The Flora, The Fauna, The Good Books...

   As part of my effort to feature Minnesota as a great place to practice bushcraft, I would like to call your attention to a great set of books by award winning Author, Naturalist, Wildlife Photographer , and Purveyor of Gee-Whiz Nature information, Stan Tekiela. Stan has written and photographed over a hundred state-by-state field guides and other books on nature. These five books, plus two additional volumes,

"Birds of Prey of Minnesota" and "Ducks and Geese of Minnesota" will give you one of the most complete reference libraries concerning the flora and fauna of Minnesota. The clear and detailed photographs, the descriptions, and the maps and diagrams, will bring you hours of enjoyable reading while exploring the many species that are covered in these volumes. For Minnesota, these are far and away the best field guides you can carry. There is yet one more book I would like to recommend and that is...

this one by Teresa Marrone. It is "Wild Berries & Fruits" and it covers Minnesota as well as Wisconsin and Michigan. It is full of high quality photos of both edible and inedible and poisonous berries and fruits. The descriptions cover ripening times, areas where they can be found and warnings suitable for all occasions. It is also a convenient size and matches Stan's volumes nicely to fit in the back pack pocket of your choice. It is a constant companion for me all summer while foraging.
   So why is it that important to know about the flora and the fauna in your area, and how does it all relate to bushcraft? To quote Ray Mears once again, it is about that "...practical knowledge of the natural world that we can carry with us in our minds and muscles. But it is about much more then just survival. Bushcraft is a treasure trove of wisdom, that enables us to feel a real kinship with the landscape." And it is all about knowing your local flora and fauna that brings us to this kinship with our landscape. Knowing your area better will make it really your home. When things are familiar, you are less prone to panic, your senses are heightened, and your mind is open to more possibilities. Thinking clearly is what it is all about. Build your "treasure trove of wisdom" with these books by your side. And enjoy Minnesota even more, happy exploring...