Author: Stan Tekiela

I am fascinated by uncommon or unusual critters – animals that stand out with a specific feature or unique characteristic. That brings me to several encounters I had with a very distinctive animal during my recent photo tours in Yellowstone National Park this winter. The long-tailed weasel (Neogale frenata) is one of those fascinating creatures that are often heard about but rarely seen. It is also known as the masked ermine or simply an ermine. It is often mistaken for the stoat, but the stoat – also called the short-tailed weasel (Mustela erminea) – is smaller and has a shorter…

In Yellowstone’s winter wilderness, Stan Tekiela tracks elusive wolves, navigating deep snow and freezing temperatures for a rare, unforgettable encounter.

Tracking the northern pygmy owl in Yellowstone – small, fierce, and fascinating. Discover this tiny predator’s hunting skills and stunning winter habitat.

Stan Tekiela examines the irruptive behavior of winter finches and owls, exploring scientific theories and addressing common misconceptions.

A greater roadrunner with avian keratin disorder (AKD) reveals the harsh realities of survival and nature’s delicate balance.

Discover how great gray owls hunt beneath snowy landscapes in this NatureSmart column by naturalist and author Stan Tekiela.

Explore the wild world of javelinas with NatureSmart’s Stan Tekiela as he shares insights and close-up photography of these unique animals.

Stan Tekiela shares his experience tracking white-tailed bucks during the rut, blending sharp observations with insights into nature’s wonders.

Stan Tekiela reflects on the wild turkey’s comeback in Minnesota, sharing personal stories and insights on their resurgence.

Explore the science behind autumn’s vibrant colors and discover how chlorophyll, sunlight, and weather influence the beautiful seasonal transformation.