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Outforia

Your Ultimate Guide to the Great Outdoors

Wildlife

20 Most Important Fish in Lake Michigan: Native And Introduced

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Today, Lake Michigan is known as an excellent freshwater sportfishing destination. In the early days of the United States, the lake was bursting with trout species and native fish species numbering so …

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The 16 Must-See Birds of Hawaii: ID Guide + Pics, Chart, and more

Written by:
Ann Briggs
Ann Briggs
Ann is a Science Communicator and Contributor specializing in conservation, biology, travel, science and outdoor recreation. She is passionate about helping others gain an appreciation of nature and the knowledge to get outside and experience new adventures. Bachelor's degree in Conservation Biology and Master's in Science Communication from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Wilderness first aid certified and trained as a safari guide in Botswana. Enjoys hiking, camping, climbing, paddling, and exploring.
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As a true tropical paradise, Hawaii boasts some of the most unique bird species in the United States. From the native bird species specialized for island life to long-haul migrators just stopping …

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9 Types of Orioles in North America: ID Guide with Facts, Chart and Pictures

Written by:
Alex Moore
Alex Moore
Alex is a full-time van dweller and avid outdoorsman. He has spent the last year documenting his travels, hoping to share his love of nature with others. Content Contributor specializing in hiking, camping, ornithology, and DIY conversions. BA in Journalism from the University of Missouri. Passionate about van dwelling, photography, and spending time outdoors with his dog. Focuses on the outdoor industry and shares perspective from living on the road full-time. Self-taught in plumbing, electricity, and woodworking, with plans to continue converting vans for fellow travelers.
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Loved by birdwatchers and loathed by fruit farmers, Orioles are among the most exciting perennial visitors to North America. Known for their striking shades of orange and yellow, these members of the …

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Hawaiian Mongoose: The Story of Failed Pest-Control

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Mongoose may be famous now for the snake-fighting abilities on display in the Rudyard Kipling story “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi,” but the cute little creatures were once thought of as a pest control option. …

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The 8 Stunning Woodpeckers In PA: ID Guide with Facts and Pics

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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Woodpeckers are a favorite bird of people in the United States and across the world. They are a very diverse species and they add a lot of color and personality to your backyard. There are only 22 …

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How Do Sharks Mate? It Might Surprise You

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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There are over 400 different species of sharks. So, it’s no wonder that there are so many differences between the sharks from the way they look, how they hunt, and where they live. These differences …

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27+ Types of Spiders in Arkansas: ID Guide, Chart and Photos

Written by:
Leah Markum
Leah Markum
Leah is a writer, photographer, and hiker who is always ready to explore. She enjoys sharing scientific knowledge, nature art, and outdoor adventures to inspire others to get out and experience for themselves.
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Arkansas’ nickname is the “natural state.” The historical aridity of the region and current humid climate has allowed desert and tropical species to call this state home. If you get down on your knees …

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12 Incredible Woodpeckers in Arizona: Identification Guide (Pics and Facts)

Written by:
Alex Moore
Alex Moore
Alex is a full-time van dweller and avid outdoorsman. He has spent the last year documenting his travels, hoping to share his love of nature with others. Content Contributor specializing in hiking, camping, ornithology, and DIY conversions. BA in Journalism from the University of Missouri. Passionate about van dwelling, photography, and spending time outdoors with his dog. Focuses on the outdoor industry and shares perspective from living on the road full-time. Self-taught in plumbing, electricity, and woodworking, with plans to continue converting vans for fellow travelers.
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One of America's birdwatching meccas, Arizona is home to over 550 species. Birdwatching is such a cool way to learn more about all of Arizona’s landscapes, and woodpeckers are one of the most …

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The 7 Types of Owls in Florida: Chart, Images & Facts

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Known as a symbol of wisdom, helpfulness, and prophecy, owls can be found in the history and mythology of cultures the world over. Once thought of as an omen of death or bad luck, these fascinating …

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How Do Whales Sleep? All About Their Surprising Ways to Slumber

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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Unlike most of the animals that live in the ocean, whales are mammals. This means that they have lungs and need oxygen to breathe. If a whale were to sleep the way that humans do, they would probably …

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31+ Florida Turtles: ID Guide with Facts, Chart and Photos

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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If you love turtles, Florida is the place to go. Florida is known for its turtle diversity, and is even the most turtle diverse state in the United States. Not only that, but it is considered a turtle …

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53 Snakes in Florida: Guide to All Native & Invasive Species

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Florida’s hot, wet climate makes it an ideal home for reptiles of all kinds, including snakes. From the swamps and mangroves to the pine forests and river systems, …

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Lynx vs Bobcat: All Differences Between The Two Wild Cats

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Scientifically, genetically, and taxonomically, lynx and bobcats are two separate species of wild cats. Found in North America, Spain, and Eurasia, these small to medium-sized felines compete with …

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How Do Eels Reproduce? The Mystery of Eel Sex Explained

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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Summarized: Key Takeaways Freshwater eels spawn in the Sargasso Sea after migrating thousands of miles from freshwater streams and rivers. Researchers believe they spawn via external …

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The 14 Snakes in Virginia That You Should Know About

Written by:
Editorial Team
Editorial Team
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Virginia is home to about 30 snake species. Despite the common fear that humans have when encountering snakes, only 3 snakes in the state of Virginia are venomous. Snakes are actually very helpful …

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What Do Wild Rabbits Eat? A Diet of the Obvious and the Odd

Written by:
Leah Markum
Leah Markum
Leah is a writer, photographer, and hiker who is always ready to explore. She enjoys sharing scientific knowledge, nature art, and outdoor adventures to inspire others to get out and experience for themselves.
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Wild rabbits live an all-or-nothing life. Just like their renowned reproductive capacity, their diets are also abundant. Wild rabbits eat almost all plants and parts of the plant, whether it grows …

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Turtle vs Tortoise: 7 Key Differences Detailed with Images and Facts

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Whether you’re familiar with Squirtle, Koopa Troopas, or Franklin, you’ve seen turtles before. These hard-shelled reptiles range in size, habitat, and diet. What you may not know is that while the …

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10 Types of Sharks In Maui: List with Facts and Photos

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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Sharks are a very important animal found in Hawaii’s waters, particularly in Maui. There are about 40 species of sharks that can be found in the waters around Hawaii, but only about 10 will be seen …

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13 Types Of Otters And Where They Live: With Facts and Images

Written by:
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee Keech
Kaylee is Freelance Writer specializing in Wildlife & Marine Science. B.S. in Biology & B.A. in Science Writing from Millersville University. Passionate about hiking, kayaking, and all things outdoors. 5 years of experience with native Pennsylvania wildlife and 1 year of freelance & ghostwriting. She loves sharing the joy of nature with others, and hopes to inspire.
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There are 13 species of otters around the world, but only two of those species call North America “home”. Otters are a carnivorous, semi-aquatic mammal that lives in bodies of water across the world …

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Apex Predator List: The Top 12 Predators At The Top of the Food Chain

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Some animals are just built differently than others. The ecological role they fill places them at the top of the food chain. Once they’ve grown into adults, they have little to fear from other …

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The Two Ferocious Bears in Japan: With Pictures and Facts

Written by:
Amanda Readman
Amanda Readman
Amanda is a writer, avid climber, and outdoor enthusiast. She has traveled extensively, around the U.S., throughout Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Everywhere she treks, she takes time to enjoy the outdoors. She works through writing and leadership to educate people on the link between the outdoors to mental and global stability.
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Japan is known for many things: the bustling streets of Tokyo, the beauty of Mount Fuji, the beautiful culture incorporating music, clothes, and art. However, you might not realize that Japan also has …

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All About Polar Bears in Alaska

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Did you know the cute and cuddly bears that appear in Coca-Cola ads are actually apex predators of the Arctic ecosystem? Polar bears spend most of their lives in temperatures that can be as cold as …

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21+ Animals With Horns (and Antlers) + Pictures and Facts

Written by:
Omayra Acevedo
Omayra Acevedo
Omayra has been a professional fitness trainer, writer, and photographer since 2007. Much of her experiences are focused on the outdoors, including her fitness training sessions.
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Animals are cute. That’s undeniable. But have you ever wondered why some of them have horns or antlers? What about the ones that are shed or simply keep growing? What’s their purpose and …

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Jaguar vs Leopard: Top 10 Differences

Written by:
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton
Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Passionate about fishing, paddling, boating, and camping. Over a decade of experience fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife.
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Outforia Quicktake: Key Takeaways Outside of a zoo, you’ll likely never be close enough to a big cat to have to worry about exactly what kind of animal you are facing. On the surface, jaguars and …

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