Science

Zebra Mussels on the side of a pier beam
August/September 2013 Issue

Mussels and Fish Reveal Conditions of Rivers and Streams

For waterways, these animals are the proverbial canaries in the coal mine.

Story and photos by Larry D. Hodge
diver warning
December 2011 Issue

Southwest Texas: Nation’s Deepest Underwater Cave System

The nation’s deepest known underwater cave system lures expert divers.

Story by Rae Nadler-Olenick
Large bass swimming in the water.
August 2011 Issue

Scientists Test Cures For Overinflated Bass

Fish brought up from deep water can experience barotrauma; research aims to increase fish survival.

Story by Dyanne Fry Cortez
water running through Edward's plateau
July 2011 Issue

Protecting Magical Hill Country Spring Jacob's Well

The power and irresistible draw of Jacob's Well inspire protection of the cave and springs.

Story by Joe Nick Patoski
Roly-poly (pillbug) crawling on dirt
October 2009 Issue

Roly-Poly Pillbugs Aren't Actually Bugs — They're Crustaceans

Neither pill nor bug, these critters are favorite playmates of many generations of Texas children.

Story by Sheryl Smith-Rodgers
Ringtail in the fork of a tree trunk
April 2009 Issue

New Study Sheds Light On Palo Duro Canyon's Elusive Ringtail

The little-known mammal makes its home in the park's escarpments and brushy woodlands.

Story by Wendee Holtcamp
Melanistic (Dark) deer stand in a field with trees.
November 2005 Issue

Melanistic (Dark) Deer In The Hill Country.

The opposite of albinos, melanistic deer can be found in a small segment of the Hill Country.

Story by Ben Rehder
Texas wetlands
September 2002 Issue

Cattle And Cotton Once Ruled This Ranch — Now, It's Crawdads

The owners of the ranch won the 2002 Lone Star Land Steward Award for their excellent management.

Story by Larry D. Hodge
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The October 2024 cover of Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine, featuring a surfer riding a wave along the Texas Gulf Coast

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