Hike

What is it like to live in the woods for years? Well, from 1884 to 1917, Mason A. Walton did just that - at Ravenswood. Join us as we closely observe wildlife signs and determine animal behavior - just like he did. We will walk his footsteps to the site of his cabin and share tales from his book [amazon 0548989842 inline]. Following the program, join us for a hot dog cookout!

We will construct a simple sailboat from bark and leaves, and then we will hike to the river to sail our tiny schooners. Using strainers and buckets, we will dip for organisms from the river's edge, look for evidence of beavers, and scan for birds from the observation tower.

The return of summer means warmth, sun, and the return of jewel-like damselflies and dragonflies. Can you tell the difference between the two? These insects have an amazing life history and eat our least favorite flying insects, mosquitoes! We will spend the afternoon in the sanctuary's fields and wetlands catching dragonflies and observing them in their aquatic naiad stage. And by the end of the afternoon, you will know the difference between a dragon and a damsel and may even have the opportunity to hold one in your hand!

We'll hike to Rockery Pond and learn about the building of its famous rock grotto. While we're enjoying flowering shrubs in the beautiful woodland garden, we might get a glimpse of the pond's newest architect, the beaver!