STAFF:

Suzan Bellincampi, Sanctuary Director Marion Hammond, Administrator & Camp Registrar

Cristina Pereira, Education Coordinator & Camp Director Susie Bowman, Janet Holladay, Teacher-Naturalists

Philip Hunsaker, Property Steward

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary P.O. Box 494 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568 Phone: (508) 627-4850 Fax: (508) 627-6052 Email: felixneck@massaudubon.org Website: www.massaudubon.org/felixneck

A tradition of bringing campers and nature together on Martha’s Vineyard since 1964

Fern & Feather Day Camp

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary Summer 2011

Explore the nature of Martha’s Vineyard in the forest, field, marsh, pond, and seashore habitats on our 350-acre wildlife sanctuary. Our programs encourage campers to actively investigate and observe their surroundings, make their own discoveries, appreciate nature, and most of all have fun! Our camps incorporate outdoor games, nature activities, hikes, stories crafts and more!

“In just one week my son has learned respect for our environment, interesting facts about nature and lots of great camp songs too!” - Parent, 2009

“Such enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and love of nature with the kids! It has been fun and

educational and everything I hoped it would be.” - Parent, 2010

Become a fan of Felix Neck on Facebook! www.facebook.com/MassAudubonFelixNeck

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INVESTIGATORS: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Fee: $195 members, $255 non-members

Four-year olds (must be 4 by the start of child’s camp session): This program encourages a young child’s curiosity, increases sensory awareness, and provides an introduction to nature. Exciting adventures may include catching bugs, touching a turtle, making animal crafts, and much more! Classes are half day, with a snack brought from home. Fee includes camp photo and patch. Camper to camp instructor ratio is 5:1.

Try Camp for a Day! June 20 - 24

Kick off the Summer with Camp for a Day: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm

For ages 5 to 10

Fee: $55/day members, $70/day non-members Monday, June 20 Pondemonium Tuesday, June 21: Clam Grand Slam Wednesday, June 22: Insects Buzz Thursday, June 23: Crazy Crabs Friday, June 24: Mammal Mania

Discount price for the whole week: $225 members, $300 non-members

June 27 - July 1 (INV 1): Feathered Friends What makes a bird a bird and how do they fly? Campers investigate our feathered friends through stories, crafts, and nature explorations.

July 4 - July 8 (INV 2): Splish Splash There will be a splishin’ and a splashin’ all along Elizabeth’s and Sengekontacket Ponds as campers ex-plore the fresh and saltwater pond habitats of Felix Neck. Campers will discover what animals and plants call these ponds home. July 11 - 15 (INV 3): Colors in Nature How many colors can you find in nature? Catch a green frog, discover the purple wampum inside a quahog shell, watch a black cormorant fly over the pond, and explore the many plants and animals that are native to Martha’s Vineyard. Please see descriptions above for the following sessions: August 15 - 19 (INV 4): Feathered Friends August 22 - 26 (INV 5): Colors in Nature August 29 - September 2 (INV 6): Splish Splash

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PATHFINDERS: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Fee: $275 members, $335 non-members

Entering K and 1st grades (Ages 5 & 6): The Pathfinders program balances play, art, sensory exploration, and hands-on activities about animals. Days include crafts, hikes, exploring with nets, nature games, stories, and snack and lunch brought from home. Fee includes camp photo and patch. Camper to camp instructor ratio is 5:1.

PATHFINDERS (1/2 Day Option): 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Fee: $195 members, $255 non-members

Entering K and 1st grades (Ages 5 & 6): The Pathfinders program balances play, art, sensory exploration, and hands-on activities about animals. Days include crafts, hikes, exploring with nets, nature games, stories, and snack brought from home. Fee includes camp photo and patch. Camper to camp instructor ratio is 5:1.

Please see descriptions above.

June 27 - July 1 (PATH A): Bugs, Slugs and Beyond

July 4 - 8 (PATH B): Wet and Wild

July 11 - 15 (PATH C): Mammal Mania

July 18 - 22 (PATH D): Predator and Prey

July 25 - 29 (PATH E): Things with Wings

August 1 - 5 (PATH F): Underwater Homes

August 8 - 12 (PATH G): Nature Detectives

August 15 - 19 (PATH H): Migration Madness

August 22 - 26 (PATH I): Bugs, Slugs and Beyond

August 29 - September 2 (PATH J): Wet and Wild

June 27 - July 1 (PATH 1): Bugs, Slugs and Beyond From spiders and salamanders to slugs and squid, discover the slimy and creepy crawly side of Felix Neck. Campers in this session may participate in the Edgartown 4th of July parade on Monday, July 4th.

July 4 - 8 (PATH 2): Wet and Wild Discover the ins and outs of Felix Neck’s water habitats. While splashing around in our salt and fresh water ponds, campers take a look at the plants and wildlife within them.

July 11 - 15 (PATH 3): Mammal Mania Even though an otter swims, find out why it is a mammal and not a fish! Discover the differences between mammals and other animals, and which mammals call Martha’s Vineyard their home.

July 18 - 22 (PATH 4): Predator and Prey Lady crabs, osprey and turtles all use cunning strategies to catch their meals. Discover the adaptations that make predators great hunters and how their prey defend themselves.

July 25 - 29 (PATH 5): Things with Wings Hummingbirds hum, hawks soar, and dragonflies zip through the summer sky. Animals that fly are fun and exciting to investigate. Campers use nets and bug boxes to discover for themselves what makes these animals fly so high!

August 1 - 5 (PATH 6): Underwater Homes Pipefish live in eelgrass, clams bury in the sand and snapping turtles love the muck on the bottom of the pond! This session focuses on the animals that make their homes in the waters of Felix Neck. August 8 - 12 (PATH 7): Nature Detectives Learn to be a super nature sleuth - track animals, go on scavenger hunts, look for nests, hunt for crabs and more!

August 15 - 19 (PATH 8): Migration Madness Every fall, butterflies, birds and humans alike leave Martha’s Vineyard. Find out why they leave and how they find their way while discovering the adaptations that allow some species to stay on the island all year!

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EXPLORERS: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Fee: $275 members, $335 non-members

Entering 2nd and 3rd grades (Ages 7 & 8): Explore the wildlife and habitats of the sanctuary. Each session investigates animals and plants in an interactive way. Campers should bring a snack and lunch from home, shoes and clothes that can get wet, and lots of curiosity! Fee includes camp photo and patch. Camper to camp instructor ratio is 8:1.

June 27 - July 1 (EXP 1): Life Underground It’s a dark and dirty job but someone's got to do it! From clams digging in the sand to salamanders wriggling under logs, we will explore the Felix Neck habitats right under our feet!Campers in this session may participate in the Edgartown 4th of July parade on Monday, July 4th. July 4 - 8 (EXP 2): Ocean in Motion “The tide is high but I’m holding on!” What makes the tide roll in and out, and what’s all that commotion in the ocean? Discover what makes the waters around the island move and which animals and plants live beneath the waves.

July 11 - 15 (EXP 3): Crafty Critters Imagine living your entire life outside. Squirrels, deer, osprey, and otters can all survive, could you? Learn about animal survival techniques and adaptations for surviving in the wild.

July 18 - 22 (EXP 4): Pondemonium Tadpoles, fish, giant water bugs, and water scorpions - which is the fiercest pond predator? Wading around in the salt and freshwater ponds, campers take a closer look at the plants and wildlife found there.

July 25 - 29 (EXP 5): Mammals of Martha’s Vineyard Over fifty mammals call the land and waters of Martha’s Vineyard their home. Island life is unique in many ways for people and for the animals living here. How did all the animals get to the island in the first place? Did they take the ferry?! We’ll take a closer look at the deer, skunk, and rabbit populations of the island. August 1 - 5 (EXP 6): Fish, Frogs, and Pollywogs Fish can be found in both fresh and salt water habitats, but can frogs? And what is a pollywog? By exploring the watery habitats of Felix Neck campers will uncover the answers and find out about the unique life cycles of some of these animals.

August 8 - 12 (EXP 7): Life Underground Please see description above.

August 15 - 19 (EXP 8): Pondemonium Please see description above.

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ADVENTURERS: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Friday pickup at 9 am, no camp on Friday after the overnight.

Fee: $285 members, $345 non-members Entering 4th and 5th grades (Ages 9 & 10): Investigate the natural world while discovering science and environmental stewardship. Explorations include hiking, nature experiments, games, and more. Each session includes a camp-out. Fee includes camp photo and patch. Camper to camp instructor ratio is 8:1

July 18 - 22 (ADV 1): Armored Animals Could you survive in the surf zone? What about a forest where you’re the smallest animal out there? Investigate how the hard body coverings of crabs, snails, insects and turtles help them survive in some of the toughest habitats around! This session includes snorkeling on Sengekontacket Pond and a Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday.

July 25 - 29 (ADV 2): Trailblazers Explore Felix Neck by map and compass as you discover how humans and wildlife have used this land for hundreds of years. Learn about Martha’s Vineyard’s Native people, build a primitive shelter, identify wild edibles and much more! This session includes snorkeling on Sengekontacket Pond and a Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday. August 1 - 5 (ADV 3): Wetland Wonders Marshy, murky and wet places are wonderful areas to look for frogs, herons, and dragonflies. Don’t be a stick in the mud, but be prepared to get stuck in the mud! Muck through marsh, snorkel the pond, search for slimy salamanders and discover the importance of water and wetlands on Martha’s Vineyard. This session includes snorkeling on Sengekonkatcket Pond and a Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday.

August 8 -12 (ADV 4): Rip Roaring Raptors Osprey, Red-tailed Hawks, and Barn Owls are just a few of the raptors that soar above Felix Neck. These birds of prey can cause quite a ruckus as they screech and squawk. Find out the important role they play in the island’s ecosystem. This session includes a trip to the World of Reptiles and Birds and a Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday.

For your child’s happiness and safety: Due to the outdoor and exploratory nature of our camps, campers must be able to move about on uneven terrain. Campers are expected to participate in age appropriate activities, including nature study. Be aware that mosquitoes share the natural habitat at Felix Neck. All campers must follow stated behavior expectations and safety rules. If you have any questions regarding your child’s ability to participate fully in our camp program, please contact the Camp Director. Parents may request copies of background checks, health care, and discipline policies, as well as procedures for filing grievances at any time.

Staff Housing Needed A summer working on Martha’s Vineyard at Felix Neck’s Fern and Feather Natural History Day Camp is an amazing opportunity for the young adults we hire. Summer housing on the island is precious and can be hard to come by. If you are looking to rent out a room or a house from mid-June to mid-August, or if you know someone else who is, please contact us at 508-627-4850.

Camp Staff are chosen for their enthusiasm, experience, knowledge, and ability to work with children outdoors. Staff are First Aid, CPR and/or Lifeguard certified and attend training in safety, child development, and natural history.

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ECOLOGISTS: 9:00 am - 2:30 pm Friday pickup at 9 am, no camp on Friday after the overnight Fee: $305 members, $365 non-members

Entering grades 6th, 7th, & 8th (Ages 11-13): Campers are involved in inquiry-based projects that introduce the methods and techniques that scientists use to study and interpret nature. Programs include snorkeling, kayaking, overnight camp-outs and sometimes off-site field trips. Fee includes camp photo and patch. Camper to camp instructor ratio is 8:1.

July 18 - 22 (ECO 1): Herpetology Happenings Amphibians and reptiles (herps) occupy many of the habitats at Felix Neck from pond to woodland. Survey our salamander population, search for snakes, catch frogs and more as you learn what’s happening in the world of herps! This week includes snorkeling and kayak excursions on Sengekontacket Pond and a Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday.

CAMP STAFF POSITIONS: Junior Counselors (ages 16+) & Environmental Educator/Counselors (ages 18+)

Every year we hire enthusiastic people who want to enrich the lives of children through hands-on nature activities, games, and crafts. Have fun exploring our trails and various habitats and be mentored by our year round staff. Instructors supervise campers’ health and safety, promote positive youth development, teach nature-based activities and communicate with parents as well as staff. Applicants for Environmental Educator/Counselor positions must be at least 18-years old (Junior Counselors must be at least 16-years old) and have experience working with and enjoy being with children. Preferred applicants are studying or have a degree in a science or education. Lifeguard certification is required for some positions. Current CPR and first aid certifications are required for all positions. Contact Cristina Pereira, Camp Director at 508-627-4850 x 102, cpereira@massaudubon.org for more information.

July 25 - 29 (ECO 2): Into the Wild Humans and wildlife alike have survived on the land and water at Felix Neck for hundreds of years and you can too! Learn survival behaviors and techniques of animals, build a primitive shelter, identify wild edibles, find your way with a map and compass, and discover how you can use the land in a responsible and sustainable way! This week includes snorkeling and kayak excursions on Sengekontacket Pond and a Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday. August 1 - 5 (ECO 3): Water Worlds Water, water all around! Using scientific methods and equipment, campers will learn about the water quality of the fresh and saltwater ponds at Felix Neck and explore the concepts of water cycles and watersheds. This week includes snorkeling and kayaking excursions on Sengekontacket Pond. Thursday night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday.

August 8 - 12 (ECO 4): Flying Machines Look up in the sky! It’s a bird, it’s a butterfly, it’s a dandelion seed! Explore the world of animals and plants that depend on flight for their survival. Learn about insects, birds, mammals, and plants that use the wind for transportation. Campers will look for birds flying overhead as they kayak on Sengekontacket Pond. Includes a trip to the World of Reptiles and Birds Park and a Thurs-day night camp-out, Friday morning pick up at 9am, no camp on Friday.

Love nature and working with kids? Too old for camp but still want to spend your

summer at Felix Neck? We’re looking for YOU!

LEADERS-IN-TRAINING (LIT): Ages 14-18, application required $100 fee per week

LITs assist Counselors in planning and teaching lessons. This is an opportunity for young adults to develop leadership skills, foster personal growth, and develop an environmental ethic to carry throughout their lives. LITs participate for week long sessions, and can participate for multiple weeks.

Contact the Cristina Pereira at 508 627-4850 x 102, cpereira@massaudubon.org for application information.

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Method of Payment: Cash Check Credit Card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover)

# ______________________________________________________ Exp.______

I agree to allow Mass Audubon to charge my account in the amount specified herein and I understand that refunds will only be provided in accordance to the refund policy as stated below. Signature _________________________________________________________

Subtotal Program Fees: $____________

Mass Audubon membership*: $____________

Year-round Vineyard Resident Discount (- $20/ session): $ —_________

Fern & Feather Scholarship Fund Contribution: $5 $10 $15 $20 $25 $50 $100 Other $____________

TOTAL: $____________

Refund Policy: The camp fee includes a $75 enrollment fee that is non-refundable. Full payment is due with registration. Cancellations must be received in writing four weeks prior to your child’s camp session in order to receive a refund (less the $75 enrollment fee). A refund will not be issued if notice is less than four weeks. Refunds are not made for dismissal, failure to attend, absent or sick days. We appreciate your careful registration planning and reserve the right to cancel sessions that do not fill.

Signature: ___________________________________________________ Date: ________________________

If your personal situation is such that you cannot adhere to these payment terms, please speak with our Camp Registrar to arrange a payment plan.

Scholarships are available through the Dooley-Rosenwald Fund, the Ellen Eberhardt Memorial Scholarship Fund, and generous individual contributions. Please contact the Registrar or Camp Director for an application. Contributions are always needed.

Year-round Vineyard Resident Discount: $20 off per session with proof of enrollment in a Martha’s Vineyard school. Please provide a copy of a report card, progress report, or letter from the school with your registration to receive the discount.

Mass Audubon Member # _________________________ Exp. ____________

Membership Levels: $58 Family, $70 Supporter, $80 Family Plus, $100 Contributor, $150 Protector, $250 Sponsor * To qualify for camp tuition discounts you must be a current Mass Audubon member at the $58 Family level or above, and the parent or legal guardian of the camper being enrolled. If you are unsure of your membership status please call Member Services at 781-259-9500, Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

2011 Fern & Feather Registration - One camper per form please Phone: 508-627-4850 Fax: 508-627-6052

Please return registration form with a check payable to Mass Audubon to the address below or fax to 508-627-6052. Registrations also accepted by phone at 508-627-4850. For identity safety assurances email submissions are not accepted.

Fern & Feather Camp, Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, P.O. Box 494, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

Camper’s name _______________________________________ Birth date _____________ Sex M / F Grade entering Sept. ‘11______

Parent/Guardian _______________________________________ Email address _______________________________________ Mailing Address ________________________________________ Home phone _______________________________________ ________________________________________ Cell phone ________________________________________ Island Address _________________________________________ Island phone _______________________________________ How did you hear about us? Online: Newspaper Word of Mouth Other: *

Dates Session (e.g. PATH 4) Weekly Camp Fee

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FELIX NECK’S FERN & FEATHER DAY CAMP 2011 BROCHURE

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary P.O. Box 494 Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE

PAID OAK BLUFFS, MA

PERMIT NO. 8

Directions: Felix Neck is located on the Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road approximately two miles from the Edgartown triangle intersection of Beach Road in Edgartown and four miles from State Road in Vineyard Haven. Look for a blue and white sign with the Mass Audubon logo. Follow the wooded drive 3/4 of a mile to the parking lot.

This camp complies with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and is licensed by the Edgartown Board of Health.

Mass Audubon works to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife. Together with more than 100,000 members, we care for 34,000 acres of conservation land, provide educational programs for 225,000 children and adults annually, and advocate for sound environmental policies at local, state, and federal levels. Mass Audubon's mission and actions have expanded since our beginning in 1896 when our founders set out to stop the slaughter of birds for use on women's fashions. Today we are the largest conservation organization in New England. Our statewide network of wildlife sanctuaries, in 90 Massachusetts communities, welcomes visitors of all ages and serves as the base for our work. To support these important efforts, call 800-AUDUBON (283-8266) or visit www.massaudubon.org.

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