General General 4 min read

Embracing our multilingual nation

Do you know what is the second most spoken language in the United States?

Image: Houcine Ncib

In the United States, the number of people who speak a language other than English at home has nearly tripled over the last three decades, increasing from 23.1 million to 67.8 million. According to the 2019 American Community Survey by the Census Bureau, more than 350 languages are spoken across the country , making it one of the world's most linguistically diverse nations. In this article, we’ll explore the 12 most spoken languages in the United States. Can you guess how the rankings go?

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12. Portuguese

Image: Etienne Girardet

Today, there are over 845,000 Portuguese speakers in the United States, making it the 12th most spoken language after English.

The Portuguese-speaking community is composed of immigrants from both Portugal and Brazil. Since the 1960s, many Portuguese immigrants have settled along the coast of Massachusetts, where they could continue their traditional fishing activities. Besides Massachusetts, Portuguese is most commonly spoken in Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Utah.

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11. Hindi

Image: Rohan Solankurkar

Hindi is the most widely spoken Indian language in the United States, with more than 890,000 people speaking it . Hindi belongs to the Indo-European language family and has been included on the U.S. State Department's list of critical languages due to strategic commercial interests in South Asia.

Hindi-speaking Indians began immigrating to North America in the early 19th century. The community has primarily settled in large cities such as New York City, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

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10. Russian

Image: Tessakay

There are currently almost 950,000 Russian speakers in the United States. Did you know that Russian is one of the two official languages aboard the International Space Station? NASA astronauts typically take Russian language courses to communicate with their Russian counterparts.

Another well-known Russian-speaking community is in New York's Brighton Beach neighborhood, often referred to as "Little Odessa." Cultural events, festivals, and markets featuring traditional Russian foods, music, and crafts are common sights here. Los Angeles is another city where Russian is regularly used.

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9. Korean

Image: 昆 阿

Over the past few decades, the number of Korean speakers in the United States has grown significantly, with nearly 1,100,000 people now speaking Korean .

Los Angeles is home to the largest Koreatown in the country, and many residents in other major cities speak Korean at home, helping to maintain and promote the heritage of this Asian culture in the United States.

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8. Arabic

Image: Rawan Yasser

With more than 1.2 million speakers, Arabic is the eighth most spoken language in our country.

Arabic is spoken in immigrant communities from countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. These communities are most prominent in states like California, New York, and Michigan, where Arabic is commonly heard in homes and community centers.

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7. German

Image: FotosFuerBlogger

German is widely spoken in states with high populations of German ancestry, such as Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Texas. When including Yiddish, Pennsylvania Dutch, and other West Germanic languages, there are over 1,450,000 German speakers in the United States.

Cities like Fredericksburg and New Braunfels, Texas, were founded by German immigrants and continue to celebrate their heritage with festivals such as Oktoberfest. In Pennsylvania, a large number of Pennsylvania Dutch speakers—predominantly among the Amish and Mennonite communities—speak this German dialect, which is not, as one might expect, Dutch.

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6. Vietnamese

Image: Huynh Van

The number of Vietnamese speakers in the United States is similar to that of the previous language on this list, with more than 1.5 million people speaking the language of this Southeast Asian country.

In recent decades, the number of Vietnamese immigrants has been increasing exponentially. Most have settled in California, followed by Texas, Florida, Washington, and Georgia.

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5. Tagalog

Image: Emmanuel Nicolas Jr.

Despite being the fifth most spoken language in the United States, Tagalog is often overlooked. For those who have never heard of it, Tagalog is one of the official languages of the Philippines.

A significant number of Filipino immigrants have settled in the United States since the early 19th century. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are currently more than 1.7 million Tagalog speakers . Thirty-eight percent of Filipinos in the United States live in California, with relatively large concentrations also in Hawaii and Texas.

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4. French

Image: Erik Mclean

If we include Patois, Cajun, Haitian, and Louisiana Creole—a hybrid of French and various African languages—French is the fourth most widely spoken language in the United States.

The French influence, which dates back to the 17th century, is evident in a wide variety of American English words and phrases. Today, there are nearly 2.1 million French speakers in the country.

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3. Chinese

Image: 五玄土 ORIENTO

The Chinese language, including its different variants such as Mandarin, Cantonese, and Hokkien, contributes significantly to the cultural diversity of the United States. Although the gap between the second and third most spoken languages in the country is considerable, the number of people who speak Chinese is still representative.

With approximately 3.5 million Chinese speakers across the country, the greatest influence of this culture can be found in states with the highest concentrations of Chinese immigrants, such as New York and California.

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2. Spanish

Image: Leeloo The First

Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States and one of the fastest-growing languages in the country. This is no surprise, as approximately 19% of the total population is of Hispanic origin.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 40 million people speak Spanish in addition to English in the United States. Hispanic communities are found throughout the nation, with the largest concentrations in California, Texas, Florida, and New York.

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1. English

Image: Wilhelm Gunkel

Although it is not surprising that English is the most widely spoken language in the United States, it is still not recognized as an official language. However, more than half of the 50 states have passed laws granting it official language status.

English speakers make up a large percentage of the U.S. population, with approximately 78 percent speaking only English . American English is also incredibly rich, composed of dozens of regional dialects with distinct grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

General General 5 min read

Native marvels

What 600-pound animal climbs trees? 10 amazing American animals

Image: Bryan Hanson

America is home to a rich tapestry of unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. These species thrive in diverse ecosystems, from mountains to oceans, and form an integral part of our natural heritage. Some have even become national icons, symbolizing the spirit of our country. From the majestic bald eagle to the resilient black bear, discover 10 animals that embody the wild essence of our nation.

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American Bison

Image: Chloe Leis

The American bison once roamed the Great Plains in vast herds, a true icon of the American West. These massive mammals can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and stand 6 feet tall at the shoulder. Due to overhunting and habitat loss in the 1800s, their numbers dwindled dangerously low, with the species being driven to the brink of extinction.

Fortunately, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, bison populations have rebounded miraculously and now roam freely through many of the United States' national parks, particularly in Yellowstone, where they have lived continuously since prehistoric times.

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California Condor

Image: Kacie Long

The California condor is North America's largest flying land bird, boasting an impressive wingspan of nearly 10 feet. In the 20th century, populations dramatically declined due to various threats, including DDT and lead poisoning, poaching, and habitat loss. By 1987, only 27 individuals remained, with the species facing near-extinction.

Rigorous conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs, have increased the condor's numbers, and many individuals have been reintroduced to their natural habitats near the Grand Canyon area, Zion National Park, and the coastal mountains of California.

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American Alligator

Image: David Clode

The American alligator, a formidable reptile, is native to the southeastern United States. As apex predators, they consume a wide range of prey, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. These powerful creatures can grow up to 15 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds.

Once hunted nearly to extinction for their hides, American alligators have made a remarkable comeback thanks to strict protection laws. Today, they thrive in swamps, marshes, and rivers, where they play a crucial role as ecosystem engineers. By constructing small ponds known as alligator holes, they create both wet and dry habitats that support a variety of other organisms.

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Bald Eagle

Image: Ingo Doerrie

The bald eagle is not only America's national bird but also a powerful symbol of freedom all over the world. An opportunistic feeder that primarily subsists on fish, it is classified as a type of sea eagle, closely related to the European white-tailed eagle. Found throughout North America, this majestic bird has a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet and uses its sharp talons to snatch prey from the water.

Despite its name, the bald eagle is not actually bald. The name comes from an older use of the word "bald," which used to mean "white-headed." This bird of prey is also known for building the largest nest of any North American bird—a structure that can be up to 13 feet deep, 8 feet wide, and weigh almost 1 metric ton on average.

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Gila Monster

Image: David Clode

The Gila monster, native to the southwestern United States, is one of the few venomous lizards in the world. These brightly colored reptiles are slow-moving and rarely attack humans, but they can deliver a powerful bite if threatened or mishandled. Gila monsters are a unique part of America's desert fauna, often inhabiting burrows or sheltering under rocks where conditions are favorable.

The name "Gila monster" refers to the Gila River Basin in Arizona and New Mexico, where these lizards were once abundant. Because the species has remained relatively unchanged morphologically since at least the Miocene, they are occasionally regarded as living fossils.

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Red Wolf

Image: Patrick Fobian

A canid native to the southeastern United States with a size that falls between a gray wolf and a coyote, the red wolf is often classified either as a subspecies of the gray wolf or as a type of coywolf (a genetic hybrid of wolf and coyote). Despite their size, red wolves play a crucial role in their ecosystem as apex predators.

While their original range covered the southeastern United States to as far north as the state of New York, the species is currently critically endangered, with fewer than 20 individuals remaining in the wild. Efforts to save the species include captive breeding and reintroduction programs aimed at restoring their presence in the wild.

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Florida Panther

Image: Maheera Kulsoom

The Florida panther, a subspecies of the cougar, roams the forests and swamps of southern Florida. Its modern range includes national parks and natural reserves such as the Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park. With only around 200 individuals left in the wild, these solitary and elusive cats are considered endangered and currently occupy only 5% of their historic range.

Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and reducing vehicle collisions, the leading cause of death for these big cats. Since 1982, this majestic feline has been officially recognized as Florida’s state animal.

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Hawaiian Monk Seal

Image: Sebastian Coman Travel

Found only in the Hawaiian Islands, the Hawaiian monk seal is one of the only two mammals endemic to the islands, alongside the Hawaiian hoary bat. Its common name comes from the short hairs on its head, resembling a monk's tonsure, but native Hawaiians know it as ʻIlio-holo-i-ka-uaua, which translates to "dog that runs in rough water."

Considered one of the most endangered marine mammals in the world, with a population of about 1,400 individuals, these seals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act.

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Pronghorn

Image: Patrick Hendry

The pronghorn, native to North America's grasslands, is the second fastest land animal in the world, capable of reaching speeds up to 55 mph. Often mistaken for antelopes, pronghorns are actually unique to the American continent and are not related to Old World antelope species.

In fact, the pronghorn's closest living relatives are the giraffe and okapi. Remarkably, their incredible speed evolved as a defense mechanism against now-extinct predators, such as Miracinonyx , commonly known as the American cheetah.

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Black Bear

Image: Robert Thiemann

The black bear, the most widely distributed bear species in North America, is found in forested areas from Canada to Mexico. These adaptable omnivores can weigh up to 600 pounds and are skilled climbers and swimmers.

Not related to grizzly or polar bears, black bears share more genetic similarities with the Asian black bear than with any other species. And before the migration of brown bears to the continent, American black bears were likely the only bear species present in much of North America. Despite their size and strength, black bears are generally shy and tend to avoid human contact whenever possible.

General General 5 min read

Survival foraging in America

These 10 plants could save you from starvation

Image: Alisa Golovinska

Ever felt those hunger pangs while hiking through the countryside and wondered if you could forage to fuel up in an emergency? You absolutely can—if you know where to look. America is blessed with a variety of wild edible plants that could help you out in a pinch—and maybe even add a fresh twist to your next salad. From versatile cattails to delicious blackberries, nature’s pantry offers a surprising amount of nutrition to those who know what to seek. But remember, not every plant is safe, so don’t just sample everything you see. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 10 common wild edible plants in the U.S. to help you forage smartly!

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Cattails

Image: Vlad Tchompalov

If you’ve ever seen a cattail and thought it looked kind of yummy, you were on the right track! Cattails grow abundantly in marshy areas across the U.S., and nearly every part of this plant is edible. Often called the "supermarket of the swamp," cattails are incredibly rich in carbohydrates and are a highly versatile food source. These plants not only provide nutrition but also materials for shelter and fire-starting, making them a top resource for wilderness survival in America.

The roots, once cleaned and cooked, have a potato-like quality and can also be dried and ground into flour. Impressively, they even outperform potatoes in starch yield per acre. Young shoots are edible as well, offering a fresh bite when raw or a tender taste when boiled, much like asparagus.

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Dandelions

Image: Keegan Houser

Often dismissed as a pesky weed, dandelions are actually among the most nutritious plants you can find in the wild. In fact, dandelions are considered even more nutritious than broccoli or cabbage! Every part of the dandelion is edible, from the leaves to the roots. With a taste and texture similar to chicory, the leaves are packed with vitamins A and C and be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach.

The bright yellow flowers can also be used to make tea, while the roots can be roasted as a coffee substitute. Dandelion tea is loaded with powerful antioxidants, including beta-carotene and polyphenols, and studies suggest it may benefit heart health.

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Wild Asparagus

Image: Gil Ndjouwou

Who knew you could harvest your own asparagus in the wild? Wild asparagus grows across much of the U.S., particularly in moist, sunny areas. While it looks similar to its cultivated cousin, wild asparagus tends to be thinner and tougher. When foraging, look for young shoots, which are more tender and can be eaten raw or cooked.

Like its commercial counterpart, wild asparagus is high in fiber and vitamins, offering a nutritious snack or even a potential side dish in a survival situation.

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Acorns

Image: Annie Spratt

You’re likely already familiar with acorns, the nuts of oak trees. Found abundantly across the U.S., particularly in forests and woodlands, these wild nuts are indeed edible after some processing. Acorns contain bitter tannins, which can be toxic and need to be removed by repeated boiling or soaking in water.

Once safe to eat, acorns can be either roasted or ground into flour. Though they don’t taste like much, they’re packed with carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Historically, acorns were a staple food for Native Americans and ancient cultures worldwide, proving their value as a survival resource.

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Cactus (Prickly Pear)

Image: George Pagan III

In the arid landscapes of the American Southwest, prickly pear cacti offer both nourishment and hydration. The pads (nopales) and the fruit (tunas) are not only edible but are also staples in Mexican cuisine.

The cactus fruit, known as a prickly pear, is super sweet and can be eaten raw right off the plant. Depending on ripeness, the flavor ranges from mildly sweet to syrupy. Packed with vitamin C and water, prickly pear cacti can be a true lifesaver if you find yourself stranded in the desert.

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Wild Onions

Image: Zoe Schaeffer

Wild onions grow widely across the U.S., thriving in fields, forests, and even backyards. Their bulbs, stems, and leaves are all edible and can be used just like store-bought onions to add flavor and nutrition to any meal. But foragers, beware—there’s an important distinction to keep in mind!

A highly toxic lookalike called death camas can be easily mistaken for wild onions, and as its name kindly suggests, it can have potentially lethal effects if consumed. The easiest way to tell them apart? Wild onions have a strong onion scent, while death camas has no odor. When in doubt, always trust your nose. That being said, unless you are 100% confident in your ability to identify wild onions, it’s wise to consult an expert or avoid foraging them altogether.

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Pine Nuts

Image: Leila Issa

Pine trees are scattered across America, and their seeds—pine nuts—are a nutritional powerhouse. These small seeds, found inside pine cones, are rich in fats and proteins, making them a concentrated source of energy. In fact, pine nuts have sustained Native American tribes for centuries.

While they are labor-intensive to harvest, the effort is worthwhile. Packed with calories and bursting with flavor, they are an abundant and reliable food source. But it doesn't end there—surprisingly, most parts of a pine tree can be consumed, including the bark, needles, cones, and resin, either as food or for medicinal purposes.

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Chicory

Image: Christopher Luther

Chicory is often found along roadsides and in open fields throughout the U.S. The plant is recognizable by its bright blue flowers, and while its leaves can be eaten like lettuce, its roots are also useful—they can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute.

During the American Civil War, soldiers used chicory to stretch their coffee supplies, and even today some beer brewers occasionally use roasted chicory to add a bitter flavor to stout varieties.

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Blackberries

Image: Eric Prouzet

Who hasn't enjoyed picking a few blackberries during a walk? Blackberry bushes thrive across the country, especially in sunny, open areas. These delicious berries are loaded with vitamins C and K, along with fiber, making them an excellent survival food when in season. Additionally, their leaves can be brewed into a soothing tea.

Wild raspberries and strawberries are similarly plentiful in the American backcountry. Their unmistakable appearance and sweet flavor make them a great choice for novice or inexperienced foragers to safely enjoy nature’s pantry.

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Clover

Image: Kelly Sikkema

Who knew that stumbling upon a clover patch could bring more than just good luck? Clover grows abundantly across the U.S., from lawns to meadows, and both its leaves and flowers are edible. The flowers are often dried to make tea, while the leaves can be tossed directly into salads or soups an added nutritional boost.

Rich in protein and minerals, clover has historically served as fodder for livestock, but it can also provide essential nutrition for humans, especially in a survival situation! Its versatility certainly makes it a valuable addition to any forager's repertoire.

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