Nature during this crushing year has provided much-needed solace. During the crisp nights of winter here in Maine, we are fortunate to see, as Carl Sagan would say, “BILLIONS and billions of stars….” twinkling in the inky darkness. On seeing them, our minds turn to times on Hog Island and the laughter, the learning, the people, the mosses, the freedom from modern burdens, nature, and each other ­— all stars. Hog Island is our “mote of dust, suspended in a sunbeam” like Sagan’s pale blue dot — giving us that dose of connection we need.

For the holidays, consider giving a gift and learn all about puffins and other seabirds with a 15- lecture online series from Hog Island, a Puffin Island Expanded series. Watch at your own pace.