Science in the Big Thicket
Helpful links for those interested in their own further research.
Searchable sites for species identification
Big Thicket Critters-Photo Gallery
Butterflies and Moths of North America
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Alec Dyer: Big Thicket Wildflowers Slideshow (YouTube)
Educational Resources
Lesson Plan: Butterflies, Biodiversity, and the Big Thicket exhibit image
Mushrooms and Fungi by David Lewis, Gulf State Mycological Society, Past President
Whirligig Beetles by Edward Realzola, Dr. Bobbi Peckarsky, and Dr. Jerry Cook
Cypress Trees: Flood and Drought by Dr. Beth Middleton
Aquatic Ecology by Terrie Looney
Gateway Communities to National Parks and Public Lands
Guides and Maps
Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor’s Center Tree Guide
Geology, Biology and Human Impact Big Thicket Auto Tour
Big Thicket and Watson Rare Plant Preserve Video Guide
ArcGIS Interactive Map of Species Locations
Project Noah
Project Noah, also free, was created to provide people of all ages with a simple, easy-to-use way to share their experiences with wildlife. It is a tool to explore and document wildlife and a platform to harness the power of citizen scientists everywhere. By encouraging citizen scientists to share their observations and contribute to Project Noah missions, they reconnect with nature and experience real opportunities to make a difference. This app will be encouraged for those working by themselves as they earn badges with increased participation as an incentive.
History
Big Thicket: History and Rationale for Preservation (ppt)
Big Thicket Association: 1964-2009 (ppt)
Geraldine Watson - Biologist and Ranger Geraldine Watson mapped the Big Thicket and identified its many diverse ecosystems.
Maxine Johnston - Passionate librarian preservationist whose tenacity inspired the Big Thicket Association and helped forge the Big Thicket National Preserve.
Maxine Johnston: 2018 Terry Hershey Award Recipient YouTube video
Pete A.Y. Gunter, Professor Emeritus, University of North Texas
Pete Gunter video - Gunter’s voice and prolific writing defended Big Thicket preservation to audiences of all ages and challenged environmental ethics and stewardship.
Credits
Photo Credits used throughout website: Thank you to Michael Black, Michelle Esclovon, Alec Dyer, Mary Catherine Johnston, David Lewis, Kate Winsett.
Web Design: Natalia Doiron