Audubon Center Has Free Programs

And Volunteer Openings Available

SOUTHBURY — The Audubon Center at Bent of the River, 185 East Flat Hill Road (off Route 172 in South Britain), has three free public programs planned during the upcoming week. The center is also seeking volunteers. Details follow:

On Wednesday, July 18, at 9:30 am, Muriel Stoker will lead a wildflower walk. The meadows and woodland edges are full of summer blooming wildflowers. Join Ms Stoker for this foray into the wonderful world of wildflowers.

The program will begin from the visitors’ parking area.

A butterfly walk at the Audubon Center will then be offered on Sunday, July 22, and again on Wednesday, July 25, at 1 pm. July is a great time to look for butterflies and dragonflies. The fields at the Bent of the River are teeming with these beautiful winged creatures.

Walk leader Patrick Comins will introduce visitors to the magnificent world of watching butterflies. In the event of rain the walk will be cancelled. Both walks start at the visitors’ parking area.

The Audubon Center at Bent of the River is also seeking volunteers. Volunteers will be meeting to improve wildlife habitat by removing invasive plants on Wednesday, July 25, at 4 pm.

Invasive plants crowd out native vegetation, reducing food sources for wildlife. The removal of these non-native plants permits a return of the natural balance to the flora and fauna of the area.

Volunteers will meet at the preserve regularly to control invasive plants such as autumn olive, barberry, bittersweet, and multiflora rose. Persons interested in volunteering to improve wildlife habitat should bring gloves and water.

Those seeking directions to the center or more information on any program can call 264-5098 Monday to Friday, between 9 am and 5 pm.