South Shore Sanctuaries North River • Daniel Webster • North Hill Marsh

Winter 2016 January-March 2016 Hibernation As the cold winter months settle in, animals respond in a number of ways. Some migrate to sites where food is available, some stay put and do just fine, and others hibernate. Most hibernators prepare in some way for the winter. Some store food in their burrows or dens, to eat when they awake for short periods. Others eat a lot during the fall when food is plentiful, working to increase their body fat so they have a reserve during the long winter. True hibernators go into a deep sleep; their body temperature drops, and breathing and heart beat slow down significantly. For example, a hibernating woodchuck’s heart rate slows from 80 to 4 beats per minute, and its temperature drops from 98 F to as low as 38 F. Other animals are “light sleepers.” Eastern chipmunks, for example, store food in sections of their underground homes during September and October. They sleep during the most severe weather and wake to roam and eat during milder weather. This time of year it is very tempting to join the eastern chipmunks calling to each other and woodchucks as they doze through the winter. For me, it starts 4. Listen for great horned owls in the woods outside on a quiet night. These large owls are when I am leaving work in the dark. Then the holidays come and I nesting now, usually in tall pine trees, and often using the eat a bit more than usual – maybe getting ready for the long win- abandoned nests of hawks or crows. Come on an Owl Prowl ter? Then I’m heading to work in the dark and cold, which makes with us this winter to find out more about local owl species it harder and harder to get out of bed. Sometimes I think that I (see pages 6-7). should just give in – but then we have a cool crisp day, the air feels wonderful, and I want to get outside. 5. Head to the beach on a sunny day to see what winter storms have washed in. Sometimes large pieces of driftwood While it is warm inside and my quilt is calling, there is a lot of activity or interesting shells have come ashore. Seals can often be in the winter that I would hate to miss. Here are 5 of my favorites: seen, along with rafts of common eider ducks and other hardy 1. Fill up the bird feeders and see how quickly word gets seabirds bobbing in the gray waters. February Vacation Week around the bird community. Then sit back and sip a cup of tea offers an opportunity for kids to join our 5th Annual Beach while watching the antics of the black-capped chickadees as Party on February 17 (see page 5). they fly in to grab a seed, then hurry off to a safe place to eat. As tempting as it may be, don’t hibernate this winter (at least not Suet will bring in woodpeckers; so far I’ve seen 5 species at for too long)! Whether it’s stargazing, searching for woodcocks, my feeder – hairy, downy, red-bellied, yellow-bellied sapsucker, or learning about seals, there are so many things you can only see and northern flicker. and do during the winter months. 2. Grab the camera and search for shots of ice-covered Check out our program catalog full of winter activities on pages branches with sunlight coming through or a bit of green pok- 5-11, or at massaudubon.org/southshore. Registering for a program ing through the snow. Don’t forget to adjust your camera for is a great way to ensure that you don’t answer the call of your quilt! the reflection off the snow. Looking for shadows or that spot of color can give you a dramatic image. Or just head out for a walk at one of our sanctuaries. Trails are open dawn to dusk and snowshoes are allowed (sorry, no skis). 3. Search for animal footprints in early morning right Spring will come again, and in the meantime I encourage you after a snowfall. Follow the squirrel tracks from the feeder take advantage of some of the special opportunities our winter where it grabbed some seed to the tree. Are those fox tracks landscape provides. following behind in a straight line? If you would like to learn more about winter tracking, join us for a program with expert tracker Janet Pesaturo on January 23 (see page 7). Sue MacCallum, Director

1 The Birding Beat: Follow the Sun (Or, have it follow you...) By David Ludlow, Property Manager & Naturalist It would be nice if every bird always perched in perfect light, but that tends to be more of a lucky break than a regular occurrence. On a recent Friday Morning Bird Walk (a weekly program I lead through South Shore Sanctuaries, details on page 6), we were at Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary looking at a western kingbird across the field. This is an exciting sight for us in Massachusetts, so we were anxious to get the best view possible. The bird was terribly back lit, right in line between us and the sun. I led the group 100 feet further down the trail so we could look back toward the bird. This created an angle so the sun was to our left, and though the light wasn’t perfect, our look was much improved. When birding on a loop trail, plan to walk in whichever direction puts the sun behind you as much as possible. On a woodland trail, birds are often found on the sunnier side. A simple way to improve your view is to stand in the shadow of a tree, moving sideways until the sun is behind a tree trunk. This same technique can be used on roadsides using telephone poles. The right light can mean the difference between an okay view and a spectacular one. Since bird sightings are unpredictable and fleeting, it pays to plan ahead and position yourself accordingly.

South Shore Sanctuaries OFFICES, GIFT SHOP, & DISCOVERY ROOM At North River Wildlife Sanctuary North River • Daniel Webster • North Hill Marsh 2000 Main Street (Route 3A), Marshfield From Route 139/3A intersection in Marshfield, take 3A north WHO WE ARE 4.6 miles. From Route 123/3A rotary in Scituate, take 3A south Susan MacCallum, Director x7901 1.5 miles. Emily Simmer, Office Manager x7902 David Ludlow, Property Manager x7904 Admission: Free to members, except special events. Amy Quist, Education Coordinator/Camp Director x7903 Nonmember adults $4; children (2-12) and seniors (65+) $3. Laura Maloney, Teacher Naturalist x7907 Nature Center Hours Sharon Seeg, Reception Monday-Friday: 9 AM-4 PM Matt Adams, Caretaker, North River Wildlife Sanctuary Saturdays: 10 AM-3 PM (April through Christmas only) Jesse Wilkins, Caretaker, Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary Sundays & Holidays: Closed HOW TO REACH US Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary 781-837-9400 Winslow Cemetery Road, Marshfield [email protected] Take exit 12 from Route 3 onto Route 139 east. Turn right on massaudubon.org/southshore Webster Street, then left on Winslow Cemetery Road. Follow facebook.com/MassAudubonSouthShore the road to the end for sanctuary parking. OUR SOUTH SHORE SANCTUARIES Admission: Free to members, except special events. All trails, observation blinds, and picnic and nature play areas Nonmember adults $3; children (2-12) and seniors (65+) $2. are open daily from dawn to dusk. North Hill Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary North River Wildlife Sanctuary’s Nature Center, picnic area, Mayflower Street, Duxbury and a loop trail are all-persons accessible, as is a trail to an From Route 3A in Duxbury, take Mayflower Street 1.2 miles to observation blind at Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary. sanctuary parking.

Planning for the Future Members Get Free Admission... Another Note From Sue ...to Mass Audubon’s statewide network of 56 wildlife sanctuar- The personal commitment of our valued members and support- ies (except during special fundraising events). Nonmembers are ers to the success of Mass Audubon’s South Shore Sanctuaries charged a small fee to use our trails, including our new self-guid- is remarkable. If you would like to learn more about bequests, ed Sensory Trail. or gifts that provide you income for life and tax benefits, please let me know. These gifts drive our future, and my colleague Jan These funds enable us to maintain our trail network, gardens, Adams, Director of Planned Giving, and I would be happy to send boardwalks, observation blinds, interpretive materials, picnic ar- you information or set up a time to discuss options, answering any eas, and restrooms; and to protect the wildlife habitat beyond questions you may have. I greatly appreciate your consideration. our trail borders. –Sue MacCallum, Director, South Shore Sanctuaries We appreciate your cooperation! 781-837-9400 x7901, [email protected]

2 Farm Day Hooray!

Save the date for next year: Saturday, October 15, 2016!

With its roots as a community awareness fundraiser to “Save Dwyer Farm,” Farm Day continues to be an important and be- loved fall event with hayrides, farm animals, live music, great food, educational exhibits, local artisans, and much more.

Thanks to Our Sponsors & Supporters Local businesses and individuals assisted our fundraising efforts by underwriting some of our expenses. Please let them know you appreciate their support of South Shore Sanctuaries!

Bobolink Sponsor The expression “many hands make light work” certainly applies Wild Birds Unlimited, Hanover to our Farm Day fall festival. October 17 was a perfectly sunny, breezy autumn day, and about 3,000 people joined us to cele- Bluebird Sponsors brate this 35th annual event, bringing in over $20,000 to support Rich Dairy our local conservation and education programs. Marshfield Physical Therapy An undertaking of this magnitude could never be successful with- (coming soon – January 2016) out the help and support of so many of our friends and neighbors in the community. Over 100 individual volunteers gave their time Purple Martin Sponsors and energy to help make this great endeavor appear effortless – selling tickets, spinning cotton candy, painting faces, setting up, ABC Equipment Co. cleaning up, and much more. Hubbard Plumbing & Heating Additional Supporters: Family Crest Catering • Allan Greenberg • Hare Raisers Kennedy’s Country Gardens • Charles Moloney and Paula Wright Ronnie O’Neil • Kay Ramsey • Roche Bros, Marshfield Seagate Farm • Star Market, Marshfield

Seeking Farm Day Craft Demonstrators Do you people who could demonstrate a traditional, colonial- type craft at Farm Day? If so, we’d love to contact them! Ideas include but are not limited to: • weaver • spinner • candle maker/dipper • hewer • cooper •silhouette artist • caner • farrier • rug hooker/braider • quilter • basket maker • tinsmith/metalsmith If you have any recommendations please let us know! New this year, The Caterpillar Lab was a big hit!

All Farm Day photos courtesy of Josh Kuchinsky Photography 3 North River Nature Camp Notes: Twig’s Tw o Six Cents tale of adventure across lava swamps, and the other a battle story The Most Memorable Moments between birds and dragonflies. A truly authentic, creative project By Amy “Twig” Quist, Education Coordinator & Camp Director that, like the story of the weasel, will continue to be retold each year. It happened on the first day of camp, during opening circle. The 4. Having a lot of new names to learn! I pride myself question that kicked off the “get to know the camp staff” activity on learning campers’ names as quickly as possible. This past summer was,“What’s your favorite birdsong?” Not your favorite bird or favorite was a challenge, because we had an impressive number of first-time animal… but your favorite birdsong. I was fascinated that a five year campers. This is a big deal for many, including the families. There will old would ask this specific a question, but I was even more thrilled always be mixed emotions when trying out a new environment, no to share my answer. More on that later though… matter what age you are. But new campers meet other new camp- ers, and new campers mix in with returning campers. Interesting dynamics form and great friendships begin. It’s witnessed every Friday at pickup amidst a chorus of, “Are you coming back next week? Will I see you here next summer?,” as phone numbers are exchanged and playdates scheduled. 5. Daily unstructured play. If we could tap into the imagi- native and creative play energy that is produced in the nature play area during every camp day, it’s quite possible we could alleviate some of our dependence on fossil fuels. Whether it’s putting on a play, creating a restaurant in the teepee, or building a structure from loose wooden blocks and logs, campers learn important so- cial skills through these unstructured interactions. It’s an amazing thing to simply observe, and even more fun to watch how the area progresses over the summer.

While I didn’t know it then, this moment came to be one of the most memorable from camp. We’re a third of the way through November as I think about this now. It’s a dark and stormy day. The wind wolf-howls past my office window, and every now and then the building feels a slight shake. It’s not hard to think back to warm summer days. It would be challenging though, to have to pick out just one favorite part of the summer camp season to share – just like it is for some campers to reflect on just one favorite part of the day at closing circle, but sometimes we let them get away with it! So, along with the memorable question above, I’m allowing myself five more favorite moments to share. An insect has six legs. Snow- flakes have six sides. I think having six favorites is justified – at least that’s how we would rationalize it at camp! In no ranking order: While this is just a snapshot of some great memories, 1. A change of pace: Watching a group of middle-school-aged it represents so much of what we value at North River kids slow down and become absorbed with their surroundings, all Nature Camp: opportunities to think creatively and self-reflect, while journaling and photographing their experiences. At a time experience challenge and risk-taking, be spontaneous and silly, when these kids are experiencing transitions and societal pressures observe, ask questions, and ultimately strengthen our personal to fit in, many found a creative outlet along the trail and discovered connections to the natural world. new ways of expressing themselves in a safe, nonjudgmental manner. 6. So, what is my favorite birdsong? When I think It was wonderful to lead our Digital Age of Nature Journalists and about what fostered my love of the outdoors, the answer lies in begin to understand the natural world through their eyes. that first memorable question. Like a lot of folks, I share a love for 2. Seeing a weasel play what seemed like “peek-a-boo” at the hauntingly mournful, yodel-like call of the common loon. I was the Hannah Eames Brook, and being able to share that experience standing on the edge of Lake Umbagog in New Hampshire when I with the same group mentioned above… and getting a photograph! heard one for the first time. My seven-year-old bones nearly rattled This was camp magic. Unscripted. A true wild moment; I shall never out of my body when the eerie cry came echoing across the lake. forget the expressions of surprise and wonder on our campers’ Completely taken by surprise and almost scared to move, my body faces. The tale of the “strange squirrel” sighting is sure to live on, and experienced fear, sadness, excitement, and a strange sense of joy it’ll have us looking for that weasel every time we visit the brook. all at the same time. I suppose that evening was the first time the 3. Switching it up: It was later in the summer and everyone call of the wild truly resonated with me. at camp was tired out. I advised the counselors to try something That call still rings louder than ever, and I’m so grateful new, to break out of the routine and tap deeper into our campers’ to embrace childlike wonder as a profession. I truly look forward interests. So they did. As a result, campers worked both individually to another summer of sharing my love of nature and to the wild and as part of a group to create two awesome storybooks – one a moments we’ll encounter along the way! 4 Speaking of Next Summer... We can’t wait for another summer full of magical memories, and hope you will join us for a week, or two, or many! Be on the lookout for our 2016 North River Nature Camp Brochure in January (via mail and at massaudubon.org/northrivercamp), and mark your calendars for January 21, when registration officially opens! We will again be offering our $20 Refer a Friend Discount! Word-of-mouth referrals are our best compliments, and we love to reward registered camp families who refer new campers. More information on how this works will be available in our brochure and on our website – please read the details carefully, because there are specific procedures and restrictions to be aware of. Summer will be here before you know it, and we look forward to sharing it with you!

PROGRAM CATALOG February Vacation Week! Please join us! For children in grades 1-5, ages 6-11 9 AM-3 PM: $65/$55 member child per day Preregistration and cancellation procedures: Register for any or all days! • Preregistration and prepayment are required With Amy “Twig” Quist, Education Coordinator & for all programs unless otherwise noted. Summer Camp Director; and Staff Naturalists • Please preregister at least 2 to 5 days in advance. All programs meet at North River Wildlife Sanctuary. Programs have limited space – they often fill early, or Field trip participants will be transported in a Mass Audubon van. may be cancelled if enrollment is low. Important information and required forms will be included with Early preregistration helps ensure that programs will run. your confirmation email – please be sure to read it thoroughly. • Refunds or credits can only be given with 48 Tuesday 2/16 – Winter Wildlife Detectives hours notice (overnight trips and summer camp The world outside may appear abandoned of all life, but with require additional notice – please see those sections special survival skills, many animals still abound during the for details), or if a program is cancelled. winter. Put on your detective hat and come investigate how New England wildlife has adapted to the snow and freezing How Do I Preregister? conditions. We’ll spend time both indoors and out, search- ing for clues, tracks, and other evidence of life in the cold. • Online: massaudubon.org/southshore • By phone: 781-837-9400 Wednesday 2/17 – 5th Annual Winter Beach Party! Bundle up and brave the winter beach – you never know • By mail: include a check or credit card information what treasures might have washed up. Search for seals, birds, with the form on page 11. and shell-dwelling organisms that survive winter along the seashore. In the afternoon, we’ll celebrate our discoveries by cooking up s’mores and crafting beachcomber pies!

FOR KIDS Thursday 2/18 – Winter Tracking Adventure Little Naturalists Join us for a tracking adventure as we explore the trails of Second Tuesday of each month, 9:30-10:30 AM North Hill Marsh and Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuaries For children ages 3-5 with caregiver in search of winter wildlife. Investigate how New England North River Wildlife Sanctuary animals adapt to winter weather, search for tracks and scat, With Marilyn Christmann, Retired Teacher, and challenge your abilities with some sensory experiments. & Terry Stephens, Teacher Naturalist $7/$5 member child (no charge for accompanying adults) Friday 2/19 – Winter Nature Nuts Share your enthusiasm for the season by spending the day Learn about New England animals and how they live through immersed in nature! Take to the woods to explore animal walks, stories, songs, and crafts. These programs often fill early, so habitats and build a winter shelter. Go on a winter scaven- make sure to preregister! Each month focuses on a new theme. ger hunt. Enjoy some hot cocoa and discover your creative 1/12: Harbor Seals 2/9: Crows 3/8: Snakes side with a seasonal art project. You’d be nuts not to join 4/12: Turtles 5/10: Baby Birds 6/14: Frogs the fun!

Please read program preregistration and cancellation procedures (page 5 or 11) 5 PROGRAM CATALOG: FAMILIES, ALL AGES, & ADULTS FOR FAMILIES FOR ALL AGES Owl Moon Adventure Owl Prowl: Ames Nowell State Park Friday 1/15, 6-7:30 PM Friday 2/5, 5:30-6:45 PM North River Wildlife Sanctuary Ames Nowell State Park With Amy “Twig” Quist, Education Coordinator/Camp Director Free! Sponsored by the Abington Cultural Council, a local organization $10/$8 member adult, $8/$6 member child – ages 4+ supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. Looking for some Friday-night fun with the family? Put on your February is courtship time, meaning a very vocal month for New woollies and prepare to learn WHOOO’s calling during this chilly England owls. Join a naturalist-led hike to look, listen, and call for time of year. After a fireside reading of Jane Yolen’s classic story, great horned and eastern screech-owls, and learn about their Owl Moon, we’ll take a short hike along the Woodland Trail to do amazing adaptations. some owling of our own. Experience some owl moon magic with your family! Hot cocoa and cookies will be provided. Maple Sugaring Celebration Saturday 3/19, 9-11:15 AM North River Wildlife Sanctuary With Teacher Naturalist Laura Maloney $10/$7 member adult; $8/$5 member child Join us in celebration of the sugar maple tree and all that it pro- vides us. Participate in outdoor stations that explore maple trees and tree tapping throughout history, try your hand at tapping a tree, and sample different grades of syrup and maple sugar with Fireside Stories and Winter Stargazing silver dollar pancakes in this fun and interactive program. Saturday 2/6, 6-7:30 PM North River Wildlife Sanctuary With Amy “Twig” Quist, Education Coordinator/Camp Director FOR ADULTS $10/$8 member adult, $8/$6 member child – ages 4+ Bring the family for an evening under the stars and discover the First Birds of 2016 winter sky! Listen to stories about Orion the Hunter, the Gemini Saturday, 1/2, 8-10 AM Twins, and more. Enjoy a short walk to check out the stars and Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary learn about some of the more famous constellations that form With Birding Instructor Sally Avery the great winter hexagon. Light refreshments will be provided. $10/$8 member adult What will be your first bird sighting of 2016? Let’s find out as For the Love of Birds Craft Workshop we kick off the new year with a walk at this birding hot spot Saturday 2/13, Drop-in program: 10:30 AM-noon in search of wintering birds – from American tree sparrows to No preregistration required! rough-legged hawks and more! North River Wildlife Sanctuary With Amy “Twig” Quist, Education Coordinator/Camp Director Friday Morning Bird Walk $7/$5 member child – ages 4+ (no charge for adults) Every Friday, 8:15-11:45 AM Come get crafty this Valentine’s weekend and celebrate your love No need to preregister; just show up! of birds! We’ll use a combination of natural and recycled materi- Meet at North River Wildlife Sanctuary als to create a variety of bird-related treasures to keep for your- With Property Manager & Naturalist David Ludlow self...or pass on to someone special. In honor of National Bird $15/$12 member Feeding Month, we’ll also make some simple treats to share with Birders of all levels will enjoy spending the morning searching for the birds in your own backyard! birds in a variety of habitats year-round. This program runs every Friday except major holidays or during unsafe driving conditions. Do-it-Yourself Weather Forecasting Saturday 3/5, 1-2:30 PM Birding by Van North River Wildlife Sanctuary Two Monday Sessions: 1/18 & 3/7 With Dick “Oak Leaf” Tingblad, Teacher Naturalist 9-11:30 AM each day (register for either or both) $10/$8 member adult, $8/$6 member child – ages 4+ Meet at North River Wildlife Sanctuary What’s the deal with March? Will it be “in like a lion and out like With South Shore Sanctuaries Director Sue MacCallum a lamb?” This most unpredictable month can bring springlike tem- $15/$12 member per session peratures one day and snow-laden skies the next. Learn some Enjoy birding but prefer not to walk long distances? Travel to lo- do-it-yourself weather forecasting to find out the truth behind cal hot spots by van with us to see what we can find outside our this old New England lore. Using time-honored techniques, learn windows. We will step outside occasionally and take short walks to forecast March weather with 80% accuracy! This knowledge on level ground, but no need for hiking boots! Preregistration is could save your life…or at least impress your friends! required to secure your seat in the van. 6 Please read program preregistration and cancellation procedures (page 5 or 11) PROGRAM CATALOG: FOR ADULTS (continued)

Snowy Owl Prowls Three sessions to choose from – Preregister early for these very popular programs! Saturday 1/9 9-11 AM Saturday 1/9 noon-2 PM Saturday 2/20 10 AM-noon Meet at Duxbury Beach $18/$15 member adult Migrating south from their breeding ground in the Arctic Tun- dra, the magnificent snowy owls winter over on the Massa- chusetts coast. Learn about our research on snowy owls as Owl Prowl we seek out these seasonal beach visitors. Additional seasonal Friday 1/29, 5-6:15 PM sights may include snow buntings and wintering waterfowl. We Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary will meet at Duxbury Beach, on the ocean side of the Powder With Teacher Naturalist Laura Maloney Point Bridge, and explore together in Mass Audubon vans. $10/$8 member adult Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary’s unique combination of red maple swamp and open fields make it an excellent habitat for sev- Desserts and Destinations: Southeastern Arizona eral species of owls, including the saw-whet, the great horned, and Saturday 1/16, 1-2:30 PM the eastern screech-owl. On this moonlight stroll, we will discover North River Wildlife Sanctuary the sanctuary’s secret places, hear Daniel Webster’s owl stories, With Charlie Nims and Steven Whitebread, and experience an owl’s adaptations firsthand. Longtime Birders and International Travelers $14/$10 member adult Owls and Omelets There is no better way to end a busy week than to dream of your Saturday 2/20,* 5:45-8 AM next trip; that is, unless you are taking one! Through stories and a North River Wildlife Sanctuary photo slide show, “visit” several well-known birding spots in this With Teacher Naturalist Laura Maloney, diverse region, plus a few from southern California, followed by and Caretakers Matt & Ellen Adams a regional dessert. $25/$20 member adult Seek out our resident eastern screech- and great horned owls, Wildlife Tracking explore some owl adaptations, and work up an appetite! After this Saturday 1/23,* 10:30 AM-1 PM early morning walk, we will head to the caretakers’ cottage where Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary Matt and Ellen will have a full breakfast ready – frittata, scrambled With Janet Pesaturo, founder of Animal Trackers of New England eggs, homemade breads and jams, sausage, coffee, teas, and juice, and Winterberry Wildlife Tracking Programs all served by the warmth of a woodstove. What a delicious way $28/$23 member adult to start the day! Please reserve the alternate date in case of Explore the tracks and signs of wild animals on the frozen land- severe weather: Saturday, February 27.* scape with an expert tracking guide. Snow cover makes tracks more obvious, allowing us to more easily interpret animal be- Dog Walk and Sensory Hike havior. If there is no snow, we’ll search for more subtle signs, and Friday 3/11, 4-5:30 PM you’ll be amazed at what you can find if you know what to look North Hill Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, Duxbury (off Mayflower Street) for! Depending on conditions, we might explore the fields, wet With Teacher Naturalist Laura Maloney panne, red maple swamp, and/or river edges, seeking out signs $10/$8 member adult of fishers, deer, squirrels, foxes, coyotes, Grab your best four-legged friend to rabbits, weasels, mink, otters, and more. join you on a dog-friendly naturalist- Snowshoes or waterproof boots may led hike. On this sensory adventure, be necessary if snow cover is deep. both humans and canines are in- Please reserve the alternate date vited to share in the sights, sounds, in case of severe weather: and smells of the trail, and do some Saturday, February 6.* tracking. We will also discuss Mass Audubon’s other dog-friendly sites, and the dos and don’ts of hiking with dogs. Please bring “doggie-bags,” and be sure your dog is properly vacci- nated and leashed, and friendly with people and other dogs. Please read program preregistration and cancellation procedures (page 5 or 11) 7 PROGRAM CATALOG: FOR ADULTS (continued) Woodcock Programs Spring Fungus Foray At North River Wildlife Sanctuary Saturday 5/7, noon-4 PM Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary The American woodcock has picked up many names, including With Lawrence Millman, PhD, Mycologist & Author timberdoodle and Labrador twister, for its seemingly odd court- $25/$20 member adult ship behavior. Join us to witness his fascinating twisting, turning, diving, and whistling as he plunges from the sky in the hope of If you attended Millman’s fall event, please note that spring hosts quite impressing potential mates. different mushroom species, so there will be lots more to learn about. Millman has written 15 books and done fungal inventories in places Woodcock Walk as diverse as Iceland, Nantucket, Belize, Greenland, and Panama. He Saturday 4/2, 7:10-8:10 PM is currently working on a “Red List” of rare and endangered species of $10/$8 member New England fungi. Timberdoodles and Tapas After a presentation in the barn about how spring fungus differs Saturday 4/9, 6-8 PM from fall fungus, embark on a 3-hour spring fungus foray around With Caretakers Matt & Ellen Adams the sanctuary’s woodlands and wetlands. We’ll be seeking various $25/$20 member types of fungi (including lichens, and hopefully some rare or en- Before heading out to watch the woodcock display, we will dangered species), and learning about features that help with iden- gather at the caretakers’ cottage to enjoy tasty hors d’oeuvres. tification and a diversity of fungal substrates (fungus food). After the walk, we will examine our collected specimens using hand Early Migration at Daniel Webster lenses (please bring your own if you have one). Please note that Saturday 4/23, 8-11 AM this program does not focus on edibles, though we will discuss some of fungi’s nonculinary uses. Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary With Birding Instructor Sally Avery Wildflower Walk $12/$10 member adult Saturday 6/4, 10-11:30 AM The days are getting lighter, warmer, and longer, and that means Daniel Webster Wildlife Sanctuary the migrants are returning! Venture into the heart of the sanctuary With Ted Elliman, in search of early warblers, wrens, sparrows, and swallows. former New England Wild Flower Society Botanist $20/$15 member adult Creating Sustainable Landscapes Friday 5/6, 4-5:30 PM Let’s celebrate the blooms of spring! Whether you are new to or familiar with native wildflowers, there is no better way to learn Meet at North River Wildlife Sanctuary about regional flora than in the field. Participants will learn to With Kevin Doyle, Landscape Designer and Garden Artist identify native flora in a variety of habitats, examining key identi- $13/$10 member adult fication features of flowers, leaves, and stems, in addition to fam- Find out how to create a sustainable home landscape that fits ily characteristics. Hand lenses and identification books will be your needs as well as Mother Nature’s. Travel in Mass Audubon provided. Ted’s new book, Wildflowers of New England, describes vans to tour Doyle’s extraordinary property on the estuary of and illustrates more than 1,000 common regional species, and is Kingston Bay. Discover the secrets of making an eco-friendly, low- considered to be the first comprehensive wildflower field guide maintenance lawn that’s free of herbicides and pesticides. Learn to focus exclusively on New England. Copies will be available for about the pros and cons of a “less-lawn” approach, and how to purchase (cash only). choose the right plants and trees for the right places in your yard. Wish List Please consider donating your used items: ∙ Gas-powered snowblower ∙ Megaphone ∙ Hot glue guns ∙ Heat gun or hair dryer ∙ Bench grinder ∙ Lime spreader ∙ 12-volt or larger cordless screw gun Camp and children’s programs need: ∙ Acrylic paint ∙ Dry pinecones for crafts ∙ Dry-erase markers ∙ Children’s nature books ∙ Handheld compasses (10) ∙ Plastic storage bins with lids ∙ Craft materials (markers, craft glue, chopsticks)

Cash donations are always appreciated, and may be directed to our Youth Program Enhancement Fund. This fund is used to purchase supplies for school and children’s programs. 8 Please read program preregistration and cancellation procedures (page 5 or 11) PROGRAM CATALOG: Water Watch Lecture Series Wednesdays, 7-8:30 PM at South Shore Natural Science Center, Jacob’s Lane, Norwell Lectures are free, though donations are appreciated. Preregistration is not required, but you may want to arrive early due to seating limitations. Cosponsored by Mass Audubon’s South Shore Sanctuaries, North & South Rivers Watershed Association, South Shore Natural Science Center, and South Shore YMCA.

Many thanks to our Additional Water Watch supporters! funding: Sponsor: February 10 Adventures Under the Sea: Piloting the Alvin With Bruce Strickrott, Alvin Group Manager, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution In response to the challenge of learning about something we can’t see, deep sea oceanographers created the Alvin to help us reach                  and explore the most extreme areas on earth. Alvin has transport- ed more than 8,000 researchers over the last 40 years, including January 13 (please note different location) our presenter, who will share some of the incredible experiences The Finest Hours he has had piloting Alvin. With Michael Tougias, Author Join us at Laura’s Center of the Arts at the Emilson branch of February 17 the South Shore YMCA in Hanover for this special presentation of Disaster Response in Haiti: Tougias’ new book The Finest Hours: The True Story of the U.S. Coast Resilient Communities and Aquaculture Guard’s Most Daring Sea Rescue. Hear the heroic tale of a ferocious With Chris Sherman, Island Creek Oysters nor’easter that split in half two tankers off the coast of Cape Cod, Learn about the value of aquaculture and its important role in and how the Coast Guard saved the day. Walt Disney Pictures’ film meeting the food production needs of a growing human popula- version of the story, shot locally and starring Chris Pine and Casey Af- tion from Island Creek Oysters Foundation. Sherman will discuss fleck, will premiere two weeks after the lecture. the foundation’s support of projects that use sustainable aquacul- ture as a solution to the global issue of food production. January 20 Whale SENSE, Ensuring Safe and Comfortable February 24 Whale Watching – for the Whales! The Most Endangered Species in Massachusetts With Regina Asmutis-Silvia, Executive Director, That You’ve Never Heard About: Spadefoot Toads Whale and Dolphin Conservation With Ian Ives, Director of Mass Audubon’s Long Pasture, Ashumet, and Thousands of people take whale watching excursions each year, Skunknett River Wildlife Sanctuaries but are these trips safe for the whales? Whale SENSE, a voluntary The eastern spadefoot toad is Massachusetts’ rarest frog, with a education and recognition program, works to ensure that they state-listed threatened status. Find out about the secret life his- are. Find out why it’s important to choose Whale SENSE-certified tory of this elusive species, and the reintroduction efforts taking companies when setting out to view these majestic creatures. place on Cape Cod in the hope of ensuring its survival.

January 27 March 2 History of Hurricanes in New England Boston Light 300th Birthday With Jeff Donnelly, Associate Scientist in Geology & Geophysics, With Sally Snowman, Boston Lighthouse Keeper Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Boston Light has been ensuring safe passage for sailors for 300 Sandy, Irene, and Bill are a few of the harsh hurricanes that have years, making it the oldest light station in the country! Learn about hit Massachusetts. While these storms have left significant marks the history and protection efforts of this iconic landmark, as well within our communities, how do they compare with the storms of as the plans for its 300th birthday celebration. 300 years ago? Hear the stories of historical New England storms and learn what we might expect from future hurricanes. March 9 Lessons Learned from the Largest February 3 Wetland Restoration Project in Massachusetts Project Puffin: The Improbable Quest to With Alex Hackman, Restoration Specialist, Mass Department of Bring a Beloved Seabird Back to Egg Rock Fish & Game’s Division of Ecological Restoration With Stephen Kress and Derrick Jackson, Coauthors Find out how theory and practice came together to achieve self- Project Puffin is the inspiring story of seabird restoration in long- sustaining and dynamic wetland ecosystems in previously de- abandoned nesting colonies off the Maine coast. Climate change graded lands. The state’s largest freshwater wetlands project to and the subsequent shifting of habitats continue to heighten the date has restored two retired cranberry farms in Plymouth – the importance of ecosystem protection and restoration. Today, Proj- Tidmarsh Farms Restoration Project is currently in construction; ect Puffin has helped restore rare and endangered seabirds world- and the Eel River Headwaters Restoration Project (completed in wide, including more than 1,000 puffin pairs to three Maine islands. 2010) received the 2011 Coastal America Partnership Award. 9 PROGRAM CATALOG: Overnight Trips for Adults Maine: Puffins and Peatlands Trip preregistration and Thursday, July 7- Sunday, July 10 cancellation procedures: Meet at North River or Wildlife Sanctuary With South Shore Sanctuaries’ Director Sue MacCallum, and • Please register at least one month in advance. Scott Santino of Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary • A nonrefundable, nontransferable deposit is required to $740/$680 member adult secure your space. Travel east of Frenchman Bay in Maine, and you will see a change • Trip cancellations must be made before the deadline stated in in the woodlands and coastline. Spruce, fir, and tamarack become the trip itinerary (usually at least a month in advance). the dominant species, the ocean shore is rough and rocky, and Otherwise, payments cannot be refunded, credited, or extensive mudflats are exposed as a result of the 15- to 20-foot transferred. tides. This is Down East Maine! Join us as we explore Machias Seal • Fees include accommodations (double occupancy), ground Island, 10 miles from the mainland, to view Atlantic puffins in their and boat transportation, entrance fees, interpretive materi- colorful breeding plumage, along with razorbills, nesting Arctic als, and field instruction. Single rooms may be available for a terns, and common murres. This is the spot to see and photograph supplemental fee. Meals and personal items are not included Atlantic puffins up close. In addition to searching for boreal nest- unless specified. ing birds, we will explore Cobscook Bay, Campobello Island, and Quoddy Head Light, scanning for seabirds, whales, and dolphins • Please contact us for a detailed itinerary to review prior to from the cliffs and ledges. Contact us for a complete itinerary. registering: [email protected], 781-837-9400. Rhode Island: Block Island Birding Weekend Costa Rica Birding Tour – North to South Friday, September 23-Sunday, September 25 Thursday, April 7-Monday, April 18, 2016 Additional details TBD. Please contact us for a complete itinerary. With South Shore Sanctuaries Director Sue MacCallum A gift from the glaciers, Block Island is approximately 12 miles off $4,450, includes most meals the Rhode Island coast. Although small, this beautiful island offers Cosponsored by Mass Audubon Tours and South Shore a number of different habitats and spectacular scenery. In the fall, Sanctuaries. Call 781-259-2166 for details and registration. the island is a resting and feeding place for migrating shorebirds Costa Rica is one of the world’s premier birding destinations, but and ocean birds. The island also forms a natural trap for land birds with so many great locations it can be hard to know where to that have wandered out over the ocean during their southward start. We’ve done the homework for you, and picked four sites migration. We expect to see a variety of warblers, brown thrash- that offer the best combination of birds, habitats, and lodging in ers, dickcissels, merlins, red-breasted nuthatches, and more. this amazingly diverse little country. Traveling from north to south, we’ll explore lowland tropical rainforest, mid-level foothills, high- land cloud forest, and the amazingly diverse Osa Peninsula. What Do We Do? Beginning in the northern Caribbean lowlands and adjacent foot- Mass Audubon’s South Shore Sanctuaries protect 2,000 acres of hills, toucans and trogons abound among the stunning abundance diverse habitat for people and wildlife. Our three public sites – of birds. We will visit nearby La Selva Biological Station, home to North River and Daniel Webster in Marshfield, and North Hill more than half of Costa Rica’s 886 bird species. Next we will ex- Marsh in Duxbury – offer unique opportunities to experience plore the cool mountain forests of Cerro de la Muerte in search the outdoors. Our staff of highly qualified teacher naturalists of the resplendent quetzal, widely considered to be the most provide hands-on nature programs for thousands of children, beautiful bird in the world. adults, and families each year. With lodging among gorgeous forests, streams, and outstanding In addition to partnering with South Shore schools, scout troops, trails, Costa Rica will continue to astound you as we travel south and other community groups, we deliver a nationally accredited to the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park on the Pacific summer day camp program and represent the South Shore coast. community on important environmental initiatives. Please visit massaudubon.org/southshore or contact us if you would like more information about: • School/Preschool programs • Scout programs • Birthday parties • Facility rentals • Summer camp • Volunteering • Visiting our sanctuaries • Mass Audubon membership • Community and group programs (any age)

Photo by Kathy Seymour 10 WINTER 2016 PROGRAM CALENDAR JANUARY FEBRUARY (continued) Sat. 2 8-10 AM First Birds of 2016 Sat. 20 5:45-8 AM Owls and Omelets Fri. 8 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Sat. 20 10 AM-noon Snowy Owl Prowl Sat. 9 9-11 AM Snowy Owl Prowl Wed. 24 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Spadefoot Toads Sat. 9 noon-2 PM Snowy Owl Prowl Fri. 26 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Tues. 12 9:30-10:30 AM Little Naturalists: Harbor Seals* Sat. 27 5:45-8 AM Alternate date: Owls and Omelets Wed. 13 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: The Finest Hours MARCH Fri. 15 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Wed. 2 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Boston Light at 300 Fri. 15 6-7:30 PM Owl Moon Adventure* Fri. 4 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Sat. 16 1-2:30 PM Desserts & Destinations: SE Arizona Sat. 5 1-2:30 PM Do it Yourself Weather Forecasting* Mon. 18 9-11:30 AM Birding by Van Mon. 7 9-11:30 AM Birding by Van Wed. 20 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Whale SENSE Tues. 8 9:30-10:30 AM Little Naturalists: Snakes* Fri. 22 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Wed. 9 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Wetland Restoration Sat. 23 10:30 AM-1 PM Wildlife Tracking at Daniel Webster Fri. 11 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Wed. 27 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: History of Hurricanes Fri. 11 4-5:30 PM Dog Walk and Sensory Hike Fri. 29 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Fri. 18 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Fri. 29 5-6:15 PM Owl Prowl Sat. 19 9-11:15 AM Maple Sugaring Celebration* FEBRUARY Fri. 25 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Wed. 3 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Project Puffin APRIL & BEYOND Fri. 5 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Sat. 4/2 7:10-8:10 PM Woodcock Walk Fri. 5 5:30-6:45 PM Owl Prowl: Ames Nowell State Park* Thurs. 4/7-Mon. 4/18 Costa Rica Birding Tour Sat. 6 10:30 AM-1 PM Alternate date: Wildlife Tracking Sat. 4/9 6-8 PM Timberdoodles and Tapas Sat. 6 6-7:30 PM Fireside Stories & Winter Stargazing* Tues. 4/12 9:30-10:30 AM Little Naturalists: Turtles* Tues. 9 9:30-10:30 AM Little Naturalists: Crows* Sat. 4/23 8-11 AM Early Migration Wed. 10 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Piloting the Alvin Fri. 5/6 4-5:30 PM Creating Sustainable Landscapes Fri. 12 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Sat. 5/7 noon-4 PM Spring Fungus Foray Sat. 13 10:30 AM-noon For the Love of Birds Crafts* Tues. 5/10 9:30-10:30 AM Little Naturalists: Baby Birds* Tues. 16 9 AM-3 PM Feb. Vaca.: Winter Wildlife Detectives* Sat. 6/4 10-11:30 AM Wildflower Walk Wed. 17 9 AM-3 PM Feb. Vaca.: Winter Beach Party* Tues. 6/14 9:30-10:30 AM Little Naturalists: Frogs* Wed. 17 7-8:30 PM Water Watch: Haiti Aquaculture Thurs. 7/7-Sun. 7/10 Maine: Puffins and Peatlands Thurs. 18 9 AM-3 PM Feb. Vaca.: Winter Tracking Adventure* Fri. 9/23-Sun. 9/25 Block Island Birding Weekend Fri. 19 8:15-11:45 AM Friday Morning Bird Walk Fri. 19 9 AM-3 PM Feb. Vaca.: Winter Nature Nuts* *Appropriate for children Program Preregistration & Cancellation Procedures Preregistration is required for all programs unless otherwise noted. Programs often fill up, or may be cancelled if enrollment is low, so please preregister at least 2 to 5 days in advance.

Refunds or credits can only be given with 48 hours notice (overnight trips and camp require additional notice) or if a session is cancelled. Preregistration can be completed online: massaudubon.org/southshore; by phone: 781-837-9400; or by mail: Include a check or credit card information with this form, and send to Mass Audubon South Shore Sanctuaries, 2000 Main Street, Marshfield, MA 02050. For identity and safety assurances, fax and email registrations are not accepted. Registration for overnight trips and summer camp work differently – please see those sections for specific instructions.

Your name______Phone______Email______Street address______Town______Zip______Credit card #______Exp. date______Check enclosed ______Membership #______Nonmember____ Please send me membership information______Are you participating in the program?______Additional participants # Adult______# Child______Additional participant(s) name(s) ______DOB (if child)______Grade____ Program Title I______Date______Fee $______Program Title II______Date______Fee $______11 NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID South Shore Sanctuaries PERMIT #33 North River • Daniel Webster • North Hill Marsh MARSHFIELD, MA 2000 Main Street Marshfield, MA 02050

Check out our February Vacation week activities and Summer Nature Camp!

Spring 2016 School Programs Inside: Our spring calendar is already filling up, Pg. 2: The Birding Beat by David Ludlow and we don’t want you to miss out! South Shore Sanctuaries: Planned giving, staff, directions, & information Please contact us today if you’re interested Pg. 3: Farm Day recap and thank yous in a school program for this spring. Pg. 4: North River Nature Camp Notes from Twig 781-837-9400 • [email protected] Pg. 5: Summer Camp is coming – discount offer! Programs for Children (February Vacation!) Stay in the Loop! Pg. 6: Programs for Families, All Ages, & Adults This print newsletter is only circulated three times a year, Pgs. 6-10: Programs for Adults and we encourage you to keep in touch in additional ways. Pg. 9: Water Watch Lecture Series (free!) • Visit massaudubon.org/southshore for news and updates. Pg. 10: Overnight Trips for Adults • Sign up to receive Trail Mail (our monthly enewsletter) Pg. 11: Seasonal calendar on our home page. Registration instructions and form

Printed on paper with recycled facebook.com/ content. MassAudubonSouthShore

Produced in cooperation with Plymouth County Convention & If the Internet is not your thing, feel free to give us a call, or Visitor’s Bureau and the Plymouth County Commissioners. come visit us for updates and to see what’s new.

12