Spring Babies, Birdsong and Bunnies

Naturalist Marianne closes out March with buds, babies and birdsong then celebrates Easter with one of our favorites—bunnies and chicks!

Wildlife Presentations

An Invitation to Spring
Saturday, March 26 – 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 our 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!
Thursday, April 14 – 3-7pm at the Naturalist Cabin
Friday, April 15- 3-7pm at the Naturalist Cabin
Saturday, April 16 – 9am-1pm at the Naturalist Cabin
Easter Sunday, April 17 – 9am-1pm at 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 our Naturalist. Bring your camera—this is going to be cute! Appropriate for all ages.  No charge—everyone is welcome!

Guided Nature Tour

Sunday, April 10 – 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. Appropriate for participants ages 5–105.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED! There is a $10 fee for this program. Please contact our Naturalist at 256.496.2710 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.