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North Shore Wildlife Sanctuaries Map and Contact Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

Notes & Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary Programs

Adult . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

Children, Families, & All Ages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-18

Joppa Flats Education Center Programs

Adult . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-26

Children, Families, & All Ages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-30

Trips and Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31-34

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Registration Procedures & Policy Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Registration Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

Marketing Department Mass Audubon 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773 781-259-2135 marketing@massaudubon .org

Cover photos: Eastern Chipmunk—Richard Johnson©

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary—Richard Johnson©

Averills Island—Jeanne Li©

Barred Owl—Dave Larson©

Back cover photo: Red Admiral—Scott Santino©

Ipswich River Preschool Logo: Victor Atkins©

Winterberry Artwork, page 29—Abbie Ormord©

Printing: DS Graphics

Funding provided in part by:

Register Online! You can register for many of Mass Audubon’s programs online . See page 36 for details.

Put down your football and pick up your binoculars

for the

Titans of the Birding World Clash on

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 20175 am - 7 pm

Join us with your team of four to seven birders and competeto find bird species in Essex County, Massachusetts,

and Rockingham County, New Hampshire.

See page 25 for details!

of birding xiv

Open to families

with children ages 4 to 10

Friday, October 21 & Saturday, October 22

At sundown this Halloween season, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary will be transformed into a magical forest . Join us for a guided walk along

our Halloween trail, home to some interesting creatures that come out just for Halloween .

See page 14 for details!

N o t e s & A n n o u n c e m e n t s F r o m I p s w i c h R i v e r

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Members-Only OpportunitiesMembers can rent the small cabin called the Innermost House for $45 per night, year-round . We also have a primitive camping area on Perkins Island, accessible by canoe, open May 1-October 31 . Please call for reservation information . Members may rent canoes to take out on the Ipswich River for $10 per hour (minimum 2 hours) May 1-October 31 . Canoes cannot be reserved, but feel free to call ahead for information on availability . For details, visit our website or call the sanctuary .

Wish ListYour donations mean so much! We can use the following items or donations toward their purchase:

• Wirelessmicrophone($200)

• Electronicdefibrillator($2,000)

• LCDprojector($700)

• WidescreenTV($300)

• Bobcattrailutilityvehicle

Stay in Touch with Ipswich River

Visit Our Website

Gotomassaudubon.org/ipswichriverandfindallofourprogram listings plus our school, scout, day camp, and birthday party brochures; sanctuary bird checklist; and much more .

Subscribe to Ipswich River Meanderings

Stay up-to-date on sanctuary happenings by subscribing to our monthly e-newsletter, Ipswich River Meanderings.We will not share your email address . Please visit massaudubon .org/ipswichriver to subscribe .

Bird-a-thon ReportThankyoutoallwhosupportedandparticipatedinourspringBird-a-thon.TeamIpswichRiverrecorded223species in the 24-hour event—six higher than last year! Even more important for the sanctuary is the $17,667 raised to support our conservation and education programs . Thisiscriticalfundingforus,andaspecialthankyougoesout to our highest fundraisers: Jean Bruns, Fran Perler, Ava Steenstrup, Ida Giriunas, Linda Pivacek, and Mike Baird . Our enthusiastic teen group did some impressive birding as well as fundraising, and we welcomed our Ipswich River Nature Preschool sub-team, who raised money to support needed scholarships .

We are looking to increase our fundraising efforts in 2017, and if you are interested in helping lead this endeavor we could sure use your help! Please contact Carol Decker at cdecker@massaudubon .org for more information .

Volunteer OpportunitiesFor information on volunteer opportunities, please contact our volunteer coordinator, Sue Baeslack, at 978-887-9264, ext . 7707, or sbaeslack@massaudubon .org . Minimum age for volunteers is 14 . Detailed descriptions can be found on our website: massaudubon .org/volunteer . We are currently seeking volunteers for the following:

Halloween Happenings (October 21 and 22): Bake cupcakes, carve pumpkins, decorate the barn, guide groups, serve refreshments, supervise kids’ activities, or play the part of an animal character . Please apply by October 1 .

Big Woods Hike (November 20): Bake desserts, make soup, serve food, park cars, or lead 2-hour hikes that highlight the natural and cultural history of the sanctuary .

Parties and RentalsWith 12 miles of trails and canoeing on the Ipswich River, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal location for business meetings, staff retreats, company picnics, or family get-togethers . Our experienced staff can provide dynamic and engaging programs . We have two attractive meeting spaces to accommodate your group’s needs . For more information, please call our officeorvisitourwebsite.

facebook.com/MassAudubonIpswichRiver

http://www.massaudubon.org/ipswichriver


http://massaudubon.org/volunteer

http://facebook.com/MassAudubonIpswichRiver

W i l d l i f e S a n c t u a r y , To p s f i e l d

S e p t e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 6 I p s w i c h R i v e r

This year, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary turns 65 years old. Thanks to the foresight of many people, the estate of Thomas Emerson Proctor was purchased by Mass Audubon in 1951 and saved from the house lots that would have been spread throughout this glorious land. Originally called the Proctor Wildlife Sanctuary and Annie H. Brown Reservation, the name was ultimately shortened to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. The gesture to Annie Brown was due to a reinvestment of the monies originally received from a bequest by her. Education and conservation became key components of the sanctuary, which continues to this day. Over the years, our education staff has provided thousands of environmental education programs to students from pre-K through high school, nurturing an appreciation for and an understanding of the natural world. As natural areas in our nearby communities disappear to development, we must continue to educate, connect, and inform to ensure that animals and their habitats are truly protected.

The summer’s warm temperatures are slowly disappearing with fall’s cooler nights, and the trees throughout the sanctuary will begin to change into brilliant color. Take a walk on the Drumlin Trail west of the Bunker Meadows Trail intersection to view Thomas Proctor’s planted Japanese maples, which display vibrant hues of reds and yellows. Stroll the boardwalks through lush wetlands to view ducks and herons, or maybe catch a glimpse of a river otter or beaver. The wood ducks will begin returning to Bunker Meadows, and one can usually spot them in early morning before they fly off to other feeding areas in the Great Wenham Swamp. Look for them with ring-necked ducks that also feed and rest in Bunker Meadows. Enjoy a paddle through the rich silver maple floodplain forest or join one of our naturalists on a fall evening paddle. We have so much to be thankful for that those before us worked to save this precious land.

We hope to see you at the sanctuary.

Carol Decker, Sanctuary Director

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Annisquam River PaddleSaturday, September 10 / 9:30 am-2:30 pmLeaders: Carol Decker, Sanctuary Director, and Kayaking Guides from Essex River Basin Adventures$87 members, $103 nonmembers

Paddle the tidal Annisquam River in Gloucester and enjoy the late summer golds, reds, and soft patina of the river’s salt marshes.Thisisaplacetodiscoversandpipersandploversresting or feeding along the banks on their southbound migration, or herons and egrets rising from the tidal grasses . Hawks and falcons will be in migration, and we will keep an eye skyward for red-tailed hawks, peregrine falcons, and merlins . Our kayaking adventure begins in the middle of the Annisquam River, and we will ride the tide out past Wingaersheek Beach and along the coast to the top of CraneBeach.Thenwe’llridethetideonceagainaswepaddle home into the Essex River Basin .

Meets in Essex. Participants should have some ocean kayaking experience. All equipment, plus transportation from Essex to the put-in site, will be provided. Double kayaks are available for those with limited kayaking experience. A confirmation with directions and information on what to bring will be sent.

The Natural History of ButterfliesSaturday, September 10 / 1:30-3:30 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$14 members, $16 nonmembers

Late summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the beautiful colorsandsoundsofafallfield,andtheflutteringwingsofbutterfliesastheydancefromflowertoflower.Thisprogramwill begin with a brief indoor presentation highlighting the fivefamiliesofbutterfliesandidentificationtechniques.Thenwe’llventureintothesanctuaryfieldstolookfor butterflies including monarchs, swallowtails, skippers, whites, and more .

Meets in the Barn.

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preregistration required for all programs 978-887-9264 Ipswich River 5

Fall Migrant Birds of Plum IslandSunday, September 11 / 7:00-11:00 am Sunday, November 6 / 7:00-11:00 amLeaders: Warren Tatro and Chris Sullivan, Birder-Naturalistsper trip $17 members, $20 nonmembers

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island attractsanamazingvarietyofmigratingbirds.Thelowshrubby vegetation offers land birds feeding opportunities and a resting place protected from the elements, while the ponds and marshes attract shorebirds, waterfowl, herons, andmore.Learntoidentifyspeciesbyfieldmarks,behavior,vocalizations, and the habitats they prefer . We’ll travel the length of the island, stopping frequently to get out and scan the marshes, freshwater impoundments, sand dunes, and ocean for birds . Short strolls along boardwalks and views from two observation towers should yield an interesting assortment of birds . Birders of all skill levels are welcome, but beginners are especially encouraged to attend .

Meets in the parking lot of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge headquarters in Newburyport. We’ll travel by van from there. Directions will be sent. Bring binoculars and a field guide to birds, and dress for the weather.

Landscaping with Native Trees and Shrubs Saturday, September 17 / 9:00-11:00 amLeader: Catherine Carney-Feldman, Accredited Organic Land Care Professional, Landscape Designer, and Educator $20 members, $24 nonmembers

Fall is the best time to plant or transplant trees and shrubs, so come learn the basic techniques of planting, and the importance of landscaping with native plants to provide food and shelter for wildlife . We’ll provide take-home handouts listing trees and shrubs that help sustain our native insects, bees, butterflies, and birds, as well as a list of deer-resistant plants .

Meets in the Barn.

Environmental Gardening Thursdays, September 22, 29, October 6, 13, & 20 7:00-9:00 pmLeader: Catherine Carney-Feldman, Accredited Organic Land Care Professional $135 members, $162 nonmembers

Thisfive-sessioncomprehensivecoursewillgiveyouthetools necessary to enrich your garden and landscape using organic principles and indigenous plants to support native wildlife.Throughit,youwillacquireaholisticviewofnaturethat will enable you to make informed and educated decisions aboutgardening,landscaping,andtheenvironment.Topicsinclude everything a beginner to advanced gardener needs to know about selecting plants and designing and implementing a beautiful and environmentally sound garden landscape . ACertificateofEnvironmentalGardeningwillbeawardedto participants who complete the class . We will use Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants, Updated and Expanded(2009),byDouglasW.Tallamyasour“textbook.”

Thiscourseisappropriateforlandscapeprofessionals,homegardeners, students of environmental studies or landscape design, municipal employees, and everyone interested in learning to apply an environmental perspective to their landscape work .

For a detailed program description, please visit our website orcallthesanctuaryoffice.

Meets in the Barn. Please bring a copy of the book to the first class, and visit our website for details on recommended readings prior to the first class.

Butterflies and Dragonflies in WatercolorSaturday, September 24 / 9:00 am-noon Leader: Brenda Sloane, Watercolor Artist and Instructor$30 members, $36 nonmembers

Takeaquickwalkaroundthesanctuarytolocatebutterflies,dragonflies,anddamselflies.ThenreturntotheBarntolearndifferent watercolor painting techniques . Finally, put brush to paper and create watercolors of butterflies, dragonflies, and damselflies . Most are very colorful, so you’re almost guaranteed to end up with a successful painting that’s ready forframing.Thisprogramisappropriateforbeginnersaswellas more advanced artists .

Meets in the Barn. All materials will be provided.

Natural History Tours with Ipswich River Staff Monhegan Island: September 16-18

Block Island: September 23-25

Nantucket Island: January 20-22

Ocean State Birding Weekend: February 4-5

Trinidad: March 25-April 1

California: May 4-11

For program details, please see pages 31-33.

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Edible Wild Mushrooms WorkshopSunday, October 2 / 9:00 am-noonLeader: Erika Sonder, Field Biologist, Naturalist, and Nature Artist$30 members, $36 nonmembers

Learn how to identify a few of the most common edible wild mushrooms and get ideas on how to prepare and cook them . We’ll begin indoors with an introduction to mycology, look at samples, discuss characteristics to differentiate edible mushrooms from the most poisonous ones, and then take awalktofindmushrooms.We’llreturntotheBarnwhereErika will cook up some samples to taste . Although Mass Audubon does not permit collecting on its properties, Erika will discuss similar sites on the North Shore where one may collect .

Meets in the Barn. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Full Moon PaddleThursday, October 13 / 6:00-9:30 pmLeaders: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist, and Angela Walsh, Sanctuary Field Teacher$30 members, $36 nonmembers

Enjoy the beauty of the Ipswich River under the moonlight of the nearly-full Hunter’s Moon by canoe for a truly magical evening . We’ll watch for ducks, herons, and other birds flying by, and bats flitting above the water catching insects . It’s possible that river mammals including beavers, muskrats, or otters might even swim past our boats . Once the sun has set, we will listen for owls and experience the sounds of the nocturnal river habitat . We’ll stop on one of the river islands toenjoyacampfireandsnacks.Thefullmoonwilllightourway on our return paddle to the canoe landing .

Meets in front of the Visitor Center. All equipment will be provided. Participants should have some canoeing experience. A confirmation with a list of what to bring will be sent.

A Morning Paddle on the Ipswich RiverSaturday, October 15 / 9:00 am-noonLeaders: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist, and Angela Walsh, Sanctuary Field Teacher$25 members, $32 nonmembers

Join us for a canoe trip through the unspoiled habitats of the Ipswich River to experience the sights and sounds of a fall morning . At this time of year, we should see flights of wood ducks, herons, and migrating songbirds, and experience the autumn colors of the marshes . We’ll make a midmorning stop at Perkins Island to enjoy some homemade baked goods and coffee . A paddle into the backwaters of the river will reveal life hidden just below the surface as we use sampling equipmenttodiscoveraquaticlife.Thistripwillpassthroughsome of the most beautiful areas on the river .

Meets in front of the Visitor Center. All equipment and basic canoeing instruction will be provided. A confirmation with a list of what to bring will be sent.

Wachusett Mountain Hawk WatchFriday, September 30 / 7:00 am-3:00 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$40 members, $48 nonmembers

Mount Wachusett is the premier fall hawk-watching location in Massachusetts . Rising 2,006 feet, this monadnock offers a 360-degree view from its summit, allowing visitors to see migrating hawks for miles and miles as they drift in a southerly direction . Wachusett Mountain State Reservation is 3,000 acres of mixed habitats, and has 17 miles of hiking trails . We’ll also spend some time searching for migrating songbirds such as warblers, vireos, thrushes, and sparrows .

Meets at Ipswich River for van transportation. Dress for the weather and bring a lunch, water, binoculars, and field guides. We will be hiking uneven woodland trails, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear.

Autumn Herb Wreath WorkshopSaturday, October 1 / 10:00 am-noonLeader: Rebecca Spencer, Sanctuary Field Teacher and Herbalist$25 members, $30 nonmembersMaterials fee: $25

Weave the wonderful autumn colors of the meadow into an herb wreath for your home . As we create our wreaths, the history and healing qualities of the herbs will be discussed . Theinstructorwillprovidematerials.

Meets in the Barn. Please bring scissors and a hot glue gun (if you have one) to the class. Please pay the class fee to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. The materials fee of $25 should be paid to the instructor on the day of the class.

Fall Bird Walks at Ipswich RiverSundays, October 2 & November 137:30-10:30 amLeaders: Warren Tatro and Chris Sullivan, Birder-Naturalists (October 2), Mike Baird, Birder-Naturalist (November 13)per walk $12 members, $14 nonmembers

Join us for a bird walk on the sanctuary this fall and observe the transition of species as some birds migrate south and others prepare to spend the winter here . Explore the sanctuary’swetlands,fields,uplandforest,andriveredges in search of the many bird species attracted to these habitats . We’ll look for late-migrating warblers, vireos, hawks, and waterfowl, lingering summer birds such as tanagers and grosbeaks, and early winter arrivals including white-throated sparrows and juncos . Learn to identify birds in their nonbreeding plumage .

All walks meet in front of the Nature Center. Bring binoculars and a field guide to birds.

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Fusion Basket WorkshopSaturday, October 15 / 9:30 am-4:30 pmLeader: Dianne Stanton, Master Basket Maker$55 members, $65 nonmembersMaterials fee: $58

Thisbasketisa“fusion”ofJapaneseandAmericanmaterials and techniques . Students will begin by weaving a base from preparedblackashspokes.Thesidesofthebasketwillbewoven with dyed Japanese cane in a continuous twill pattern . Thebasketisfinishedwithhardwood“heart”handles,elmbark rims, and Japanese cane for lashing . We will discuss how toworkoutthe“numbers”forcontinuoustwillweaving,preparationofandsourcesformaterials.Thefinishedbasketmeasures9.5"longby5.5"wideby4.5"deep.Thisclassisappropriate for intermediate weavers .

Meets in the Barn. A list of equipment to bring will be sent. Please pay the class fee to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. Bring to class a check for $58 to cover the cost of materials, payable to Dianne Stanton.

Birds in WatercolorSaturday, October 29 / 9:00 am-noon Leader: Brenda Sloane, Watercolor Artist and Instructor$30 members, $36 nonmembers

Come learn how to paint birds with an experienced watercolorartist.Takeashortwalktoobservetheresidentbirds of the sanctuary, and then return to the Barn to use watercolors to paint images of birds in their natural habitats . Learn techniques such as wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, salt, and wax, and how to use plastic wrap to achieve special effects .

Meets in the Barn. All materials will be provided.

Coastal Birding on Cape AnnSaturday, November 5 / 8:00 am-1:00 pmLeaders: Carol Decker, Sanctuary Director, and Ava Steenstrup, BCP, Sanctuary Nature Guide$30 members, $36 nonmembers

Thefallmigrationofseabirdsalongthecoastwillbeunderway,and the Cape Ann area provides outstanding lookouts for viewing . Long lines of cormorants and skeins of scoters and common eiders sweep by the granite cliffs on their passage south . In past years, we have also seen grebes, gannets, harlequin ducks, red-throated loons, kittiwakes, razorbills, and purple sandpipers . We will work our way around Cape Ann, stopping at a number of productive birding spots in Gloucester and Rockport including Gloucester Harbor, Eastern Point, Niles Pond, Halibut Point, and more .

Meets at Endicott Wildlife Sanctuary in Wenham for van transportation and carpooling. Directions will be sent. Van seats are first-come, first-served. Please indicate when you register if you would like a van seat. Bring binoculars, a field guide to birds, snacks, and drinking water. Dress in layers appropriate to the weather.


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The Nature of the SunSaturday, November 5 / 7:30-9:00 pm

Come learn about the nature of this celestial source that gives light and warmth to our world . A PowerPoint presentation featuring stunning imagery of solar prominences, sunspots, and more will be followed by an outdoor stargazing session, weather permitting .

Please see the full program description on page 15.

Landscape CollageSunday, November 6 / 9:00 am-noonLeader: Gloria Vachino, Paper Artist & Art Instructor$30 members, $36 nonmembersMaterials fee: $12

Learn how to create a landscape collage by pasting papers of varying colors, patterns, and textures onto a surface . During the process, you will discover how fragments of handmade papers (provided by the instructor) transform themselves into bushes, reeds, rocks, mountains, trees, and ponds . Each participantwillcreatea5”x7”collagethatcanbemattedand framed, made into a card, or placed in a scrapbook .

Togatherideasandinspiration,wewillfirsttakeashortwalkaround the sanctuary, exploring possibilities for our collages .

Nopriorexperienceorartisticskillsarerequired.The instructor will bring all the necessary materials . Participants are encouraged, but not required, to bring a camera to capture scenes for their collage . If the weather is inclement, magazines and books with an array of nature scenes will be provided for inspiration instead .

Meets in the Barn. Dress for the weather since we will go outside for a portion of the class. Please pay the class fee to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. The materials fee of $12 should be paid to the instructor on the day of the class.

Wintering HawksSaturday, November 12 / 8:00 am-2:00 pmRain date: Sunday, November 13Leader: Paul Roberts, President of the NorthEast Hawk Watch$30 members, $36 nonmembers

November is a great time to see and learn more about spectacular raptors arriving to enjoy our winters, such as the northern harrier, rough-legged hawk, bald eagle, peregrine falcon, short-eared owl, snowy owl, and the rare gyrfalcon . Anything is possible in November! Learn how to identify hawksandowlsbyfieldmarks,size,shape,andbehaviorwithanexpertinthefield.Whetheryouareabeginningbirderor more advanced, this outing will help you increase your knowledgeandfieldidentificationskills.

Meets at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge headquarters in Newburyport. We will form carpools and travel from there. Directions and information on what to bring will be sent.

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Tasty Travel: Guava Cheesecake and TrinidadThursday, November 17 / 7:00-8:00 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$8 members, $10 nonmembers

Join naturalist and Mass Audubon tour leader Scott Santino foraneveningofdessertandstunningphotosofTrinidad’stropical wildlife . After helping yourself to a slice of guava cheesecake and a cup of tea or coffee, sit back and enjoy learningaboutTrinidad’sfloraandfaunaandwhyit’samust-visit destination for nature lovers .

Meets in the Barn.

Birding for BeginnersSaturday, November 19 / 10:00 am-noonLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$14 members, $16 nonmembers

What is the fastest growing outdoor activity in America? It’s birding! According to a survey by the U .S . Fish and Wildlife Service, over 47 million Americans report that they watch birds . Over the next 50 years, birding will grow at a faster rate than the U .S . population . During this workshop, we’ll discuss how tochoosetherightbinocularsandwhattolookforinafieldguide . Next, we’ll head out onto the sanctuary and learn what to look and listen for to help identify these beautiful creatures .

Meets in the Nature Center. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars (we’ll have some loaners on hand as well).

Big Woods HikeSunday, November 202-hour guided hikes go out every 15 minutes from 11:30 am-1:00 pm

Bring your friends and family for a naturalist-guided hike on the sanctuary, and discover the fascinating cultural and natural history of one of Mass Audubon’s largest properties . Rain or shine .

Please see page 15 for full program description.

Ipswich to Salisbury: A Coastal Birding BonanzaFriday, December 2 / 8:00 am-3:00 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$36 members, $43 nonmembers

ThebeautifulcoastlineofEssexCountyhasmanyprime locations to look for winter waterfowl, owls, and late-migrating landbirds.ThisfunoutingwilltakeusfromCraneBeachinIpswich all the way up to Salisbury Beach State Reservation . Along the way we’ll stop to visit coastal ponds, thickets, and scan Newburyport Harbor for loons, grebes, alcids, white-winged gulls, bald eagles, and more .

Meets at Ipswich River for van transportation. A confirmation with directions and information on what to bring will be sent.

Mass Audubon’s Magical Places: Norwood Mills Wildlife SanctuarySaturday, November 12 / 9:00-11:30 am Leader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$16 members, $19 nonmembers

Located on the northeast point of Cape Ann is a little known MassAudubonsanctuarycalledNorwoodMills.This12.5-acrecoastalforestisanaturalcommunitytypeclassifiedbyNaturalHeritage & Endangered Species Program as having limited acreageinMassachusetts.Thesanctuary’slocationmakesitan important feeding and resting area for migratory birds . If time allows we’ll also visit nearby Halibut Point State Park to scan for seabirds .

Meets at Norwood Mills Sanctuary in Rockport. Directions will be sent. A van will depart from Ipswich River at 8:15 am. A limited number of van seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis; please indicate if you would like to reserve a seat when you register. Bring binoculars.

Woven Holiday Ornaments WorkshopSaturday, November 12 / 9:30 am-4:30 pmLeader: Dianne Stanton, Master Basket Maker$55 members, $65 nonmembersMaterials fee: $45

Craftfourspecialornamentsinthisclass!TheAkwesasneStar is made with red and natural black ash spokes and woven with fragrant sweetgrass (students will make two) . Thesecondornamentisasmallwovenblackashbasket.Your tree treasure can be round, square, or rectangular, have a handle, and rimmed in sweetgrass or black ash . Finally, createthefour-inch“CarolinaSnowflake,”madewithreedand suitable for hanging on a door or in a window .

Meets in the Barn. A list of equipment to bring will be sent. Please pay the class fee to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. Bring to class a separate check for $45 to cover the cost of materials, payable to Dianne Stanton.

Tracking Aquatic MammalsSunday, November 13 / 1:00-4:00 pmLeader: Bob Metcalfe, Naturalist with New England Discovery and Maine Guide$25 members, $30 nonmembers

Beavers, muskrats, mink, and river otters inhabit many of the ponds, rivers, and streams of New England . Join us to learn how to identify the tracks and signs left by these fascinating animals . We’ll begin by viewing slides and examining samples ofaquaticmammalsigns.Thenwewillheadoutsidetosearchfor evidence of their presence in our area . You may be surprised at how close they are to human activity!

Meets in the Barn. Some walking will be off-trail, so please dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. Bring snacks and drinking water.


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The Ice Age Geologic History of the Sanctuary and EnvironsSaturday, December 3 / 9:00 am-noonLeader: Fred Surowiec, Sanctuary Field Teacher, Geologist, and Science Teacher$16 members, $19 nonmembers

Learn how millennia of glacial advances and retreats created the landforms and topography of the sanctuary and New England . A PowerPoint presentation will be followed by a hike on the sanctuary to see and identify various distinctive glacial landforms such as drumlins, eskers, kames, and more . Examine their characteristics and learn how they continue to influence the living world today

Meets in the Barn. Dress for a hike since we will be out for about an hour.

Fascinating Feathers Saturday, December 3 / 1:00-3:30 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$16 members, $19 nonmembers

Have you ever picked up a feather from the ground and wondered what kind of bird it comes from or what type of feather it is? Discover the answers to these questions and more through a hands-on introduction to bird feathers . Togetherwe’lldiscussmolt,pigmentation,anddifferentfeather types and function . Following an indoor classroom lesson, we’ll walk the sanctuary looking for birds that winter hereandseeifwecanfindafewfeathersontheground.

Meets in the Barn. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars if you have them (we will have some loaners on hand as well).

Early Winter Birds of Ipswich River Wildlife SanctuarySunday, December 4 / 8:00-11:00 amLeaders: Warren Tatro and Chris Sullivan, Birder-Naturalists$12 members, $14 nonmembers

Takesomequiettimebeforetheholidayrushbeginstoenjoyan early-morning bird walk on the sanctuary . Birds we may see include great horned owls, red-tailed hawks, pileated woodpeckers,cedarwaxwings,andmore.There’salways thepossibilityofwinterfinches,saw-whetowls,andothernorthern visitors, as well . If the freshwater marshes and ponds are still open, we’ll stop to scan for wintering ducks and lingering herons .

Meets in front of the Nature Center. Bring binoculars and a field guide to birds, and dress for the weather.

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b i r d sBaby Birds: An Artist Looks into the Nest Friday, December 9 / 7:45-9:00 pm Cosponsors: Peabody Essex Museum (PEM)and the Essex County Ornithological Club (ECOC)Speaker: Julie Zickefoose, Author, Artist, and NaturalistFree for members and nonmembers

We are excited to join with PEM and ECOC to bring Julie Zickefoose to PEM to share her fascinating glimpses into the lives of developing baby songbirds . In 2002, Julie began to draw and paint wild nestlings day-by-day, bearing witness to their swift growth . Over the next 13 years, she documented these developments in 17 bird species . More than 400 of these life-sized studies wriggle and hop across the pages of her latest book, Baby Birds: An Artist Looks into the Nest . Peek into the nest with Zickefoose as she shares her ground-breaking work and intimate knowledge of these species through images, videos, and colorful anecdotes . A book-signing follows .

Meets in the Morse Auditorium of the Peabody Essex Museum. A brief business meeting of the ECOC is held from 7:30-7:45 pm. The program will follow immediately after the meeting. Advance registration is not required.

Cold Moon HikeWednesday, December 14 / 7:00-9:00 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$14 members, $16 nonmembers

Welcome winter on this brisk adventure as we hike one of Mass Audubon’s largest wildlife sanctuaries under the calm light of the December full moon, known as the Cold Moon . We’llhikethroughforest,field,andwetlandhabitatswhilelooking and listening for owls, coyotes, beavers, and other nocturnal wildlife .

Meets in the Barn. Please dress warmly.

Introduction to Tracking MammalsSaturday, December 17 / 1:00-4:00 pmLeader: Scott Santino, Teacher-Naturalist$16 members, $19 nonmembers

Before the domestication of animals, people had to hunt wild animalsforfoodandfur.Theskilloftrackinganimalseffectivelyonce ensured our survival, but now it is a lost art . Join sanctuary naturalist Scott Santino, a tracking enthusiast, to learn the basics of tracking local mammals . We’ll talk about the life histories of mammals native to Massachusetts including rodents, carnivores, hoofed animals, and lagomorphs . Following the indoor introduction, we’ll hike the sanctuary to search for tracks,chews,andscat.Trackingisafunandexcitingskillthat will make your winter walks more enjoyable .

Meets in the Barn. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

t e e n sTEEN PROGRAMS


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children, families, & all ages

Map and Compass Treasure HuntSaturday, September 10 / 10:00-11:30 amOpen to families with children 7 years and olderLeader: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinatoradults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Join us for a map and compass guided treasure hunt around the sanctuary . Bring your own compass or use one of ours, andlearntofindnorth,orientyourself,countpaces,andusethemapandcompasstofindyourway.Aftersomebasics,we’ll hit the trails and use the new skills learned to search for some hidden natural treasures . No experience necessary . Thisprogramisagoodintroductiontoorienteering.

Meets in the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather and bring a compass if you have one (we will have some to lend as well).

Family Campout: River Camping Saturday, September 10 / 4:30 pm to Sunday, September 11 / 9:00 amRain date: Saturday, September 17 to Sunday, September 18Open to families with children 4 years and olderLeaders: Angela Walsh, Sanctuary Field Teacher, and Cheri Corrado, Sanctuary Nature Guideadults $25 members, $30 nonmemberschildren $22 members, $26 nonmembers

Explore the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary after hours and join us for a night of camping under the stars . Have an early dinner at home, and then come with your family and yourtent,andpreparetohavefun.Thiscampoutwillfocuson the Ipswich River . We will start the evening by setting up our tents at the top of the hill, and then head down to the river for an evening canoe trip . We’ll look and listen for otters, beavers, muskrats, and owls . After we return, we’ll cookups’moresaroundthefirepitandplaygames.Thenit’soff to bed so we can wake up for an early-morning breakfast (provided) . Afterwards, we will paddle downstream to look for turtles, frogs, herons, and creatures that live above and below the water’s surface . Basic canoeing instruction will be provided, along with all equipment .

A confirmation with a list of equipment to bring will be sent. The campout will only be rescheduled in the event of extreme weather. Please review our rain policy on page 36.

Teen Conservation ClubSaturdays: September 10, October 15, November 19, & January 7 / 2:00-4:30 pm Field trip: Saturday, September 17 9:00 am-3:00 pmOpen to teens ages 14 to 18Leader: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinator$95 members, $114 nonmembers

Meetings will be held one Saturday a month during the fall and winter in this popular club for teens . Interesting hikes, natural history topics to explore, and real data-collection opportunities will all be based on your input and interests . Get involved with the behind-the-scenes conservation work that happens on the sanctuary and within Mass Audubon . Connect with local organizations to learn more about environmental issues in our communities and how you can make a real difference . Play games and do fun activities with other local teens who are passionate about nature, science, and taking care of our world . Oh, and snacks are included!

Meets in the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather. For more information email Cori Brauer at [email protected]. Once you are signed up, you will be contacted with more information about the meetings.

Teen Wildwood WeekendSaturday, October 1 / 10:00 am to Sunday, October 2 / 3:00 pmOpen to teens ages 14 to 18Leader: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinator$150 members, $175 nonmembers

CallingallpastandpresentCITs,TeenConservationClub members, and teen volunteers! We invite you to a teen weekend at Wildwood Camp in Rindge, NH . Teenstaff,volunteers,andclubmembersfromalltheMass Audubon sanctuaries will be there to relax by the shores of Hubbard Pond, enjoy some outdoor activities, hike to great views, and just have fun with other Mass Audubon teens and staff . Activities will include:• Swimming• Canoeing&Kayaking• RopesCourses• Hiking• Stargazing• Birding• Campfirewiths’morescontest• andmore!

All meals are included. For more information email Cori Brauer at [email protected].


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Fours and Fives in FallTuesdays: September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 11, & 18 / 9:30-11:00 am

Fridays: September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, & 21 / 9:30-11:00 amOpen to families with children ages 4 and 5 6 sessions per class; choose Tuesdays or FridaysLeaders: Rita Gallant, Lead Field Teacher (Tuesdays); Edie Ventimiglia, Sanctuary Field Teacher (Fridays)$90 members, $108 nonmembers per adult/child pair

Joinsanctuaryfieldteachersforthissix-sessionseriesandexplore the wonders of fall as it unfolds throughout the sanctuary . Each session includes a story, a themed activity, and plenty of time spent outdoors learning about nature . Each participant will receive a journal .

Flights of Fancy: September 13 & 16

Discoverhowwingedcreaturestakeflight.Takeacloserlookat dragonflies and damselflies, birds, bees, and even how flying squirrels get around .

Insects and Spiders: September 20 & 23

Use hand lenses to observe these very busy creatures in their habitats . How many legs do spiders and insects have?

Mammal Scavenger Hunt: September 27 & 30

We know many mammals live on the sanctuary, but we can’t always see them . Let’s put our tracking skills to the test and try to locate them on a scavenger hunt by the tracks, scat, and chews that they have left behind .

Welcome, Fall! October 4 & 7

Fall can be just as colorful as spring . We’ll go on an autumn leaf walk to observe how trees are preparing for winter and how many types, sizes, and textures of leaves there are . We’ll make leaf rubbings from fallen leaves on our return .

Owls: October 11 & 14

We’ll go on an owl prowl to look for whitewash and pellets to discover where owls have been . We could be lucky enough to spot an owl roosting or flying around for a daytime snack . We’ll even make our own edible owl pellets . Yum, yum!

October Magic: October 18 & 21

It’s almost Halloween, so come in your costume and explore the hidden places of the sanctuary . Finish up your nature journals and take them home to share with your family the exciting things you observed at the sanctuary . We’ll end with a small party with treats .

Meets in the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather since we will be outside most of the time. Limited to 8 adult/child pairs.

Early Fall Terrific ToddlersWednesdays: September 14, 21, 28, October 5 & 12 9:30-11:00 am

Thursdays: September 15, 22, 29, October 6 & 13 9:30-11:00 amOpen to families with children ages 2 and 3 5 sessions per class; choose Wednesdays or ThursdaysLeaders: Annette Swain, Sanctuary Field Teacher (Wednesdays); Rita Gallant, Lead Field Teacher (Thursdays) $75 members, $90 nonmembers per adult/child pair

Thisseriesintroducestoddlerstothedelightsofnature at a hands-on level in an unhurried atmosphere . Each session includes an introduction indoors, before going outside for a hike, stopping to discover nature’s treasures along the way .

Insects and Spiders: September 14 & 15

Theinsectandspiderworldisfunandfascinating.Usingsweep nets and bug boxes, we’ll learn about our busiest neighbors.Thenwe’llreturntotheNatureCenterforabuggy craft activity .

Fabulous Flowers: September 21 & 22

Become a plant detective and explore the gardens and fieldsofthesanctuary.Toddlerswilltakeaclose-uplook at the many colors and shapes of our native fall flowers .

Busy Beavers: September 28 & 29

Takeawalktothewetlandstoseeabeaverlodge,dam,beaver chews, and scent mounds . As a group, we will build a beaver lodge .

Chipmunks and Squirrels: October 5 & 6

Learn about chipmunks and squirrels and discover how they are similar and how they are different . We’ll take a walk to lookfortheirhomesandfindevidenceofwhattheyhavebeen eating .

Terrific Trees: October 12 & 13

What does tree bark feel like? Using our senses, we will compare the parts of a tree, collect leaves, and see how manydifferentcolorswecanfind.



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Backpack BabiesFridays: September 16, 23, 30, & October 7 9:30-10:45 amOpen to families with children ages 1 month to 23 monthsLeader: Sharon Grimes, Founder of Babies and Books$48 members, $60 nonmembers per adult/child pair

Bring your backpack or jogging stroller and explore the meadows, forests, and wetlands with your baby in this four-session series . Each class will begin indoors with a nature book and a few lap rhymes, songs, and games about thethemeoftheday.Thentakeacloserlookatseeds and leaves, spiders, salamanders, squirrels, chipmunks, butterflies, and more as we hike along the sanctuary trails .

Meets in the Barn. Limited to 9 adult/child pairs. Please dress for the weather since we will be outside for a portion of each class.

Monarch MagicSaturday, September 17 / 1:30-3:00 pmOpen to families with children 4 years and olderLeader: Karen First, Ipswich River Nature Preschool Directoradults $8 members, $10 nonmemberschildren $7 members, $8 nonmembers

Adiós, mariposas! Join us at the sanctuary to discover the amazing journey of the monarch butterfly to Mexico . Learn about the monarch life cycle and the challenges facing its habitat . Find out more about butterfly gardening and create a paper butterfly that will spend the winter with children who live near the monarch sanctuaries in the mountains of Michoacán, Mexico . We will then work together as citizen scientists to tag and release several monarchs to start their journey south .

Meets in the Barn.

Sense of Wonder WalksSundays: September 18, October 16, November 6, & December 4 / 1:30-3:00 pmOpen to families with children 3 years and olderLeader: Rita Gallant, Lead Field Teacherper walk adults $7 members, $9 nonmembersper walk children $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Each outing will begin with a short introduction indoors, before going outside for a walk . General topics for each walk are listed below, but we’ll stop and investigate anything that crosses our path . Join us for one or more!

Food Webs of the Meadow: September 18

Meadows are alive with plants and insects . Most of these animals take cover in the plants on which they feed, but predators thrive . Explore the sanctuary’s marvelous meadows and learn about the eating habits of the neighborhood creatures .

Food Webs in the Pond: October 16

Thoughtheyaresmall,pondsareknownfortheirrich variety of plant and animal life . Come explore Waterfowl Pond for a close-up look at a place where hundreds of hungry creatures are always on the hunt . Using nets and other collecting equipment, dip into the water, sweep through the weeds, and scoop up some mud to discover the creatures that live there . Wear boots if you have them .

Food Webs of the Stream: November 6

Running water is important to many plants and animals . Explore a stream from top to bottom and side to side, turning over rocks and netting water creatures . Find out where this water comes from and where it’s going . Wear boots if you have them .

Food Webs of the Forest: December 4

Walk with us through the forest to see how the changing season affects animals, trees, and plants . Examine tree holes andlookforanimalsintheleaves.Whateverwefind,wewillexplore, but we’ll focus on what is eating and being eaten in the woods .

Meets in the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather since we will be outside most of the time.


Discovering Nature through Story, Music and Art Thursdays: September 22, 29, & October 6 1:00-2:30 pm Open to families with children ages 4 to 6Leader: Kathy Dunfee, Sanctuary Field Teacher$38 members, $45 nonmembers per adult/child pair

In this three-session series, discover the wonder and beauty of leaves, wildflowers, acorns, moss, and other treasures . Each week we’ll follow paths to secret places and explore the delightful woodland creatures, sights, scents, and sounds of autumn along the way . Combining nature, story, music, and art offers a gateway to enchantment and creativity while laying a foundation for science .

Creating Woodland Creatures: September 22

Usingthe“treasures”wediscoveronournaturewalk,wewill create woodland creatures that come to life with just abitofimaginationandcreativity.Theyneedshelterfrom the wind and rain, a soft floor, a place to sleep, morsels to eat, raindrops to drink, beauty to look at, and magical music andstories.Thissetsthestageforcreatingfairy/gnomehomes for them next time .

Creating Woodland Villages: September 29

Creating fairy houses and gnome homes gives us an appreciation for the little things in nature . Let’s use our imagination to create things out of nature and discover more of its secrets along the way .

Creating “Take-Home” Fairy Houses & Gnome Homes: October 6

Explore your back yard each week prior to this class to collect treasures that will be used to create a woodland creature home, to take home (additional materials will be provided) . Homes will be designed to keep our woodland creatures cozy and warm, preparing them for their long winter’snap.Thesekeepsakeswillbringthestoriesoffall and beauty of nature, creativity, and imagination back home .

Meets in the Nature Center. Dress for the weather.

Wee Ones PaddleSunday, September 25 / 1:00-3:00 pmOpen to families with children ages 4 to 6Leaders: Angela Walsh, Sanctuary Field Teacher, and Cheri Corrado, Sanctuary Nature Guideadults $16 members, $18 nonmemberschildren $14 members, $16 nonmembers

TheIpswichRiveristheperfectplacetostartyourchildrencanoeing . Pair up with two adults and two children per canoe and take a leisurely paddle up the river . We’ll stop off in one of the backwater areas and do some dipping in the river to observe the creatures under the surface up close . On our return, we will enjoy a snack at the picnic tables by the Nature Center and talk about what we discovered . Bring a blanket and we’ll provide a sweet treat .

Meets in front of the Visitor Center. Basic instruction and all equipment will be provided. A confirmation will be sent.


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Trail Blazing TrekSaturday, October 1 / 1:30-3:00 pmOpen to families with children 6 years and olderLeader: Stephanie Majeau, Assistant Education Coordinatoradults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Looking to get off the beaten path and take “the one less traveledby?”Haven’tyethikedall12milesofoursanctuary’sinterconnected trails? Have a yearning to explore places like Hassocky Meadow or White Pine Loop? Come with us as we trek some of the sanctuary’s less frequented trails to discover new sights and sounds found in these spectacular habitats .

Meets in the Nature Center. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

Fall Colors PaddleSaturday, October 8 / 1:00-3:00 pmOpen to families with children 6 years and olderLeader: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinatoradults $16 members, $18 nonmemberschildren $14 members, $16 nonmembers

Early October is an excellent time to take in the spectacular colorsalongtheIpswichRiver.Theriversidesilvermapleswillbe showing off their yellow-gold, while the cattails and other marsh grasses will provide beautiful greens and browns, all set against the winding blues and blacks of the river . Join us for a few hours as we explore this pristine habitat via a gentle paddle in canoes . With a little luck, we might encounter a beaver, otter, or muskrat!

Meets in front of the Visitor Center. All equipment and basic canoeing instruction will be provided. A confirmation with a list of what to bring will be sent.

The Great Duck MigrationSaturday, October 15 / 5:30-7:00 pmOpen to families with children 5 years and olderLeaders: Mary Ann DeSisto and Ava Steenstrup, BCP, Sanctuary Nature Guidesadults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

During the autumn months, thousands of migratory waterfowl fly directly over the sanctuary as they travel from their summer breeding grounds in the north to their winter homes in the south . Each night, hundreds of ducks drop into Bunker Meadows to rest and refuel for their journey . We will hike to Bunker Meadows and climb the observation tower to observethemagnificentspectacleofduckscomingintoroost . Learn to identify different species, use counters to keep track of numbers, hear the sounds of ducks settling in for the night, and perhaps the call of a great horned owl acrossthemarsh.Thisisaneveningnottobemissed.

Meets in the Nature Center. Dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear.


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Late Fall Terrific ToddlersWednesdays: October 26, November 2, 9, & 16, 9:30-11:00 am

Thursdays: October 27, November 3, 10, & 17 9:30-11:00 amOpen to families with children ages 2 and 3 4 sessions per class; choose Wednesdays or ThursdaysLeaders: Annette Swain, Sanctuary Field Teacher (Wednesdays); Rita Gallant, Lead Field Teacher (Thursdays) $60 member, $72 nonmember per adult/child pair

Thisfour-sessionseriesintroducestoddlers,accompaniedby a favorite adult, to the natural delights of late autumn as mammals, birds, and even plants prepare for the coming winter . We’ll go out for a hike to look and listen for signs of the seasons .

Life Under a Log: October 26 & 27

What is hiding under the rocks and logs of the sanctuary? Isitacentipede?Isitasalamander?Comefindthehiddentreasures beneath the forest floor .

Seeds are Everywhere: November 2 & 3

Howmanydifferentkindsofseedscanwefind?Somecan fly, some can stick to us, and some act as helicopters . We will examine seeds up close and blow seeds in the wind .

Fairy Houses: November 9 & 10

What would happen if you built a house for the fairies? Chancesarehighthatyouwouldseenature’svisitorsfirst.We will read a story about fairy houses and then venture outside to create our own .

Birds—Who Will Stay and Who Will Go? November 16 & 17

Meet some of the birds that stay in our area all year long and discover where they live and what they eat . Afterwards, make a bird feeder to take home .


Autumn Adventure WalkSaturday, October 29 / 1:30-3:00 pmOpen to families with children 6 years and olderLeader: Stephanie Majeau, Assistant Education Coordinatoradults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Focusyour“peepers”onmorethanjustleavesthisfall ! Autumn is an exciting time of change in nature when both plants and animals get ready for the coming cold . Walk the sanctuary trails while investigating some of the signs of this beautiful season . Learn about the amazing ways that plants and animals prepare themselves for survival and test some of your own skills .

Meets in the Nature Center. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

Halloween HappeningsOpen to familieswith children ages 4 to 10 Friday, October 21, and Saturday, October 22Please choose a date and an arrival time: Friday: 6:00, 6:15, 6:30, 6:45, 7:00, 7:15, or 7:30 pmSaturday: 5:30, 5:45, 6:00, 6:15, 6:30, 6:45, or 7:00 pm Leaders: Sanctuary Staff and Volunteersadults $9 members, $10 nonmemberschildren $9 members, $10 nonmembers

At sundown this Halloween season, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary will be transformed into a magical forest . Join us for a guided walk along our Halloween trail, home to some interesting creatures that come out justforHalloween.Learnfirsthandaboutthecreaturesof the night on this fun family-friendly walk . Children and adults are encouraged to come in costume, but dress warmly since we will be outdoors most of the time . Allow about 1 .5 hours total . Refreshments will be served at the end of the walk .

Please register early for this very popular event. We are unable to accommodate extra people the night of the program. When you arrive, please check in at the Barn to receive your group number. Rain or shine. Please dress for the weather.


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Owls and Art: Bringing the Magic of Art and Nature TogetherSaturday, November 5 / 1:30-3:30 pmOpen to children ages 6 to 12Leaders: Angela Walsh, Sanctuary Field Teacher, and Laura Coulbourn, Children’s Art Instructorchildren $12 members, $14 nonmembers

We are all intrigued by the elusive owls . Learn about these creatures and have the opportunity to observe owl mounts, touchfeathers,anddissectanowlpellet.ThenletMotherNature be your inspiration as we create owl art from various materials and mediums .

Meets in the Barn. Parents are welcome but are not requiredto stay (please complete an emergency form if you are dropping off your child). All materials will be provided.

The Nature of the SunSaturday, November 5 / 7:30-9:00 pmOpen to adults and to families with children 10 years and olderLeader: Gary Meehan, Physicistadults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Thenightskyisfilledwiththelightofstarssodistantthat the casual stargazer can only help but wonder what they are truly like . Fortunately, we can develop an appreciation of them because we live in close proximity to a star, the sun . During this presentation, learn about the nature of this celestial source that gives light and warmth to our world.Theprogramwillincludebeautifulimageryofsolarprominences, sunspots, and more . Afterward, weather permitting, step outside with your newly-gained appreciation of the stars . With a little luck, we may even catch part of theTauridmeteorshower,whichpeaksontheeveningofNovember 11 . A large reflector telescope will be provided to help you more fully explore some of the celestial treasures of the fall constellations, including the Pleiades star cluster .

Meets in the Barn. The indoor portion of the program will run rain, clouds, or star shine. Please dress warmly for the cool evening temperatures.

Beaver Moon Family Night HikeSaturday, November 12 / 7:00-8:30 pmOpen to families with children 6 years and olderLeader: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinatoradults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Find out why Native Americans call the November full moon the Beaver Moon . Spend an evening walking in the crispautumnair,searchingforfishersandraccoons,andscanning the barren treetops for the silhouettes of owls . Smell the wood smoke and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot, reminding us that winter is just around the corner . We’ll stop in the wetlands to observe beavers making their finalwinterpreparations.Whataperfectwaytospendaquietevening with your family before the rush of the holidays begins .

Meets in the Nature Center. Please dress warmly.

h i k eBig WoodsBig Woods HikeSunday, November 20

Please choose a hike time: 11:30, 11:45, 12:00, 12:15, 12:30, 12:45, or 1:00 pmOpen to adults, and to families with children 5 years and olderLeaders: Sanctuary Staff and Volunteersadults $8 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $7 members, $8 nonmembers

There’sawalkinthewoods…andthenthere’sawalkin the woods with a naturalist . Bring your family and friendsforapre-Thanksgivingguidedwalktodiscoverwhat is happening in the world of nature as plants and animals prepare for winter . Sanctuary naturalists will lead small groups as they venture out to the “BigWoods”onAverill’sIsland.Stopalongthewayto hear stories of the original settlers and learn about the fascinating cultural history of the sanctuary . Look for animal signs as we hike through the woodlands and marshes, taking in the beauty of the muted colors of late autumn . Warm up by the woodstove in the Barn upon your return . Hot drinks and homemade soup and desserts will be available for purchase beginning at 11:00 am, so feel free to come early to enjoy a bite to eat before you go out on your hike .

Rain or shine. We will be out for about two hours, so please dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.


Holiday Happenings at the Sanctuary

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Winter Solstice Lantern WalksSaturday, December 10 / 4:00-6:00 pm Sunday, December 11 / 4:00-6:00 pmOpen to families with children 4 years and olderLeaders: Sanctuary Staff and Volunteersadults $8 members, $10 nonmemberschildren $7 members, $8 nonmembers

Throughouttime,peoplehavecometogethertocelebratethe shortest day of the year and welcome the lengthening days ahead . Sanctuary staff and volunteers invite you to join us for this beautiful candlelit event . Lantern making begins at 4:00 pm, followed by some solstice stories and folklore . With lanterns in hand, we will stroll the trails to lightupthenight.Wewillenjoyhotcocoaatthebonfireon our return .

Meets in the Barn. Please dress for the weather.

Vacation Week Family Fun DaysDecember 27, 28, 29, & 30 / 1:00-2:30 pmOpen to families with children 5 years and olderLeader: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinator

Winter is a great time to be outside exploring the natural world, so stretch your legs and join us for one or more of these vacation week programs . Please note that there is a different fee for the Bird Feeder program .

Outdoor Winter Survival ChallengeTuesday, December 27 / 1:00-2:30 pmadults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Using teamwork and problem solving, we will explore the woodlands of the sanctuary and imagine that we are explorers stranded in the wilderness . In order to survive, we willneedtobuildshelters,collectfirewood,andfindfoodand a water source . We will end by roasting marshmallows overafireandtryingoutsomepineneedletea.

Meets in the Barn. Please dress for the weather since we will be outdoors most of the time.

Build a Bird FeederWednesday, December 28 / 1:00-2:30 pmper family $18 members, $20 nonmembersBrighten up your yard this winter with a bird feeder handmade by you and your child . Each family will receive a kit containing all the necessary parts to build a feeder that will attract chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, cardinals, and many other birds to your yard . During a short presentation, learn about the birds that commonly come to feeders, and observe birds in the sanctuary’s bird garden . Instructors will circulate to provide assistance .

Meets in the Barn. Please bring a hammer. The fee is per family and includes one kit; extra kits can be purchased for $12 each and must be ordered by December 11.

Who’s Been Here? Winter Wildlife Thursday, December 29 / 1:00-2:30 pmadults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Come be a winter wildlife detective and learn the tracks and signs of local winter animals . During the introduction you will make your own wildlife tracks ID guide and get to lookatandtouchrealwildlifeclues.Thenwewillheadouton the trails to follow tracks and signs left by wildlife such as deer, rabbits, coyotes, beavers, and more .


Snow Stories—Tales on the TrailsFriday, December 30 / 1:00-2:30 pmadults $7 members, $9 nonmemberschildren $6 members, $7 nonmembers

Joinusintheoldtraditionoffiresidestorytellingtopassthe time through the cold and dark days of winter . We will startinsidearoundthewarmcrackleofthefireplacewitha seasonal story and then head outside to collect materials to make a nature bookmark .



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HOMESCHOOLIpswich River’s weekly homeschool classes promote an active engagement with nature through inquiry-based, hands-on environmental education . Join us as we explore the many different habitats of our nearly 2,000-acre sanctuary, and lay the foundation for a lifelong connection with nature .

Fall Homeschool for Ages 6 to 11Wednesdays: September 14, 21, 28, October 5, 12, 19, 26, & November 2 10:00 am-noon or 1:00-3:00 pm8 sessions per class; choose morning or afternoonLeaders: Cori Brauer, Education Coordinator, and Rita Gallant, Lead Field Teacher$120 members, $145 nonmembers

Thiseight-sessionseriesintroduceshomeschoolstudentsto basic ecology while nurturing an appreciation for and understanding of the natural world . During the morning class, we will split up into younger and older age groups, with 6- to 8-year-olds learning and exploring with Rita Gallant, and 9- to 11-year-olds studying and adventuring with Cori Brauer . In the afternoon, we stay together as one mixed-age group .

Eachclasssessionwillfocusonaspecificgroupofplantsoranimals . After a brief indoor introduction, we will head into thefieldtocollect,observe,andlearnabouttheseorganismsin order to better understand their role in the greater ecosystem . Highlights include catching creatures to get a closer look, hands-on games and activities, and a class spent out in canoes on the Ipswich River .

Session Topics

Insects and Spiders of the Field: September 14

Worms, Slugs, and Other Life Under Logs: September 21

Reptiles and Amphibians: September 28

Birds—Hawks, Herons, and Hummingbirds: October 5

Wetland Mammals (Canoe Day!): October 12

Terrestrial Mammals: October 19

Plants and Fungi: October 26

Bioblitz!—All the Plants and Creatures of the Pond: November 2

Meets in the Barn. We will go for a hike rain or shine, so please dress for the weather and bring a refillable water bottle.

Fall Homeschool for Ages 12 to 15Wednesdays: September 14, 21, 28, October 5, 12, 19, 26, & November 2 10:00 am-noon8 class sessionsLeader: Cecilia McCarthy, Sanctuary Field Teacher$120 members, $145 nonmembers

Thiseight-weekserieswillfeatureexplorationofthesanctuary’s many habitats as well as hands-on experiments, self-directed projects, and a deeper examination of our local ecology .

During each class we will take an in-depth look at a different group of organisms on the sanctuary . We will observe, catch, and learn about these different groups of living things . Ourfinalprojectwillbetocreateaguidetotheplantsandanimals of the sanctuary that can be used by other students and visitors .

Session Topics

Invertebrates Under Rocks and Logs: September 14

Wetland Plants and the Critters that Love Them: September 21

Amphibians—Frog and Salamander Meander: September 28

Reptile Roundup: October 5

Insects and Spiders of the Field: October 12

Common Birds of the Feeder, Field, and Forest: October 19

Mammals Big and Small: October 26

Putting it all Together—The Art and Science of Wildlife Guides: November 2

Meets in the program tent behind the Educators’ Place. We will go for a hike rain or shine, so please dress for the weather and bring a refillable water bottle.


s c o u t sScout Programs Weinviteyoutojoinourqualifiedstaffastheyleadscout groups through the diverse habitats of Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary . We specialize in providing outdoor and environmental programs for scouts . Our programs are designed to cover badge requirements for the Girl Scouts of the USA and Boy Scouts of America—including the 2015 Cub Scout badges . Call us for a free brochure or download a copy from our website .

After-School Scout ProgramsTuesday through Friday

September through June / 3:30-5:00 pm (also early-release days)

$95 per troop (up to 10 scouts) $9 each additional scout

Weekend Scout Programs Saturdays & Sundays / September through June

1.5-hour program: $95 per troop (up to 10 scouts)

$9 each additional scout

2-hour program: $110 per troop (up to 10 scouts)

$10 each additional scout

Programs limited to 15 scouts. Siblings must be 5 years or older to attend.

For more information or to book a scout program, call Angela Walsh at 978-887-9264, ext. 7703.

For ages 4 to 12

Choose a theme:Owls / Beavers / Habitat Hike Pond Dipping / Backyard Birds

AnimalTracking/Insects&Spiders Life Under Rocks & Logs

$175 members, $210 nonmembers for a 2-hour party, with a naturalist-led

program and party time

To book your party, call Angela Walsh 978-887-9264, ext. 7703

Parties can be bookedSeptember through June

Birthday Parties

at Ipswich River!School ProgramsOver the years, our staff has provided thousands of environmental education programs for pre-K, elementary, middle, and high school students on the North Shore of Massachusetts . Under the guidance ofoureducationstaffandfieldteachers,studentsinvestigate, explore, and marvel at the wonders of the natural world while gaining valuable knowledge of the life and earth sciences . We offer programming at the sanctuary or at your school, as well as a Naturalist in Residency program, and teacher workshops . Our programs cultivate an appreciation for and an understanding of the environment and our interrelationships with the natural world . It is also our goal to develop thoughtful, conservation-minded citizens for the future . For a free brochure describing our school programs, call 978-887-9264 or visit our website at massaudubon .org/ipswichriver .

For more information or to arrange a tour, contact PreschoolDirectorKarenFirst,[email protected], or call 978-237-0108 . Please visit our website for details:

massaudubon .org/ipswichpreschool

Ipswich River Wildlife SanctuaryNature Preschool

located at Endicott Wildlife Sanctuary in Wenham

•Highlyqualifiedteacherswithbackgroundsinearly childhood and nature education•Nature-based,emergentcurriculumthatpromotes language, math, and social development

•Two-,three-,andfive-dayenrollmentoptions for 3-5 year olds from 9:00 am-noon•Early-morningdrop-offat8:00amandlunchbunch until 1:00 pm are available options •Beautifulclassrooms,outdoorplayareas,andgardens

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Monhegan Island WeekendFriday, September 16-Sunday, September 18 / 3 daysLeaders: Carol Decker, Ipswich River Sanctuary Director, and Scott Santino, Ipswich River Teacher-NaturalistContact: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary 978-887-9264$515 members, $585 nonmembersNonrefundable deposit: $75

Join us for a weekend of birding and naturalizing on this beautiful rockbound island . Located 10 miles off the coast of Maine, Monhegan is not only remote and enchanting, but it alsoservesasatrapformigrantsongbirds.Thisistheplaceto be for exciting views of the fall migration . Hawks will be on their flight south, and in past years we have had incredible aerial displays from migrating falcons . We will explore a variety of habitats including freshwater pond, coniferous forest, and rocky shoreline . Seals can be seen from the island, and sighting a whale is always a possibility . We will stay at the TrailingYew,arusticinnsituatedaboveMonheganHarbor.

The fee includes round-trip van transportation from the sanctuary to Port Clyde, a one-hour ferry trip to and from the island, lodging (double occupancy), most meals, and field instruction. For an itinerary, call 978-887-9264 or email [email protected]. Please register at least six weeks in advance. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space.

Block Island Birding WeekendFriday, September 23-Sunday, September 25 / 3 daysLeaders: Carol Decker, Ipswich River Sanctuary Director, and Susan MacCallum, South Shore Sanctuaries DirectorContact: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary 978-887-9264Cosponsor: South Shore Sanctuaries$545 members, $615 nonmembersNonrefundable deposit: $75

A gift from the glaciers, Block Island is located approximately 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast . Although small, this beautiful island offers a number of different habitats and spectacular scenery . In the fall, the island belongs primarily to the birds and birders . It is a resting and feeding place for migratingshorebirdsandoceanbirds.Theislandalsoformsanatural trap for land birds that have wandered out over the ocean during their southward migration . We expect to see a variety of warblers, raptors, herons, shorebirds, and, of course, the unexpected .

The fee includes all ground and boat transportation, interpretive materials, entrance fees, and lodging, unless otherwise noted. Fees are based on double occupancy; single rooms may be available for an additional fee. Personal items and meals are not included. For an itinerary, call 978-887-9264 or email [email protected]. Please register at least six weeks in advance. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space.

T r i p s a n d T o u r s

2 0 1 6 - 2 0 1 7

Texas to New Mexico: Bosque del Apache and the Rio Grande Corridor Tuesday, January 10-Monday, January 16 / 7 days Leaders: David Moon, Joppa Flats Sanctuary Director, Bill Gette, former Joppa Flats Sanctuary Director, and Alison O’Hare, BCPContact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998 $1,295 members, $1,395 nonmembers Nonrefundable deposit: $400

TheRioGrandeValleyinNewMexicoisafabulousdestinationfor viewing birds in the winter . At Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge and other wetlands, we should see tens of thousands of cranes, ducks, and geese . In the thickets and grasslands,wewillfindawonderfuldiversityofpasserines,especially sparrows .

WewillfollowtherivervalleyfromElPaso,Texas,to Albuquerque, New Mexico, birding mountain, riparian, desert, grassland, and aquatic habitats . We could see over 130 species of birds, including Ross’s goose, Clark’s grebe, sandhill crane, juniper titmouse, crissal thrasher, black-tailed gnatcatcher, black-throated sparrow, burrowing owl, pyrrhuloxia, red-naped sapsucker, mountain chickadee, and golden and bald eagles . We also have a good chance of seeingblack,brown-capped,andgray-crownedrosy-finches.

Theadditionalfeeforasingle-roomsupplementis$400.

Final payment is due December 10. Leaders will send out trip materials after final payment is received. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space.

Leaders’ Choice Getaway Thursday, January 19-Friday, January 20 / 2 days Leaders: Dave Larson, Joppa Flats Education and Science Coordinator, and Dave Weaver, BCP Contact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998$295 members, $345 nonmembers Nonrefundable deposit: $100

Join Dave and Dave for an adventure into the winter wonderland ofNewEngland.Thegoalofthistwo-day,one-nighttripistoseek out winter specialties . We will chase after rarities such as northern owls and rare gulls, of course, but our main focus is tofindwinterfinches(pinegrosbeaks,redandwhite-wingedcrossbills), redpolls, and Bohemian waxwings . Our destination will depend on the most recent reports . On previous trips, we have seen a northern hawk owl, evening grosbeaks, Bohemian waxwings, snow buntings, a gray jay, white-winged crossbills, and much more! We promise fun, a place to sleep, and some great birds .

Fees are for double occupancy .

Final payment is due December 19. Trip details are determined a couple of days before departure and will be sent to all participants by email. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space.

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Nantucket Winter Birding Friday, January 20-Sunday, January 22 / 3 DaysLeaders: Carol Decker, Ipswich River Sanctuary Director, and Scott Santino, Ipswich River Teacher-NaturalistContact: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary 978-887-9264Fee: TBDNonrefundable deposit: $100

JoinusforabirdingadventuretohistoricNantucketIsland.Theheathlands, moors, vast beaches, and rolling ocean surf are captivating in the winter light, and, with the island pleasantly deserted, it’s the perfect time for our visit . Long-tailed ducks, numbering in the hundreds of thousands, winter off the Nantucket Shoals . Rafts of other seabirds including ducks, loons, alcids, and grebes can be observed from many vantage points . On previous trips, we have seen large numbers of northern gannets diving offshore, and have found unusual species such as lesser black-backed and black-headed gulls, and Eurasion wigeon . We’ll also focus on the island’s owls and look and listen for barn, short-eared, and saw-whet owls and easternscreech-owls.Thisisanidealtripforbothbeginningand experienced birders .

The fee includes round-trip van transportation, lodging (double occupancy), and ferry. Meals are not included. Single-room supplement: TBD. For an itinerary call 978-887-9264 or email [email protected]. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space. Final payment is due by December 9.

Ocean State Birding WeekendSaturday, February 4-Sunday, February 5 / 2 daysLeader: Scott Santino, Ipswich River Teacher-NaturalistContact: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary 978-887-9264$280 members, $335 nonmembersNonrefundable deposit: $75

Less than two hours away from the North Shore, and with 40 miles of coastline, Rhode Island can be a wonderful winter birding location . Great numbers of ducks and other seabirds can be found in bays and coastal ponds each winter since the mild coastal climate typically prevents freezing . We’ll spend a majority of our time in the Middletown, Newport, and Jamestown areas enjoying the beauty of scoters, mergansers, eiders, and harlequins, and spotting possible rarities including Barrow’s goldeneyes and king eiders . Highlighted locations include Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, a 242-acre peninsula between the Sakonnet River and Rhode Island Sound; and the 300-acre Norman Bird Sanctuary’s upland fieldsandthickets.AsthesunsetsSaturdayevening,we’llscan the skies for short-eared owls as they drift over the marshes looking for prey . You’ll enjoy the experience of a birdwatching weekend-minus a long drive home .

The fee includes all ground transportation, lodging, and entrance fees. Meals are not included. Single-room supplement: $40. For an itinerary or more information, call 978-887-9264 or email [email protected]. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space. Final payment is due by January 8.

Northern Minnesota: Boreal Birding Wednesday, March 1-Sunday, March 5 / 5 days Leaders: Dave Larson, Joppa Flats Science and Education Coordinator, and Dave Weaver, BCP Contact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998$995 members, $1,095 nonmembers Nonrefundable deposit: $300

Join us as we venture forth into the snowy boreal forests and bogs of northern Minnesota in search of great gray, northern hawk, snowy, boreal, saw-whet, great horned, and other northern owls . We will concentrate on the famous Sax-Zim Bog area, as well as on north shore locations of Lake Superior . In addition to owls, possible sightings include redpolls, crossbills, boreal chickadee, grosbeaks, and hawks; spruce, ruffed, and sharp-tailed grouse; as well as possible moose, gray fox, and timber wolf . Okay, we admit it can get cold, so bring lots of layers, hand-warmer thingies, oh, and a hat—don’t forget the hat .

Thelistedfeesarefordoubleoccupancy.Theadditionalfeefor a single room is $300 . Please call for a detailed brochure .

Final payment is due February 1. Leaders will send out trip materials after final payment is received. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space. Note: Please do not make your flight arrangements until you have checked with the trip leaders.

Classic Trinidad BirdingSaturday, March 25-Saturday, April 1 / 8 daysOptional Tobago Extension: Saturday, April 1-Tuesday, April 4Leader: Scott Santino, Ipswich River Teacher-NaturalistContact: Natural History Travel Office 800-289-9504$2,990 members and nonmembers Optional Tobago Extension: $1,200

In all the lush Caribbean, there is no place more popular for birders than the exquisite, mountainous two-island nationofTrinidadandTobago.You’llfindeasyaccesstoan extraordinary diversity of the world’s most stunningly beautiful birds, including scarlet ibises, rufous-tailed jacamars, white-tailed tropicbirds, and 17 different kinds of hummingbirds . More than 430 bird species occur here, many of them South American since the islands are as close as seven miles from Venezuela . We will stay at the world-famous Asa Wright Nature Centre, a charming lodge located in a 2,000-acre tract of rainforest high in the Arima Valley of the island’s Northern Range . Visitors usually see more than 40 species ofbirdsbeforebreakfast.Incontrast,Tobago’savifaunaismore Caribbean in its makeup, and here we will stay at the charming Blue Waters Inn . A comfortable and relaxing birding trip, this tour is a long-standing favorite for those who are new to tropical birding .

Registration is through Mass Audubon’s Natural History Travel Office. For more information go to massaudubon.org/travel or call 800-289-9504.

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South Carolina: Birding the Coastal Lowlands Wednesday, April 26-Monday, May 1 / 6 days Leaders: David Moon, Joppa Flats Sanctuary Director, and Bill Gette, former Joppa Flats Sanctuary Director Contact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998$1,250 members, $1,350 nonmembers Nonrefundable deposit: $450

TheSouthCarolinacoastallowlandsareapremierbirdingdestination . During our six-day program, we will explore the area’s most productive birding venues . Our itinerary includes visits to the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge on the Georgia/South Carolina border, several wildlife management areas (e .g ., Webb, Donnelley, and Bear Island), the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge at Bull Island, Francis Marion National Forest, Congaree National Park, and the floodplain forests along the Savannah River .

Since we will be visiting so many different habitats during early spring migration, we expect to see a wide variety of birds . Our target species will include several restricted-range rarities such as Swainson’s warbler, red-cockaded woodpecker, wood stork, painted bunting, brown-headed nuthatch, and Bachman’s sparrow . Along the coastal wetlands and barrier beaches, we will see many species of waders and shorebirds;withluck,wewillfindaWilson’splover.Intheextensive lowland pine/oak forests, we will see many species of southern wood-warblers including prothonotary, hooded, Kentucky, and yellow-throated . In the Allendale area, we will look for both Mississippi and swallow-tailed kites .

Thiswillbeaspectaculartripthroughabeautifulpartofourcountry.Theadditionalfeeforasingleroomis$450.Pleasecall for a detailed brochure .

Final payment is due March 26. Leaders will send out trip materials after final payment is received. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space. Note: Please do not make your flight arrangements until you have checked with the trip leaders.

California: Birding Monterey Bay and BeyondThursday, May 4-Thursday, May 11 / 8 daysLeaders: Scott Santino, Ipswich River Teacher-Naturalist, and Susan MacCallum, South Shore Sanctuaries DirectorContact: Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary 978-887-9264Cosponsor: South Shore Sanctuaries $2,695 members, $2,795 nonmembers Nonrefundable deposit: $180

California’s incredibly diverse habitats and extensive coastline boast the third largest list of birds in North America coming inat606,onlybehindArizonaandTexas.Manybelieveifyou’re going to spend a week in California to bird, the best region is the Monterey area . We’ll take a boat ride into MontereyBay,acknowledgedasthefinestseabirdlocationin the country, with Shearwater Journeys and well-known tour guide Debi Shearwater . During the boat trip we’ll look for regional specialties including Laysan and black-footed albatrosses, ashy storm-petrel, Brandt’s cormorant, pigeon guillemot, and Cassin’s and rhinoceros auklets .

On land we’ll explore the headlands, redwood groves, and coastal scrub of Big Sur; the sandy beaches and mudflats at Elkhorn Slough; and the riparian woodlands at Pinnacles NationalMonument.Theincrediblewildlifeinthisareaincludes elephant seal, sea otter, golden eagle, prairie falcon, and the federally endangered California condor . Other trip highlights will include a private tour of the San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory bird banding station and an afternoon attheMontereyBayAquarium.Thisitineraryisdesigned tomaximizetimeinthefieldandreducetimesittinginCalifornia’swell-knowntraffic.

The fee includes lodging (double occupancy), all ground transportation, boat trip, field instruction, and entrance fees. Single rooms are available for an additional fee. Airfare and meals are not included. Final payment is due February 28. Cancellations made within eight weeks of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space. Please call for an itinerary. Note: Please do not make your flight arrangements until you have checked with the trip leaders.

New Jersey and New York Birding Weekend: Birding on the Border May 2017 / 3 daysLeaders: Dave Larson, Joppa Flats Education and Science Coordinator, and MaryMargaret Halsey, Naturalist Contact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998Dates and Prices TBA

Northern New Jersey and adjacent areas in New York are veryexcitingbirdingdestinationsforbreedingbirds.Thistripis about quality rather than quantity . We will concentrate on some of the more southerly warblers, including cerulean, Kentucky, worm-eating, and yellow-breasted chat . In addition to these species that are rarely seen in Eastern Massachusetts, we will visit a place that has breeding golden-winged warblers, a species recently lost as a breeder in Massachusetts . Of course, this trip is not just about warblers . We will be looking for other “southernspecialties”includingbluegrosbeakandsummertanager, as well as cuckoos, flycatchers, and many more exciting species .

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Machias Seal Island and Eastern Maine Saturday, June 10-Monday June 12 / 3 daysLeader: Bill Gette, former Joppa Flats Sanctuary Director Contact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998Price: TBA

A trip to Machias Seal Island and eastern Maine during nesting season is a fantastic experience! During our program, we plan to visit Machias Seal Island, the Deblois Blueberry Barrens, Quoddy Head State Park, and many other sites in the Machias/ Cutler area . On our 30 previous expeditions, we have seen a total of 202 species of birds and a variety of mammals .

Machias Seal Island is noted as a nesting colony for seabirds includingAtlanticpuffins,commonmurres,andrazorbills.TheDebloisBlueberryBarrens,QuoddyHead,andtheCutlerarea are noted for a wide variety of land birds including the upland sandpiper, vesper sparrow, black-backed woodpecker, sprucegrouse,borealchickadee,andgrayjay.Throughoutour trip, we will have the opportunity to see and hear nesting warblers .

Please call for a detailed brochure .

Leaders will send out trip materials after final payment is received, approximately two weeks before the trip’s start date. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space.

Natural History Travel800-289-9504

For more information and a complete list of our International Tours

visit massaudubon.org/travel or call 800-289-9504

Chile Cruise: February 9-20 with Wayne Petersen

Galapagos Cruise: February 17-26 with Elissa Landre

Kenya Safari: February 28-March 14 with Mark Faherty

Panama Birding: March 16-24 with Bill Gette

Belize Birding: March 18-25 with Jeff Collins and Sue MacCallum

Amazon Riverboat Cruise, Peru: March 24-April 2 with Jon Atwood

And many more listed here:massaudubon.org/travel

Iceland, India, Namibia, and more!

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Birding the Connecticut Lakes, New HampshireFriday, June 2-Sunday, June 4 / 3 daysLeader: David Moon, Joppa Flats Sanctuary Director, and Dave Larson, Joppa Flats Science and Education CoordinatorContact: Joppa Flats Education Center 978-462-9998$665 members, $765 nonmembersNonrefundable deposit: $200

During this exciting weekend program, we will explore the Connecticut Lakes region of northern New Hampshire, anarearichinwildlifeandmagnificentscenery.Overour14previous trips, we have seen a total of 129 species of birds, includingmanyborealspecies.Targetbirdswillincludeblack-backed and pileated woodpeckers, gray jay, common raven, yellow-bellied and alder flycatchers, spruce grouse, boreal chickadee, rusty blackbird, Philadelphia vireo, and many species of warblers (e .g ., mourning, blackpoll, Wilson's, and bay-breasted) . We also expect to see a wide variety of butterflies and several species of mammals including moose .

Theprogramfeeisfordoubleoccupancyandincludesalltransportation between Newburyport and the Connecticut Lakes,lodgingatTheGlen(awonderfulnortherninn),andsix meals . Single rooms are not available on this trip . Please call for a detailed brochure .

Final payment is due May 2. Leaders will send out trip materials after final payment is received, approximately two weeks prior to the trip's start date. Cancellations made within 30 days of departure cannot be refunded or credited unless we can fill your space.



N o r t h S h o r e E d u c a t i o n C e n t e r s

general information 35

General Information

Ipswich River Wildlife SanctuaryOne of Mass Audubon’s largest sanctuaries, Ipswich Riveroffers nearly 2,000 acres of land and more than 12 miles of interconnecting trails that invite you to explore forests, meadows, and wetlands . Mowed fields provide habitat for American woodcocks and eastern bluebirds while the floodplain forests are resting and nesting sites for warblers and vireos . Canoe along eight miles of the Ipswich River, which meanders through the sanctuary, and camp on Perkins Island, a half-mile up the river . Members can rent canoes from May 1 through October 31 . Members can also rent a small cabin that is conveniently located close to the sanctuary’s program facilities and sleeps four . In spring, listen for the chorus of American toads and pickerel frogs . In various seasons, watch for river otters, painted turtles, and great blue herons . View an active beaver lodge in Rockery Pond . Climb the drumlin and esker, landscape features created by a glacier 15,000 years ago . In winter, sap buckets fill the sugar grove, marking the season of our maple sugaring programs . Huge rocks and exotic trees and shrubs that were par t of a former arboretum provide an adventurous walkalongtheRockeryTrail.

Address87PerkinsRow,Topsfield,MA01983 978-887-9264 Office / 978-887-0875 Fax ipswichriver@massaudubon .org

Office/Gift Shop/Trail HoursOffice and Gift Shop:Weekdays,TuesdaythroughFriday,9:00 am to 4:00 pm; Weekends and Monday holidays, May 1-October 31, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; andNovember 1-April 30, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm . Trails:Opendawntodusk,TuesdaythroughSundayandMonday holidays .

Admission$4 for nonmember adults; $3 for nonmember children (2-12) and seniors

For information about other North Shore wildlife sanctuaries, including Cedar Pond, Eastern Point, Marblehead Neck, and Nahant Thicket, contact Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary at 978-887-9264 or [email protected].

For information about Rough Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, please contact Joppa Flats Education Center at 978-462-9998 or [email protected].

Joppa Flats Education Center and Wildlife SanctuaryJoppa Flats Education Center is located at the gateway to oneof the country’s most productive year-round wildlife viewing areas—the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and the Plum Island estuary . Highlights for visitors are the many species of birds that utilize the area’s extensive salt marshes, mudflats, rivers, bays, and coastal waters . During local area field trips, Joppa Flats program participants have recorded over 300 species of birds, including bald eagle, snowy owl, and many warblers, shorebirds, andwaterfowl.ThevisitorcenteroverlookingtheMerrimackRiver includes a children’s education room with a marine aquarium, a conference center, ar t exhibits, a nature shop,butterfly gardens, and interpretive displays .

AddressP .O . Box 1558 / OnePlumIslandTurnpikeNewburyport, MA 01950978-462-9998 Office / 978-462-4143 Fax joppaflats@massaudubon .org

Education Center/Grounds HoursEducation Center:TuesdaythroughSundayandMonday holidays, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm . Grounds: Open daily, dawn to dusk .

AdmissionSuggested donation: $2 for nonmembers

Endicott Wildlife SanctuaryThissanctuarycomprises over 43 acres of mixed woodland, fields,andwetlands,andanewwalkingtrailisnowopen. Endicott offers a variety of volunteer opportunities and internships in education and ecological management .

ThereareprogramsforteachersandstudentsincludingtheSalt Marsh Science Project . Our programs for middle and high school students focus on real science, with real scientists and real issues . Coastal topics, invasive species, and inquiry-based lessons are our specialty . For more information about our school programs go to massaudubon .org/endicott-school .

TheIpswichRiverWildlifeSanctuaryNaturePreschool is located here . It offers programs for 3- to 5-year olds in nature-based emergent curriculum, creative classrooms, outdoor play areas, and gardens .

Address346 Grapevine Road, Wenham, MA 01984 978-927-1122 Office endicott@massaudubon .org

Ipswich River Nature Preschool Office: 978-237-0108 [email protected]

http://www.massaudubon.org/endicott

mailto:kfirst%40massaudubon.org?subject=

R e g i s t r a t i o n P r o c e d u r e s& P o l i c y G u i d e l i n e s


Registration Advance registration with full payment is required for all programs unless otherwise noted . You may call in advance to inquire about space availability; however, we cannot hold a space for you until we have received your payment in full . Pleaseregisterearlybecausemanyprogramsfillquickly. If you are registering for a class and less than one week remains before the program begins, please call the sanctuary hosting theprogramtoconfirmthatspaceisavailable.Ifyouarenota Mass Audubon member, you may join when you register and pay the member program fee .

Four Easy Ways to Register! We accept MasterCard, VISA, and Discover

•Register Online!You can register for many of Mass Audubon’s programs online.Thatmeansyoucansignupanytimeofday(regardless of whether that sanctuary is open or not), and you will instantly know if a program is full or has a wait-list . Visit our program catalog online: massaudubon .org/catalog . Please note that some programs and trips do not take online registration . For these, please call the appropriate sanctuary during business hours .

•By Telephone: Call the sanctuary that is hosting the program . Please have your membership, credit card, and course information ready .

•By Mail: Complete the registration form and return it with your check, money order, or credit card authorization to the sanctuary that is hosting the program for which you are registering . All checks and money orders should be made payable to Mass Audubon .

•In Person: During business hours, stop by the sanctuary that is hosting the program you are interested in attending and register in person . Note: Registering in person should be done prior to the program start date because registering the day of the program, in many cases, will be too late .

Confirmation Information Writtenconfirmationmaynotbesentforeveryprogram. Youwillbenotifiedifyoudonotgetintoaprogrambecause it is full, or if your name has been placed on a wait-list . Please read all future correspondence carefully because it may contain information pertinent to your program such as what to bring or wear, directions to a location, etc .

Meeting LocationsMeeting locations are listed with the program descriptions in this brochure .

Filled Programs/Wait-Lists Most programs have minimum and maximum enrollments depending on the type of class and instructional techniques . If the program of your choice is full, we will notify you immediately and automatically place you on a wait-list .

If you do not wish to remain on the wait-list, please notify the sanctuary hosting the program and a refund will be issued . We will notify you at least 24 hours in advance of the program only if space becomes available . If space does not open up, you will receive a full refund within three weeks of the program date .

Cancellation/Refund PolicyToreceiveaprogramrefundifyounolongerplantoattend, you must notify the sanctuary hosting the program at least oneweekpriortothefirstclass.This policy does not apply to day camp programs or overnight trips. Each sanctuary reserves the right to change programs, schedules, and instructors or to cancel programs due to low enrollment . Please note that certain programs require a nonrefundable, nontransferable deposit . A full refund will be processed if the sanctuary cancels the program . Refunds require approximately three weeks for processing .

Inclement WeatherMost programs are held rain or shine; please dress accordingly . We will do our best to notify you if the class is canceled or postponed due to the weather . If the weather is questionable and you have not heard from us, please call the sanctuary .

For programs that list a rain/storm date, we recommend that you hold the alternate date open . Refunds will not be issued if the class is switched to its alternate date and you are not able to attend . If no rain date is listed, we may try to reschedule the class . In this case, refunds will be issued if you cannot attend on the rescheduled date . If the class cannot be rescheduled you will receive a refund .

Additional Questions?If you have additional questions about registration policies, or have a question about a particular program, please call the sanctuary hosting the program directly .

Where to Send Registration FormsFor Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary 87 Perkins Row Topsfield,MA01983 978-887-9264Office

For Joppa Flats Education CenterP .O . Box 1558Newburyport, MA 01950 978-462-9998Office

http://massaudubon.org/catalog

R e g i s t r a t i o n F o r m

Important Note: Since manyof our programs fill up quickly, the best way to guarantee a spot is to register online or call the sanctuary. For all registrations by mail, please submit a separate form for each wildlife sanctuary.

Individual’s Information

Circle One: Dr. / Mr. / Ms. / Mrs. / Miss

Adult Name/Contact Name

Address

City State Zip

Phone (Day) Phone (Evening) Cell

E-mail Please send me the e-newsletter for Ipswich River Joppa Flats

Membership Information

Mass Audubon Member? Yes No

Member No. Membership Exp. Date / /

Not currently a Mass Audubon Member? Join NOW and enjoy Membership Discounts and other great benefits.For details, visit www.massaudubon.org/join.

Individual ($48) Family ($65) Explorer ($80) Contributor ($100) Protector ($150) Sponsor ($250) Patron ($500)

Session Information

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /Total Program Fee(s)

Membership Fee

Additional Donation

Total Amount Enclosed

Check or Money Order

Please make all checks and money orders payable to Mass Audubon.

MasterCard, Visa, or Discover

Name on Credit Card

Credit Card No.

CVV# Exp. Date

Signature

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA 01983 Office: 978-887-9264

Joppa Flats Education CenterP.O. Box 1558, Newburyport, MA 01950Office: 978-462-9998

For your personal security, please do not send credit card information by fax or email.

Program/ Session Name

Date(s) & Time

Participant’s Full Name

(Adult or Child)

Child’s Date of Birth (if applicable)

Child’s Age

Session Fee

Where to Send Registration and Payment:

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