When the trees have lost their leaves, it can be easier to see nests. During this guided hike, we will look for bird nests, squirrel dreys, and nests inside tree […]

Learn about squirrels, which are one of the most common backyard animals, and about the different types of squirrels that can be found in the parks. Participants will listen to a story, touch real squirrel furs, play with an acorn sensory bin, watch squirrels feeding at the feeders, and color a squirrel coloring page. Oakwoods […]

As winter is ending, venture out to see the last full moon of the cold season. Listen for Barred Owls, American Woodcock, and wood frogs. Trails may be wet and muddy, so wear the appropriate shoes. Aeraland Recreation Area Shelter 7:30 PM All ages are welcome. Free; registration is not required. Michelle Rumschlag mrumschlag@hancockparks.com

Birds are covered with feathers, which are used for more than just flying. Learn about the parts of a feather and how people use them, listen to a story about birds, and look at real bird wings and feathers. Participants will draw a bird using a feather quill and ink. Oakwoods Nature Preserve Discovery Center […]

The art of map making is centuries old. Maps are used to show the locations of important landmarks around the world. Learn about the history of map making, the key parts of a map, and the type of information a map can show. Participants will create their own map by pouring beans onto a piece […]

Look up and down and search for signs of spring. While hiking, stop, look, and listen for wood frogs calling, bees buzzing, mourning cloak butterflies flying, and the harbinger-of-spring blooming. Litzenberg Memorial Woods Gatehouse 1:30 PM All ages are welcome. Free; registration is not required. Chris Allen callen@hancockparks.com

March is a great time to see ducks as they fly north for spring migration. Use pictures and mounts to learn about ducks and what makes ducks unique, listen to a story about the amazing life of a mallard duck, and create a wearable duck bill out of cardstock and string. Oakwoods Nature Preserve Discovery […]

Anyone who spends time outside should be aware of ticks, which are bloodsucking parasites, and know proper prevention techniques, since some ticks can transmit a variety of pathogens, leading to serious illnesses. Learn about ticks, their life cycle, various diseases that can be transmitted from tick bites, prevention techniques, how to remove ticks from the […]

History tells us that the 1800s marked a significant period in fruit cultivation, with apples being among the most prominent fruit available. In fact, pioneer settlers established orchards for crops and cultivated fruits for food. Join us at the historic 1847 McKinnis House where we will bake apples and pears in the cookstove, talk about […]

Being a bunny is not always fun; ears are long, too many siblings, and carrots are boring to eat every day. Find out what happens when bunny lives with other animal families. After the story, play bunny hopscotch. Oakwoods Nature Preserve Discovery Center 1 PM Ages 3 and under with an adult; other aged siblings […]

One of the best ways to help wildlife is to establish native plants at home. Participants will create a plantable piece of paper with imbedded native seeds. Learn about the different plant species available for planting and what types of wildlife they will help. Plant the finished paper at home or give away pieces to […]

With a visit to the McKinnis House, children will learn about the maple sugaring process. They can watch a pioneer make pancakes and then try one with some maple syrup, observe how sap becomes syrup, and participate in activities involving Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers and maple trees. Litzenberg Memorial Woods Shelter 1 PM Ages 3-6 with an […]