Posted: January 13, 2025

Written by: Hanna Meyer, Education & Outreach Coordinator


News Article Featured Photo

In 2025, take on the challenge of wildlife identification. You may already know more than you think!

 

Where do you even start when it comes to learning more about the thousands of species that call Winneshiek County home? Whether you are starting from scratch or have a seasoned naturalist to guide you, Winneshiek County Conservation is here to provide resources for you to expand your knowledge of local wildlife.

 

For a fun challenge throughout the year, we will share several “Knowing Nature” quizzes to help you test your knowledge. Each themed quiz will feature several species found in Winneshiek County. If you try all of the quizzes by the end of 2025, you will have experience identifying over 100 different types of plants, animals, and fungus!

Take the first short quiz here: Knowing Nature – Ice Fishing in Winneshiek County

 

Reap the benefits of building your environmental literacy with essential skills like wildlife identification. Oftentimes, the more you know, the more you care. Learning about nature can increase your desire to get outdoors, benefitting your physical and mental health. Not only does knowing your natural resources help you better appreciate them, but it can also be an important way to stay safe, protecting yourself and the wild things you encounter.

 

Want to dive deeper into learning about the wildlife of Winneshiek County? Track seasonal changes and natural wonders with our YouTube playlist: “Noting Nature.”

 

Thank you to Luther College professor, Birgitta Meade, for compiling these “Knowing Nature” quizzes and allowing us to share them with the wider public. Most of the photos in these quizzes were taken by Winneshiek County Conservation naturalist Larry Reis.

 

Here are a few more photos from Larry. Can you identify these outdoor wonders?

More Photos

Take on the “Knowing Nature” Challenge Gallery Photo
Take on the “Knowing Nature” Challenge Gallery Photo
Take on the “Knowing Nature” Challenge Gallery Photo
Take on the “Knowing Nature” Challenge Gallery Photo
Take on the “Knowing Nature” Challenge Gallery Photo
Take on the “Knowing Nature” Challenge Gallery Photo