Birds & More: Ecology Walks with Jim Arrigoni

Jim Arrigoni, roight, leading a bird walk. Photo by Bob MacDonnell.

Join Jim Arrigoni, conservation biologist, in exploring the diverse habitats of Deer Pond Farm.  Walks will emphasize different themes such as forest birds and birdsong, wetlands wildlife, and plants.  We will move at a leisurely pace, stopping to observe and learn about various points of interest as they are encountered and collecting data for the Connecticut Bird Atlas Survey.
All walks free for members and  $5 for non-members.            

Wednesday, August 1 4 p.m. Wildflower Identification  To register, click here

Join us as we explore the botanical diversity of Deer Pond Farm on a gentle walk focusing on the identification and importance of native wildflowers. There will be a brief lesson on Lawrence Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide, which employs a simple-to-use system for quickly identifying the plants of the northeastern United States. You may wish to bring binoculars, a hand lens for smaller flowers, and a wildflower guidebook if you have one.

Saturday, August 11 9 a.m. Family Friendly Birding Basics Walk To register, click here

The world of birdwatching can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! This gentle introduction assumes nothing, except that you are curious to learn more about enjoying these wondrous creatures. We will cover use of binoculars and the variety of clues that help to identify different kinds of birds. Bring binoculars if you have them (if not, you can borrow a pair), and all the questions you have about birdwatching but were afraid to ask. All children must be accompanied by an actively participating adult. Special pricing : $10 non-member family up to 4 individuals.

Saturday, August 25 9 a.m. Family Friendly Ponds, Wetlands & Streams To register, click here

This walk will focus on the variety of freshwater habitats of Deer Pond Farm and the fascinating animals that depend on them. Water is essential for life, and even though it is all around us, it is like another world. Many strange animals are doing interesting things under the water’s surface, which we’ll observe with dry feet from the water’s edge. All children must be accompanied by an actively participating adult. Special pricing : $10 non-member family up to 4 individuals.

Dress for walks that cover approximately 1.5 miles along moderately hilly terrain and the weather. Inclement weather cancels. Bring binoculars, camera, bug spray, sunscreen and a sense of adventure.