Monarch butterflies are feeding along their migration routes. Plants are still flowering and dispersing seeds, insects and spiders are laying eggs, and the forest is abuzz with activity. Using sweep nets and hand lenses, we will investigate field and forest, determine air temperature by counting the chirps of a cricket, explore life under a log, and much more.
Join watercolorist Brenda Sloane at IRWS for this program that combines nature and art. In this class, we will learn all about wetlands, their importance, and what can be found there. Then we will walk to the sanctuary wetlands and discover what can be found living in them, such as dragonfly larvae, backswimmers, frogs, and birds.
Celebrate the arrival of spring on May Day at IRWS! We'll explore wetlands, fields, and woods and look for signs of the changing seasons. After the walk, the group will return to the Nature Center to make May baskets.
Join watercolorist Brenda Sloane in a monthly program that combines nature and art. We will start with a walk on the sanctuary to observe the topic of the month. We will then return to the Nature Center to create a follow-up work of art.
During the cool, crisp, early-evening hours of autumn, many interesting creatures set out into the dark woodlands. Deer, owls, and flying squirrels are just a few of the animals we hope to encounter on our hike. Enjoy a walk that will spark your senses as we venture into the night in search of these and other nighttime forest dwellers.
Joppa Flats Education Center has added this event by popular demand! Come to Joppa Flats Education Center and begin with a 45 minute indoor introductory program in the Lookout (2nd floor) about Pinnipeds (seals, sea lions, and walrus). Then, we’ll carpool to an on-the-beach viewing area where we can see the harbor seals hauled out on the rocks at low tide at the mouth of the Merrimack River.
Forces of nature formed Ravenswood’s landscape. Thousands of years ago ice chunks from melting glaciers created kettle ponds, bogs, and swamps. As a matter of fact, most of New England was buried under an enormous ice sheet that was more than a mile thick!
Winter is the perfect time of year to go out in search of owls. We'll learn about these fascinating birds through a story and hands-on activities before we head out for our adventure. We'll warm up by the woodstove with a cup of hot chocolate and cookies after our hike.
Adults and children can spend quality family time in the great outdoors finding, observing, and admiring local wildlife. Each program begins at Joppa Flats Education Center with a brief introduction to our theme via slide shows, group activities, or an in-class demonstration.
In every kind of weather, our favorite thing is to head outdoors to our spectacular local habitats! Join Joppa Flats Education Center on a nature exploration that will focus on the importance of a sense of place as we explore the ecology, sights, and sounds of our natural landscape. Wildlife, local and migrating birds, collecting techniques, and environmental awareness will be presented in a fun, energetic format that adults and children alike will enjoy.
