Explore the Ipswich River at dusk. Bring your family and join us for an evening paddle in a canoe as we learn more about the river and some of its inhabitants. Have you ever seen a muskrat swimming or a beaver slapping its tail in alarm? Join us as we look for these elusive mammals and discover some of the clues they leave behind as we make our way along the Ipswich River.
Where might deer and foxes, squirrels and chipmunks, rabbits and mice, and other mammals live at the sanctuary? We will take a hike to visit some of the places where we might find signs of them. On our return, we will create mammal masks from natural objects to take home.
Join us for an evening park adventure for families. Fireflies delight us with their nighttime dance and spectacular light show! Learn about the life of a firefly, and take a walk led by the park interpreter. The walk is moderately paced for 3/4 mile. There is a gentle uphill slope which may pose difficulty for those with limited mobility.
Explore the Ipswich River on the Summer Soltice! The longest day of the year is almost upon us, and what a fun way to start the summer! Join us for a paddle to observe nature from the river as we look for plants and animals that are equally excited for summer. This special paddle ends with s'mores around the fire and a solstice tale.
Local Native American tribes call the June full moon the Strawberry Moon because it heralds the time of year to pick wild strawberries. Spend an evening walking in the warm air, listen to the dusk bird songs turn to choruses of spring peepers, and try to catch a glimpse of our resident wildlife as spring ripens into summer. We'll enjoy some strawberries and chocolate as a sweet treat to end the night.
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a Springtime Stargazing Party! Hidden amongst the brighter stars of the night sky are the celestial jewels that one can only see with the assistance of a telescope and, to some extent, a good pair of binoculars. These are the deep-sky objects, which include variable stars, binary stars, star clusters, gaseous nebulae, galaxies, and more. In the indoor portion of this evening's program, we will review some of the many deep-sky objects of the spring constellations. Afterward, weather permitting, we'll step outside to view a small sampling of them using a large reflector telescope.
The summer solstice, or longest day of the year, is also known as the most active day of the year for fairies. On this enchanted fairy holiday, it is traditional in some cultures to leave gifts or offerings for the fairies. Join us as we venture into the forest to create fairy houses. We will celebrate their completion with a solstice story and s'mores.
Fields are homes and resting places for many insects, birds, and animals in the summer. Become a scientist and explore a forest and field for yourself. Using sweep nets and other scientific tools, we will look at insects and plants up-close, and watch for signs of other animals of our sanctuary.
Enjoy the view from Moon Hill as you learn about the moon cycle and its importance to people over the centuries. The easy walk will be enjoyed by beginners and experienced hikers alike. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Wear sturdy closed toe shoes and insect repellent. Bring water, flashlights and if you have them, binoculars. Inclement weather cancels the program. Appropriate for ages 5 and up. Meet at the Parking Lot Bulletin Board, 40 Asbury Street.
Join us for a night of camping under the stars with your family. Have an early dinner at home, and then come with your family and your tent. We will explore nature through games and hands-on activities, set up our tents near the Barn before sundown, and tell stories after the sun sets. All campouts include an evening and a morning activity or hike and a light breakfast.
