Articles & News

It’s All About Springtime in the Forest


Published: 03.15.2023

The Russell Forest is waking from its winter nap, and Naturalist Marianne will guide us through this exciting time of rebirth!

Wildlife Presentations

An Invitation to Spring!
Saturday, March 18 – 9am–1pm
Saturday, March 25 – 9am–1pm
Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads

March is the time to prepare your yard for springtime birds and other wildlife. Preparing your property for the warm season is an entirely different type of “spring cleaning,” and Naturalist Marianne will be here to advise what to do and what not do to in order to attract or discourage your wild neighbors’ visits. Tips about cleaning and maintaining feeders and nest boxes, along with advice on creating specific mini-habitats in your yard will have your place ready for upcoming wildlife activity. A variety of applicable feeding, housing, and habitat suggestions will have you stepping confidently into spring. Bring your questions, and your camera, because Marianne will have a wild visitor with her throughout the day. Experience is appropriate for all ages. No charge—everyone is welcome!

Bunnies and Chicks
Saturday, April 1 – 9am–1pm – Naturalist Cabin
Friday, April 7 – 3–7pm – Naturalist Cabin
Saturday, April 8 – 9am–1pm – Naturalist Cabin
Easter Sunday, April 9 – 9am-1pm – SpringHouse

Easter means new life—and the gentle innocence of bunnies and chicks reminds us of this holiday’s significance. We will note what these unassuming animals symbolize on this holiest of Christian holidays. Bring your camera and your children or grandchildren to interact with these traditional symbols of Easter as they learn from Naturalist Marianne. Bring your camera—this is going to be cute! Appropriate for all ages.  No charge—everyone is welcome!

Guided Nature Tours

The Cusp of Spring
Saturday, March 18 – 2pm

Meet at Willow Point Cutoff Trailhead

Join Naturalist Marianne Hudson for an educational foray into a forest in transition. No longer winter, but just the cusp of spring, we will see signs of both seasons and note the changes that usher one out and the other in. March means buds, babies, and birdsong—and we will explore the trails to find evidence that spring is creeping into our piece of paradise. This energetic hike will offer both learning and exercise. Appropriate for participants ages 5–105.

Forest Babies!
Saturday, April 22 – 7am
Meet at Wilson Road Trailhead

Get up and hike into a forest bursting with spring! Spring means forest babies, and we will discuss who’s hatching and what’s happening in Russell Forest. This energetic hike will offer both learning and exercise.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED! There is a $10 fee for these programs. Please contact Naturalist Marianne at 256.496.2710 to inquire and to register.

For all Guided Nature Tours: It is recommended that participants have a moderate fitness level and are able to stand or walk for at least two hours. Walking pace will be relaxed with frequent stops. Comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothing and shoes are advised. Participants may also wish to bring bottled water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Binoculars and cameras are welcome. There are no bathrooms on the Forest Trails.

Previous Article Next Article
Download The Russell Lands App Download on the Apple App Store Get it on Google Play