Thriving in a chilly forest

Don’t forget to join Naturalist Marianne during Christmas at Crossroads this weekend and have some fun with her live turkeys. She’s also got an interesting lineup in December exploring the winter forest and its inhabitants. Her presentations are always fun and educational!

Turkeys at Crossroads

Friday, November 25, 10am-2pm

Join Naturalist Marianne Hudson and her flock of live turkeys at the Naturalist Cabin during Christmas at Crossroads. It’s a perfect opportunity to learn about their interesting features, including caruncles, a snood, spurs and a beard! Listen to turkey calls and practice your own. Bring a camera and take your child’s Thanksgiving portrait with a full-sized turkey mount or a friendly live turkey!

Wildlife Presentations

Saturday, December 3 – 2pm AND 3pm
Saturday, December 10 – 2pm AND 3pm
The 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 small animals to survive winter’s trials. Scarce food and freezing temperatures are just part of the daily obstacles faced in Russell Forest. We will talk about how these creatures manage when we’re unable to stop shivering! 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!

If you have questions for Marianne, she can be contacted at 256.496.2710 or [email protected].

Guided Nature Tours

Saturday, December 3 – 8am
Saturday, December 10 – 8am
Wilson Road Trailhead

Join Russell Lands On Lake Martin’s Naturalist for a peaceful walk through a crisp forest. Along the way, discover which creatures are stirring and which are sleeping in this colder month.  What we see – and what we don’t see – tells us much about the conditions of winter. We will take a closer look at the plants that we associate with the season: hollies and pines. You’ll learn what makes evergreens such fitting Christmas décor and why all of Santa’s reindeer must be female.

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.

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.