in Alaska. For five days, my small group of photographers spent 6 hours a day photographing bald eagles and sea otters.
There are 13 species of otters in the world, ranging in size from the small-clawed otter, which is less than 3 feet long, to the giant otter, which stretches 6 feet long. All otters are semiaquatic or marine mammals in the Weasel family. They can be found on every continent, except for Antarctica and Australia.
The sea otter (Enhyrda lutri) is the heaviest of the otter species. Males can weigh upwards of 100 pounds. Females are noticeably smaller. This makes sea otters the heaviest of the Weasel family but also makes them one of the smallest of all the marine mammals. When you get up close to a sea otter, you notice right away that they are very large animals, reaching 4-5 feet long, including their short tail.
They live in cold ocean environments, and their primary form of insulation from the cold water is not fat but, rather, fur. They have an exceptionally thick coat of fur, the densest in the animal kingdom. They have up to 1 million hairs per square inch covering their body. The density of the fur prevents water from reaching the body. Otters have two layers of fur: a dense underfur for insulation and longer guard hair that helps keep water off the underfur.
Sea otters lack blubber, a fatty layer that is common in other marine mammals. Pups are born with a buoyant coat of fur that helps them float. However, this very fur almost killed off the sea otter. Starting in the mid-1700s, sea otters were killed for their fur. By the mid-1900s, populations were down to only 1,000 to 1,500 total animals alive. It was believed that the sea otter would become extinct due to uncontrolled trapping. Recovery has been slow, and now there are small populations in 13 regions around the world, from Japan to Russia, British Columbia, California, and Alaska.
To maintain their warmth and life in the ocean, sea otters consume at least 20% of their body weight in marine invertebrates such as sea urchins, sea cucumbers, mollusks, clams, and mussels. Surprisingly, unlike river otters, fish are not a big part of their diet, although they occasionally eat birds such as loons and grebes.
Like others in the Mustelid family, sea otters reproduce at any time of year. This means that young otters are born even in the middle of winter. We spent many days on a boat looking for the sea otters and found several mothers with babies, which made for some adorable images. When we approached in the boat, the mother otters seemed to be more curious than cautious. They floated around on their backs, holding their babies to their chests with their front paws. Using a very long lens, we were able to capture some intimate moments between mother otters and pups. Until next time…
Stan Tekiela is an author, naturalist, and wildlife photographer who travels extensively to study and photograph wildlife. He can be followed on www.instagram.com and www.facebook.com. He can be contacted via his website at www.naturesmart.com.
I find diversity to be the special ingredient underpinning the strength of Mother Nature. This was abundantly clear last week when I was in Florida to photograph a very specific variation of the common and widespread eastern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger). I was in search of the Sherman’s fox squirrel (Sciurus niger shermani), a subspecies that only occurs in a handful of places in Florida and a couple of other states.
The fox squirrel is the largest of the tree squirrels found in North America. Eastern fox squirrels measure 20 to 30 inches, from tip of nose to end of tail, and they weigh around 2-3 pounds. The Sherman’s fox squirrel is large and unusual looking, and it requires stands of longleaf pines with a scattering of oaks for its habitat, as it feeds on the seeds of these trees.
Just the overall appearance of this squirrel makes it worth going out of your way for a sighting. It has a black head, forelegs, and back. In contrast, its ears and the tip of its nose are bright white. Its belly is tan to cream, and it has a huge fuzzy tail that can be black to silver.
Of course, in order to photograph one of these super-shy and secretive squirrels, I did a lot of Internet searches to learn of possible locations. After sitting up late into the night, I made a list of possible spots. In the morning, I started making some calls. Most of the places were state and county parks. I called all of them. Only one had a staff member who picked up the phone and said yes, the park had a couple of these squirrels. I dropped the phone and started driving. Upon arrival, I was given a map. It was a 5-mile hike out to the location, so I picked up some water, snacks, and my camera gear and headed out. When I arrived in the area, I could see evidence of a Sherman’s fox squirrel eating the large cones produced by the longleaf pine trees, but I didn’t see the critter. I was exhausted by the time I got back to my truck. The search continued.
While driving through central Florida, I stopped at another state park that had the right habitat. I drove in and talked to a staff member. He basically laughed in my face and said, “Good luck, buddy!” They are hard to find and super shy. The same thing happened at the next several parks where I stopped.
Next, I drove 1.5 hours south to a natural preserve recommended by someone on Facebook. Upon arrival, I saw that the habitat wasn’t right. I drove down the road a little farther and saw a guy in his driveway. I risked it and drove onto the property. The homeowner wasn’t too pleased to see me. He said, “We don’t get many people out in the country.“ I inquired about the squirrels, and he said he had never seen one in the area in his life. I was off again.
I made a couple more phone calls and sent a few text messages to Florida friends who understand wildlife. I got a few replies but no solid leads. The search continued like this for three days, but nothing panned out. It was getting very frustrating, and I was beginning to think I wouldn’t be able to find one of these elusive squirrels anywhere.
A friend who was born and raised in Florida knew of the species and said the only place he had ever seen one was along a rural road in the middle of nowhere. I had run out of leads and thought it was worth a try. One morning around 10 a.m., I rolled up in the general area that my friend told me about. I had little-to-no hope of seeing the creature when, all of a sudden, I spotted one about 50 feet off the road, heading toward a fence!
I pulled the truck over and got out. I was able to grab a few images of the fleeing squirrel. It sat on the fence long enough for me to capture a few more photos. It then jumped to a tree, allowing time for a couple more images. I came back a few times over the next several days and managed to capture a few more images. It was amazing. Until next time…
Sherman’s fox squirrel, taken in east-central Florida
Stan Tekiela is an author, naturalist, and photographer who travels extensively to capture images of wildlife. He can be followed at instagram.com and facebook.com and contacted via his website at naturesmart.com.
Are you ready to embark on a fun, educational journey into the world of birds? Mark your calendars for April 1st, 2025, as award-winning author and naturalist Stan Tekiela invites you to explore his latest masterpiece, Whose Feather Is That?. This interactive, beautifully illustrated children’s book is the perfect way to ignite curiosity about wildlife and foster a love for nature in young readers.
Why Whose Feather Is That? Is a Must-Have for Your Bookshelf
Birds are some of nature’s most fascinating creatures, and their feathers are equally captivating. Whose Feather Is That? transforms these wonders into a delightful guessing game that engages children and adults alike. Each page features a unique bird feather accompanied by a clever clue, encouraging readers to guess which bird it belongs to. From the ruby-throated hummingbird to the majestic great horned owl, this book showcases a variety of North American birds.
Written by Stan Tekiela, a renowned naturalist and wildlife photographer, this book not only entertains but also teaches valuable lessons about the importance of protecting birds and their habitats. Stan reminds readers that observing feathers in nature is exciting, but collecting them is often against the law. Instead, he encourages children to take photos or make sketches, which deepens their appreciation for wildlife conservation.
Who Is Stan Tekiela?
Stan is no stranger to the world of nature books. With over 190 published works, including field guides, children’s books, and wildlife puzzles, the author has a proven track record of captivating audiences with his stunning photography and engaging storytelling. A Bachelor of Science in Natural History from the University of Minnesota and numerous national and regional awards further highlight his expertise.
Stan’s passion for nature shines through in every page of Whose Feather Is That?. His ability to combine scientific accuracy with an entertaining narrative makes this book an excellent resource for parents, educators, and young readers.
What Makes This Book Stand Out?
Interactive Learning: The guessing game format keeps readers engaged while teaching them fascinating facts about birds and their feathers.
Stunning Photography: Stan’s vivid images bring each bird and feather to life, making it easy for readers to connect with nature.
Conservation Message: By emphasizing the importance of protecting birds and their habitats, this book inspires a sense of responsibility toward wildlife.
Suitable for All Ages: While designed for children, the book’s content is equally enjoyable for adults, making it a great family resource.
Perfect for Nature-Loving Families and Educators
Whether you’re a parent looking to spark your child’s curiosity, a teacher searching for an engaging classroom resource, or simply a bird enthusiast, Whose Feather Is That? is the perfect addition to your collection. The book introduces readers to birds like the vibrant northern cardinal, the clever American crow, and the impressive wild turkey, making it a treasure trove of knowledge.
Pre-Order Now for the April 1st Launch!
Don’t miss out on this exciting new release! Pre-order your copy of Whose Feather Is That? today and be among the first to experience the wonder of Stan Tekiela’s storytelling. This book is an affordable way to bring the beauty of nature into your home.
Follow Stan Tekiela for More Nature Adventures
Stan’s work extends far beyond this book. Follow him on Facebook or visit www.naturesmart.com to explore his other publications, including field guides and children’s books about North American wildlife. His engaging style and stunning photography will leave you eager to learn more about the natural world.
Celebrate the joy of discovery and the beauty of birds with Whose Feather Is That?. Launching on April 1st, this captivating book by Stan Tekiela is sure to become a favorite for nature lovers of all ages.
Indie Press Month is a time to shine a light on the world of independent publishing. This yearly celebration serves as a platform to recognize and support the important contributions of indie presses to the literary world. Among the many significant independent publishers, Menasha Ridge Press and Wilderness Press stand out with their focus on outdoors and adventure titles.
The Significance of Indie Press Month
Indie Press Month is a key initiative that brings attention to smaller, independent publishers that often bring unique and diverse voices to the forefront of literature. This celebration, led by the Independent Publishers Caucus (IPC), encourages readers to explore beyond mainstream publishing houses and discover the rich stories and information that indie presses offer. Support of these publishers creates a more diverse and dynamic literary ecosystem.
Menasha Ridge Press: Pioneering Outdoors Adventure Literature
Founded over 35 years ago, Menasha Ridge Press has established itself as a cornerstone in the indie publishing world, particularly in the niche of authoritative and engaging content for outdoors enthusiasts and travelers alike.
The Menasha Ridge Press catalog spans a wide range of topics, including wilderness sports, wildlife, history, and travel. By focusing on these specialized areas, Menasha Ridge Press illustrates the indie spirit, giving voice to authors and subjects that might otherwise be overlooked by larger publishing houses.
Wilderness Press: A Legacy in Outdoors Guidebooks
Established in 1967 in Berkeley, California, Wilderness Press has been a trailblazer in outdoors guidebooks for more than five decades. The journey began with the publication of Sierra North, a guidebook for the Northern Sierra Nevada that set the standard for outdoors guides to come.
Wilderness Press has built its reputation on producing thoroughly researched guidebooks and maps. Its publications are known for practical, detailed content, written by authors with expert knowledge of the trails and regions they describe. This commitment to authenticity and expertise has made Wilderness Press a trusted company for backpackers and outdoors enthusiasts for generations.
The Role of AdventureKEEN in Indie Publishing
It’s worth noting that both Menasha Ridge Press and Wilderness Press are imprints of AdventureKEEN, an independent publisher that specializes in travel and nature books. The mission of AdventureKEEN aligns closely with the ethos of Indie Press Month, as the company strives to encourage outdoor exploration and provide resources for people to enjoy and learn about nature. Its commitment to keeping families active and engaged with the outdoors through publications and partnerships further underscores the importance of independent publishers in promoting particular interests and fostering community engagement.
As we celebrate Indie Press Month, it’s clear that publishers like Menasha Ridge Press and Wilderness Press play a vital role in the literary world. They not only provide valuable resources for outdoors enthusiasts but also embody the innovative and passionate spirit of independent publishing. By supporting these and other indie presses, readers gain access to a wealth of knowledge and perspectives that enrich our collective understanding and appreciation of the world around us.
Mushroom Finder is a new addition to the Nature Study Guide Finders series started by May Theilgaard Watts in the 1930s. Author Jacob Kalichman is a field mycologist who maintains suggested common names and associated guidelines for North American fungi.
When did your interest in fungi begin?
It started abruptly in 2010. I had already been interested in finding and identifying bugs and snakes for a few years, so it wasn’t a big leap. But I had never paid attention to wild mushrooms before a family trip to coastal Northern California, at a perfect place and perfectly rainy time for them. I tried mushroom hunting on the first day there and got hooked immediately.
What is your favorite fungi?
I can’t pick a favorite species, but I have a favorite category of many thousands of species, which is the largest group of mushrooms, the agarics (mushrooms with gills). I picked them to focus on because I wanted a huge-but-tasteful challenge. Agarics would be the obvious candidates for the “peak” of fungal evolution, but only a few genera get a lot of attention. Mushrooms are famously diverse and plastic, but somehow the biggest group, the agarics, are surprisingly well-defined. The boundaries with other groups aren’t too fuzzy, and the variation within the group isn’t too extravagant.
Can you share a personal anecdote about your experiences with researching fungi?
No, I’m not a good storyteller because I make things as boring as possible. The more you think you understand the patterns or the possibilities, the less surprising any particular events are. I’ve managed to make all my personal experiences boring, but not mushroom identification. It’s still far from obvious how to categorize even the familiar mushrooms by simple field features, which is why it’s exciting, and why everyone should buy copies of Mushroom Finder. There’s no fluff, and everything weird in it is included because the mushrooms really are intractably weird.
What was the most challenging aspect of researching fungi?
Real fungal researchers, scientists conducting studies and doing lab work, have a lot more challenges than I have. One of the most challenging things for me, personally, is just finding the time and motivation to actually go mushrooming. It’s so much easier to stay home and study by just reading and browsing photos. When you go out, you have to worry about gas, weather, bugs, rangers, photography, and making collections, but it’s worth it for learning faster. A picture is worth a thousand words, and a mushroom in the hand is worth a hundred mushroom pictures.
How do you cater information to both beginner and more experienced mushroom foragers?
Maybe I should learn to distinguish them, but I haven’t yet. As far as identification goes, I don’t see much of a difference between beginners and experts. There’s such an incredible number of species—and there’s so much variation within each one—that every identifier is guaranteed to be a beginner regarding thousands of species.
The features that distinguish lookalikes within one group are different from the features that distinguish lookalikes in another group. And there isn’t a lot of well-developed terminology for field features. So I don’t think “general mushroom ID expertise” is as meaningful as one might assume. Someone who knows a species doesn’t need to read about it, and someone who doesn’t know the species does, regardless of what else they know.
What advice do you have for a beginner?
You might be able to have the most fun by setting the lowest expectations. Mushroom identification is really hard in general. You’ll never be able to identify everything you find, to species, by sight. But some are easy. The more time you spend, the more you’ll recognize. Don’t go hunting for any particular species; spend some time with whatever you find. Everything is something!
I think the best way to learn is to go mushrooming with someone who’s already familiar with it. You’ll learn what they tell you (obviously), but you’ll also find out how they find mushrooms, how they look at them, how much they know (you can learn it too), and how little they know (you don’t have to know everything).
What do you hope nature enthusiasts and amateur mushroom hunters learn from your book?
It’s supposed to be a useful first step for identifying whatever fungus or fungus-like thing you’ve just found.
It’s about broad categories, groupings with visibly different forms, which are likely to be studied by different people. I hope it’s a good illustration of how many of those categories there are. It’s pretty comprehensive and doesn’t rely on a “miscellaneous” grouping. That means we ended up with as many categories here as there are species in some other guides.
What are some common misconceptions about mushroom hunting?
One misconception is that picking a mushroom “kills it.” Picking is usually as harmless as picking an apple off a tree. The mycelium is a network of threads underneath, in the soil or wood, that will go on living and producing more mushrooms.
Of course, the actual mushroom you pick will no longer be able to release all the spores it naturally would have. Also, hard shelf-like conks on the sides of logs and trees are usually perennial, so be aware that it could take many years for another to reach the same size.
Another misconception is that it’s all about ingestion. A lot of enthusiasts go mushrooming like bird-watchers, not for food—just for the fun of finding, photographing, and identifying whatever species happen to be there. It’s for enjoying nature, building skills, contributing to knowledge, the thrill of a scavenger hunt, etc.
What are some practical tips or techniques for safely identifying mushrooms in the wild?
Identifying mushrooms is always safe, and so is touching and smelling them, but eating mushrooms isn’t always safe. Don’t eat a mushroom unless you’re absolutely sure of its identity and edibility. Maybe ask yourself, “If I eat this and wake up terribly sick in the hospital the next day, would it be crazy to consider that it might be because of the mushroom?” If the answer is no, I think you shouldn’t eat it. Comparing features in books probably isn’t enough for that. Ideally, you should have some amount of experience in the woods, and confirmation from someone else who has more.
What are some safety tips you have for foragers?
Don’t get lost!
What is one surprising fact about mushrooms that readers might enjoy?
It’s perfectly safe to taste a small, fresh piece of even the deadliest mushroom, as long as you spit it all out. Tasting like this, with a nibble and spit, is a normal part of identification for several groups of mushrooms.
A number of people (including me) have chewed up and spit out big, hearty bites of deadly mushrooms with no apparent symptoms, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Accidentally swallowing any amount could mean hospitalization or worse.
How do you see the field of mushroom hunting evolving in the next few years?
I think it will get easier in several ways. We’ll have more and more DNA-sequenced, photographed collections, which we can use to get a better idea of what species we have and how to distinguish them in the field. AI will keep getting better at identifying mushrooms from photos.
The difference between mushroom foraging (for food) and mushrooming (for curiosity, photography, etc.) will keep getting more clear, like the difference between bird hunting and bird-watching.
I think common names will be suggested, improved, settled on, and used a lot more. We’ve lagged badly behind plants and animals and settled for scientific names in lots of “common” situations. But I think we’re finally moving toward catching up.
In what ways do you think this book contributes to the larger conversation and understanding of the role of fungi in our ecosystem?
This book isn’t about ecology, it’s about identification. It’s a tool for identifying fungi, as well as an unusual way to see how diverse the forms you can find and identify are. I hope it does what any field guide does, which is to sacrifice a bit of mystery in exchange for some familiarity, fun, or beauty. I’m really happy with Roo’s illustrations, because they provide all three. Some fungi are important, and all fungi interact with other species, but not everything about fungi is important, or about the other species. If you enjoy this book, I think it has done its job.
Find the entire Nature Study Guide Finders series at naturestudy.com.
Stone-cold killers come in all shapes and sizes in the natural world. However, we often think of large, menacing creatures with long, sharp claws and razor-sharp teeth as predators and don’t give a second thought to the small ones. Some of these small predators are often cute and adorable. That’s what makes them so cool.
I was thinking about this a week or so ago while I was photographing an adorable tiny owl. Behind the beautiful feathers lies the heart of a predator. The northern pygmy owl (Glaucidium californicum) is native to western North America. As its name implies, it is a tiny owl, only 6-7 inches tall and weighing about 2-3 ounces. By comparison, the very familiar American robin is 10 inches tall and weighs about the same as the pygmy owl.
I arrived in Yellowstone National Park a couple of days before I was scheduled to lead a winter photo tour. I had time to meet up with some other photo guides and catch up on the latest info about the wolves in the park, but everyone was talking about the northern pygmy owls that seemed to be popping up throughout the area.
On the second day, I spotted one of the tiny owls up on a mountainside. I grabbed my longest lens and tripod and started climbing up the mountain. The snow was only a foot or so deep, so it wasn’t too bad, but the elevation was over 7,000 feet, and I wasn’t acclimated yet. So I had to stop many times to catch my breath, look around to get my bearings, and then keep climbing. Every now and then, I would stop and visually relocate the owl.
When I finally reached the area just below the owl, I was breathing so heavily that I couldn’t take any pictures. Several minutes later, I was able to slow down my breathing and focus my camera. What I saw in my viewfinder was the cutest, tiniest owl with bright-yellow eyes.
Northern pygmy owls are daytime hunters and mainly prey on small songbirds like chickadees. Pygmy owls are cavity-nesting birds, taking over old woodpecker cavities. They have a relatively short lifespan, with average birds lasting only three to four years.
The perch the owl was on didn’t look very good and it was very high up in a tree, so I really didn’t take many pictures. Suddenly, the owl took off and went to another tree that was even higher. I thought, “How am I going to capture some images of this tiny killer?“ By the time I worked my way over to the new tree, the owl flew again. This time, it flew down the mountain. I was happy to be going down and not up!
By the time I got near the owl again, I was able to capture some images. These images were good, even though the owl was near the top of a tall tree. I was much closer to eye level with the bird because I was higher up on the mountain and the tree was lower.
I thought, perhaps, this might be the best image I could get with this bird. I stood there just enjoying the moment, looking around at the snow-covered mountains all around me, and then the owl flew once again. This time, the owl was flying directly toward me. It swooped up and landed in a small cedar tree not 35 to 40 feet away—again at my eye level. I swung my camera around, framed up the picture, and pushed the shutter release button.
I could see through the viewfinder on my camera that this was going to be a wonderful image. The owl stayed there for several minutes, actively hunting. Its head was swiveling around from side to side as it looked for something to prey upon. Small snowflakes were gently falling, and the air was cold.
Once again, the owl took off and landed in another tree much farther away. I was thrilled knowing that I had captured a stunning image of a marvelous predator. I turned and picked up my tripod and camera and started the hike down the mountain. The snow was falling steadily now, and by the time I got back to my truck I was covered with flakes. I packed up my photo gear, climbed in, and fired up the engine. I had a great feeling of satisfaction after spending some time with such a cool little killer.
About the author: Naturalist, wildlife photographer, and writer Stan Tekiela has published more than 175 field guides, nature books, children’s books, wildlife audio CDs, puzzles, and playing cards, presenting many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, trees, wildflowers, and cacti in the United States. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural History from the University of Minnesota and as an active professional naturalist for more than 35 years, Stan studies and photographs wildlife throughout the United States and Canada. He has received various national and regional awards for his books and photographs.
Also a well-known columnist and radio personality, Stan’s syndicated column appears in more than 25 newspapers, and his wildlife programs are broadcast on a number of Midwest radio stations. Stan can be followed on Facebook and Twitter. He can be contacted via naturesmart.com.
