Not one would mind, neither bird nor tree

If mankind perished utterly…

Sara Teasdale

For months now, most humans, if they are sensible, have been avoiding congregating. They've been working from home, where possible, staying out of public places, shopping online, and forsaking the gathering of themselves together. At least, not without masks and other protective gear. We know why: there's a very mean virus on the loose, and we don't want to spread it around. The life you save may be precious to you.

Animals and plants aren't getting the virus. It being summer in the northern half of the planet, the wildlife has been thriving. Everywhere, people are noticing that the woodland creatures are encroaching on areas usually full of noisy people. Parks are getting more parklike. Downtown has been the scene of unusual sightings: from wandering sheep to new baby eagles.

How is nature faring in your neighbourhood? Are you seeing new growth where the city usually prunes ruthlessly? Are animals showing up where no animals were before? We want to know!

Some points to ponder:

• Are there any new or old visitors in your garden? Do you have hedgehogs? Bunnies? Deer? Take pictures, if you're sneaky enough and the light permits. (We haven't managed to catch that bear who visits our yard, but he leaves Evidence.)
• Anything new in town? From spider webs to birds' nests, we want to know.
• Is there anything you've learned about the adaptability of nature during this unusual year?

Send us your photos, art, essays, data. Muse about the meaning of it all. August is a good time to be nature-watching. Let's face it: you can't go to the pool. Learn to appreciate the biosphere in a new way.

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