With its glossy black body and impressive size, the Great Black Wasp may look intimidating, but it’s one of the Upstate’s most beneficial insects. Discover how this gentle giant controls grasshoppers, pollinates wildflowers, and quietly builds underground nests throughout South Carolina.
The Eastern Box Turtle is one of the Upstate’s most remarkable forest residents. Learn how to identify this iconic South Carolina species, where to find it around Pumpkintown, what it eats, how long it lives, and why protecting its habitat is essential for future generations.
Millipedes may look unusual, but they’re among the most beneficial creatures in Upstate forests. Learn how to identify them, why they aren’t dangerous, and the vital role they play in keeping our mountain ecosystems healthy.
Wolf spiders are common throughout Pumpkintown and the Upstate of South Carolina. Learn how to identify them, whether they’re dangerous, why they come inside, and why these giant hunters are actually beneficial.
Bumble bees may look intimidating, but they’re among South Carolina’s most important pollinators. Discover why these gentle giants are essential to our wildflowers, gardens, and mountain ecosystems.
When pear trees burst into bloom each spring, they become one of the busiest destinations for honey bees. Discover why these brilliant white blossoms play such an important role in supporting pollinators across the Upstate.
Have you ever walked into a giant spider web while hiking in South Carolina? Meet the Golden Silk Orb-weaver, one of the Southeast’s largest spiders, and learn why this gentle giant is more friend than foe.
A monarch butterfly is more than a beautiful summer visitor. Discover why these incredible pollinators depend on milkweed, why they love pentas flowers, and how you can help protect one of North America’s most famous butterflies.
Every summer, Upstate hiking trails offer a delicious surprise. Wild blackberries ripen along trail edges, giving hikers a chance to enjoy one of nature’s sweetest rewards while exploring the outdoors. Here’s how to spot them, know when they’re ripe, and harvest responsibly.
Lightning bugs are one of the most beloved signs of summer in the Upstate. Learn why they glow, where to find them, and how you can help ensure future generations enjoy these magical summer evenings.