Naturalist Quarterly Spring 2021 - Our Favorite Things about Spring
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audubon naturalist society
Naturalist Quarterly
Spring 2021
anshome.org
ANSHOME.ORG
Our Favorite Things about Spring
ANS NATURE ACTI V ITIES & NE W S
The Audubon Naturalist Society
inspires residents of the greater
Washington, DC region to
OFFICERS
PRESIDENT Nancy Pielemeier (‘22)
VICE PRESIDENT Beth Ziebarth (‘23)
Naturalist Quarterly
appreciate, understand, and protect TREASURER Alice Ewen (‘21) ANShome.org Spring 2021
their natural environment through SECRETARY Becky Turner (‘21)
outdoor experiences, education,
and advocacy.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS From the Director 3
Susan Blaha (‘21), James Burris (‘22),
HEADQUARTERS Rebecca Lemos-Otero (‘23), Chanceé Lundy
Woodend, a 40-acre wildlife (‘23), Hughey Newsome (‘22), Abel Olivo
Spring Fever 4
sanctuary in Chevy Chase, MD (‘22), Carolyn Peirce (‘22), Shanita Rasheed
(‘23), Alan Spears (‘23), Rob Timmons (‘23), A Multilayed Explosion of Life 6
OFFICE HOURS
Nancy Voit (‘21), Larry Wiseman (‘22), Diane
Monday-Friday 9 AM-5 PM
Wood (‘22), Willie Woode (‘23) Taking Nature Black 7
STORE HOURS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Monday-Friday 10 AM-5 PM
Saturday 9 AM-5 PM
Lisa Alexander Conservation 8
Sunday 12-5 PM DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Alison Pearce Camp Audubon 10
GROUNDS HOURS
Dawn to dusk CONSERVATION
Eliza Cava, Director of Conservation; Gregg Children and Nature Photos 12
ANS MEMBERSHIP
Trilling, Conservation Outreach Manager;
Student $15
Individual $50
Ari Eisenstadt, DC Conservation Advocate; Adult Nature Programs 14
Denisse Guitarra, MD Conservation
Family $65
Advocate; Renee Grebe, VA Conservation
Nature Steward $100
Advocate
Naturalist Hour 18
Audubon Advocate $200
Sanctuary Guardian $500 DEVELOPMENT
Natural History Field Studies 20
Naturalists Council $1,000 Jacky Wershbale, Director of Development;
Preservationist $1,000+ Debra Prybyla & Lin Orrin, Grant Writers;
Loree Trilling, Database Coordinator; Kristin Adults and Nature Photos 22
NATURALIST QUARTERLY is
Cook, Database & Email Assistant
published four times a year by the
Audubon Naturalist Society, 8940 ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION Partner Profile 24
Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, Stephanie Mason, Senior Naturalist; Diane
MD 20815. Photos, art work, and Lill, GreenKids Director; Stephanie Bozzo, Stream Science 25
articles may not be reprinted Preschool Director; Shannon Earle, Chelsea
without permission from the editor. Hawk, Amelia McLaughlin, Julie Walkup, Feature Photos 26 & 30
Opinions offered do not necessarily Preschool Teachers; Serenella Linares, Director
reflect official ANS policy. of Adult Education; Denis Perez, Camp
Advertised products or services do Manager How a Virginia Creek and its Wildlife Inspired
not carry the endorsement of ANS.
FINANCE Earth Day Heroes 28
ISSN 0888-6555 Lois Taylor, Comptroller; Sherrice Ajebon,
Assistant Comptroller Volunteer Corner 29
MANAGING EDITOR MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Caroline Brewer Caroline Brewer, Director of Marketing Meet the Plants at Woodend in Winter 29
and Communications; Vince Robinson,
SENIOR EDITOR
Pam Oves
Webmaster and Social Media Manager; Ben Bloomin’ Birdathon 32
Israel, Videographer/Photographer
© 2021 Audubon Naturalist Society NATURALIST SHOP Remembrances 33
Matt Mathias, Manager; Rebecca Henson,
CONTACT INFORMATION Naturalist Shop Specialist
ANS Headquarters/Woodend Restoration 34
Sanctuary OFFICE MANAGEMENT
Pam Oves, Office Manager; Carol Hayes,
301-652-9188 Tributes 38
ANShome.org Administrative Assistant
contact@anshome.org
Audubon Naturalist Shop
OPERATIONS Registration Info 39
Amy Ritsko-Warren, Director of Operations
301-652-3606
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Environmental Education x16 Bjorn Busk, Property Manager; Ami
Membership x35 Smerling, Assistant Property Manager
Publications, advertising x23
Rentals x38 RENTALS
Volunteers x20 Beatriz Engel, Rentals Manager
Contributions x31 VOLUNTEERS
Mitch Greene; Volunteer Coordinator
COVER Editor's note - The Naturalist Quarterly is proud to be the first
publication to showcase photos from Wildlife Photographer David
WOODEND RESTORATION
Jenny Brown, Garden Outreach Associate; Greaves, who is also the first photographer to exhibit at the Taking
Bradley Simpson, Restoration Manager; Nature Black Conference. Enjoy his presentation Saturday, February 27.
Christina Rogelio, Chesapeake Conservation
Learn more at www.anshome.org/taking-nature-black
Corp Member
This Bald Eagle's (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) photo was taken at the Elk
Neck State Park in Northeast Maryland. A fun fact about the Bald Eagle
is that they build the largest nests of any North American birds. Some
Bald Eagle nests can weigh as much as 2000 pounds!
From the Director out Senior Naturalist Stephanie Mason’s Spring Fever feature on page
4, followed by new Adult Program Director Serenella Linares’ take on
A Slow Rise her favorite things about spring, Jenny Brown’s Woodend Plant notes
It’s hard to believe that we have on page 29, fascinating Conservation Cafés on page 9 and sign up
now spent an entire year fighting to be a bird counter or supporter for this spring’s annual and always
the pandemic and so much more. enjoyable Bloomin’ Birdathon (page 32). As Amanda Gorman’s poem
Over the past twelve months, all so eloquently said at the Presidential Inauguration:
of us have been called to action We will rise from the gold-limbed hills of the west,
to keep our communities healthy, we will rise from the windswept northeast
defend Black lives, demand social and where our forefathers first realized revolution
environmental justice, restore good We will rise from the lake-rimmed cities of the midwestern states,
government and preserve democracy we will rise from the sunbaked south
in our nation. You, our wonderful We will rebuild, reconcile and recover
members and supporters, have been the lifeblood that has kept ANS and every known nook of our nation and
going strong as we reinvent the ways we work, teach and learn in these every corner called our country,
challenging times. our people diverse and beautiful will emerge.
ANS’s first All Staff Meeting of the new year happened just one Here’s to vaccines, time spent in nature and a slow rise to a bright
day after the insurrection at the Capitol. I wondered what I could say future ahead.
to our talented, hardworking staff to bolster their spirits in the face
of harrowing events taking place just a few short miles from ANS
headquarters. Ultimately, I told the staff, “I think 2021 will be like a
good loaf of bread. It will take a long, slow rise, but things will turn out
all right.” And I firmly believe that conditions will improve for people
and the nature under the new administration.
We’re seeing that slow rise happening now, with the U.S. rejoining
the Paris Climate Accord and reinstating environmental protections
LETTERS
through Executive Orders. We’re celebrating landmark appointments
including Representative Deb Haaland to head the Interior Department
Children’s Programs Valuable during Covid 3
as the first Native American cabinet secretary and Michael Regan as the I am truly grateful that you and your team are persisting through this
first Black man to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. difficult time while trying to adapt to COVID times. I’m an educator
We’re looking forward to federal agency and legislative priorities myself (at the college level) and I know how hard it can be to try to
that safeguard wildlife, restore clean water and clean air protections, design for uncertain times. You provide such a valuable service to the
focus on sustainable energy and bring back the full power of the community. Don’t stop. Excited to bring our child to your door step.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act while adding additional strength through a Clare F.
new Migratory Bird Protection Act. If Rachel Carson enjoys a celestial
perch, I imagine her smiling down at these positive changes on the
federal stage. ANS Makes a Lasting Impact on Member
And our impact here at the regional and local level continues
The ANS course that changed the way I perceive the world around us was
unmatched. I know you’ll enjoy reading about all the positive energy
Summer Bird Life over 20 years ago. My husband and I took that course
generated by our 4th Taking Nature Black Conference (see page 7).
and we learned a lot of bird physical IDs but more importantly we learned
Our advocates are inspiring Virginia members and supporters to take
about birding by ear. So to this day, it has helped us ID birds by sound
action for the environment in local government (see page 28). We’re
whatever we are doing, whether biking on the C&O, hiking or kayaking in
championing tougher Montgomery County Forest Conservation Laws
the DC area and many other outdoor activities. It’s like a 6th sense. So just
and a stronger Clean Water Act stormwater permit for Maryland,
writing to say in these tough times that I really appreciate the ANS!
while fighting against the ill-conceived widening of I 495/I 270. In DC,
we’re watchdogging Washington Gas to ensure that it completes a full Josephine C.
transition from fossil fuel to renewable energy and gets rid of explosive,
dangerous gas pipes in our homes. And our educators are ensuring that
all children in our region stay connected to nature, even when Zoom Nature Walk a Breath of Fresh Air
school rules the day. Thanks so much for leading our walk at Carderock yesterday, The
So, as we settle into the work of 2021, let’s focus on being part weather, the fresh air, the animals and plants (and lichens!), and the
of the slow rise to better days. Thank you for all the ways you company of fellow nature-lovers made the walk simply exhilarating.
have supported our mission work – by believing in the power of When I got home yesterday, I felt about ten years younger.
science, participating in programs, giving generously, renewing your
Carol Anne H.
membership, taking advocacy actions, volunteering and just checking in
to see how staff are holding up.
And because we all need to take time to rest and recharge, this issue
of the Naturalist Quarterly issue is chock full of opportunities to enjoy
the restorative wonders of nature and spring in Washington. Check
FEATURE
Our Favorite Things about Spring: Spring Fever
by Stephanie Mason, Senior Naturalist
Asked to pen a piece on my favorite
“spring things,” my first thought was
“How can you ask a naturalist to choose
between the wonderous sights and sounds
of this season?”
Pondering this, I realized that my favorite
thing about spring is the anticipation of its
arrival. I love how it builds from a few subtle
signs in January to the accelerating pace
of seasonal changes in March to the great
explosion of new life and growth in April
and May. During pandemic uncertainty and
isolation, intensified by political discord and
violence, I’m finding comfort and energy
from nature’s familiar rhythms and cycles.
As Rachel Carson writes in Silent Spring
Virginia Bluebells by Stephanie Mason
“There is something infinitely healing in the
repeated refrains of nature—the assurance
that dawn comes after night, and spring
after winter.”
Once a new year begins and hours of
4 daylight wax, it takes only a few warm days
to stir up the scent of wet soil before I
catch a case of spring fever. You, too? Signs
that the seasonal wheel of life is turning
are observable as soon as the calendar
is flipped. Louis J. Halle notes these “first
In January, Bald Eagles restore pair bonds February arrives as coo-ing Mourning
sparks of spring” in his beloved Spring in
and add sticks to their perennial nests. Doves are nesting. More resident birds
Washington. In January 1945 against the
Before the month ends, Great Horned Owls are tuning up, including White-breasted
backdrop of World War II, this bird-loving
are sitting on eggs. Tufted Titmice, Song Nuthatches. Halle writes on February 9:
State Department employee sets out by
Sparrows, and scarlet Cardinals start singing “the nuthatches were laughing vociferously,
bike and on foot to monitor the progress of
in my Takoma Park yard. This confirms this being their own version of a spring
spring and ponder the state of humanity.
Halle’s observation that “before the end song, and throughout the midday a
My own well-thumbed copy, bound by a
of January, while the scenery remains mockingbird sat in a holly tree outside the
rubber band, rides in my backpack from
desolate and the sun leaves no warmth, Department of the Interior and improvised.”
January through May so I can share Halle’s
the first sparks (of spring) are already being Female Gray Squirrels nurse their first
lovely, sometimes provocative, prose
enkindled in the breasts of songbirds.” On litter of the year. As the month unwinds,
during field trips.
lakes and rivers, overwintering Hooded leaf buds of Silver Maples and Red Maples
Merganser drakes wave swell, giving a reddish hue to the landscape
their showy crests as they where they grow. Before the month is out,
court the hens. Resident our region’s largest freezable frogs hop
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
Mallards start to pair to shallow pools created by snowmelt or
up, using head-bobbing rain. Wood Frogs, having sheltered away
and whistles to secure a from water—their bodies nearly 60 percent
mate. The odd flowers of frozen, hold noisy breeding parties even
Skunk Cabbage bloom, with snow on the ground.
often nosing their way Despite winter’s dalliance, it is March when
up through a crust of ice the drama of spring awakening gets noisier
in boggy habitats. A Red and more colorful around here. As Halle
Fox in its thick prime coat observes on March 1: “Every morning now
struts through Woodend’s is a fresh wonder.” At our latitude, the hours
meadow as its breeding of daylight increase by 2.5 minutes each day.
season begins.
Spring Peeper
Lengthening daylight is a key catalyst for numbers during April. Blue-gray Whether you’re a nature newbie, an
FEATURE
hormonal changes in animals and is “read” Gnatcatchers and Northern Parula warblers exercise walker, a passionate naturalist,
by woody plants as well. Astronomical arrive early. They are followed by many or a porch-stoop observer, nature delivers
spring in the Northern Hemisphere arrives species that spend most of the year in boundless beauty, mystery, surprise, and
on March 20. To put it bluntly, the vernal tropical habitats but take annual (and solace during our spring months. And there
equinox signals the start of the high season perilous) journeys north to breed. Listen isn’t a better place to chase and embrace
of sex and gluttony in the natural world in for the amusing meow of yard-loving Gray this season than here in the mid-Atlantic.
our region. Catbirds and the ethereal fluting voice of
So, unhook those tethers to technology
forest-loving Wood Thrushes, both returning
March’s script calls for Osprey, Eastern and the workaday world. Halle would
to the DMV by late this month.
Phoebes, Tree Swallows, and Pine Warblers exhort you now to take leave of the “hive,”
to return to this area to breed – and for In May, more species of birds arrive or pass and start paying attention. Plan and make
most of the wintering waterfowl to depart. through as avian residents tend to their early an escape to “the real world of nature.”
American Woodcock, the earliest shorebird clutches. Scarlet Tanagers, Indigo Buntings, Watch and listen for nature’s news of
returnees, invite those of us with severe and other showy-plumaged birds become the day – and prepare for wonderment.
cases of spring fever to sit on icy ground hard to spot as leaves begin to obscure He writes, “Thus spring, however closely
to watch the male’s sky-dance display. them. Thus, this month birding-by-ear you watch for it, comes as a succession of
Tiny Spring Peeper frogs thaw out and becomes the modus operandi. Wild Blue surprises. You stand guard all day and see
gather in ringing choruses to pass on their Phlox lines the C&O Canal waterway, where nothing; then overnight you find the bare
genes. Elms, Spicebush and Violets bloom. you may be lucky enough to spot a Wood trees have budded and a myriad new birds
Dandelions pop up wherever they can. Duck with her ducklings or even a baby fox. have arrived.”
Early (and hungry) butterflies such as the Green Herons have joined the Great Blue
------------------------------------------------
Mourning Cloak fly to oozing sapsucker Herons in fishing the Canal’s waters. By the
wells, while small Miner Bees arise from middle of the month, songbird migration Check out the many ways you can
their underground chambers. The first starts winding down and our metro-area's experience the wonders of spring in and
spring ephemerals—Harbinger of Spring, spring flowers begin to fade. But you can around the DMV through our nature
Hepatica, Bloodroot, Early Saxifrage, and still chase spring by moving up in elevation. education activities for adults—including
Spring Beauty—start unfolding leaves and Nothing can be finer than a late-May day classes, in-person field trips, and virtual
petals in the race to complete their life cycle in our nearby mountains, even if you know presentations—on pages 14-21. 5
before the forest canopy fills in. summer is at hand down here near sea-level.
Despite late snowfalls and teasing
temperature swings—what I call March
Madness—the unfolding of spring moves
steadily onward to April and May. Then
spring breaks loose and a nature lover is left
breathless. Good luck deciding whether to
look up at the glowing Baltimore Oriole – or
down at the regal Trout Lillies.
April’s warming calls up dazzling displays
of Virginia Bluebells, Toadshade, Golden
Ragwort, and Mayapple. This warming stirs
up insect life as well. Look for the darting
flight of Zebra Swallowtails wherever there
is Pawpaw and feeding Queen Bumblebees
where Dutchmen’s Breeches grow. This year,
a great insect spectacle will start in late April
or early May when warming soils prompt
Brood X periodical cicadas to emerge from
17 years of subterranean existence. As the
month passes, reptiles awaken. Painted
Turtles bask on sunlit logs in ponds, while
Five-lined Skinks and Fence Lizards skitter
over solar-collecting rocks.
Spring’s show-stopping shrubs and trees
SPRING 2021
burst into bloom: think Redbud, Flowering
Dogwood, Shadbush, and Pinxter Flower
Azalea. And of course, there are the
feathered wonders returning to or just
passing through our region in ever greater
Pine Warbler by Bridget Lewis
Our Favorite Things about Spring: A Multilayered Explosion of Life
by Serenella Linares, Director of Adult Education
Spring is a gorgeous time to explore nature. Everywhere you look
there is something to see. Whether in the air, the water, or the soil,
something is bound to catch the attention of a nature observer.
Birds are flying in from their winter homes, eager to build their nests
and lay their eggs. Salamanders deposit their eggs in nearby ponds,
wildflowers pop out of the ground with their ephemeral beauty, and
mushrooms start to wake up from their winter slumber. I particularly
enjoy getting out of the house with the first rays of sunshine, while
delicate frost crystals still cover the blades of grass on my lawn.
Right at my feet, bursting out of dead wood, I will find the fairy
ink cap, a coprinoid mushroom that is common in our area. When
young it appears white, but as the mushroom matures, the gills turn
black and give the cap a greyish appearance. In some members of
this mushroom family, the black gills turn to black goo – a process
called deliquescence that spreads spores as the goo falls to the
ground. Many other mushrooms of the same family will pop up on
patches of mulch and their caps will completely dissolve, leaving
behind just the stalk, which puzzles passersby. Finding a stump
to visit in your neighborhood will ensure that spring is magical,
because there you will find all sorts of fungi, like the sizable deer
mushroom with its greyish tan colored cap and slightly pink gills. If
6 you are heading outdoors up to a day after a good rain, you might
be one of the lucky ones to find Witch’s Butter in the forest. With its
asymmetrical folds, and its translucent yellow lobes, it is a fantastic
opportunity to tap into your inner child’s sense of wonder. Eastern blue bird (Sialia sialis) nest found inside nesting box at
And mushrooms provide an irresistible dining table for invertebrates. Woodend Sanctuary. Picture by Serenella Linares.
On any given spring day, you can find slugs and beetles, and even
spiders hiding under mushroom caps. The spiders are there as
opportunists, hiding where their prey come to dine, saving some
precious calories that otherwise would have been invested in a hunt.
Why run after your prey when you can calmly sit and wait for it to
come to you? The next time the spring sun comes out, head out to
your nearest patch of outdoors to slow down, observe the layers, and
find your own favorite things about spring’s explosion of life.
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
Fairy inkcap mushroom (Coprinellus disseminatus) found at Woodend
Sanctuary by Serenella Linares.
Virginia spring beauty (Claytonia virginica L.) photographed at Rock
Creek Park by Serenella Linares.
Join us for a follow up to 2021 Taking Nature Black Conference and
meet the Taking Nature Black 2021 Environmental Champions
on Thursday, April 15, 2021 at 7 p.m. You’ll be introduced to each
Congressman A. Donald McEachin Catherine Coleman Flowers
Champion through a beautiful, short video highlighting their work
and talents, and hear from them in person as well.
Come prepared to be amazed as we honor these incredible
Champions, including the three pictured on the right. Learn more
about these three Champions today at www.anshome.org/taking-
nature-black and stay tuned for announcements about additional
Champions who will be recognized. Hosted by 2021 Taking Nature
Black Chairwoman Caroline Brewer and the Taking Nature Black
Planning Committee. Register at anshome.org/conservation-cafe.
Derrick Evans
7
Thank you to the
National Wildlife
Federation for
being a Bronze
Level/$5,000
Sponsor for our
Taking Nature
Black Conference.
See our other
sponsors on pages
35, 36, 37 and 40.
SPRING 2021
CONSERVATION
Conservation
Policy and Advocacy News
Photo by Rita Bergmann
Regional/National Virginia
Turning the Page on the Trump Administration: Depending on how 2021 VA General Assembly: After a big year in 2020 with significant
8 you count, the Trump Administration has rolled back, weakened,
or attempted to roll back 80 to 100 or more environmental rules
wins, such as the passage of the Virginia Environmental Justice Act
and the Virginia Clean Economy Act, as well as Virginia’s officially
and regulations. One of the very last rollbacks finalized was one joining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), the 2021
threatening the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, one of our nation’s earliest session was incredibly short (Jan 13- Feb 27). But we had some good
environmental laws whose passage was critical to the founding of ANS. environmental wins along the way. http://conservationblog.anshome.
Fortunately many of these rollbacks are tied up in lawsuits, and the org/blog/2021-virginia-general-assembly-legislative-priorities/
Biden Administration will make it a priority to reverse the rollbacks as
soon as possible, with a focus on climate change. But an enormous
amount of damage has been done and we have lost precious time
in the fight against climate crisis. Together with our coalition and
federal partners, ANS will support and hold accountable the Biden
Administration to move as quickly as possible not only to reverse these
rollbacks, but to strengthen our essential environmental laws and
policies and move forward towards a vision of a safe, green, equitable,
and just future for all who live in America and on the planet.
Maryland
MOCO Forest Conservation Act: Montgomery County is losing its
forests. ANS and our local and statewide forests allies are seeking to
pass a countywide “net zero forest loss” amendment to the current
Danielle Slentz, Pinterest
forest conservation act. http://conservationblog.anshome.org/blog/
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
ans-moco-forests/
2021 MD General Assembly: This year’s General Assembly will
present many old and new challenges as we all transition from
in- person gatherings and lobbying activities to virtual spaces in
our homes. ANS and our statewide environmental partners will be
teaming up to support environmental legislation in the 2021 session.
http://conservationblog.anshome.org/blog/2021-maryland-general-
assembly-legislative-priorities/ Interested in getting involved or learning more?
Sign up for our Action Alert Network at
https://anshome.org/action-alerts/
and visit http://conservationblog.anshome.org.
Conservation
Washington, DC
Workshops & Events
Learn more and register for all events below at
https://anshome.org/conservation-events
Conservation Advocacy 101
Ward 8 Water Watchers Launches: Ward 8 Water Watchers is
Wednesday, March 10 (1-3 pm)
a collaboration between ANS and DC-based partner The Green ANS members $20; nonmembers $30
Scheme. The Ward 8 Water Watchers program will include a Instructor: Eliza Cava via Zoom
series of events in 2021 aimed at building community around a What’s your environmental issue? Widening the Beltway. Lead
shared vision for Oxon Run in Ward 8 of Washington, DC. Events in school water pipes. Threats to a park. Contributing to the
will explore the intersections between water quality, food justice, discussion on a new development coming to your neighborhood.
environmental justice, and public health as factors that have Fighting climate change at the local level. Our workshop will cover
influenced Oxon Run. We will regularly share cool nature facts, the following key introductory advocacy skills: identifying issues
provide chances to get our hands in the water, discover wildlife in and solutions; researching and communicating ideas; developing
our own backyards, and participate in socially distanced outdoor an action plan; talking to decision-makers; and building coalitions
educational events that feature music. It will highlight participants' to broaden support for your issue.
expertise and the existing power of Ward 8 community members
to envision long-term solutions to these challenges. Learn more:
facebook.com/W8WWDC
ANS Partners with Beyond Gas DC to Speed Transition Away from
Fossil Fuels: ANS is working with the Sierra Club’s Beyond Gas DC
group to detect leaks of methane gas, also known as natural gas,
around DC. The District’s 2050 climate commitments mean that
9
we can no longer continue to burn gas that is dangerous to our
health and environment. Join us to learn how you can become a
community scientist and fight for clean energy: beyondgasdc.org
Virtual Conservation Cafes
Join us online for inspiring presentations on nature conservation topics. Your $5-15 registration fee supports our Conservation Program! See
detailed descriptions and register at anshome.org/conservation-cafe. All programs run from 7-8:30 pm.
• Thursday, March 18: Valarie Proctor: Activism, Agriculture, Stewardship in the Cedarville Band of Piscataway Indians. Valarie is a
member of the Cedarville band of Piscataway Indians. Born and raised on her ancestral homelands in southern Maryland, Valarie is a
farmer and student of herbalism who works to familiarize urban youth of color with the outdoor environment through farm-based and
outdoor education programs. As a community organizer and indigenous environmental activist, Valarie works to weave spirituality with
activism and share their traditional ways of living with those in social justice movements.
• Thursday, April 15: Earth Month Conservation Café: Meet the Taking Nature Black 2021 Environmental Champions. Join us for a follow
up to the 2021 Taking Nature Black Conference. You’ll be introduced to each one through a beautiful, short video highlighting their work
and talents, and hear from them in person as well. Come prepared to be amazed, and join us in honoring these incredible Champions.
Hosted by Taking Nature Black Chair Caroline Brewer, ANS Director of Communications & Marketing.
• Thursday, May 20: William Pegues: Cooling our Cities with Real Cool Roofs! Learn about vegetated roofs and green infrastructure and
how you can advocate for them in your community with architect and engineer William Pegues.
New Registration System
SPRING 2021
In an effort to bring more functionality to registering for conservation events, we are experimenting this Spring with using our adult program
registration system. Please note your log-in credentials from Action Network will not work in the new system. Unless you have already signed up
for a previous class such as a Naturalist Hour or a field trip, you will have to create a new account. We appreciate your patience! If you have any
questions please email pam.oves@anshome.org.
facebook.com/audubonnaturalistsociety
anshome.org/summer-camps
Camp Audubon
Introducing Berry! Camp Audubon
We are thrilled to introduce our new Camp Audubon is currently full. We encourage you
Camp Manager, Denis Perez (aka to register for the free waitlists in case we get any
“Berry”), who has been working as an cancellations or are able to add more campers at a later
environmental educator with ANS for date. Questions? Email pam.oves@anshome.org.
over a year already. Born and raised
in Chihuahua in northern Mexico,
Denis moved to Maryland in 2019. She
happened to pass by ANS while driving
and immediately contacted us to become
a volunteer. Recognizing her many
talents, we quickly hired her as staff.
Denis grew up hiking, camping and
climbing with her family. Denis’s
appreciation of the importance of taking
care of nature intensified as she grew up
in the Chihuahuan Desert in a large city
with a scarce water supply. Her love for
the natural world motivated her to study
ecology at the Universidad Autonoma de
Chihuahua, and to pursue a master's degree in Range and Wildlife Management
10 from Sul Ross State University in Texas.
Before coming to ANS, Denis worked on issues of migratory birds and grasslands
ecology in both the United States and Mexico for organizations including
Borderlands Research Institute, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies and Profauna.
Denis fondly remembers having environmental education lessons as a child that
piqued her curiosity and inspired her love for nature, so she is happy to have the
opportunity to be part of the ANS environmental education team and share her
passion for nature with kids and families.
Denis chose “Berry” as her camp name because she loves to eat berries. Plus, this
cute name will be easy for kids to remember. She is looking forward to a summer
camp full of fun, outdoor exercise and socialization for children who are spending
far too much time plugged into screens this year!
When Denis is not working, she enjoys camping, climbing, and hiking with her
husband. She also loves birdwatching and photography. She recently started a new
hobby, drawing and painting nature.
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
Happy Trails Junebug!
The entire ANS team bids a fond farewell to Nora Kelly, aka “Junebug.”
Nora first came to ANS as a Master Naturalist trainee and then joined
the staff as Camp Director. We thank her for five years of masterful
summer camp management, during which she ensured that children had
joyous experiences in nature and staff had a calm and capable leader!
Nora’s next career adventure will be with the Society for Science and the
Public. We wish her lots of luck and hope to see her family back at ANS
as campers themselves!Audubon Nature Preschool
ANS Preschool Will Reopen This Fall!
During the Covid-19 pandemic, ANS made the difficult decision to close the Audubon Nature Preschool for the academic year. However, with
the rollout of vaccines and our experience with managing health screening protocols, we feel confident that we can safely reopen our wonderful
early childhood education programs in the fall of 2021. Enrollment is underway for daily drop-off programs, as well as for once-weekly programs
for children with their caregivers. Learn more and apply at www.anshome.org/ans-preschool.
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SPRING 2021anshome.org/parents
Children and Nature Photos
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A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
Friends from our Unplug and Play after school program. They enjoy coming to play, connect with nature, and socialize in a safe way.Our Woodend Wanderers program encourages children to use their imagination and explore nature. Here, our little friends were acting out a
story using stuffed animals.
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SPRING 2021
Our pals from the Unplug and Play program didn’t miss out on the opportunity to play and build forts in the snow!anshome.org/adults
Adult Nature Programs
These programs offer nature novices and experienced naturalists alike an array of opportunities to explore and learn about
our area’s natural history. All programs are led by experienced naturalists. Lectures are held at Woodend Sanctuary. Field
trips are reached by private vehicle.
Wild places are closer than you think. ®
ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR ADULT PROGRAMS
• Visit www.ANShome.org/adults
• All changes/cancellations/transfers must be handled through the EE office.
• Questions? Call Pam at 301-652-9188 x16 or email pam.oves@anshome.org
Woodcock Watch Late Winter Tree Walk on TRI
A. Saturday, March 6 (5:15-7:30 pm) Wednesday, March 10 (9:30 am-12:30 pm)
B. Sunday, March 7 (5:15-7:30 pm) Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
Leader: Stephanie Mason Members $30; nonmembers $42
Members $30; nonmembers $42 Join Melanie Choukas-Bradley, author of the award-winning new book,
In his Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold described the mating Finding Solace at Theodore Roosevelt Island, for a late winter tree
display of the American Woodcock as a “sky dance.” Announcing its walk on Theodore Roosevelt Island, a 90-acre island in the Potomac
presence with nasal “peents”, the male woodcock ascends high in the that serves as a fitting memorial to our conservationist and naturalist
14 sky at dusk. To the accompaniment of his whistling wings, the bird circles,
then plummets back to earth in a zigzag pattern, his voice issuing a liquid
26th president—and Audubon Naturalist Society member! We’ll
witness and study the winter magnificence of the island’s trees and
warble. On this field program to a natural area in upper Montgomery soak up the wide open vistas across the Potomac River before the trees
County, we’ll hope to be lucky enough to catch a performance of this leaf out. Of course, we’ll keep our eyes open for wood ducks, great
seasonal drama. Only one session per person, please. blue herons, belted kingfishers, early-returned ospreys and bald eagles.
Melanie will share details of the island’s fascinating history during the
walking exploration of this picturesque urban oasis.
Vanishing Vernal Pools
Sunday, March 7 (4-6:30 pm)
Winter Walks Along the Canal
Leader: Cliff Fairweather
Members $30; nonmembers $42 Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
I. March 10 – Pennyfield Lock
As hours of daylight lengthen and temperatures begin to rise, animals
J. March 17 – Pennyfield Lock
that have spent the winter in hibernation begin to stir. Among the
Leader: Stephanie Mason
earliest to be active are certain frogs and salamanders that use vernal
or temporary pools for breeding. Unfortunately, the pools – and their Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
breeders – are facing many threats. Our outdoor program includes Join our Senior Naturalist for these last two leisurely walks in our
an introduction to vernal pool ecology, followed by a walking visit Winter Canal Walk series. We’ll keep our eyes and ears open for over-
to vernal pool habitats in the Rock Creek bottomlands near our wintering birds and other wildlife, practice winter botany skills, and
Woodend Sanctuary. enjoy the expansive views along the Potomac River which this season
provides. NOTE: Spaces are limited so thanks for registering for only one
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
of these walks.
COVID-19 Update: Adult Nature Programs
As long as area jurisdictions remain in at least Phase II of Covid 19 precautions, we are planning to offer in-person field trips to natural areas
throughout the DMV. Should there be any changes to these plans, we will notify trip participants and all ANS members through e-mails and/
or social media.
• Both leaders and participants are required to wear face masks and observe social distancing throughout the field trip.
• Both leaders and participants are required to complete a health questionnaire before participating in the field trip. Please fill it out as
soon as you receive it.
• Maximum number of participants for the field trips will range from 5-8, depending on field trip location, trip focus, and leaders’ preferences.anshome.org/adults
Walking the Winter Woods and Beginning Birding Walk
Wetlands at Governor’s Bridge Saturday, March 20 (8:30-11 am)
Saturday, March 13 (9 am-Noon) Leader: Mark England
Leader: Stephanie Mason Members $30; nonmembers $42
Members $30; nonmembers $42 If you’re curious about birds and bird watching but don’t know
where to begin, this “how to get started” outing is for you. No
Winter is often called the quiet season, but there is still lots to look
experience is required! The goal of our field morning, which visits
and listen for in the natural world, especially as hours of daylight
Black Hill and Little Bennett Regional Parks in upper Montgomery
grow with spring’s approach. Our Senior Naturalist leads this walk to
County, is to develop the ability to find, study, and identify birds
observe overwintering (and early spring!) wildlife activity and plant
in their natural environment. Birding tools such as field guides,
life at Governor’s Bridge Natural Area near Bowie, MD. We’ll meander
binoculars, and other resources will also be discussed.
on natural surface trails for up to a couple of miles through meadow,
woodland, and wetland habitats of this park aside to the Patuxent River.
Spring in the Parks
Knock, Knock (8:30-11:30 am)
Saturday, March 13 (9 am-12 pm) A. Sunday, March 21 – Jug Bay Natural Area, MD
Leaders: Pam and Chris Oves B. Friday, April 2 – Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, VA
Members $30; nonmembers $42 C. Saturday, April 17 – Rachel Carson Conservation Park, MD
On this approximately 4-mile roundtrip bird walk along the Canal’s D. Sunday, April 25 – National Arboretum, DC
Towpath from Riley’s Lock, we’ll focus on the 7 species of woodpeckers Leader: Stephanie Mason
that frequent our woods this time of year. We’ll also look and listen Join our Senior Naturalist for these broad-based nature hikes in four
for any and all birds we may spy along the way. Our walk is aimed at
beginning birders. Note: this walk will go faster and farther than our
of this region’s protected areas. On each outing, we’ll experience
the dramatic seasonal changes in the natural world ignited by
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usual naturalist’s shuffle. spring’s longer hours of daylight and warming temperatures. We’ll
search for showy wildflowers, the unfolding leaves of trees and
shrubs, and all manner of spring wildlife activity. Be prepared to
Late Winter Waterfowl Prowl walk between 1-2.5 miles on natural surface trails which may be
Sunday, March 14 (8:30-11 am) rocky, uneven, and/or possibly muddy/slippery. Hikes B and C
Leader: Len Bisson include uphill/downhill, with the steepest walking on B.
Members $30; nonmembers $42
With winter winding down—and most of the wintering ducks, geese, Spring Saunters Along the Canal
and other swimming birds preparing to head north to breeding
grounds—we’ll offer one more outing to area waterways to enjoy these
Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
sometimes showy, sometimes subtle waterfowl. Our exact location(s), Section A: March 24 - Carderock
relatively close to the metro area, will be determined closer to the date Section B: March 31 - Carderock
of the field trip, based our leader’s scouting expeditions to determine if Section C: April 7 - Widewater
waterbodies are open/frozen and/or easily accessible. Section D: April 14 - Widewater
Section E: April 21 - Violettes Lock
Section F: April 28 - Violettes Lock
March Madness at Widewater Leader: Stephanie Mason
Friday, March 19 (9:30 am-1 pm) Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Leader: Stephanie Mason Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions
Members $30; nonmembers $42 of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks,
With the official start of spring at hand, we’ll return to a favorite stretch starting from different locations, will be general natural history
along the Potomac River where nature observers can observe the of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll
tug-of-war between lingering winter and imminent spring—what our proceed at a slow “naturalist’s shuffle,” as we experience the
Senior Naturalist calls March Madness! She’ll lead you on a 4-mile loop glorious unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds,
SPRING 2021
hike along the C&O Canal towpath from the Widewater area upriver to wildflowers, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might
Great Falls—and back. Along the way, there will be plants and animals find. NOTE: Spaces are limited, so thanks for not registering for
to watch and listen for in this protected area’s rocky woods, sycamore more than one walk per destination.
bottomlands, and flowing River waters. NOTE: this hike will move faster
and farther than our usual naturalist shuffle.Early Spring Wildflower Hike Sleepy Moon Walk
Friday, March 26 (10 am-1 pm) Saturday, March 27 (6-8 pm)
Leader: Sujata Roy Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $42 Members $30; nonmembers $42
Beat the winter blues by joining this search for the earliest spring Hope for clear skies in order to enjoy a brisk walk under the light of
wildflowers in the woods and bottomlands along the Potomac River March’s full moon--sometimes called the Sleepy Moon. Walking along
near Carderock Recreation Area, just outside the Beltway. We’ll look the C&O Canal Towpath from Swain’s Lock, we’ll listen for the night-
for the greening leaves, swelling buds, and (fingers crossed) unfolding active wildlife and enjoy the shadows of tree skeletons along the way.
flowers of species such as Harbinger of Spring, Early Saxifrage, Spring
Beauty, and Bloodroot. NOTE: our roughly 1.5 mile hike will include
uneven, rocky, and likely muddy stretches on natural surface trails. Searching for Spring at Watkins
Regional Park
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am) Sunday, March 28 (9 am-Noon)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
A. Saturday, March 27 – Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, DC
Members: $30; nonmembers $42
(Paul Pisano)
B. Saturday, April 3 – Dyke Marsh, VA (Lisa Shannon & Although no excuse is needed, we’ll head outside this morning to
Rob Hilton) welcome the arrival of spring at Watkins Regional Park near Largo,
MD. Fingers crossed that we’ll spot our first butterfly or two of the
C. Thursday, April 8 – Huntley Meadows, VA (Mike Bowen
season on our mile or more meander. We’ll listen for spring birdsong
and Anne Cianni)
as well as the voices of amphibian activity. Early blooming wildflowers
16 D. Sunday, April 11 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Head-
quarters Tract, MD (Len Bisson)
and trees will most certainly add fresh color to the woodland and
wetland habitats we will explore.
E. Sunday, April 18 – Lois Green Conservation Park, MD
(Mark England)
F. Wednesday, April 21 – Wootton’s Mill Park, MD (Mike Warbler Warm-up
Bowen and Anne Cianni) Wednesday, March 31 (6:30-8:30 pm)
G. Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) Leader: Mike Bowen
H. Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Members $20; nonmembers $28
Pisano) (8-11 am)
We think it’s never too early to start brushing up on the voices and
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
field marks of the soon-to-be arriving warblers. Even for the most
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this seasoned birders, finding and properly IDing them as they arrive
series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed or pass through between late March through May can be a real
for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of challenge. Since we all need an annual refresher, we’ve enlisted the
bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll help of our most active and experienced birding trip leader. He will
search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll present a virtual tutorial using photos and recordings based on the
discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding general arrival sequence of warbler species in our region. Delivery will
them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. be on the Zoom platform, and registrants will receive a link for access.
Our trips include walking
on natural surface trails
Beginning Wildflower ID
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
and/or boardwalks which
may be muddy, uneven,
Saturday, April 3 (9 am-Noon)
and/or slippery. Trips E, F
and H include some mild
Leader: Stephanie Mason
uphill/downhill. Trip H Members $30; nonmembers $42
will run from 8-11 am. April’s spring wildflowers are dazzling! On this field class, based in
Participants will provide the just-outside-the Beltway Carderock Recreation Area, we’ll explore
their own binoculars. several short trails between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River.
Due to Covid precautions, We’ll work on developing the observational skills which are key to
there will be no sharing IDing wildflowers. As we’re learning the names and niches of species
of spotting scopes on such as Virginia bluebells, dutchman’s breeches, toad trillium, and
these trips. more, we’ll also take time to just enjoy their beauty. Expect some
rocky and uneven terrain on the natural surface trails.
Northern Parula by Dan Faulkner/WikimediaGeology of Difficult Run, VA The Secret Lives of Spring
Tuesday, April 6 (9 am-Noon) Wildflowers
Leader: Joe Marx Sunday, April 11 (2-4:30 pm)
Members $30; nonmembers $42 Leader: Stephanie Mason
Virginia’s Difficult Run descends through a curved picturesque gorge Members $30; nonmembers $42
from Piedmont upland at Georgetown Pike to near sea level at the
They’re lovely to behold. But their beauty belies the scrappy, survival
lower end of Mather Gorge. Outcrops of all the rock types found
strategies of our region’s short-lived spring wildflowers. Coping
in Great Falls Park occur among the stream’s cascades and little
with cold temperatures, species such as Trout Lily and Dutchman’s
waterfalls. We will hike down the gorge towards the river and, when
Breeches race to complete their flowering and fruiting cycles before
time runs out, return uphill to the parking lot. The maximum hike
the brief window of spring sunlight gets shut out by the unfolding
is about 2 miles, with 175 feet of altitude lost and regained. Trail
forest canopy. Our leader will spill some of their secrets in a roughly
surfaces are unpaved and generally level, but expect some muddy or
1.5-mile round trip walk between Violettes and Riley’s Locks along the
rocky spots. The examination of several bedrock exposures will require
C&O Canal.
clambering onto dry sections of the stream bed. NOTE: our geology
hikes move farther and faster than our usual naturalist’s shuffle.
Look for details on other April
Bluebells and Budbreak at programs at ANShome.org/adults.
Boundary Bridge Registration for April programs will
Wednesday, April 7 (9:30 am-12:30 pm)
open in early March.
Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
Members $30; nonmembers $42 Budbreak and Spring
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We’re delighted that the author of the award-winning book, A Wildflowers on Theodore
Year in Rock Creek Park and the critically acclaimed, City of Trees,
will offer her 15th year of ANS nature walks in the country’s oldest
Roosevelt Island
urban national park. Under her expert guidance, you will witness Wednesday, April 14 (9:30 am-12:30 pm)
the annual floral miracle of Virginia bluebells, spring beauties, and Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
trout lilies in the floodplain forest, while the leaves of tulip tree and
American beech begin to spill from their buds. We’ll hope to catch
bloodroot, wild ginger, cut-leafed toothwort and other blooming Bluebells in the Bottomland
spring ephemerals as we explore both floodplain and upland woods Tuesday, April 20 (10 am-1 pm)
at a leisurely pace. Time permitting, we’ll do a bit of “forest bathing.” Leader: Marney Bruce
Throughout, we’ll keep our eyes and ears open for belted kingfishers,
wood ducks, migrant songbirds, and tiny spring peeper frogs.
Spring Fungus Walks
The Magic of Early Spring Woods A. Wednesday, April 21 (9:30-11:30 am)
B. Saturday, April 24 (9:30-11:30 am)
Fridays (10 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Serenella Linares
A. April 9 - Monocacy Aqueduct, MD
B. April 16 - Carderock Recreation Area, MD
Leader: Marney Bruce Late April Riverwalk
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Thursday, April 29 (4-7 pm)
A stroll through an early spring woods can be magical, with the colors Leader: Stephanie Mason
and forms of tree’s and shrub’s unfolding leaves and blooms catching
the eye. In bottomland woods, there’s the added delight of spring
wildflowers underfoot. Our leader can’t wait to share two of her Spring at Widewater
SPRING 2021
favorite spots along the Potomac River: the habitats along the level
Friday, April 30 (9:30 am-1 pm)
C&O Canal Towpath at the Monocacy Aqueduct, and the floodplain
trail of Billy Goat C downriver from Carderock, just outside the Leader: Stephanie Mason
Beltway. Our walks follow possibly muddy/slippery natural surface
trails. Billy Goat C includes some uneven ground, but none of the
rock-hopping and scrambling of the upriver sections.anshome.org/naturalist-hour
Enjoy learning about Natural History topics from the comfort of your own home! Visit www.anshome.org/naturalist-hour for a
complete listing of programs with area naturalists and scientists this fall. The time of the program doesn't work for you? No problem.
Register and receive a recording of the talk by the end of the month. Cost is $12 for ANS members and $15 for nonmembers.
Spring Caterpillars and Their
Survival in the Face of Climate
Change
Tuesday, March 2 (7-8 pm)
Presenter: Georgetown
University Biology
Professor Mariana Abarcatalk
Listen to Biology Professor
Mariana Abarcatalk about the
natural history and seasonality
of one of your backyard friends: Naturally Latinos Presents:
Eastern tent caterpillars
Birding with Yamina: Exploring
18 (Malacosoma americanum). Learn
about their food sources, their Birds and Nature in Urban
predators, and the threats to their survival in the face of climate Spaces
change. REGISTER
Thursday, March 4 (7-8 pm)
Presenter: Yamina Nater-Otero, Program Coordinator,
White-tailed Deer: From Near Audubon NY
Extinction to Overpopulation, You don't have to go very far to see great birds! Rediscover the
wildlife value of our urban green spaces with our Naturally Latinos
and Where We Go from Here series speaker and Audubon New York Program Coordinator, Yamina
Wednesday, March 3 (7-8 pm) Nater-Otero, as she walks you through beginning birding basics and
Presenter: Bill Browing, Arlington Regional Master Naturalist redefines what it means to enjoy the outdoors. REGISTER
Got deer? We all do in the DMV! Learn about deer management
strategies from Bill Browning. Humans practically drove the deer
population of the mid-Atlantic to extinction by the early 20th
Become a Garden Superhero
century. Since then, the population has recovered to such an Wednesday, March 10 (7-8 pm)
extent that overbrowsing degrades forest habitat for other wildlife. Presenter: Jenny Brown, ANS Garden Outreach Associate
Learn what we all can do to address this problem. REGISTER
Join ANS Garden Outreach Associate and Maryland Master Gardener
Jenny Brown in the spring adventure of starting your garden! From
testing your soil, to selecting your vegetable and herb seeds, to
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
planting according to the amount of sun you have, Jenny will tune up
your green thumb
and transform you
into a gardening
hero. Like all other
heroes, you will
also learn how to
protect your crop.
REGISTERanshome.org/naturalist-hour
Mushrooms 101: Getting to
Know Your Fungi Neighbors
Thursday, March 11 (7-8 pm)
Presenter: Matthew Cohen, Owner, Matt's Habitats
Dare to discover
the unknown with
Mycological Society of
Washington DC Treasurer
Matt Cohen in this
introduction to fungi and
mushrooms. Learn about
the ecological roles of Appreciating Animals Ethically
fungi, as well as how to on Social Media
identify poisonous and
Thursday, March 25 (7-8 pm)
edible mushrooms in our area. REGISTER
Presenter: Ashley Gary, The Wildlife Host,
Science Communicator
Using Rock Dating to Determine Ashley Gray knows all about social media and wildlife observations.
the Age of Great Falls Animal lovers often want to get up close and personal, even with
dangerous species like tigers. Some organizations and individuals
Tuesday, March 23 (7-8 pm) share media that put these animals at risk, portraying unethical
Presenter: Joe Marx, NVCC Adjunct Professor in Geology treatment as fun and cute. Ashley will share tips on avoiding such
Joe Marx will explain how geologists determined a precise age for exploitative pages and how to support amazing people doing
the Great Falls of the Potomac. Until about 20 years ago, the best ethical work so that you can show your love for animals online
estimate of the age of Great Falls was between "several thousand while respecting their welfare. REGISTER
to several million years." Rock dating techniques that became 19
available in the late 1980s now allow us to give a much better answer.
REGISTER Creek Critters? They’re There!
Find Them In Your Local
Create Your Own State Park at Stream
Home! Tuesday, March 30 (7-8 pm)
Presenter: Gregg Trilling, ANS Conservation Outreach
Tuesday, April 6 (7-8 pm) (changed from March 24) Manager
Presenter: Melissa Boyle Acuti, Chief of Interpretation for
What lives in your local stream and how healthy is it? Gregg
the Maryland Park Service
Trilling, ANS Conservation Outreach Manager, will introduce you
Melissa Boyle Acuti introduces us to the “Create Your Own State to several fascinating aquatic macroinvertebrates. He’ll show
Park” program, inspired by the research of Dr. Douglas Tallamy. you how to use ANS’s Creek Critters® app to identify them in your
This program was launched during the pandemic in 2020 while local stream and discover what they mean for stream health. You
people were spending more time at home to encourage families might even be inspired to join ANS’s volunteer-driven water quality
to think of their own yards as personal state parks. Learn how you monitoring program! REGISTER
can participate in this new program, connect your family to nature,
and have more fun outdoors, all while expanding native habitat for
wildlife! REGISTER
Join us for future AND past
Naturalist Hours!
You can now purchase
recorded programs. Just
scroll to the bottom of the
Naturalist Hour registration
page to purchase packages
SPRING 2021
by month. And watch for
April programs to be listed
in early/mid March.
twitter.com/ANStweetsanshome.org/nhfs
Natural History Field Studies
This unique continuing education program for adults offers a comprehensive and stimulating view of our region’s natural history
and conservation issues. Taught at the college freshman level, these evening courses are open to anyone 18 years of age or
older—nature professionals and beginning enthusiasts alike. A Certificate of Accomplishment in Natural History is awarded to
those choosing to complete a required curriculum of 39 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), but anyone can enroll in any class
for the sheer pleasure of learning.
Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, classes are currently being offered via online Zoom sessions with optional in-person field
trips. These locally-based field outings will be limited to groups of 8 participants, with mask-wearing and social distancing
required. Registrants can elect to enroll in online classes only, or choose to participate in field trips as well, space permitting.
For a complete list of the classes in the NHFS program, plus instructor bios, visit ANShome.org/nhfs.
Freshwater Ecology
NATH8217E, 3 CEUs
Class night and time: Tuesdays, 7-9 pm
Class meetings: April 6-June 1
Field trip dates: April 24 (Group A AM, Group B PM) and
May 15 (Group A AM, Group B PM)
Location: Online via Zoom
Zoom lectures only: Members $240; nonmembers $265
Photo by Cathy Wiss
Zoom lectures + field trips: Members $300; nonmembers $330
Instructor: Cathy Wiss
20 REGISTER ONLINE
This course will focus on stream ecosystems and the human-caused stressors that affect them. Topics
include forms of freshwater; stream structure and function; benthic macroinvertebrates, freshwater
fish, and their ecological interactions; stormwater management and ecological restoration. At the end of this course, students will have an
understanding of physical, chemical and biological processes of freshwater bodies. Self-exploration of local waterbodies will be emphasized.
On field trips, students will visit stream restoration sites, examine fish and aquatic organism habitat types, and sample for benthic
macroinvertebrates. Registration closes April 2.
Spring Flower Identification
NATH7135E, 3 CEUs
Class night and time: Wednesdays, 6-8 pm
Class meetings: March 17-May 12
Field trip dates: Location TBA: Group A: April 15, Group B: April 18;
Photo by Clare Walker
Thompson WMA Group A: May 2, Group B: May 4
Location: Online via Zoom
Zoom lectures only: Members $240; nonmembers $265
Zoom lectures + field trips: Members $300; nonmembers $330
Instructor: Clare Walker
REGISTER ONLINE
A U D U B O N N AT U R A L I S T S O C I E T Y
Follow the changing of the season this spring as we look closely at wildflowers blooming in the Mid-Atlantic each week. The class will
include field identification during different life stages, plant family relationships and habitat preferences so you can get outside and hunt
yourself (by recording flower observations in an optional iNaturalist class project). Explore the relationships between the plants and their
pollinators and seed dispersers to gain an understanding of each flower’s role in the ecosystem. Spring wildflowers deserve our admiration
for their incredible adaptations to overcome seasonal vagaries from low temperatures to short growing seasons. The field trips feature two
of the area’s best wildflower locations. Students will choose field trip group at a later date. Registration closes March 12.
Important Registration Dates
• If mimimum student enrollment is not reached by one week before the scheduled start date, the course may be cancelled.
• Please see class desriptions for registration cut-off date.You can also read
