A Conversation with Jim McCormac

I found Jim McCormac through his blog, where he posts nature photography and observations weekly, writes the Nature column in the Columbus Dispatch, worked as a botanist for 30 years at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and gives educational talks on moths and other wildlife around the Midwest.

Ohio Birds and Biodiversity

A romp through the diverse flora and fauna of Ohio. From Timber Rattlesnakes to Prairie Warblers to Lakeside Daisies to Woodchucks, you’ll eventually see it here, if it isn’t already.

Jim McCormac

Annaliese and I met with him at the Panera on West Lane Avenue to ask for his insight on Ohio wildlife, the changes he's seen over the years, his connection to the Dark Sky initiative, and any advice he has for moving forward with this project.

Jim focused mostly on how vital moths are to our ecosystem, showing how integral they are to our food supply, the food chain, and medicine. By the end of our conversation, it felt like the entire world rested on the wings of moths. Jim explained how moths are underrepresented in conservation efforts.