Butterflies Of The

Norwalk River Watershed

NORWALK — The Norwalk River Watershed Association will offer a free program on butterflies living along the Norwalk River on Saturday, August 25, from 10 am to noon. The program site is located on the northeast corner of the intersection of Route 7 and Simpaug Turnpike, just north of Walpole Woodworkers in Ridgefield and about one mile north of Branchville Railroad Station.

The leader for this program will be Victor DeMasi, who is a field consultant to Yale’s Peabody Museum in New Haven and a member of both the Redding Conservation Commission/Inland Wetland Board and the Advisory Board of the Norwalk River Watershed Association. Widely known for his knowledge of local moths and butterflies, Mr DeMasi has studied these creatures since 1981 at this site featuring river, swamp, old fields, and emerging woodlands.

At the start of the program, Mr DeMasi will show his impressive butterfly collection and recommend the best books for those interested in learning more about butterflies and moths. During the walk he will identify butterflies and discuss their habits and habitats, as well as the plants that will attract butterflies to one’s garden.

The program will offer a good opportunity for enthusiasts to learn about butterflies within the Norwalk River corridor from an expert.

The program is appropriate for adults and children age six and up. The site is relatively flat and easy to walk. For registration or directions, participants may call 203-938-9016. For more information on other programs within the Norwalk River Watershed, call 203-846-8210. In case of rain the walk will be canceled.