Hikes Scheduled At Audubon Center

SOUTHBURY — The following programs have been announced by The Audubon Center at Bent of the River for the third week of March.

Join an Audubon Center at Bent of the River educator and other families for “Early Spring Hike for Families,” on the sanctuary’s trails on Sunday, March 16, from 2 to 3:30 pm.

Take advantage of lingering snow or search the edges of the wetlands for animal tracks in the mud. Participants will use a simple guide to identify the tracks and learn more about some of the animals that are found at the sanctuary. Each child will have the opportunity to make a plaster cast of a favorite track to take home.

Family programs are designed for elementary school children accompanied by a parent(s) or other caregiver. Group size is limited to 12 children to ensure that each child will receive individual attention from the educator.

Reservations are requested by Thursday, March 13. Suggested donations for this program is $3 for member and $5 for nonmembers per child; no charge for adults.

Adults are invited to take part in a leisurely nature walk at the Audubon Center on Tuesday, March 18, at 9 am. Learn about tree identification in late winter, participate in Project Feeder Watch at the Bent’s bird feeding station, or, if conditions are right, look for animal tracks in the lingering snow.

The pace is generally slow, aimed at observing and learning as much as possible. Most participants will be novices with a strong interest in natural history. Bring binoculars if desired.

This program is designed for the moderately active and is on mostly level grounds with the occasional slope. The walk begins at the Welcome Kiosk at the parking lot off East Flat Hill Road and will end about 11:30. Suggested donation for this program is $5.

For reservations to these programs or information on other Audubon programs call 264-5098. Regular Bent of the River business hours are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm.