Discovery

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!

In every kind of weather, our favorite thing is to head outdoors to our spectacular local habitats! Each nature exploration 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.  This week we go in search of migrating horseshoe crabs!

Join us as we share a children's nature story before we explore the woods, fields, and wetlands of the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary.  This month we'll focus on the birds of Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary.