Wildlife questions from real Mainers answered by Maine Audubon Staff Naturalist Doug Hitchcox

Birding is best as a communal experience – whether it’s spotting a bird rarely seen in Maine or, better yet, seeing one that’s never been here before.

The number of monarch waystations – habitat with milkweed and nectar plants that are vital to the caterpillars and butterflies they become – has nearly doubled in Maine over the past four years.

Near Moosehead Lake you have Big Moose, Borestone, Little Spencer – the options seems endless – and maybe you will see a classic fire tower when you reach the top.

The comet NEOWISE will be visible with the naked eye early in the month and is the brightest comet in our skies since Hale-Bopp in 1997.

Going on a guided fishing trip this summer? Do yourself – and the guide – a favor. Leave the fruit at home.