Whether you’re looking to speak to colleagues, friends, family, or that witty Turkish tour guide you lost touch with, calling Turkey isn’t quite as simple as calling your fellow inhabitants of the US. But don’t worry — it’s not too complicated when you know the right steps.

And lucky for you, we’ve put together an article with everything you need to know for an international call to Turkey. This includes an easy reference for calling Turkey from the US, a list of area codes you might find handy, a trick for factoring in time differences, and a breakdown of the costs. Plus, everyone’s favorite part: how you can lower your calling expenses.

How to call Turkey from the US in 4 easy steps

Here’s how to call Turkey from the USA in four simple steps:

1. Key in the exit code (+ or 011)

Almost every country globally has an exit code (also known as an international access code) for international calling. For calling from a landline number, enter 011 as the exit code. Dialing this international code ensures your call routes to the appropriate network outside of the United States.

If you’re on a cellphone or using OpenPhone, dialing the plus symbol (+) instead of the US exit code works too — no need to key in a three-digit number.

2. Dial the Turkey country code (90)

Dialing the country code of Turkey tells your mobile phone carrier or landline carrier that you want to reach Turkey. Again, this helps with routing your call across. Enter the code 90 without any pound symbols or asterisks, and then move to the next step.

Note: After keying in the Turkey country code, the number you’re dialing should appear as +90 or 01190.

3. Add in the area code

Like the US, Turkey uses area codes to differentiate between regions and provinces. All of them are three digits, so they’re easy to memorize and key in. Below is a table showing Turkey area codes and the location they represent.

LocationArea CodeLocationArea Code Adana322Kastamonu366 Adiyaman416Kilis348 Afyon272Kocaeli262 Ankara312Konya332 Antalya242Malatya422 Balikesir266Manisa236 Batman488Mardin482 Burdur248Mus436 Bursa224Mugla252 Corum364Nevsehir384 Cankiri376Nigde388 Denizli258Ordu452 Duzce380Osmaniye328 Edirne284Rize464 Elazig424Sankarya264 Erzurum442Samsun362 Gaziantep342Sanliurfa414 Giresun454Siirt484 Hakkari438Sivas346 Hatay326Sirnak486 Igdir476Tekirdag282 Isparta246Tokat356 Istanbul (Europe)212Trabzon462 Istanbul (Asia)216Tunceli428 Izmir232Usak276 Kahramanmaras344Van432 Karabuk370Yalova226 Karaman338Yozgat354 Kars474Zoguldak372

4. Dial the remaining digits of the phone number

You’ve almost made it! The last step for calling Turkey is to enter the local number supplied by your contact. This number is seven digits long and should be punched after the 3-digit area code.

For example, if you’re calling someone in Izmir, Turkey, whose 7-digit mobile number is 4413955, the full number you need to dial would look like this: +902324413955.

How to factor in the time difference when calling Turkey from the US

Due to varying time zones in the United States, it can be a hassle to calculate your recipient’s local time to ensure you’re calling at an appropriate hour. The good news is that all areas in Turkey observe the same time zone: Turkey Time (TRT). Depending on where you live in the US, here are the time differences you can expect.

• Eastern Standard Time (EST): Calling from the east coast? Turkey is 7 hours ahead of you (think 7 PM to your noon).
• Central Standard Time (CST): With an 8-hour difference, nobody will want your input on a project after office hours.
• Mountain Standard Time (MST): Your noon lunchtime hour is the equivalent of 9 PM in Turkey.
• Pacific Standard Time (PST): Most people in Turkey are preparing for a good night’s sleep during your 12 o’clock lunch break (10 PM).
• Alaska Standard Time (AKST): Here’s where things start getting tricky: 12 PM in AKST is 11 PM TRT – 11 hours behind Turkey.
• Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST): Turkey is a solid 13 hours ahead of Hawaii, making 12 PM Monday in Hawaii their 1 AM Tuesday.

Keep in mind Turkey doesn’t observe Daylight savings time (DST). To get a real-time snapshot of what time it is across the United States and Turkey, a tool like Savvy Time is very useful.

How much does it cost to call Turkey from the US?

Pricing is another issue you’ll have to address before placing a call to the Republic of Turkey. Depending on the length of your call, expect your provider to charge you anywhere between a few cents to a couple of dollars per minute.

Every phone provider has different rates according to the phone type, format, and country in question. If you don’t make international calls regularly, dialing Turkey should not cost you more than a few dollars per month. But if you’re always on the phone with your Turkish employee or colleague, beware: you might be incurring hundreds of dollars in monthly phone expenses.

If you want to know what it costs to call internationally on your current cell phone plan, we recommend getting in touch with your provider ASAP. But if you’re looking to slash your phone bill in general, you’re better off learning about OpenPhone.

How to lower your calling costs to Turkey

Calling Turkey from the United States doesn’t have to be expensive. With VoIP phones — which enable you to place and receive calls over the internet — your calling costs are significantly minimized. With OpenPhone, you can call your Turkish clients or team members for as low as 11 cents per minute.

A virtual phone can also be far superior to standard phones to improve your business communication. For instance, you access the following features with any OpenPhone plan:

• Free unlimited calling, SMS, and MMS in Canada and the US
• Shared phone numbers, which allow your team members to assist each other in fielding calls and texts
• Call recording, so you can review phone calls to customers and train team members
• Auto replies and snippets to help you streamline recurring tasks
• Integrations with apps like HubSpot, Gong, email, Slack, and Zapier to streamline your workflow
• Free phone number porting when you switch to VoIP
• Detailed analytics and insights into your calls and messages

Want to experience them for yourself? Start your free trial of OpenPhone and get a better, more streamlined international calling service. Check out more guides to dialing internationally:How to call Germany from the USHow to call Spain from the USHow to call Israel from the USHow to call the UK from the US

While most shooters mistake the Beretta M9 and M9a1 as one weapon, their primary differences lay on their outer surface and build as their mechanical alignment and functioning are similar. This article aims at shedding light on the few differences observed between the two.

Well, there is not much to differentiate between them; the few differences that I came across in my research were not one you may ignore. Even the slightest curve in a handguns stock builds holds a significant effect on its performance. Before diving into these aspects, let us first take a look at a general overview of these Beretta products.

Beretta M9

The Beretta M9 is an Italian made semi-automatic pistol explicitly designed for 9mm. It is among a long catalog of 9mm Beretta handguns and ranks among the top sellers and most favored in the shooting genre. Its popularity mostly lies in the fact that the US armed forces adopted it as the official side firearm during the ’80s. Because of this, we saw them being a preference for most law enforcement officers in the modern world.

The internal engineering of this handgun features a short recoil accompanied by a single or double action mechanism. Its magazine capacity is 15 of 9mm rounds, which is standard for a day to day handgun user. Its design accommodates both left and right-handed shooters with a reversible magazine release button correctly positioned for the two types of shooters.

The Beretta M9 is also a perfect option for personal or home defense since it is among the most reliable firearms from Beretta. All of its parts are 100% interchangeable, with a wide variety of replacement parts available. Its flexible nature also simplifies its maintenance even when on intense conditions.

Beretta M9A1

The Beretta M9a1 is an evolved gun from the M9 and features specific improvements in its design, resulting in a better performance. These modifications make the handgun perfect for tactical encounters mostly to occur with the US marine corps. They incorporate the previous m9 features and marry them to other adjustments and additions to meet the essential need for the ever changing tactic approaches.

The fact that it features more excellent reliability and effectiveness than the m9 makes it an even better option for self-defence and concealed carry. Its performance is traced back to its premium components and flawless manufacturing. Not only is this Beretta handgun deliver quality and consistent performance, but its exterior build is also a sight to behold.

A unique sand resistant coated magazine and a three-dot sight on its build are some of the outstanding improvements placed among the top-rated handguns. In more than one article, the Beretta M9a1 has been mentioned as among the best Beretta 9mm handguns. It is practically the easiest to maintain with its compact nature and vast replacement options. It also features a disassembling button that eases the breaking down the process of the gun. Those who have had the opportunity to feel this weapon can testify to its premium results.

Differences between the Beretta M9 and the Beretta M9a1

Now that we are all familiar with both weapons, why don’t we dive right into the distinguishing features?

Sights

The material used in their make is the only similarity in their sights, as the M9 features a two white dot front sight for your sighting needs. On the other hand, the M9a1 has a more detailed three-dot feature. This includes one dot on the rear segment and the other two strategically positioned at the front piece.

The primary purpose of sight is to ease your target acquisition by providing a fixed plane to base your aim. Beretta gun makers have been in the firearm game for as long as I can remember, meaning that they have undisputed experience in what makes up a perfect sight for a gun. It is no surprise to find that both components on the two weapons are made of steel for more durable and productive use.

I believe that the M9a1 sight is best for most shooters due to their detailed build.

Accessory Rail

I honestly do not see the need to add more accessories to your handgun, mostly Beretta made ones. It just adds on more weight to your gun, offsetting the average balance of the weapon. Despite my opinion, most shooters find lasers and other sighting additions best for their Beretta guns. If you are among this crowd, then you should opt for the M9a1 since it has a Picatinny rail available on the bottom front side of the barrel.

The M9, on the other hand, does not have any railing to accommodate any additional accessory. Instead, at the location where the Picatinny rails on its counterpart, it features a prefix serial number. This differentiation does not make the M9 any less as both these weapons are close competitors in the shooting field.

Magazine

The magazine on both these Beretta handguns has an equal capacity of 15 9mm rounds and is made of the same material. The difference between their magazines being their coatings.

The M9 was first to be released between the two, meaning that it was first to hit the shooting fields. After several trips into the battleground, its users found that its magazine casing faced damage as a result of exposure from sand and other natural elements.

Later, when the M9a1 joined the market, it featured an improved PVD coated magazine casing. This magazine was also sand resistant, meaning that it could maintain its quality finishing even after excessive exposure to these elements.

Grip

Every experienced shooter realizes the importance of a quality grip in a grip. Among the components that hold significant influence in the aim and performance of a gun lies this crucial piece. Both gun grips have proven to be reliable no matter the encounter; however, their nature includes some differences.

The M9 grip has a smooth front and back lining on its grip and only features a side checkering plastic that provides the required grasp on the gun. On the other hand, the M9a1 grip has a strap checkering that provides more natural and comfortable handling of your handgun. It also plays a significant role in reducing the recoil felt, and you will achieve better results on consecutive shots.

Markings

To some, this build engraving might not be seen as a difference. However, since there are not many of the differences to list down between these two similar handguns: I found it an important difference. You can easily tell the difference just by looking at the gun’s engravings.

The M9 is a military used weapon hence its military-style markings on its finishing. On one side of the firearm lies a “US 9mm M9 Beretta USA” engraving that is visible even on a longer distance. The official build and serial number lies on the other side of its body and adds a unique feel to the handgun. It is only featured on the M9, whereas the M9a1 only features a serial number engraving on its surface.

M9 vs 92FS

The Beretta 92FS is among the long catalog of 9mm pistols from the Beretta makers. Actually, the 92FS pistol is based on the M9 model and features explicit modifications that improve its performance both on paper and in the field. These modifications result in a civilian edition of the military-grade M9; its evolution is innovative and features creative adjustments to its functioning.

In this section, we will discuss the minor improvements that lead to this perfect self-defence weapon.

Sights

Like all Beretta 9mm handguns, both these weapons feature iron sights fixed correctly at the front and rear. The M9 then features a two-dot sighting pair, with the front and rear sections having a white dot in their make. To some shooters, this is an excellent characterization that provides them with accurate and satisfying results.

The 92FS, however, has a three-dot sight, which is more detailed and promises even more accurate results. Two of the white dots are strategically positioned on the rear piece while the front company holds the third dot. This third white dot proves to be useful for finessing your aim and improving the target acquisition.

Hammer

Among the complaints that came from the M9 military use included claims that the slide shot back towards the shooter upon firing. This malfunction was responsible for causing severe damage to most military men during combat, compromising the troop’s success.

The Beretta team considered this when designing the 92FS, and installed a larger hammer pin. The giant hammer eliminated the risk of the slide flying backwards to the shooter, allowing for safer use. Considering that the 92FS was explicit for civilian use, such malfunctions would result in extreme damages.

Grip

In comparison to the M9, the 92FS features a narrower handle with a distinguished arc on its hold. Only with close observation of the grip will you notice this arc that extends to the gun’s beaver-rail. The M9, on the other hand, has a broader stock, and no turn is noticeable in its body finish.

Judging from their grip structuring, it is correct to conclude that the 92FS has better handling with its slim grip nature. It allows for a better fit on the shooter’s palm, improving the shooter’s control of his or her firearm. Here are some of the Best Beretta 92F grips

The Best Overall:

In conclusion, both these weapons are perfect options depending on their applications. For tactical encounters, I would suggest the M9, whereas defensive approaches are best for the 92FS.

Most Popular Handgun Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Civilians Own a Beretta M9?

Regardless of DOD claims, you can successfully purchase a military-grade M9. The only requirement you need to meet is to be in a state that does not restrict firearm usage. Beretta is marketing these pistols as law enforcement pistols.

Why did the Army Replace the M9?

Following claims sourced from army officials, the M9 did not meet required standards for modern combat. Besides, cost analysis showed that its repair costs were equivalent to purchasing new service pistols. This is what led to their discontinuing in certain troops.

Would a 9mm Kill a Bear?

Yes, a 9mm would kill a bear. However, the bear would die of the injuries rather than the weapons stopping power. Before the bear falls to its demise, it will still have enough energy to cause severe damage to you.

Conclusion

The M9a1 is just an improvement of the M9 version, which I highly advocate for because of its magazine coating and Picatinny rail in its build. Its grip is also an aspect that sways most shooters find attractive over the M9.

However, the M9’s association with the US military gives its counterpart a run for its money. In conclusion, both are significant purchases and come at pocket-friendly pricing.

Trees with long, slender seed pods are easily identified in woodlands and parks. The distinctive bean-like pods may look like a string of pearls, long flattened brown cases, or slender cylindrical seed pods measuring up to 24” (60 cm) long. Many of these trees with long seed pods are in the bean family Fabaceae and have similar seed cases containing several round or oval seeds.

Catalpa trees are the most commonly identifiable trees with long seed pods dangling from branches. Other trees known for their long flattened or cylindrical seed-filled pods include black locust, eastern redbud, palo verde, mimosa, and trumpet trees. Depending on the species, the long seed pods can measure between 4” and 24” (10 – 60 cm) in length.

This article explores some of the most fascinating trees with long seed pods. From the iconic catalpa tree to locust, redbud, and coffee trees, we will examine the characteristics of each tree to identify the tree species.

Trees With Long Seed Pods (Pictures and Identification)

Let’s look in detail at the most common trees with long seed pods.

Catalpa Trees (Catalpa)

Catalpa trees have some of the longest seed pods you will likely find on trees. These ornamental deciduous trees have long, pencil-like pods that grow between 8” and 24” (20 – 60 cm) long.

The slender brown seed pods dangle from branches and persist through winter. On a leafless tree, the long slender pods look like brown icicles.

Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)

Long, thin cylindrical seed pods grow on the northern catalpa tree. The bean-like capsules emerge green and turn brown as they ripen in fall.

Each pencil-thin pod of the northern catalpa tree measures 8” to 20” (20 – 50 cm) long and is filled with flat, light brown winged seeds measuring 1” (2.5 cm) long.

The northern catalpa is a large-sized deciduous tree native to North America. Apart from the long green-bean-like seed pods, the tree is identified by its white, trumpet-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves measuring 8” to 12” (20 – 30 cm) long.

The northern catalpa trees grow 50 to 100 ft. (15 – 30 m) tall with an irregular canopy 40 ft. (12 m) wide.

Due to the catalpa tree’s long, thin brown seed pods, it’s also called the cigar tree.

Southern Catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides)

Long slender seed capsules are an identifying feature of the southern catalpa tree. These brown bean pods are slightly flattened and measure 6” to 20” (15 – 50 cm) long and 0.3” to 0.4” (0.8 – 1 cm) in diameter.

Like the northern catalpa, the rounded pods of the southern catalpa tree emerge green before turning brown in fall. They persist on the tree through winter.

Other identifying features of the southern catalpa are its clusters of small funnel-shaped white flowers, large leaves measuring up to 10” (25 cm) long, and reddish-brown bark.

The southern catalpa is difficult to distinguish from the northern variety. However, comparing the long seed pods and flowers, you’ll notice that the southern catalpa fruit and blossoms are slightly smaller.

Honey Locust Tree (Gleditsia triacanthos)

The honey locust tree is a fast-growing, hardy tree known for its long, reddish-brown, flattened seed pods.

The easily identifiable slender pods of the honey locust tree measure 18” (45 cm) long and have a twisted shape. An unusual feature of the long brown seed pods is their honey-like, sweet pulp that matures in early fall.

Also called the thorny locust tree, the deciduous tree is native to North America. One of the characteristics of the locust tree is its thorny trunk and branches. The stiff, sharp spines on the tree grow in dense clumps.

Honey locust trees have finger-like clusters of fragrant yellow flowers and pinnately compound feathery leaves.

Honey locust trees with huge brown seed pods grow 65 to 100 ft. (20 – 30 m) tall.

Black Locust Tree (Robinia pseudoacacia)

The black locust tree is a fast-growing, deciduous tree with flat, purplish-brown bean-like pods.

Each long, thin seed pod of the black locust tree measures 2” to 4” (5 – 10 cm) long and up to 0.5” (1.3 cm) wide. The long dark brown pods contain several dark orange-brown seeds that ripen in late fall.

One of the attractive features of the black locust tree is its fragrant white flowers. The loose clusters of white blossoms grow up to 8” (20 cm) long and bloom in late spring or early summer.

Leaves on the black locust tree are dark green and consist of small leaflets growing on stems.

Fast-growing black locust trees grow 30 to 50 ft. (9 – 15 m) tall and up to 35 ft. (10.5 m) wide.

Eastern Redbud Tree (Cercis canadensis)

The eastern redbud tree is a beautiful ornamental, pink-flowering tree with brown, bean-like seed pods in the fall.

Eastern redbuds are known for the masses of pea-like rosy-pink and purple spring blossoms. After blooming, the pink flowers give way to long brown flat seed pods 2” to 4” (5 – 10 cm) long.

Long seed pods on eastern redbud trees contain small pea-like seeds 0.25” (0.6 cm) long.

After the tree’s heart-shaped green leaves drop in the fall, the dangling brown pods provide visual interest throughout winter. Redbuds are small ornamental trees growing 20 to 30 ft. (6 – 9 m tall).

Additionally, eastern redbud trees are easy to care for and maintain, adding value and beauty to any landscape in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Judas Tree (Cercis siliquastrum)

The Judas tree produces masses of brownish-purple seed pods measuring 4” (10 cm) long.

These flattened purplish seed casings appear in summer and persist through winter. Also known for its abundant rosy-purple clusters of spring flowers on bare branches, the ornamental tree adds beauty and shade to a landscape.

The pink-flowering Judas tree grows 15 to 25 ft. (4.5 – 7.5 m) tall and wide. In addition to its attractive deep pink flowers and dangling showy seed pods, the tree features heart-shaped leaves.

These seed pods emerge red in the spring, mature to green, and turn yellow or brown in the fall.

Mimosa Tree (Albizia julibrissin)

Also known as the silk tree, the mimosa tree produces brown, flat elongated seed pods 4” to 8” (10 – 20 cm) in length. In addition to its flattened bean pods, the tree is identified by its pom-pom-like clusters of pink flowers.

Each mimosa tree bloom consists of silky threads that look like fluffy pink powder puff.

The fast-growing mimosa tree grows 20 to 40 ft. (6 – 12 m) tall and up to 50 ft. (15 m) wide.

Apart from its flat seed pods and fluffy pink flowers, the deciduous tree has attractive fern-like foliage consisting of 20” (50 cm) long bipinnate leaves.

Mimosa trees are drought-tolerant and low maintenance and add a touch of elegance and beauty to a subtropical landscape.

Cape Wattle (Paraserianthes lophantha)

Cape wattle is a fast-growing shrub or small tree with clusters of dark seed pods measuring 4” (10 cm) long. The smooth, flattened pale brown seed casings contain several black seeds.

The Cape wattle seed pods follow pale greenish-yellow bottlebrush flowers that appear in early summer and persist through winter.

Also known as fernleaf wattle, crested wattle, or plume albizia, this unusual tree can be found on the west coast of the US. The small shrub-like tree grows up to 40 ft. (12 m).

Apart from its flattened brown curled seed pods, the fernleaf wattle tree has fern-like foliage like the mimosa tree.

Palo Verde Tree (Parkinsonia florida)

The Palo verde tree is a sun-loving desert tree known for its flat, thin, seed pods with pointed ends.

Each flattened brown pod of the Palo verde tree contains two large brown seeds. The pods’ tan color contrast with the tree’s green branches and stems. The long brown seed pods measure 2” to 3” (5 – 7.5 cm) long.

The eye-catching features of the palo verde tree are its green bark, bright golden-yellow spring flowers, and small bluish-green leaves.

Palo verde is tolerant of drought, heat, and arid conditions. The ornamental tree grows 20 to 25 ft. (6 – 7.5 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide.

Royal Poinciana Tree (Delonix regia)

The royal poinciana tree is a stunning tropical tree known for its huge brown seed pods and fiery red-orange flowers.

Popular in Florida landscapes, the royal poinciana tree produces flattened, brown or black seed pods measuring up to 24” (60 cm) long. Each stiff, strap-like pod can hold up to 50 seeds.

The most attractive feature of the royal poinciana tree is its large clusters of brilliantly colored red or orange flowers. The tropical flowers have four spoon-shaped petals measuring 3” (7.5 cm) long.

When in bloom during summer, masses of vibrant flowers cover the tree’s spreading, rounded canopy.

Royal poinciana trees grow 30 to 65 ft. (9 – 20 m) tall and have a spreading canopy up to 60 ft. (18 m) wide.

Kentucky Coffee Tree (Gymnocladus dioicus)

The Kentucky coffee tree is a slow-growing deciduous tree with long, flat seed pods and small leaves. The attractive reddish-brown bean pods grow in clusters and measure 10” (25 cm) long and up to 3” (7.5 cm) wide.

Leaves of the Kentucky coffee tree are bipinnately compound with up to nine pairs of small leaflets on leaves 3 ft. (1 m) long.

The Kentucky coffee tree is characterized by its dark brown, fissured bark, zig-zag stems, and purplish-brown pods containing oval seeds.

Traditionally, the seeds are roasted and used as a coffee substitute—hence the name coffee tree.

Kentucky coffee trees grow 60 to 80 ft. (18 – 24 m) tall and up to 55 ft. (17 m) wide. They are excellent shade trees for large landscapes, and their large brown seed pods create visual appeal in the winter. However, they can become messy when they drop.

Acacia Tree (Acacia)

Acacia trees are a group of sun-loving thorny trees that produce clusters of long seed pods. Depending on the tree species, acacia seed pods can be twisted, straight, or coiled. Some of the long, seed-filled elongated pods can have a fuzzy texture.

The acacia tree pods contain red seeds, and the pods can be brown, black, or green and measure between 2.8” and 8” (7 – 20 cm) long.

Apart from the colorful seed pods, attractive features of acacia trees are their feathery fern-like foliage and strikingly beautiful flowers that look like white or yellow puffballs. Acacia trees grow between 20 and 50 ft. (6 – 15 m).

These trees are suitable for use as shade trees in hot climates.

Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)

Desert willow is a small to medium-sized shrub-like tree known for its showy, trumpet-shaped pink flowers and long, linear seed pods. The slender seed pods grow 6” to 10” (15 – 25 cm) long and contain several winged seeds.

The tree’s showy funnel flowers thrive in hot, dry climates, making the tree an ideal desert plant.

Desert willows look stunning in arid landscapes when the large purple, pink, or white flowers bloom from May through September. The tree is also identified by its willow-like leaves and huge elongated seed pods that persist through winter.

Desert willow grows 15 to 40 ft. (4.5 – 12 m) with an open, spreading crown.

Trumpet Trees (Tabebuia)

Trumpet trees are a tropical tree species that are famed for their showy trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, yellow, and purple. After blooming, trumpet trees produce long, slender brown pods in a banana or cigar shape.

Depending on the tree species, the seed pods can measure between 3” and 12” (7.5 – 30 cm).

Trumpet trees have moderate growth and can reach heights of 20 to 40 ft. (6 – 9 m) tall. The colorful trumpet-shaped flowers can measure 1” to 4” (2.5 – 10 cm) long and bloom in early spring on bare branches.

Yellow Bells (Tecoma stans)

Yellow bells is an eye-catching shrub-like small tree with clusters of showy yellow trumpet flowers, lush foliage, and many string-like long seed-filled pods. The slender bean pods grow 8” (20 cm) long and contain numerous winged seeds.

These blow away when the seed pods ripen, crack open, and release the seeds.

Although the narrow seed pods provide some visual interest, it’s the stunning brightly-colored yellow flowers that are attractive. Flowering continuously from spring until late fall, the fragrant yellow blossoms add plenty of color to a subtropical landscape.

The shrubby plant grows 10 to 25 ft. (3 – 8 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide.

Amur Maackia (Maackia amurensis)

Amur maackia is a deciduous slow-growing tree with flat seed pods, fragrant, white pea-like blossoms, and attractive coppery-bronze bark.

The Amur maackia tree’s flat bronze-colored seed pods measure 2” to 3” (5 – 7.5 cm) long. Its white flower clusters are dense panicles growing up to 8” (20 cm) long.

This ornamental Amur maacikia tree is known for its stunning white flowers that bloom in mid-summer. Useful as a shade tree or lawn tree in temperate climates, the hardy broadleaf tree grows 20 to 30 ft. (6 – 9 m) tall and wide.

After its leaves drop in the fall, peeling cinnamon bark and brown seed pods provide visual winter interest.

Purple Orchid Tree (Bauhinia variegata)

The purple orchid tree is a magnificent flowering tree with flat, sharply pointed seed pods and stunning orchid-like flowers.

The deciduous small shrub-like purple orchid tree blossoms in winter with clusters of five-petaled pink, white, or purple flowers. These are followed by flattened strap-like seed pods measuring 12” (30 cm) long.

The sun-loving purple orchid tree thrives in tropical landscapes in USDA zones 9 to 11. Sometimes growing as a large shrub, the multi-stemmed tree can grow 20 to 35 ft. (6 – 10.5 m) tall. In the right climate, the pink-flowering tree is ideal as a specimen shrub, small shade tree, or border plant.

Carob Tree (Ceratonia siliqua)

The carob tree is an evergreen tree that produces long edible seed pods. The legume seed-filled fruit can be relatively thick with a curved or straight shape. Carob pods turn from green to a glossy dark brown, almost black, as they ripen.

The sweet leguminous pods grow 4” to 10” (10 – 25 cm) and contain eight to 12 seeds.

The carob tree is native to Mediterranean regions and grows up to 50 ft. (15 m) tall and wide. The term carob comes from Greek, meaning horn-shaped, and refers to the shape of the large curved seed pods. The drought-tolerant trees are ideal for hot climates and xeriscaping.

Related articles:

• Types of Tree Seed Pods
• Types of Helicopter Seeds

All day I’d shadowed the herd, waiting for the right opportunity to close in for a shot. There were about 40 cow elk in the herd and five bulls, each big enough to drop the string on, should one wander within range of my longbow. I began my day still-hunting along the petering-out ends of a series of ridges and into a three-month-old burn, where I found an unlikely herd of elk bugling their way through blackened tree trunks and brush stubble. I followed them out of the burn and into a lush canyon bottom where I ran out of cover. So I watched the elk climb a barren canyon wall and crest over into the next canyon, and I then ambled my way back to camp for a snack. Those elk would find a shady northeast-facing timber patch to bed in for the day, and I figured I could catch up with them mid-afternoon when they got hungry for their own snack. And that’s just what I did, zipping an arrow through a nice bull’s lungs at 23 yards as he worked his way around the fringes of the herd at dinnertime.

Closing to within bow or rifle range of big-game animals can offer a supreme challenge that requires its own set of specialized skills. I like to divide them into two categories: stalking and still-hunting. While stalking, you first spot your quarry, and then move in for a shot. When still-hunting, you sneak your way through likely habitat in search of a shot. Here are a few tips, tactics and techniques that will help you close the distance on a wily mule deer buck or a big, call-shy bull elk. You might even employ them on a pronghorn or whitetail, if conditions are right and you possess tons of patience.

Stalking• Glass Up a Beast: The first element to a successful stalk is spotting your prey. We don’t have room enough in this article to cover the intricacies of spotting in detail, but in short; use the best glass you can afford, find a good vantage point and let your eyes do most of the walking. You can cover far more country, find more animals and contaminate less territory through glass than you ever will on foot. Once you’ve spotted, watched and read the body language of your quarry, you’re ready to begin your stalk.

• Plan Your Route: Before leaving your vantage point, study landmarks, choose a goal shooting position and plan your route to that position. It’s really easy to loose track of where the animal is, and where you are in relation to your goal position, once you leave your vantage point. Plan carefully, and use landmarks to guide your way.

• Stay Under Cover: While executing your stalk, try to stay completely out of sight of your quarry. Land mass offers the best cover; utilize hills, rocky outcroppings, ravines and other terrain to shield you from sight. Vegetation is second best; use heavy brush, tree lines and waist-high grass to block your prey’s vision while you close the distance. If you run out of land mass and vegetative cover, you can make like a wisp of smoke and move closer using environmental changes such as drifting cloud shadows, fluctuating winds and natural distractions like other animal movement that draws your quarry’s attention.

• Use a Decoy: In certain circumstances, such as stalking pronghorn across short-grass prairie, a decoy can render an otherwise impossible stalk very doable. I’ve used a folding cow (of the moo variety) decoy to close within pronghorn under those very conditions. I’ve also used folding elk decoys with good success while bowhunting elk, and I’ve hid behind my saddle horse and closed the distance on elk when hunting in mustang country, where the elk are used to seeing horses. The key is to blend in, seem like part of your quarry’s daily surroundings, and move like a cow, elk or horse, rather than like a hunter hiding behind a decoy.

• Play the Wind: Always, always, keep your wind (or scent) from reaching the animal you’re trying to stalk, particularly when you’re bowhunting. If they catch your wind, the game is over. So circle that extra mile, climb that extra ridge or wait that extra hour to make sure the wind is in your favor. Speaking of wind and extra hours, often the best time of day to put a stalk on an animal—especially in high-elevation mule deer or sheep country—is after the morning thermals have performed their capricious dance and everything has settled down for the day. Wait and watch until the wind has steadied and the animal has gotten up from its first bed, grabbed a quick snack and relocated to a shady position. Now the wind and your prey are likely to stay put for a few hours, giving you an honest chance to close within archery range.

• Be Aggressive: I’ve often watched novice hunters begin a stalk with the utmost care; moving slowly and stepping quietly while the animal they’re stalking is still a mile or more away. That’s silly. Your first task when stalking from long distance is to close that distance as rapidly as possible. If you don’t, that animal will likely be gone when you get there. So get out of sight, and then close in aggressively. Once you’ve closed within a couple hundred yards, then it’s time to slow down and stalk carefully.

• Be Patient: It’s been said that a hunter’s biggest attribute is patience. I agree. Once you’ve closed to within earshot of your prey, it’s time to slow down, become part of the environment and drift closer for a shot. Pay critical attention to cloud movement and shadows, wind gusts and air movement, and other factors that can conceal or reveal your presence. Blend in, move in concert with nature and relax: Prey animals can feel a predator’s intent, so don’t study them with a hard gaze, and don’t covet those backstraps sizzling on your evening campfire just yet. Just stay calm, work your way into position and make a steady shot. Then you can celebrate.

Still-Hunting• Hunt Wildlife-Rich Areas: When still-hunting, you try to slip into an animal’s habitat, spot them before they’re aware of your presence and make a shot. Obviously, you must hunt where game likes to hang out. Use pre-season scouting, your knowledge of the area and the species, and current wind direction to decide to where to still-hunt that day.

• Use the Wind: The best still-hunting days are windy. Everything in the outdoors is noisy and moving on a windy day, meaning you can move and make noise too, with less likelihood of being discovered. Your ideal strategy is to still-hunt in an upwind direction, but hunting crosswind will work just fine, too. Try to move with the wind gusts and blend in with your surroundings.

• Stay in the Shadows: Direct sunlight makes you stand out like the proverbial sore thumb, no matter how good your camouflage. Do your best to keep to the shadows, especially when you stop to look and glass.

• One Step, Two Looks: The biggest challenge when still-hunting is to see your prey before it sees you, so here’s how you move: take one step, then take two long looks. Study the area in front and to the sides of you intently for any motion, anything that stands out or anything out of place. What you see might be the curving line of an antler, the texture of deer hair or the flicker of an ear. Search as far away as you can see, but study everything close-in as well; while still-hunting, it’s not unusual to close within a few yards of an animal before either of you is aware of the other’s presence.

• Use Binoculars: While on the subject of looking, always carry a binocular and use it. You can study surrounding brush and vegetation using your binos like a microscope. Here’s how: Look deep into the tangle with your bino, and turn the focus knob until the area you’re looking at becomes sharp. Study that region for a moment, then turn the knob a little to focus closer or further out—it’ll highlight an entirely different section of habitat. Take your time and pick the area apart piece by piece.

• Don’t Hurry: Still-hunting is not a speed game. Rather, you might take an hour to cover 40 yards, or an entire afternoon to hunt through a three-acre patch of woods. But if you’ve got a good idea those 40 yards or three acres holds game, what better way to spend an hour, or an afternoon?

• Still-Hunt When it’s Damp: Everything gets quiet in the woods when it’s damp, or wet from a recent rain. That makes for good sneaking conditions; sticks are less likely to snap underfoot, leaves don’t crunch like cornflakes and your movement is muted. It’s a good time to be in the woods.

• Deer Walking: We don’t always get to hunt in windy, damp or quiet conditions. Sometimes it’s simply impossible to move without making noise. When that happens, just make like one of the locals; imitate the natural sounds game make while moving. One of my favorite techniques is what noted traditional hunter and archer Fred Asbell calls “deer walking.” To deer-walk, simply imitate the one-two, one-two, one-two cadence of a four-footed beast by first stepping your heel on the ground, then a split-second later snapping down the ball of your foot, to create that one-two cadence. (You can reverse this if it’s more comfortable, using a first-ball-then-heel approach.) Take a few steps, hesitate, look for game, and then move ahead a few more steps, trying to imitate a deer’s movement pattern. Try it sometime; you’ll be surprised at how well it works.

• Stay Ready: Shot opportunities can happen very fast when still-hunting, so stay on your toes. Often you’ll see your quarry just a split second before he sees you. Just stay calm, make the shot and then celebrate having successfully implemented one of hunting’s most skill-demanding techniques.

We all love our mobile phones, but we appreciate their limitations. While your phone could serve you well in the city, it might prove inadequate when you go to the wild, where mobile coverage is limited. In addition, most mobile phones cannot withstand the adversities of the elements — rain, ice, snow, and scorching sun could destroy your delicate mobile device.

When you have to operate in areas with inclement weather, the best way to keep in touch with family and friends is by using a walkie-talkie. Walkie-talkies are known for their hardiness. While some of these gadgets have limited features, others are created to stand up to the most adverse weather conditions — you’ll find walkie-talkies that operate perfectly in rainy and snowy conditions.

Some walkie-talkies have outstanding battery life and a great range. Moreover, with your handheld radio, you can talk to groups of people simultaneously. This is a matter not to be trivialized, as you can imagine what would happen if you went for a mountain adventure and then lost contact with a colleague — your walkie-talkie could be the only way to find out where the lost colleague is.

Today’s market is awash with thousands of different walkie-talkie brands and when you go shopping, you might be overwhelmed by the diverse choices. To help you make the best purchase decision, we have compiled the following list of the 6 best walkie-talkies you can buy today.

• Best Overall: Motorola Talkabout T800
• Best for Winter Activities: Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0
• Best Walkie-Talkies for Hunting: Midland X-talker T10
• Best Budget Option: Motorola T600
• Best Range: DEWALT DXFRS800
• Best-Looking Walkie-Talkie: Cobra ACXT645

Best Overall: Motorola Talkabout T800

When you go hiking or camping in remote areas with no cell phone coverage, the Motorola Talkabout T800 could be your best companion. The radio boasts a range of up to 35 miles and, depending on the terrain, this gadget will keep you connected when your cell phone fails.

Communication using the Motorola Talkabout T800 is clear and interference-free as the radio has 22 channels and 121 privacy codes. Its built-in flashlight makes it ideal for nighttime activities.

Moreover, the T800 is designed to be waterproof and dustproof, with an IPX4 rating, which means that it can withstand splashing water from any direction. The radio will come in handy during emergencies as it enables you to ask for emergency assistance using its emergency alert button.

The Motorola Talkabout T800 operates on FRS and GMRS frequencies and has a maximum power output of 2 watts. It also comes with a rechargeable battery that provides up to 10 hours of continuous use. Courtesy of its in-built Bluetooth feature, you can pair it with a smartphone, enabling you to communicate with your team even when they are out of range.

For a radio with a host of great features, the Motorola Talkabout T800 is also competitively priced. The price, together with its long battery life, high durability, and emergency features makes the Motorola Talkabout T800 the best overall walkie-talkie you can buy today.

Check out the Motorola Talkabout T800 on Amazon.

Best for Winter Activities: Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0

For lovers of backcountry skiing, the aptly named Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 is the two-way radio to go for. With a six-mile range and operating on FRS and GMRS frequencies, the Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 ensures clear and strong communication even in remote areas.

One of the most notable features of the BC Link 2.0 is its Smart Mic, which is equipped with push-to-talk functionality and allows users to control the radio without having to remove it from their packs. The device also has a large LCD display making it easy to read and navigate through the menu options.

Made for the harsh outdoors, the BC Link 2.0 has a waterproof rating of IP56 and its rugged construction means that it can handle drops and impacts without breaking down. It has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 12 hours of continuous use to help you stay connected through long trips.

For its durable construction and user-friendliness, the Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 is one of the best walkie-talkies that you can buy today.

Check out the Backcountry Access BC Link 2.0 on Amazon.

Best Walkie-Talkies for Hunting: Midland X-talker T10

When you’re going hunting and are not certain about how the weather will behave, bringing the Midland X-talker T10 with you would be a great idea as the radio is designed to alert you about adverse weather conditions in your location.

It’s not surprising then that this radio is beloved by hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts who operate in areas of unpredictable weather. The X-talker T10 has 22 channels which allow users to communicate with others who are using the same channel.

Additionally, the radio has 38 privacy codes, which help to prevent interference from other radio users. Boasting a range of up to 20 miles, this radio is ideal for use in remote areas.

Its backlit display helps you operate optimally in low-light conditions, and its 26-hour battery life means that you can continue with your activities for a long time away from a power source. A reasonably priced product, the Midland X-talker T10 is also highly portable as it weighs a mere 3.9 ounces and stands 5.5 inches tall.

Check out the Midland X-talker T10 on Amazon.

Best Budget Option: Motorola T600

When you require a high-performing two-way radio at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with the Motorola T600. Meant for outdoor enthusiasts, this is a durable and waterproof gadget that you could take with you for hiking, camping, or on construction sites.

The Motorola T600 has a range that can reach up to 35 miles, depending on the terrain and weather conditions. This makes it ideal for use in remote areas where cellular reception is not available. The radio comes with NOAA weather alerts, allowing users to stay updated on severe weather conditions in their area.

A highly durable product, the Motorola T600 is IP67 rated, meaning that it is waterproof and dustproof, making it ideal for use in all kinds of weather conditions. In addition, it has a built-in flashlight for use in emergencies.

The T600 also offers a number of other useful features, such as 22 channels, 121 privacy codes, and a keypad lock. The radio is compatible with other FRS/GMRS radios, making it easy to communicate with other users who may have different types of radios.

Priced at $98.99 on Amazon, the Motorola T600 is a budget product because it has features that you would normally expect to find in pricier radios. This makes it one of the best walkie-talkies you can buy today.

Check out the Motorola T600 on Amazon.

Best Range: DEWALT DXFRS800

One of the most outstanding features of the DEWALT DXFRS800 is its range. At about 300,000 square feet, this is one two-way radio that has an astounding range and, conditions allowing, would be ideal for large-scale projects.

The use of the DEWALT DXFRS800 ensures secure transmission thanks to its 22 preset channels and 121 privacy codes. The radio also features a bright backlit display and a keypad lock to prevent accidental button presses.

This walkie-talkie is a durable product that will withstand harsh conditions. It has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. It is also designed to meet MIL-STD 810 standards for shock resistance. This means that it can withstand drops and impacts without getting damaged.

The radio also comes with a belt clip and a rechargeable battery that can provide up to 18 hours of talk time. While it’s pricier than other two-way radios on the market, its long battery life, durability, and range make the DEWALT DXFRS800 a worthy investment.

Check out the DEWALT DXFRS800 on Amazon.

Best-Looking Walkie-Talkie: Cobra ACXT645

With Bluetooth connectivity, the Cobra ACXT645 is a two-way radio that can be connected to smartphones. This way, the walkie-talkies ease communication in remote areas. The radio has a GPS tracking mechanism to assist users who might be in distress. It’s, therefore, a great companion for outdoor activities in the wild.

It has a range of up to 35 miles, making it easy to communicate with others even in remote areas. The radio has 22 channels, including 10 NOAA weather channels that provide real-time weather information.

The radio’s weather alert function ensures that you are always aware of any severe weather conditions in your area. This is essential for outdoor activities. To help you continue activities in low-light conditions, the radio has a built-in LED flashlight.

The radio has a rugged and durable design and a water-resistant exterior to ward off light rain. Thanks to its in-built VOX feature, you can use the radio hands-free. This feature is particularly useful when you are engaged in activities that require your hands, like rock climbing.

In terms of battery life, the Cobra ACXT645 has a rechargeable battery that lasts for up to 12 hours. It also has a battery saver mode, which helps to conserve battery life when the radio is not in use.

The radio comes with a micro-USB charging cable that allows you to charge the battery easily. At 5.1 ounces and available in Black and Orange, this radio is both portable and quite good-looking.

Check out the Cobra ACXT645 on Amazon.

How to Pick the Best Walkie-Talkies: Step by Step

Given the vast diversity of features in the walkie-talkies available on the market today, there are some considerations to take into account to acquire a gadget that will serve you well. The most crucial factors to consider include:

Range

When you’re out hiking with friends, you need a handheld radio that covers a wide enough range to make sure that you stay in touch. While the figures advertised on some products tend to be rather huge (over twenty miles, for example), the reality on the ground is quite different.

Owing to obstructions from rocks, vegetation, and even weather changes, the range of your walkie-talkie could be highly limited. One sure way to increase the range of your gadget is to opt for a walkie-talkie with a long antenna.

While some of the gadgets with long antennas might have limited power, this might be the trade-off you could be forced to consider if the range is important for your activities.

Battery Life

When you’re engaging in activities that take you away from a power source, you want to have a walkie-talkie with substantial battery life. A gadget with a good battery might cost you a lot upfront but, in the long term, it saves you money since you will spend less on batteries.

While good battery life is important, if you end up with a walkie-talkie with limited battery life, you should consider investing in an alternative powering solution, such as a power bank or a solar panel, that you could take with you when you spend substantial time away from a power source.

Waterproofing

When you engage in activities in the wilderness, there is a very high chance that your walkie-talkie will be exposed to some form of a water hazard. For this reason, you want a gadget that’s fully waterproofed.

Waterproofing is a critical measure of a walkie-talkie’s durability and failure to obtain a gadget that meets this requirement might mean that you’ll need to replace your walkie-talkie sooner than you expected.

The best way to find out whether a walkie-talkie will meet the required durability requirements is by looking at its IP rating. Ideally, you should opt for a radio with a high IP rating.

Portability

While your walkie-talkie performs the critical function of keeping you in touch with colleagues and the outside world, its usefulness will be determined to a considerable degree by its portability. When a walkie-talkie is too heavy, moving around with it could prove inconvenient and tiring and it helps to invest in a lightweight gadget.

Sound Quality

There are organizations that use walkie-talkies to enable communication between groups of workers in different locations. Should that be the case, you want to ensure that the communication between the groups is perfectly clear by investing in gadgets with high sound quality.

And while your walkie-talkies could have been serving you well in the past, should you notice that they have lost their clarity, it might be time to conduct some maintenance. If your radios are not cleaned regularly, the speakers and microphones could be stuck with dust and debris, and cleaning them could improve communication.

What to Know Before Buying the Best Walkie-Talkies

Your walkie-talkie is an important investment that could serve you well for many years. For some organizations, normal operations might be greatly hampered without the use of these gadgets and this will adversely affect the organization’s bottom line.

Given the crucial role that these gadgets play, it’s important to realize that the walkie-talkies you buy will need regular maintenance if you want them to remain in tip-top condition for a long time. Neglected and abused, walkie-talkies break down prematurely, and depending on the number of gadgets you have, replacement costs could be crippling.

Before parting with your money for a walkie-talkie, it’s also important to note that there are countless brands on the market and that some have better reputations than others.

While products from the big brand names might look expensive, these are products that have been tried, tested, and trusted for generations and you’re therefore safer with products from companies such as Motorola, DeWalt, and the others we have reviewed above.

Using the Best Walkie-Talkies: What It’s Like

While the walkie-talkie is a crucial gadget, your experience with it will ultimately depend on how well you use it and how much routine maintenance you give it. Should you experience poor reception from your gadget, before seeking help from a technician, you first need to confirm that you’re positioning your walkie-talkie properly.

Are you, for instance, holding your gadget upright? When you try to communicate with a walkie-talkie that’s lying on a flat surface, you limit the radio’s signal; hence, the poor reception.

Damaged or improperly attached antennas could also distort communication. Should your troubleshooting efforts identify a broken antenna, replacing this critical part of the radio might be the only option. In many situations, walkie-talkies are life-saving gadgets.

When you’re out in the wild and can’t physically locate a colleague, this precious gadget could be your only hope. In some workplaces, people work alone. For the management to be confident that these workers are safe, they rely on walkie-talkies.

Two-way radios have advanced safety features that enable the lone worker to send emergency messages. Moreover, in an emergency, GPS tracking can be used to locate a missing person.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Kabardins photo/Shutterstock.com.

When magnet fishing in Texas, you can find more than the occasional gun or knife. The state of Texas has over 7364 square miles of water area making. Needless to say, there are many different places where you can go magnet fishing. However, some spots are better than others, depending on your interests.

Is magnet fishing legal in Texas?

Yes, magnet fishing is legal in the state of Texas. There are no specific laws or regulations in place regarding the activity. However, as with any outdoor activity, there are some general rules that apply. For example, it is illegal to magnet fish on private property without the owner’s permission.

Of course, what is legal isn’t always ethical. It would not be the first time repeated, reckless or inconsiderate behavior resulted in federal regulation. Please have a look at our magnet fishing etiquette!

‍What are the best places to magnet fish in Texas?

There are many great locations for magnet fishing in Texas. Some of the best spots include lakes, rivers, and streams. In particular, areas with slow-moving water tend to be ideal, as objects are more likely to become caught on something underwater. Here are some of the most popular locations for magnet fishing:

Lake Houston

Located just outside of Houston, Lake Houston is a popular magnet fishing destination in Texas. With numerous lakeside parks and clean water, it is the perfect place for people to try out this fun activity.

Brazos River

Another great spot for magnet fishing in Texas is the Brazos River. This river flows through central Texas and offers many opportunities for magnet fishing enthusiasts to explore its waters.

Clear Creek

Clear Creek is another popular location for magnet fishing, especially among residents of Austin and the surrounding areas. This picturesque creek has long been a favorite of local anglers due to its clear waters and abundant wildlife. It is not the most bountiful magnet fishing location.

Lake Travis

Located near Austin, Lake Travis has become one of the most popular destinations for magnet fishing in recent years. Because it is a man-made lake that provides access to clean water and parks, it is the perfect place for people to try out this fun activity.

San Antonio River‍

If you want to try your hand at magnet fishing in San Antonio, then look no further than the San Antonio River. This river is a great place to find all sorts of lost items, including coins, jewelry, and even the occasional bicycle.

Sabine River

The Sabine River is one of the best places to go magnet fishing in Texas. This river is full of lost items that have been swept away by the current over the years. You never know what you might find when you go magnet fishing in this river.

The Houston Ship Channel

The Houston Ship Channel is known for being a great place to find old guns and knives.

Other places you could try:

• the canals near Lake Caroline
• Lake Texoma
• Red River
• any bridge over the Trinity River in Dallas
• Lake Worth
• Lake Ray Hubbard
• San Jacinto River
• Guadalupe River
• Neches River
• Old Sabine Bottom Bridge
• New Sabine Bottom Bridge
• Lake Conroe
• Cedar Creek Lake
• Richland Chambers Reservoir
• Lake Athens
• Falcon Lake

What can you find when magnet fishing in Texas?

You can find all sorts of lost items when you go magnet fishing in Texas. This includes coins, jewelry, and even the occasional bicycle.

Additional resources

• With the help of this guide, you’ll find the perfect magnet fishing spot near you!
• Here is a detailed map that conveniently shows all the different types of water bodies across the U.S.

Did you stumble upon other useful resources, locations, or maps for magnet fishing in Texas? Feel free to drop a comment down below!

So, you have some snapping turtles in your pond and want to get rid of them, huh? Well, you’ve come to the right palace!

In this article we will be exploring why you should get the snapping turtles out of your pond, and what the best and most humane way to do this is.

Keep on reading to find out why these snappy little guys need to go, how you can minimize the risk to yourself, and also to them…

Why would you want to get rid of snapping turtles?

Snapping turtles, as cute as they may look, are actually pretty dangerous! They can enter your garden pond or water feature easily from any neighboring stretches of water. If you live near a river or lake, for example, they could easily make their way to your nice, quiet pond.

The reason they are so dangerous is because of the type of animal they are. They are carnivorous animals which means that they will not think twice about snapping up your ornamental fish.

They have also been known to eat baby ducks, geese, and other waterbirds. So, needless to say, it is best to get rid of them! However, this can be easier said than done, especially since they also carry a huge risk towards humans too.

The bite of a snapping turtle is extremely painful and can cause really serious damage. They are also known to carry the infection known as salmonella, putting you at risk of infection from their bite.

With this in mind, the way you approach these creatures needs to be well planned and executed carefully. Follow our tips to find out how to get rid of snapping turtles.

Check the Regulations in the Local Area

Before you do anything, it is very important that you check the rules and regulations for the area in which you reside. The reason for this is because many local authorities have certain ways of dealing with animals that are a danger.

The authorities will help you in the best ways to trap them, as well as letting you know where you can release them back into the wild. Some locations, for example, may be off-limits due to the carnivorous nature of these animals.

As well as this, some animals may be protected by certain authorities. Your local authority will be able to advise you on how to deal with the snapping turtles, and may even come out to deal with them for you!

Choose Your Humane Trap

Notice the word ‘humane’! This is very important! We have already stated this but we think it is important to remind you again that whilst they are undesirable characters in your pond, they are just animals trying to do the best they can to survive.

The traps that you get to get rid of these turtles should be live traps, meaning that they can be caught with no harm done to them. Usually, you can choose from either floating or non floating traps.

Either is fine but just ensure the non floating trap is positioned on solid ground so the snapping turtle has access to oxygen or else they will drown. Choosing either of these traps will make it far easier to transport them to safety and will minimize the risk of you getting hurt, too.

Choose Your Bait for the Trap

Choosing the right type of bait for your snapping turtle trap is essential. You will need to lure them into the trap, and so you need to choose something that will be attractive to them. Remember, snapping turtles are carnivores!

So, for this reason, you should seek out bait that will appeal to them such as meat or fish. They prefer meat with very strong scents! This allows them to track the bait better. This also means that even if the bait gets wet, the scent will remain strong and will be able to be easily identified by your snapping turtles.

With this in mind, we recommend that you should choose strong-smelling fish, beef, liver, and other animal organs such as kidney. These all have strong scents that not even water could lessen.

Set Up Your Snapping Turtle Trap

Now that you have chosen your trap and bait for the trap, you can set it all up together. It is super important that any bait you use is placed deep enough inside the trap to allow the snapping turtle to get fully inside it. Place the trap in a shallow area, as this is where the turtle is most likely to hunt for food.

If your trap is non floating then you will need to place it so that part of it is out of the water. As such, it will need to be on a bank or partly on the shore.

If you do not do this then the turtle will be trapped without oxygen and will drown.

This should be avoided at all costs since the snapping turtle does not need to be killed in order to get rid of it. It is very important that you deal with your snapping turtle infestation humanely.

Relocate Your Snapping Turtle

When you have finally got your snapping turtles inside the trap, now is the time to relocate them.

As annoying as they are, and as detrimental as they can be to your pond, they are just innocent animals. They are acting on their natural instincts and deserve to be able to live a good life.

You should take them to a safe water source, approved by the local authorities to relocate them. Alternatively, you could ask for advice from the local authorities or even ask them to do this part for you.

You should take extreme care when handling a snapping turtle since their bite is dangerous, and can cause lots of pain and damage. They also have very sharp claws which can easily tear through your skin. Always wear gloves to protect yourself around them.

They say that ducks are the “new chickens” – backyard farmers all over the country are beginning to enjoy the pleasure of keeping ducks. Our ducks are all different breeds because I enjoy variety and I like being able to tell them apart….and because there are so many great breeds I couldn’t choose just one!

Before I kept ducks, like most people, when I pictured a duck the first thing that came to my mind was a large white duck with an orange bill – like the one that tries to sell me insurance in case I get hurt. The next duck I thought of was the classic green-headed Mallard that graces nearly every pond in the Northern Hemisphere.

That was pretty much the extent of my duck breed knowledge. The large, white Pekin duck is the most popular domestic duck breed around. The Mallard is thought to be the breed that nearly every domestic breed of duck is derived from so you will recognize their traits in many domestic breeds. While Pekins and Mallards are awesome, there are tons of other amazing duck breeds available, many of whom are on the endangered list, and would love to find a home in your yard.

If you are thinking about adding some ducks to your life, check out some of these popular duck breeds!

Let’s start at the beginning….

Mallard

Native to most countries in the Northern Hemisphere, Mallards are thought to be the “father” of all domesticated ducks except for Muscovy. Mallards are small, making them capable of flight. They don’t tolerate confinement very well, so if you keep Mallards you risk them flying away and not returning unless you can provide a nice, large, covered enclosure. Mallards lay a beautiful greenish egg, and are highly energetic and talkative. They have one of the lowest egg-laying rates of the domesticated breeds, laying just a couple of eggs per week.

Wild Mallards are widely hunted and removing birds from the wild to raise in captivity is a big no-no with US Fish & Wildlife. Raising wild ducks is actually illegal in many states. When keeping Mallards, you need to mark them to show you have not “duck-napped” them. Metzer Farm, one of the biggest duck breeders in the country, removes the back toe as soon as they hatch to permanently mark that duck as domestically bred.

Male ducks have a glossy green head with a white ring around their neck and grey on their wings and belly, while the females are mainly brown-speckled with a blue band on their wing called speculum feathers. Most people that keep Mallards do so for purely decorative reasons, or for training hunting dogs.

Pekin

Beautiful all white feathers on a heavy, large size bird. Pekins are popular because they are dual purpose. Hens lay a large number of white eggs so they are great to keep as layers. Their fast growth rate & light-colored skin also make them excellent to raise as meat birds. Around 90% of the duck meat produced in America comes from Pekins. Pekins are a heavy-weight bird with a calm, friendly, curious disposition, lots of eggs and meat if you want it – Pekins are a great all-around choice.

Muscovy

A really interesting bird native to the southern hemisphere. Commonly referred to as a duck, Muscovies in fact are a different species than the Mallard duck relatives. Their meat is leaner than duck meat with a plump breast like a turkey. They nest like ducks do, but also like to roost at night like chickens. Muscovies are shaped like a duck and are able to mate with a duck, but the offspring will be sterile and are referred to as mule ducks. They do not quack; the male has a low breathy call, and the hen a quiet coo which makes them perfect for backyard farmers with close neighbors. The male has large red fleshy growths around his eyes called caruncles, the females also have caruncles but to a lesser extent. Most domesticated Muscovys are dark brown or black & white.

Cayuga

The only duck breed developed in the United States, Cayugas originated near Cayuga Lake in New York. They are a medium-heavy breed that is slow growing. Cayugas have gorgeous black iridescent feathers that can look green when light shines on them, black bills and black feet (laying females and older birds sometimes have a bit of orange in their feet). They are usually raised for exhibition or eggs and their calm disposition makes them a great choice for backyard flocks. Hens generally lay 3-4 eggs per week and have a charcoal or black-colored shell early in the laying season. Mid to late season eggs & eggs from older birds are usually very light gray. Cayugas are listed as threatened status by the Livestock Conservatory.

Buff Orpington

Buffs originated in the Orpington area of Kent, England in the early 1900s (by William Cook, the same man that gave us the popular Buff Orpington chicken). A medium size duck, originally bred as an egg laying breed, you can expect an average of 3-5 white to light brown eggs per week. They have lovely fawn buff feathers with a brownish orange bill and a sweet personality. Buff Orpingtons are listed as threatened.

Rouen

A wonderful multi-purpose duck. A large bird that will lay 3-5 bluish tinted eggs per week. Rouens are a popular alternative to Mallards because they are nearly identical, but much larger so are too heavy to fly away. The males have a glossy green head with a white neck ring and a grey body. The females are brown laced with blue speculum feathers. Their calm disposition also makes them wonderful pets or additions to your backyard farm.

Crested

Usually raised for exhibition purposes or as pets, crested ducks are large white ducks with a ball of feathers, or crest, on their heads. They are slow growing so they are not a popular meat choice, but do lay fairly well (2-4 eggs per week). Bantam crested ducks & crested ducks in colors other than white have also been gaining popularity in recent years. The crest is actually a genetic mutation causing a deformity of the skull, so breeding them sometimes causes some controversy among animal rights groups. Breeding can be tricky – breeding a crested duck with another crested duck can be fatal for the offspring. To breed them you need to breed a crested to a non-crested duck, 1/4 of fertile eggs will never hatch, 1/4 will be crest-less, and only half of the ducklings will develop a crest.

Saxony

A great dual purpose breed, the Saxony is a heavy, fast growing duck that also lays a large amount of white or light blue eggs. Originally bred in the 1930s in Germany, nearly all the breeding stock was lost in World War II. Saxony are listed as critically endangered by the Livestock Conservancy. Males display the typical Mallard pattern, but their colors are unique from any other breed. The male’s head & wing markings are blue-gray, with a chestnut breast and cream belly. The females are a golden buff with cream/white facial stripes, neck ring & belly. They are calm, curious & excellent natural foragers.

Call Ducks

Their petite size, calm temperament & playful attitude make Call ducks very popular as pets or for exhibition. Adorably small; full-grown adults tip the scale at under 1.5 pounds. Call ducks were originally bred by duck hunters. The Call duck’s quack attracts wild ducks to the hunting area. For hunting, Call ducks have been nearly entirely replaced by artificial duck calls & decoys, so now these ducks are mainly raised as pets. As expected, they have a very loud call and are very talkative so they might not be the best choice if you have close neighbors. In recent years, multiple colors of Call ducks are becoming available. The two most popular are white (an all white duck) and grey (looks like a mini Mallard)

Swedish

A medium to large size dual purpose bird, they are slow growing and excellent natural foragers. You can expect 3-4 eggs per week with varying shades of white, blue and green. They have calm temperaments and will make a great addition to your backyard farm! Black Swedish are mostly black with a white patch on their neck & chest. Blue Swedish are a slate blueish gray with a white patch on their neck & chest. The color blue will not breed true however. If you breed a blue male to a blue female, half will be true Blue Swedish, a quarter will be Black Swedish and the other quarter will be Splash or Silver (either speckled white & grey or a silvery gray)

Runner

These ducks do not have the typical “duck” body shape – they are lightweight and stand upright like penguins, they always remind me of bowling pins! Their upright stance allows them to run fast rather than slowly waddle like other domesticated ducks. They were originally bred in China to help rice farmers control insects in the rice paddies. They are excellent egg layers & natural foragers, laying 4-5 eggs per week that usually have a blueish tint to them. Runner ducks tend to be nervous and can stampede when startled.

Khaki Campbell

Campbells are usually raised for their superior egg production, they can lay 5-6 cream colored eggs per week! Their excellent egg laying abilities make Campbells one of the most popular choices for backyard keepers. They are a medium weight bird, their smaller size means that some birds are able to fly for limited distances. Developed in the late 1800s by Adele Campbell, she crossed a Runner with a Rouen to create a duck that would lay well like a Runner but will be bigger to use as a meat bird. Campbells are a warm khaki color with the drakes having a darker bronze colored tail and dark head.

Magpie

A lightweight bird, they are excellent egg layers – laying 4-5 colorful eggs per week. Magpie’s eggs can vary from white, cream, blue, and green. Their feathers are usually black & white, but also can be found in blue & white with an orange bill. Generally a quiet & calm breed, they make excellent additions to suburban farms.

Silver Appleyard

This is a BIG duck! In coloring, they are similar to Mallards with the male featuring a green head, brown mottled chest with some feather lacing, and cream colored underbody. The females have a silver/white underbelly with brown lacing and iridescent speculum wing feathers. Silver Appleyards are calm & friendly and very reliable egg layers.

Welsh Harlequin

A colorful all purpose duck, they are raised for exhibition, eggs & meat. Welsh Harlequins are a medium weight duck and are also prolific layers, laying 4-6 eggs per week that vary in color from white to light blue tint. They are calm and great natural foragers. The females have a black bill with white & brown feathers and a blue speculum feather ban. The males have an orange bill and closely resemble a male Mallard with a green head, white neck ring and brown body. Welsh Harlequins are one of the few duck breed that have a natural sex-linked characteristic. At just a few days old, 90% of them can be sexed by bill color. Welsh Harlequins are listed as critically endangered.

Out of the roughly 2,500 wild mushroom species in Michigan, approximately 100 of them are edible. Morels, chanterelles, oysters, chicken of the woods, and truffles are the most popular edible species, but Michigan mushroom hunters know that there are more gems to discover.

5 Edible Mushrooms in Michigan

1. Morel (Morchella species)

Morels can be yellow, tan, black, or gray. They are most notably known for their unique cap. The pitted cap is oblong and veiny, almost resembling a crumpled-up honeycomb. If you look hard enough, you can find morel mushrooms in all 83 counties in Michigan.

The best time to harvest morels in Michigan is in May, even though this species fruits from April to June.

They can be found just about anywhere but prefer woodland areas with moist soil, old orchards, and dead or dying trees.

Morels have a meaty texture and an earthy, nutty taste. The darker morels tend to have a smoky flavor, also. Their flavor is something to be showcased.

They are great sauteed in butter but also work well as an ingredient. Think pasta, mushroom soup, sauces, or even morel game burgers.

I recommend the following recipe:

• Morel game burger with charred scallion butter

Watch our video to learn all about how to find, forage, and identify morel mushrooms!

2. Chanterelle (Cantharellus species)

The golden chanterelle and the cinnabar red chanterelle are two popular species in Michigan. They are vase-shaped and have deep, false gills on the underside of the cap. Chanterelles are well-known for their fruity apricot scent.

You can find this species in the upper peninsula and the northern section of the lower peninsula. Because chanterelles are mycorrhizal, you will always find them near trees, especially beech, oak, and conifer oak trees.

July is the most bountiful month for harvesting these mushrooms.

These unique mushrooms have a slightly peppery and fruity flavor without the sweetness.Sauteed chanterelles are a great side dish, but you can also use them in risotto, on toast, in pasta, or to add a slight sweetness to meat dishes.

I recommend the following recipe:

• Chanterelle toast

Watch our video on when and where to look for chanterelles.

3. Oyster (Pleurotus species)

Although this species is easily cultivated, foraging it yourself is much more exciting. The white-light brown cap of the mushroom is smooth and oyster-shaped. They have decurrent gills and grow in a shelf-like formation on wood, usually overlapping each other.

They grow on many hardwood trees, but most commonly on aspen trees. You can find oyster mushrooms year-round in Michigan, but they are most abundant in June.

Even though they have a strong anise/licorice scent, their flavor is subtle and earthy, with only a hint of anise.

Their texture is meaty yet soft, similar to shitake mushrooms. You can fry, bake or sauté oyster mushrooms, or even use them to make your own version of Korean barbecue.

I recommend the following recipe:

• Korean barbecue crispy oyster mushrooms

4. Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus species)

Chicken of the woods grows in shelves between two and ten inches wide. They range from a sulfur-yellow color to a bright orange color. The exterior is soft and smooth and releases a yellow liquid when pressed.

This species is usually found on Oak trees, but you can also find it on other trees, including the poisonous yew tree (do not eat the mushroom from this tree). It is a saprobic fungus and typically grows at the base of dead wood in the summer and fall.

Chicken of the woods can cause severe gastrointestinal discomfort if eaten raw. Once cooked, it is meaty and juicy. It tends to absorb the other flavors in a dish and could pass for chicken when mixed into a recipe.

You can use this wild mushroom to make sandwiches, fried “chicken,” teriyaki dishes, or boneless buffalo “wings.”

I recommend the following recipe:

• Chichen fried chicken of the woods

5. Michigan Truffle (Tuber species)

This truffle is firm with a brick red exterior and small warts covering its surface. The interior is dark colored with off-white veins. It has a sweet but slightly musty odor.

You can usually find this species growing near pine and spruce trees. Most foragers enlist the help of a truffle dog to sniff them out.

The best time to harvest these truffles is between August and November. If the mushroom feels slimy, it is overly mature.

The flavor of the truffle is similar to the smell – sweet and musty. Truffles are mainly used as a garnish and are not usually cooked.

The Michigan truffle is an exquisite addition to many dishes, including pasta, potatoes, and soups.

4 Poisonous Mushrooms to Avoid in Michigan

1. False Morel (Gyromitra species)

False morels are different colors than true morels. They are usually red, purple, or brown.

Instead of having a honeycomb appearance with pits, the false morel has a cerebral appearance. It is wrinkled and has many folds.

Some people eat false morels without an issue. However, the toxins can build up in your body over time and cause severe future damage.

Eating these mushrooms can cause gastrointestinal problems, muscular coordination loss, and death.

2. Eastern Jack O’Lantern (Omphalotus species)

This species is a dangerous look-alike of the chanterelle mushroom. While both can have a bright orange color, rumor says that the jack o’ lantern glows in the dark.

Some of the most notable differences are that jack o’ lanterns grow on wood, usually in clusters, and have orange flesh.

This mushroom species is not known to cause death. However, it does cause nausea, headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Check our video on the 7 most poisonous mushrooms growing in the US (mushroom details and ingestion symptoms included)!

3. Eastern Destroying Angel (Amanita species)

This mushroom is found in deciduous and coniferous forests. It has a smooth white cap, crowded gills not attached to the stalk, and a bulbous base. It usually grows along the edges of woodlands or in hardwood and oak forests.

You can touch this mushroom but not eat it. Initially, it causes vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. As the toxins spread, it causes cellular necrosis, leading to liver failure and death.

4. Autumn Skullcap (Galerina species)

This small brown poisonous mushroom looks similar to multiple edible mushrooms. It has a smooth cap with brown gills and a rusty-colored spore print. What sets it apart is that it almost only grows on decaying conifer trees.

The autumn skullcap has deadly amatoxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, liver damage, hypothermia, and death.

Magic Mushrooms in Michigan

Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are mushroom species with psychedelic properties. They cause hallucinations that affect the consumer’s auditory, visual, and emotional senses.

Some groups have used them in religious rituals for over 6,000 years. While some people consider them dangerous drugs, other researchers have discovered their medicinal use. Shrooms are a possible treatment for depression and anxiety.

A petition to decriminalize psychedelic substances has been making its rounds statewide. In the state of Michigan, there are at least twelve species of magic mushrooms.

In 2020, Ann Arbor was the first city to decriminalize these substances, followed by Hazel Park City and Detroit.

While it is still considered illegal, both federally and in the state, arrests and investigations are highly unlikely.

The most common magic mushrooms in Michigan include:

• Amanita muscaria var guessowii, aka fly agaric
• Gymnopilus luteus, aka yellow gym
• Psilocybe caerulipes, aka blue foot

Final Mushroom Foraging Tips

• Bring the correct gear. At the very least, you should bring a basket, a knife, and a trowel. A mushroom identification guide is also handy.
• Do not eat anything unless you are 100% sure of what it is.
• Know precisely what you’re looking for and which season it grows in.
• Only take what you will eat.
• Learn how to take a spore print.
• Cut the mushroom, don’t pull it up from the ground.

Foraging for food in the backcountry is a great way to enjoy a tasty treat on the trail. But, foraging for the wrong berries, scrubs, and leaves could result in an upset stomach, or something much worse.

That’s because not all the tasty-looking plants you see on the trail are okay to eat. Some are highly toxic and are best avoided. The key is knowing how to tell the toxic plants that look like food apart from those that are okay to eat.

If you’ve ever wondered how to identify toxic plants, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 30 types of plants that look like food that you ought to avoid on your travels. That way you can avoid this list of poisonous herbs and berries and stick to eating only edible plants as you hike.

Caution! Foraging Safety

30 Toxic Plants That Look Like Food: What You Need To Know

1. Death Camas

If a name like “death camas” doesn’t tell you to stay clear of this plant, nothing will. All jokes aside, however, death camas (Zigadenus venenosus) is one of the most toxic plants in North America.

Death camas is found throughout the western and midwestern United States and it looks like a tall, grass-like plant. Below the ground, it has a sizable bulb that makes it look dangerously similar to plants like onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and scallions.

The problem is that, unlike these plants, death camas is not edible. It can cause muscle weakness, vomiting, tremors, convulsions, and, as its name suggests, death. Thankfully, poisoning among humans isn’t very common, but death camas is known to cause problems for livestock, especially sheep.

Either way, death camas is one toxic plant that you should avoid at all costs.

2. Jerusalem Cherry

Jerusalem cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum) is a nightshade that’s traditionally used as an ornamental plant for Christmas. However, while it makes for a pretty decoration, the fruits and seeds of the Jerusalem cherry are highly toxic.

In fact, the poisonous fruit of the Jerusalem cherry contains solanocapsine. Unless eaten in very large quantities, solanocapsine usually isn’t deadly to humans, but it can cause gastrointestinal problems and severe vomiting. It’s also possible that these berries are poisonous to cats, but more research is needed to confirm that.

The problem is that the fruit of the Jerusalem cherry is a small, reddish-orange cherry tomato-looking fruit. This can make it difficult to identify, particularly because there are so many varieties of this plant. Therefore, it’s generally best to avoid plants that look like cherry tomatoes while foraging in the wild.

3. Doll’s Eyes

If there’s one plant that you need to avoid at all costs, it’s this one: doll’s eyes (Actaea pachypoda). A member of the buttercup family, doll’s eyes look like innocuous white flowers before they become raisin-sized white berries with a distinctive black spot.

These berries can be found throughout the deciduous woodlands of eastern North America, and they are highly toxic. The plant contains an as-of-yet unidentified toxin that affects the cardiac system. This toxin is found throughout the plant, including in the roots and berries. When ingested, this toxin effectively “sedates” the heart and can lead to immediate cardiac arrest.

Thankfully, you need to eat a fairly large amount of these berries for this to happen, which isn’t likely because the berries are so bitter. But, the doll’s eyes are best to avoid on the trail.

4. Hemlock

5. Rosary Pea

6. Giant Hogweed

7. Death Cap

8. Angel’s Trumpets

9. Tutsan

Traditionally used to ward off evil spirits, the tutsan (Hypericum androsaemum) is a perennial shrub that’s native to Eurasia. It was traditionally used as a medicinal plant for things like antidepressants.

However, despite its historic medicinal use, the entire tutsan plant, including its berries, which look similar to blueberries in some situations, are toxic. That’s because they contain hypericin, which is a commonly found compound in species of the St. John’s Wort genus (Hypericum).

It’s unclear precisely what it is about hypericin that’s toxic, but it’s believed that this compound can lead to cell death. Nevertheless, consuming tutsan berries can lead to nausea and diarrhea, so it’s perhaps not the best option for your trail snack.

10. Canada Moonseed

Canada moonseed (Menispermum canadense), or simply common moonseed, is a highly toxic plant that’s found throughout eastern North America. It is a relatively small flowering plant that forms in thickets with thick green leaves and small bunches of blueberries.

Although it might look like any other berry-bearing plant, the Canada moonseed is exceptionally toxic. It contains a plant metabolite called dauricine, which is found throughout the plant’s berries, roots, leaves, and flowers. Dauricine causes cardiac issues that can lead to cardiac arrest and death. Needless to say, don’t eat the Canada moonseed.

Interestingly enough, however, this highly toxic compound is being studied for use as a cancer treatment because there’s some hope that it can suppress the growth of cancer cells. One 2019 study found that it was fairly successful at suppressing pancreatic cancer growth in mice. Even still, don’t eat Canada moonseed.

11. Buckeye

12. Wisteria

13. False Morels

14. Wolfsbane

15. Horse Nettle

Despite its name, horse nettle (Solanum carolinense) is not actually a nettle, but rather it is a type of nightshade.

Horse nettle is a type of herbaceous plant that grows large leaves and has white and yellow star-shaped flowers. It is most commonly found in temperate North America, but you can also find it in areas of Europe, Australia, and temperate Asia.

Also called devil’s tomato, the horse nettle is well-known for bearing a highly toxic tomato-like fruit. This poisonous fruit contains solanine, which is a type of alkaloid that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, and even respiratory arrest. When eaten in large quantities, horse nettle can even cause death.

Since the fruit of the horse nettle does look a lot like a cherry tomato, it’s important to be careful when picking tomato-like fruits in the wild. Keep in mind that the horse nettle has a thorny stem, which is one way that you can tell the two apart. However, caution is still necessary whenever picking tomato-like fruits on the trail.

16. Castor

Castor (Ricinus communis) is a type of flowering plant that’s arguably best known for the castor bean, which is technically a seed. The castor bean is used to create castor oil, which is used for manufacturing dozens of products, from paints to perfumes.

This plant is traditionally found throughout the Mediterranean Basin, the Indian subcontinent, and eastern Africa, though it’s now spread throughout the tropics and subtropics.

Although castor bean oil is a very popular manufacturing product and even though the castor bean looks like it might be edible, it’s actually highly toxic. This is because raw castor beans have a high level of ricin, which is a type of poison that prevents cells from making proteins.

Thankfully, castor bean poisoning isn’t that common, but it is possible, particularly if you eat a large number of castor beans. It’s estimated that a healthy adult would need to eat approximately 4 to 8 castor beans in order to get seriously ill.

But since the ricin in castor beans could kill you, it’s probably best to avoid eating castor beans, regardless of the quantity you consume.

17. American Bittersweet

American bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is a fairly common type of twining vine that is found climbing its way up trees, fences, trellises, and other structures throughout deciduous ecosystems in North America.

It has small oval-shaped leaves and small flowers that form in clusters. Eventually, these flowers give way to small orange or red-colored fruits.

However, the American bittersweet has a bit of a controversial history of toxicity. While some sources maintain that the American bittersweet is not toxic to humans, it’s been suggested that the plant’s fruit was used by a number of Indigenous communities to induce vomiting.

Either way, we do know that American bittersweet is highly toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. So, if you’re adventuring with your pet or pack stock in tow, be mindful of these potentially dangerous fruits on the trail.

18. Daffodil

Daffodils are a common sight around manicured gardens and in the wilderness during the spring months. However, they are not a good trail snack because they are highly toxic.

All daffodil varieties contain a chemical called lycorine, which is present throughout the plant’s flower, stem, and bulb. In fact, the bulb of the daffodil has the highest concentration of lycorine, which is known to cause nausea, abdominal pain, and even liver damage.

Since daffodils are so distinctive when in bloom, it’s unlikely that someone would mistake them for a different kind of edible flower. The problem with daffodils arises before they bloom. Because daffodil bulbs can look like wild onions, some people have mistaken them for onions, which is problematic.

Thankfully, there is a way to tell daffodil bulbs and onions apart. First and foremost, daffodil bulbs don’t smell like onions. But, even in the absence of this olfactory clue, daffodil bulbs also don’t tear into layers like onions do. So, proper identification is key when searching for wild onions.

19. Deadly Nightshade

20. Yew

21. Pokeberries

22. Virginia Creeper

Sometimes called the five-leaved ivy, the Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is a type of decorative ivy that’s originally from the eastern and central parts of North America. Although it can sometimes be confused with poison ivy, Virginia creeper has clusters of five leaves—not three.

While Virginia creeper might not cause the same kinds of rashes as poison ivy (more on that in a bit), it’s not exactly a harmless plant.

In fact, the Virginia creeper has berries that look a lot like purple grapes but that contain oxalic acid. This can cause joint pain, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, and other similar symptoms when consumed.

23. Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster refers to a large genus of flowering plants that are technically part of the rose family. These plants were traditionally found throughout the temperate regions of Europe, Africa, and Asia, though you can now find them in North America.

Almost all cotoneaster plants feature berries and leaves that contain cyanogenic glycosides. Even though cotoneaster plants generally have low levels of these compounds, consuming too many berries can lead to kidney, liver, or heart failure. This is particularly true among young children.

Additionally, cotoneaster berries are believed to be toxic to dogs. Although a dog that eats these berries will usually only experience mild digestive problems, eating large quantities of berries could lead to severe health issues among canines.

24. Bitter Almonds

25. Mistletoe

A mainstay of Christmas and yuletide celebrations around the world, the mistletoe is a type of hemiparasitic plant that originated in Europe but has since been introduced to North America. But while the mistletoe is quite festive, it’s not a great snack to eat with your eggnog.

There are a number of active substances in mistletoe, including tyramine and phoratoxin, which can cause vomiting, nausea, and cardiac arrest.

But there are actually 1,500 different mistletoe species, each of which has varying levels of these toxins. This makes identifying particularly poisonous mistletoe plants very difficult.

In fact, it’s believed that American mistletoes are less toxic than their European counterparts. But with all those potentially nasty side effects to worry about, it’s probably better not to taste the mistletoe at your next holiday gathering.

26. Poison Ivy

27. Manchineel Tree

28. Holly

Holly is another Christmas symbol that’s known for being a festive addition to any wintery gathering. Like mistletoe, however, holly is also highly toxic, so it’s best as a decoration, rather than as a holiday snack.

While holly is a beautiful decorative plant, the berries of the holly plant genus Ilex (there are about 480 species in the genus) are all toxic. They contain a number of different compounds, including theobromine, rutin, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid.

For the most part, ingesting holly berries leads to diarrhea and vomiting, though they can also lead to intestinal problems. Eating even a few holly berries can lead to health problems in children. Thankfully, the prickly leaves of the holly plant usually dissuade kids from eating these berries, but it’s important to keep in mind while hiking or enjoying a yuletide celebration.

29. Elderberry

Although elderberry is a delicacy and one of the most commonly used medicinal plants on the planet, it’s technically toxic. Yep, that’s right. When eaten raw, elderberry’s bark, leaves, and berries can cause health problems.

That’s because elderberries naturally contain lectins, which are a type of protein that can cause stomach issues. Additionally, elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides which can cause cyanide poisoning, just like in bitter almonds.

The good news is that cooked elderberries don’t contain these compounds, so it’s generally not a problem to eat the berries with proper preparation. Either way, the bark, branches, and leaves of elderberries don’t lose their toxic compounds when cooked, so hikers should avoid eating these during their travels.

30. Wild Cherry

Last but not least on our list, we have the wild cherry (Prunus serotina). Also called black cherry, the wild cherry tree is a deciduous tree that’s found throughout the Americas.

While it shares part of its name with the tasty cherry that many of us enjoy, the wild cherry’s leaves are highly toxic. The wild cherry tree leaf contains hydrocyanic acid and cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested. This can be fatal if eaten in large quantities.

Fatalities associated with wild cherry in humans aren’t very common. However, livestock and pets are common victims of the wild cherry due to the fact that they sometimes eat the tree’s poisonous leaves. Therefore, hikers should keep a close eye on their pets while venturing down the trail.

How to Identify Common Poisonous Berries (North America Edition)

What to Do If You Eat a Toxic Plant

Hopefully, your astute plant ID skills and cautious approach to foraging have prevented you from accidentally eating a toxic plant that looks like food. In the unfortunate instance that you do eat something that’s not edible, it’s important that you quickly get to medical care.

Should you come into contact with a poisonous plant while hiking, do the following:

1. Stay Calm – It might sound cliché, but no one has ever achieved anything from panicking in an emergency.
2. Take Photos – If you can, take photos of what you ate. Doing so may help with plant identification by poison control or the hospital. Do not bring the berries, fungi, or plants with you to the hospital. Bringing these substances to the hospital can be dangerous for you and medical providers.
3. Get To Medical Care – Even if the amount of toxic berries that you ate is relatively small, your best bet is to get to medical care as soon as possible. Everyone reacts differently to different substances, so you want to be around medical professionals if you were to have an adverse reaction to a toxic plant. The faster you can get to medical care, the better, but don’t over-exert yourself or get lost in the process.
4. Provide Supportive Care – Should you be tasked with caring for someone in the backcountry that is having an adverse reaction to toxic berries or plants, you may need to provide supportive care to that person. Doing so is only appropriate for people with prior medical or wilderness medicine training. Supportive care in these wilderness situations usually means conducting a complete patient assessment and coordinating an evacuation.

The best