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Jill Staake 2021 Square Jill Staake

Jill Staake

location-pin Tampa, Florida

Expertise: Gardening, Butterflies and Bugs, Backyard Wildlife

Jill Staake

  • MOSI Outside Assistant Curator, Museum of Science & Industry, Tampa: 8 years.
  • Contributing Editor, WeAreTeachers: 6 years.
  • Contributor, Birds & Blooms: 14 years

Experience

Jill Staake's lifelong love of nature turned into a career during the years she spent working with native Florida butterflies, caterpillars, and other wildlife at the Museum of Science & Industry in Tampa, Florida. During this time, she helped to maintain 30+ acres of gardens and backwoods, all carefully cultivated to support the more than 20 species of butterflies displayed indoors and out. She now writes for a variety of publications and sites on topics like gardening, birding, and education, among others.

Education

Bachelor of science degree in Secondary English Language Arts Education

Birds & Blooms Editorial Policies

For nearly 30 years, Birds & Blooms, a Trusted Media Brand, has been inspiring readers to have a lifelong love of birding, gardening and nature. We are the #1 bird and garden magazine in North America and a trusted online resource for over 15 million outdoor enthusiasts annually. Our library of thousands of informative articles and how-tos has been written by trusted journalists and fact-checked by bird and garden experts for accuracy. In addition to our staff of experienced gardeners and bird-watchers, we hire individuals who have years of education and hands-on experience with birding, bird feeding, gardening, butterflies, bugs and more. Learn more about Birds & Blooms, our field editor program, and our submission guidelines.

Articles

hand holding a gardening shovel, potting mix vs garden soil

Potting Mix vs Garden Soil: What’s the Difference?

Wondering if you can use garden soil in containers? Here's why potting mixes are a better choice, and what to look for in a good blend.
251929844 1 Francis Hoefer Bnb Bypc2020

What Is a Rookery? All About Great Blue Heron Nests

Have you ever seen a great blue heron nest or rookery? Find out where, when, and how these magnificent birds mate and raise their young.
Living Room With Aglaonema Maria Houseplant, plants large leaves

7 Statement Houseplants With Large and Showy Leaves

Decorate with plants! These easy-to-grow houseplants with showy or large leaves will add flair to your indoor spaces.