2525 Ecology

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

In the shadow of lost centuries, the Earth begins to breathe again. Forests reclaim the ruins, rivers carve old paths anew, and forgotten species stir beneath the undergrowth. What once teetered on the edge of extinction now clings to life in the Gardens of 2525. This page explores the restored ecosystems surrounding Arc 1983—tracing the threads of flora and fauna, native and revived, that define the resilience of this new world.

Ecology here is not memory—it is essence.

A few of Our Species

Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius)

Once among the most abundant birds in North America, the Passenger Pigeon traveled in immense flocks that darkened the sky for hours. Native to eastern woodlands, it fed on acorns, beechnuts, and chestnuts. Despite its vast numbers, relentless commercial hunting and habitat destruction drove the species to extinction by the early 20th century. The last known individual, Martha, died in captivity in 1914.

Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus)

A forest-dwelling raptor known for its reddish shoulders, banded tail, and sharp, whistling cry. It hunts small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, often near wooded streams and wetlands. Common in the eastern United States, it relies on mature forests for nesting and hunting.

Appalachian Cottontail (Sylvilagus obscurus)

A shy, highland rabbit native to the Appalachian Mountains, distinguished by its small size, black-edged ears, and preference for dense, brushy habitat. It is rarely seen and often confused with the more common Eastern Cottontail. Due to habitat loss and competition, its populations are increasingly fragmented, making it a species of concern in parts of its range.

Eastern Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

A native perennial wildflower with purple petals and a spiny central cone, common in the southeastern United States. Traditionally used for medicinal purposes, especially as a remedy for toothaches, sore throats, and infections, with the root being the primary source.

Ivory-billed Woodpecker (Campephilus principalis)

A large, striking woodpecker once found in the old-growth forests of the southeastern United States. Recognized by its bold white wing patches and distinctive ivory-colored bill, it fed on beetle larvae beneath bark. Due to logging and habitat loss, it was last reliably sighted in the mid-20th century and is now widely considered extinct—though occasional unconfirmed sightings persist, keeping its legacy alive in legend and hope.

Stag-Moose (Cervalces scotti)

An extinct giant deer species that roamed the woodlands and wetlands of eastern North America during the Ice Age. Larger than today’s moose, it had massive, broad, palmated antlers and a more elk-like build. The stag-moose vanished over 10,000 years ago, likely due to climate change and human hunting.

Eastern Cougar (Puma concolor couguar)

Once native to the forests and mountains of the eastern United States, including the Appalachians, this elusive subspecies of mountain lion was declared extinct in 2011. Known for its stealth, tawny coat, and ghostlike presence, the Eastern Cougar symbolized wilderness and fearsome grace. Though officially gone, whispers of its return persist in legend and scattered sightings.

Yaupon holly (Llex vomitoria)

Native to the southeastern United States, Yaupon Holly leaves were historically brewed into a stimulating beverage by Indigenous peoples, particularly the Creek, Timucua, and other Southeastern tribes. In the Mvskoke language it was called vsse or asi.