Nature roundup: Mexico snubs genetically modified corn; bird trends tracked; faux bacon from algae and seaweed . . .

eBird uses data from the Cornell University ornithology lab to track bird populations.

Here are a few stories about flora and fauna, some of which may take a while to read but that we have judged worthy of your time:

The president of Mexico says the country won't buy more yellow corn from the U.S. because it's genetically modified, Reuters reports.

Bird populations are declining, but what's happening to specific birds in specific areas? A new tool called eBird tracks changes over the past 15 years.

The survival of feral cows in a hurricane on the Outer Banks teaches us some things about cattle.

Why pokeweed, so poisonous that it must be boiled three times to eat, became a staple in the South.

Algae and seaweed can be used to make lots of things, including faux bacon.

Potting soil rarely contains actual soil or compost but is a sterile blend of ingredients with a big carbon footprint. National Geographic reports on the problematic components, and how to find alternatives.