Life Goes On in Our Winter Forest

In the coming weeks, Naturalist Marianne takes us through the world of our winter forest and how its residents survive and even thrive.

Wildlife Presentations

Surviving Winter’s Trials
Saturday, December 21 – 10am-1pm
Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads

Winter is often viewed as a time of dormancy. Although many native plants have dropped their leaves and stalled their activities, life goes on for numerous forest creatures. This month, we will focus on the features that enable Russell Forest critters to survive winter’s trials. Drop by the Cabin to visit the living things that will demonstrate how they easily handle the scarce food and freezing temperatures of winter. You will be inspired to appreciate the wild dramas being lived out all around us. Program is appropriate for all ages. No charge—everyone is welcome!

Wintertime Bustle
Saturday, January 4 – 10am-1pm
Saturday, January 11 – 10am-1pm

Join our Russell Lands on Lake Martin Naturalist for an informative discussion about the animals who are actually MORE ACTIVE in the winter! There are some species that you are more likely to see in January than you would on a warm summer day. Find out why deer, eagles, and skunks are all more visible now than they were months ago. Also find out where they are and what they’re doing when we don’t see them! We will spend time examining multiple artifacts from local wildlife which are more active in Russell Forest this month than they are any other time of year – stop by and find out WHY! You will be inspired to appreciate the wild dramas being lived out all around us. Program is appropriate for all ages. No charge—everyone is welcome!

Guided Nature Tour

Saturday, January 4 – 2pm
Meet at Willow Point Cutoff Trailhead

This energetic hike is the perfect way to kick-start your standard New Year’s resolutions of exercising and appreciating the nature that surrounds you! Join our RLOLM Naturalist for an educational foray into our winter forest. The lifestyles of some Russell Forest residents change pace in the winter, but signs of life are everywhere. Find out which denizens are dormant and which are dynamic: cold weather won’t slow us down!  We will search for signs of increasing activity while the day warms. Appropriate for warmly dressed participants ages 5–105.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED! There is a $10 fee for this program. Please contact our Naturalist at 256.496.2710 or [email protected] to inquire and to register in advance.

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.