THE PEEPER Battle Creek Nature Education Society May 2013

THE PEEPER Battle Creek Nature Education Society www.calvertparks.org May 2013

Bird Banding Project Lands at Flag Ponds

ith its varied habitats and rich bird diversity, Flag Ponds Nature Park was a natural choice to take W part in a large-scale study of bird populations. The Calvert County Nature Park was selected as a site for the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) Program, which comprises more than 500 banding sites throughout North America. Beginning this May, biologists from US Geo- logical Survey, Calvert County Natural Resources Division and volunteers will be installing mist Red-winged black- birds (Agelaius nets to capture breeding birds at various locations phoenicius) and a in the park. The nets will be checked on a regular yellow billed schedule on specified dates throughout the sum- cuckoo (Coccycus mer months. Birds will be identified, measured americanus, left) and their age and sex will be recorded. The data are ready for collected at Flag Ponds will be deposited in a data banding. Photos bank with the other banding stations. courtesy of Charlie Muise. (continued on page 9)

Trail to Kings Landing Amphitheater Gets Upgrade Footpath to the Arts

short way off the entry road to Kings It all started in 1996 when Jackie, founder Landing Park, Ranger Jackie Waymire of the Chesapeake Youth Players, melded her created a performance space in a passion for song and theater with her love of A natural setting. From Shakespeare to nature. Thespians from the surrounding community spring mummers to evening concerts, the Wood- auditioned and performed at the Woodlands Am- lands Amphitheater is a place where sound carries phitheater and a community was born. true and the trees act as a backdrop for the artistic ~ endeavors of local performers. Over the years, the After almost two decades of use, the trail lead- amphitheater has hosted plays, concerts, festival ing to the Amphitheater has degraded and is in celebrations, and more. Most events are targeted need of repair. Recently, BCNES and the Division to the youth audience and are open to the of Natural Resources were granted funds to repair community and the general public. (continued on page 9) No Better Way To Enjoy Summer Park Update Summer is the busiest season for our nature parks. During a walk through Battle Creek Cypress Swamp There are so many great programs in the summer as the winter birds are calling, I listen for the first calls schedule, it’ll be a tough decision for what park to visit. of our spring and summer migrants. Each year this So be sure to visit them all! anticipation helps me through the days when winter Staff will be holding summer camps through June seems to never want to end. Each Spring day brings a and July. From Yuckology to Herpetology, there is sure new experience as all of nature seems to burst with life. to be something of interest for your children. The There are many changes happening throughout the camps registrations are going fast, so check for updates Division that also bring great excitement. at www.calvertparks.org. Plans for the Fishing Shanty at Flag Ponds Nature You’ll notice that we are hosting programs at new Park are moving forward. Architectural drawings are venues, Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm, Hutchins Pond, being developed and grants and donations being secured and the Ward property. The Ward property, in to rebuild the shanty and continue telling the history of Dunkirk, is a new acquisition for the county and will the fishing community that was active at the site. feature nature trails to complement the recreational Over the next few months, a new park will be facilities also planned for the site. Biscoe Gray is lo- emerging: the Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm on Grays cated on Grays Road, close to Battle Creek Cypress Road just beyond the Cypress Swamp Sanctuary. The Swamp. Taken together, these two parks offer an excel- park has been available for equestrian use and special lent view of how people worked the farms and forests programs, but by the end of 2013, a new entry drive and of Calvert and how we are working today to preserve marked trails will provide opportunities for all visitors. the natural and cultural resources of these lands. Look for updates on our website. BCNES and the Division of Natural Resources are The Division suffered a great loss with the planning new programs and events for these sites, in- retirement of Jackie Waymire, Park Manager of Kings cluding a celebration of Calvert’s farming heritage at Landing Park. She created a vibrant atmosphere for ac- Biscoe Gray that will incorporate the annual Herb Sale tivities at the park. The Junior Rangers Corps will be her (which is on hiatus in 2013). enduring legacy—a crew of young adults who have We hope to see you at our parks soon. spent countless hours devoted to the Park. Over the next year, we hope to have them share their experience and —Anne Sundermann, Executive Director spread their talents throughout the entire division. There’s always something going on at the nature Love Nature? Volunteer! parks and so much to discover, learn and share. Use your experience to help preserve our future in Calvert County by becoming a volunteer. To volunteer, contact —Karyn Molines, Division Chief [email protected].

The Battle Creek Nature Education Society (BCNES) is dedicated to the development of a responsible environmental ethic by providing opportunities for environmental education and compatible recreation; and the preservation of the natural heritage of Calvert County primarily within the mission of the Calvert County Natural Resources Division.

BCNES Staff & Board of Directors: Natural Resources Staff Anne Sundermann, Executive Director Karyn Molines, Division Chief John H. Jones, President Andy Brown, Senior Naturalist Lloyd Hepburn, Vice President Linda Lanzisera, Office Assistant II Julia Cornellier, Treasurer Tania Gale, Naturalist Bev Izzi, Secretary Gene Groshon, Naturalist Fred Bumgarner Shannon Steele, Naturalist Franki Coughlin Connie Sutton, Park Manager Martha Grahame Jerry King, Building & Grounds Maintenance Worker Dudley Lindsley Dwight Williams, Administrative Agent

2 SUMMER 2013 PROGRAMS

B ATTLE C REEK Calvert County Natural Resources Division N ATURE E DUCATION Battle Creek Nature Education Society S OCIETY www.calvertparks.org

Online Registration BCNES MEMBERS You can now register online for programs at RECEIVE DISCOUNTS New www.calvertparks.org. You will be able to pay ON ALL PROGRAMS

registration fees online as well. Unless noted, programs are FREE for Battle Creek Nature Registrations are also accepted by mail. Education Society (BCNES) Call 410-535-5327 or email [email protected] to members, whereas nonmem- register for programs that are free. bers pay $8 per family.

When you join BCNES you To register online, your membership profile must have your can register at the member current email address. price. Members pay a re- duced fee for kayak trips, Please verify your email and your membership status before you camps, and other special try to renew or register. Here's how: events.

 Log on to calvertparks.org using your email and Nonmember fees are raised password. and are charged per „family‟,  Click "forgot password” if you have never logged in that is, one or more child before. and a parent or an adult guardian.  If your email is not found call the office at We adjusted the program 410-535-5327 or email Anne Sundermann at fees to reflect a stronger [email protected] to update your records. benefit for our current members and to encourage membership, particularly for SUPPORT CALVERT‟S NATURE PARKS… individuals and families who JOIN BCNES! attend more than one program. The Battle Creek Nature Education Society is a 501(c) 3 non-profit “friends” organization that supports the quality environmental education programs Your membership and pro- offered by Calvert County Natural Resources Division. gram fees support the nature Join or renew today online at www.calvertparks.org. parks.

BCNES MEMBER BENEFITS: We encourage you to explore our website Most of the programs listed in this program are free to BCNES members. (calvertparks.org) to renew Members receive discounted rates on summer nature camps and special and register for events events. “Members Only” activities are scheduled throughout the year. In online. addition members receive the quarterly newsletter and program schedule in Thank you! advance of the general public.

3 PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES Families can experience the fascinating natural world found in our area. These programs incorporate activities to entertain learners of all ages. Most programs spend time outdoors: dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. Reservations required. Adult participation required. Children must be the age indicated for each program. Fee per program: Free for BCNES members. Nonmembers pay $8 per family.

* New Spring programs added. See page 8 for other Animals on the Move May-June programs. Wednesday, July 24, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Kings Landing Park Magic Cicadas* Ages 3-5 with adult Friday, May 17, 6:00 -8:00 p.m. Come learn how different animals move differently while we Battle Creek Cypress Swamp slither, crawl and fly our way around Kings Landing Park. All Ages The Brood II cicada will rise from the ground, having Gone Fishing spent the last 17 years growing underground. We’ll take a Sunday, July 27, 9:00-10:30 a.m. close up look at these amazing insects and make our own Hutchins Pond cicada callers to take home. Ages 6-9 with adult We’ll go fishing and also talk about the wildlife around the Fireflies* pond. You’ll even get your own cane pole to take home! Be Saturday, June 22, 8:00-10:00 p.m sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle and perhaps a cam- Kings Landing Park era to take a photo of what you catch. All ages Celebrate the summer solstice with the flashing of fireflies. Celebrate the Beauty of Calvert County You’ll learn to catch fireflies with your flashlight. We’ll Friday, August 2, 6:00-8:00 p.m. play a firefly game and make glow in the dark creatures. Ward Property All ages (under 17 with adult) Ladybugs Bring a blanket and picnic supper and relax among the tall Monday, July 1, 10:00-11:00 a..m. cedars as you watch your children play. Afterwards, enjoy Battle Creek Cypress Swamp ice cream dessert before hiking with a naturalist to see the Ages 18 months to 5 years with adult amazing ponds and other natural features that this new county Children will enjoy some fun indoor activities and a property has to offer. puppet show about ladybugs. Then they will explore the meadow to try and find some. Marsh Exploration Sunday, August 4, 2:00-3:30 p.m. Who Scat Here? Flag Ponds Nature Park Monday, July 8, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Ages 6-9 with adult Flag Ponds Nature Park Join a naturalist on a hike to the beach and use nets to dis- Ages 4-5 with adult cover critters that inhabit nearby marshes and ponds. Wear Come learn more about the signs that our animal friends clothes that can get wet and muddy. often leave behind! Each animal has its own unique tracks and signature scat. We’ll learn some common local ones Terrapins and Sea Turtles and then do an outdoor search. Monday, August 5, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Flag Ponds Nature Park The Great Creek Wade-in! Ages 18 months to 5 years with adult Thursday, July 18, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Enjoy some fun indoor activities and a puppet show about Battle Creek Cypress Swamp turtles that live in the Bay. Then we’ll take a short hike to Ages 3-5 with adult enjoy being outdoors. It’s time for our annual visit to the creek! We’ll wade in with nets in search of animals like crayfish, water bugs, and fish. Come prepared for wading (adults and kids).

4 PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES (cont’d from page 4)

Dog Hike Who’s in the Garden? Saturday, September 14, 6:00-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Ages 10 and up (10–17 with adult) Ages 3-5 with adult Bring along your favorite canine friend for a hike. Be sure It’s a great time of year to explore the garden! Come see to bring a leash, water bowl, and day pack. what’s in ours. Caterpillars, beetles, and flowers – oh my!

Bug Patrol Weather Wonders Tuesday September 17, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Friday, August 23, 10:00-11:00 a.m. Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm Flag Ponds Nature Park Ages 3-5 with adult Ages 3-5 with adult Come learn about grasshoppers and other bugs while we Be prepared to create a rain storm, paint with clouds and chase them through the fields. We’ll meet at Battle Creek possibly make your very own cloud to take home! We’ll Cypress Swamp. learn about clouds and rain while doing these fun activities.

Little Fishy River Walk Monday, September 23, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 27, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Flag Ponds Nature Park Kings Landing Park Ages 18 months to 5 years with adult Ages 3-5 with adult At the beach children will help the naturalist catch minnows What lives in the river? We’ll wade in and find out. Dress to and other animals using a seine net. Bring a snack, drink, get wet from head to toe – adults, too! Wear old sneakers and towel, and dress your child in clothes that can get wet. that you can wear in the water, a towel, and bring a change of clothes for the way home. MINI CAMPS To the Creek! Thursday, September 5, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Kings Landing Park Nature Photography Mini Camps—Ages 10-13 Ages 4-5 with adult Tuesday, July 2, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Hike to Cocktown Creek and to discover the plants and ani- Flag Ponds Nature Park mals that call this place home. Take time to share a picnic Friday, August 16, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., lunch creekside. Bring your lunch and wear comfortable Battle Creek Cypress Swamp shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. Friday, September 27, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Kings Landing Park Slimy Critters Keep your young teen busy when they’re out of school. Sunday, September 8, 2:00-3:30 p.m. They can have fun exploring the outdoors with friends, old Flag Ponds Nature Park and new, as they take pictures of amazing landscapes and Ages 6-9 with adult cool plants and animals. Photography tips, themes and Kids will have fun outdoors searching for frogs, slugs, and locations will vary every month. Bring a bag lunch and a other slimy critters. Afterwards we will make some slime to point-and-shoot camera. Fee: Free for BCNES members. take home. Nonmembers pay $12 per person.

Miles of Reptiles School’s Out Camp! —Grades 3-5 Monday, September 9, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 18, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Flag Ponds Nature Park Up to 5 years old with adult Don’t spend off from school at home, come play Learn what makes reptiles unique. Hear what the puppets in the park! Explore the park and make new friends. have to say, meet live animals, explore the world of reptiles Fee: Free for BCNES members. Nonmembers pay $12 with both indoor activities and out. per person.

THE JUNIOR RANGERS CORPS CAMPOUTS AND OVERNIGHTS

Most events include outdoor activities; please dress accordingly. The Junior Rangers Corps are 10-16 year olds with a Fees are as noted below. Registration required. strong interest in the environment and the great outdoors. Throughout the school year they generally meet every second and fourth Saturday of the month at Kings Landing Campfire Program Park. The open meetings will resume in September. Spe- Nature’s Night Sounds cial trips and outings are scheduled throughout the year. Friday, July 19, 8:00-9:00 p.m. Join one of our special Junior Rangers adventures this Battle Creek Cypress Swamp summer. All ages (under 17 with adult) Nature can make a lot of noise, even in the quiet of the Forest, Field, and Creek night. Discover the nighttime peeps, squeaks, whistles, Saturday, July 20, 1:00-4:00 pm hoots and shrieks of woods, wetlands and fields. S’mores Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm provided. Ages 10-16 Bring a flashlight, lawn chair or blanket, insect repellent Join a naturalist for this off-trail meander as we explore Fee: Free for BCNES members. Nonmembers pay $8 the woods, fields, and streams one of the lesser known per family. Calvert County Natural Resource Division areas – the Biscoe-Gray Heritage Farm.

Down by the River Kayak Trip SPECIAL EVENTS Saturday August 31, 2:30-5:00 p.m. Most events include outdoor activities; please dress accordingly. Kings Landing Registration required. Ages 12-16 The Patuxent River is full of life! We’ll head out in the Adults Only – Cricket Crawl kayaks, making stops to get wet and use nets to catch and Friday, August 23, 8:30 p.m. observe some of these river animals like crabs and fish. Kings Landing Park Instruction on kayaking basics and safety is included. Enjoy the warm summer evening and help collect data on our local night calling insects. We will start at Kings Landing Welcome Fall! and caravan to several other locations. Fee: Free for BCNES Saturday, September 28, 2:30-5:00 p.m. members. Nonmembers pay $8 per person. Ward Property Ages 10-16 Join a naturalist for this off-trail meander as we explore

the woods, fields, and streams of one of the lesser known BCNES MEMBERS RECEIVE DISCOUNTS Calvert County Natural Resource Division areas – the ON ALL PROGRAMS Ward property. Battle Creek Nature Education Society is a non-profit SAVE THE DATE “friends” organization that helps to provide quality Life on the Edge education programs through Calvert County Natural Thursday, October 3, 7:00 p.m. (pre-trip orientation) Resources Division. Friday-Saturday, October 18, 7:00 a.m.-October 19, Members receive discounted rates on programs, 5:00 p.m. including summer camps, and participate in “Members Assateague Island National Seashore Only” activities. In addition, members receive the Ages 12-16 quarterly newsletter and program schedule in advance Assateague Island is poised between the land and the sea —re-created each day by ocean, wind, and waves. Kayak of the general public. the coastal bay, camp in the sand dunes, cook dinner over Join today by going to our website, calvertparks.org. a fire, and explore the beach at night. Fee per person: $40 for BCNES members; $60 for nonmembers.

KAYAK/CANOE LAUNCHES KAYAKING TRIPS

If you can’t make one of our scheduled Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of kayak trips, Calvert County Division of Kings Landing Park as you enjoy a leisurely Natural Resources manages several launches. tour of the Patuxent River and its nearby Also many of these sites are a part of the creeks. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are larger Patuxent River Water Trail provided. (www.patuxentwatertrail.org). Participants must be at least 9 years of age to accompany NEW– Nan’s Cove an adult in a double kayak, and at least 12 years old to ride 8081 Broomes Island Road, Broomes Island in a single kayak. Those under age 18 must be accompa- A small but enjoyable water access park. Nans Cove is a nied by an adult. Reservations and payment are required in sheltered cove of the Patuxent River. Open daily. Park- advance. ing lot is closed between 9:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m. No fee. Wear shoes that can get wet and bring water, hat and Kings Landing Pier sunscreen. 3255 Kings Landing Road, Huntingtown A 200-foot fishing pier and canoe and kayak launch. Location: Kings Landing Park pool parking lot unless Open during park hours. See page 8. No fee. noted  Saturday, May 4, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Solomons Fishing Pier and Boat Ramp  Saturday, June 2, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 14195 S. Solomons Island Road, Solomons  Saturday, June 8, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Open daily, 24 hours. Ramp fee is charged.  Saturday July 27, 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.  Saturday, August 31, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Flag Ponds Nature Park  Sunday, September 8, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 1525 Flag Ponds Parkway, Lusby  Saturday, September 28, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Paddle the Chesapeake from this beachfront launch.

There is a long walk from the parking lot to the water. Open during park hours. See page 8. Fee for park entry. Fee per program: BCNES members pay $10 per person. Nonmembers pay $20 per person.

Calvert County Flag Ponds Kayak Trip Natural Resources Saturday, July 13, 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Division Flag Ponds Nature Park Canoe and Ages 12 and up, moderately strenuous journey, paddling experience required Kayak Launches Take a guided paddle along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline, stopping periodically to look for fossils or seine with the naturalist. We will provide the kayaks; all you need to Kings Landing bring is a snack and plenty of water. Participants must Flag Pier help carry kayaks about 150 yards to the water. Ponds Beach (1/2 mile Kayak Fishing Trip portage) Saturday, August 17, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages 9 and up (ages 9-13 with an adult) Join us for a fun day of kayak fishing on the Patuxent Nan’s Cove, River. We’ll provide the kayaks, you bring the fishing Broomes Island gear. Adults and those over 16 years old will need a tidal fishing license.

Solomons Boat Ramp

7 LIST OF EVENTS, BY DATE

All programs are listed at www.calvertparks.org. Thursday, July 18, The Great Creek Wade-in!, BCCS PROGRAM KEY MAY Friday, July 19, Nature’s Night Sounds, BCCS Saturday, May 4, Kayak Trip, KLP Saturday, July 20; Forest, Field, and Creek, BGHF PUPPET Monday, May 6, Rainbows, BCCS Monday, July 22–Friday, July 26, Nature Tuesday, May 7, Nature Photography for Ages 10–13, Photography Camp, FPNP, BCCS, & KLP FPNP Wednesday July 24, Animals on the Move, KLP PADDLING Tuesday, May 7, Nesting Supplies, KLP Sunday, July 27, Gone Fishing, HP Thursday, May 9, Mud, BCCS AUGUST Saturday, May 11, Adults Only Bluebird Trail Hike, Friday, August 2, Celebrate the Beauty of Calvert CAMPS KLP County, WARD

Thursday, May 16, How Does Your Garden Grow?, Sunday, August 4, Marsh Exploration, FPNP SCOUTS BCCS Monday, August 5–Friday, August 9, Our Animal Friday, May 17, Magic Cicadas, BCCS Friends, BCCS Saturday, May 18, Tree Tour. TBD Monday, August 5, Terrapins and Sea Turtles, ALL AGES Sunday, May 19, Kayak Trip, KLP FPNP Sunday, May 19, Butterfly Gardens, BCCS Wednesday, August 14, Who’s in the Garden? LECTURE Tuesday, May 21, Wildlife Scrapbook, KLP BCCS JUNE Friday, August 16, Nature Photography Mini Sunday, June 2, Kayak Trip, KLP Camps, BCCS CAMPFIRE Sunday, June 2, Blue Crabs, FPNP Friday August 23, Weather Wonders, FPNP Monday, June 3, Wonderful Water, BCCS Tuesday, August 27, River Walk, KLP Tuesday, June 4, Photography for Ages 10–13, KLP Saturday August 31, Down by the River Kayak PARKS Thursday, June 6, Bugs, BCCS Trip, KLP BCCS—Battle Creek Saturday, June 8, Kayak Trip, KLP SEPTEMBER Cypress Swamp Thursday, June 13, Welcome Summer!, BCCS Thursday, September 5, To the Creek!, KLP Saturday, June 22, Fireflies, KLP Sunday, September 8, Slimy Critters, FPNP BGHF– Biscoe Gray Monday, June 24–Friday, June 28, Herpetology Camp, Monday, September 9, Miles of Reptiles, BCCS Heritage Farm FPNP Saturday, September 14, Dog Hike, BGHF FPNP—Flag Ponds JULY Tuesday September 17, Bug Patrol, BGHF Monday, July 1, Ladybugs, BCCS Wednesday, September 18, School’s Out Camp!, Nature Park Tuesday, July 2, Nature Photography Mini Camp, FPNP HP—Hutchins Pond FPNP Monday, September 23, Little Fishy, FPNP Monday, July 8, Who Scat Here? FPNP Friday, September 27, Nature Photography Mini KLP– Kings Landing Park Wednesday, July 10–Friday, July 12, Hand in Hand – Camps, KLP WARD–Ward Property Discovery Trails, BCCS Saturday, September 28, Welcome Fall!, WARD

NATURE PARK INFORMATION

Mailing Address Flag Ponds Nature Park Kings Landing Park Calvert County Natural Resources 1525 Flag Ponds Parkway 3255 Kings Landing Road 175 Main Street Lusby, MD 20657 Huntingtown, MD 20639 Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Park Office: 410-586-1477 Park Office: 410-535-2661 Reservations: 410-535-5327 Reservations: 410-535-5327 Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Sanctuary Hours: Memorial Day–Labor Day Hours: Memorial Day–Labor Day 2880 Grays Road Weekdays, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Daily, 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Weekends, 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Labor Day–Memorial Day, Office & Reservations: 410-535-5327 Labor Day–Memorial Day Daily, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m Hours: Mon.–Fri., 9:00 a.m–4:30 p.m. Weekends, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Memorial Day–Labor Day Mondays & Fridays, 9:00 a.m.– Biscoe Gray Heritage Farm Saturday,10:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 2695 Grays Road Sunday, 1:00–6:00 p.m. Prince Frederick, MD 20678 Labor Day-Memorial Day Information: 410-535-5327 Saturday, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. SUMMER HOURS BEGIN Hours: Call office for details. Sunday, 1:00–4:30 p.m. SATURDAY, MAY 25 8 Bird Banding Project (cont‟d from page 1)

Avian Bellwethers strategies to reverse population declines and maintain Birds are one of the many creatures that aid in stable or increasing populations. These critical data maintaining the balance of our ecosystem and are a are being used in conjunction with avian population reliable source of telltale signs of imbalance. trend data, station-specific and landscape-level habitat The MAPS program is coordinated by the Institute data, and spatially explicit weather data to formulate for Bird Populations, a nonprofit based in Point Reyes, management actions and conservation strategies to California (www.birdpop.org). The institute is reverse population declines in both year-round ―dedicated to understanding the abundance, distribu- resident and migratory landbirds. tion, and ecology of birds, and to facilitating scientifi- Constant-effort mist-netting protocols, such as cally informed conservation of birds and their habi- MAPS, provide important information about bird tats.‖ Created in 1989, the program is a cooperative populations including estimates of annual survival effort among public agencies, private organizations, rates, productivity, age and sex structure, breeding and individual bird banders across North America. status, and many other useful statistics. Beyond the The program, has a network of over 500 constant importance of contributing data to a continent-wide effort bird banding/monitoring mist netting stations database and participating in research efforts, a MAPS have been established to assess and monitor the popu- station also provides an excellent opportunity to lation of approximately 120 species of land birds provide outreach and educational services in the local during the breeding season. Monitoring is done by community. We are very excited to be participating in teams of biologists and trained volunteers. this valuable research. With collected data, the teams determine the —Andy Brown, Senior Naturalist approximate demographic cause(s) of population (Note that on banding days the North Ridge Trail will be closed to change; suggest management actions and conservation dogs until noon. Schedules will be posted at www.calvertparks.org.)

Amphitheater (cont‟d from page 1) the trail from the Calvert Environmental Trust for Youth, which supports youth and environmental activities. Attendees of these events will benefit from improved access to the area. This project, run by volunteers, will regrade and resurface the trail leading to the Amphitheater. At this Creation of the Woodlands time, water collects on the trail. Currently the trail is Amphitheater covered in mulch to absorb the excess runoff. Our goal was a is to make the amphitheater productions easier to ac- community cess and prevent degradation of the trail and erosion of project, with the surrounding soils. volunteers We expect approximately 24 area youth to volun- building the teer (grade levels 6-12). The youth volunteers will be stage and the seating area. drawn primarily from the Junior Ranger Corps. The youth are prime users of many of the park amenities. Their participation in the project will advance their The community around King’s Landing and central stewardship of this area. Calvert will benefit from improved access to the Last year more than 14,000 people visited Kings Woodlands Amphitheater. With better trails, the show Landing Park, most from local, from Calvert County. will go on!

9 Sarah‟s Corner Rakiok Reading Nook (cont‟d from p. 12)

heartwood in its trunk into a very hard, strong, dark brown Explore the Parks this ―hornwood‖ (my term). Much of the Nature Center’s Summer! Rakiok interior is composed of this same type of wood— Spending sunny days relaxing on the beach explaining why it lived so long and also why it did not seems to be the most chosen summer past time; crack when moved into the Nature Center. Hollow trees however, Calvert County nature parks offer so also escape the lumberman, and are appreciated for the much more. habitat they provide for animals.

Instead of choosing the beach this summer, why How did a large hollow tree get to the Nature Center? not try kayaking, birding, geocaching, viewing native wildlife or participating in one of our To make a long story short, I rescued several pieces of programs – our nature parks offer it all. a fallen hollow tulip poplar that stood not far from Scientists Cliffs Road. The pieces were brought to Battle Take some time this summer to walk the trail Creek about 15 years ago. I cleaned and smoothed the network at Flag Ponds Nature Park, Battle Creek largest chunk and preserved it with the bottom part in the Cypress Swamp, Biscoe Gray, and Kings Landing air. I saw this piece as both a sculpture and an educational Park. The wooded paths will provide shade and exhibit on how trees grow, how they decay, the animals and the amazing scenery will provide entertainment. fungi that consume or inhabit the wood, etc. It is also a

Open your eyes to everything nature has to offer great place to curl up with a book. this summer; you’ll be able to skip the crowds at the beach and find peace in the natural world Why don‟t many people like poplars? around you. Although many people shy away from the species —Sarah Arias, Nature Center Aide because of storm damage to their houses caused by wind thrown tulip poplars, I remain a fan. Yes, tulip poplars tend to have shallow root systems, and their great height gives Meet the Newest Resident them lots of sail area. Especially along the western shore of of the Nature Center the Chesapeake, abandoned fields at the lower elevations Last winter Senior Naturalist (below 100 ft in central Calvert County) sprout back in Andy Brown received a call nearly pure stands of tulip poplars. This unnatural circum- about an injured barred owl stance results in closely spaced trees with small root (Strix varia) in Chesapeake systems. That tulip poplars are pioneers does not mean they Beach. Andy called our volunteer vet and in a few are a transient successional species (the Belt Woods old- hours the owl was stabilized. growth remnant in Prince Georges County is dominated by The owl was then sent to a white oaks and tulip poplars 150–250 years old). rehabilitator in Montgomery Despite all, there’s a lot to like about these trees. The County. tulip poplar is valuable for its lumber, and is a great honey Although the owl was in tree. It is the tallest deciduous tree in North America (some good health, the government may have reached 200-ft heights); trees 8–10 ft in diameter requires that any bird that is were once not uncommon. On the western shore of the an amputee be euthanized. Chesapeake, it was the natives’ favorite for dugout canoes. The rehabber convinced the The average dugout was probably the size (15 ft) of the one authorities to make an ex- ception for this bird. She was I made from a tulip poplar that blew down in my yard. This injured barred owl is After many adventures on the Potomac, Patuxent, and successful and the owl came large for her species, at Chesapeake, I recently donated my ―rakiok‖canoe to the to the Cypress Swamp in 1,000 grams. The average early April. size is 800-900 grams. Calvert Marine Museum. —Peter Vogt, Volunteer 10 Transitions ver the past seventeen years later, Jackie Waymire has spent days, and nights, as Park Ranger and Park Manager of Kings Landing Park. She has been in the trees and on the river, leading hikes, O paddle trips, fishing events, and camp outs. Kings Landing grew in those years with many more visitors, many more projects, lots of programs and special events. Jackie grew as well. ―This place became home away from home. It wasn’t just a job.‖ says Jackie. ―I can walk every trail here blindly in the dark. There’s a very big part of me here - in the trees, the meadows, the waterways. I know the patterns of the wildlife here through all seasons.‖ You can’t be a ranger or park manager without becoming part of the land. Jackie was an excellent steward of the land, the wildlife and the surrounding waterways. Jackie touched many lives as well. Some of major accomplishments at Kings Landing include:  Working with Eagle Scouts on successful projects, including building benches, bird boxes, gardens, orienteering trail, fire pits, wood boxes, signs, kiosks, flag poles, solar panels, and more. Happy Trails to Jackie Waymire.  Creating the park’s Junior Ranger Corps. Since its establishment in June 1997, hundreds of young adults have participated in this program.  Establishing the Woodlands Amphitheater in 2002 (see page 1). Throughout her programs and projects at Kings Welcome to Our Interns Landing, Jackie gave visitors a sense of ownership, that Kings Landing Park is theirs to enjoy and preserve. Naturalist intern Katie Roof is Jackie has made a difference to the park, its visitors, a graduate of Calvert High School. and the surrounding community. She’s on her way to She has a BS in Environmental warmer climes and new adventures! Studies from Slippery Rock College and is enrolled in Masters ~ of Education and Environmental Gene Groshon has been hired as the new full time Education program at Slippery naturalist. He comes to us from Flag Ponds Nature Park Rock. Katie will assist with the where he was a part-time ranger since 2011. Gene is a teaching of school groups and resident of Huntingtown and graduated from Northern working on an independent project for her internship. Her 12-week High School. He has a degree from Salisbury State internship ends in June. Intern Katie Roof University in Outdoor Education. Gene has an interest Camp counselors will begin their internships prior to in all outdoor activities, especially hiking, biking and the start of summer camps. Chloe Ament is a junior at fishing. Calvert High School and volunteered last summer with ~ our camps. Jessica Hill is a graduate of Huntingtown High School and is returning for her second and final Sarah Arias started with the Division in 2009 as a year as camp counselor. Lauren Alderson is a junior at park aide at Flag Ponds. She was hired as the Nature Huntingtown High School. Bethany Oldham is a senior Center Aide in 2012. She leaves us for a position as a at Northern High School. switchboard operator at the courthouse. During her Additional internships are available. Contact Senior time as Nature Center Aide, she contributed articles for Naturalist Andy Brown at [email protected]. the Peeper (see page 10) and maintained a ―What’s Happening‖ exhibit in the Nature Center.

11 PO Box 122

Port Republic, MD 20676

New at the Nature Center

Rakiok Reading Nook

arge hollow trees have always captivated human imagination— what hibernating creatures might lurk inside? The most spacious hollow giants in our ancient hardwood forests were probably L sycamores—some of which exceeded 12 feet in outside diameter. Tulip poplars (Liriodendron tulipifera, also called canoewood, popple, poplar, tulip tree, yellow or white poplar, a tree in the Magnolia family and unrelated to poplars or tulips) must have been a close second. Accord- ing to Thomas Hariot (1585), Native Americans living at the mouth of the Bay and towards Cape Hatteras called this tree ―rakiok,‖ which is my preference. Respectable hollow trees are still around today. In fact the largest tree in Calvert County, located in Flag Ponds Nature Park, is a hollow tulip poplar with space for nine people. One can stand inside this tree and look at the sky through a large cavity in its trunk.

Why has this old hollow tree survived so many storms? One factor might be that the Flag Ponds veteran grew up in an open field, not in competition with neighbors, and thus developed a robust root system. There is, I think, a more important factor—while much of the Peter Vogt and Senior Naturalist Andy Brown put the medium brown heartwood decays, chemical processes turn some of the finishing touches on a hollowed tulip poplar. The tree (continued on page 10) now sits in the Nature Center at the Cypress Swamp.