Enjoy a guided hike along on the Ipswich section of the Bay Circuit Trail, guided by Ipswich Bay Circuit Trail Committee members. Passing behind Marini Farms, the hike will pass through protected forest and wetland areas.
Join the park interpreter & DCR Bat Research Monitor Amanda Melinchuk for this two part program, starting with a Power Point presentation concerning the threat to bats, how they benefit the eco system & much more! Then take a short walk in the field to see & hear bat activity and at the site of Maudslay’s newly in stalled bat box.
Ever wanted to try your hand at surfcasting from the Plum Island beach? Come join two local experts as they discuss the basics you’ll need to get started (or improve!). Topics will include what gear you will need, what to use for bait and lures, how to find a spot that may hold fish, and the best tides and times to go.
Morning is a busy time for the birds so bring a beverage or breakfast snack, your binoculars and sit at a picnic table to watch their morning activity in the field. The park interpreter will explain birding behavior and other basics, then take you on a short walk to see them nesting.
Eco-art programs programs combine nature exploration and a craft project. Construct simple sailboats out of bark and leaves, then hike to the river and launch them from the canoe landing. What might a tiny sailor onboard see in the water? Using strainers and tubs, we will dip into the water to see what organisms we can find.
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.
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.
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.
