After a mild fall, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is gearing up for winter. This month, they're offering tracking and winter programs for kids.
All programs are free, but space is limited and advanced registration is required for all programs, unless otherwise indicated. Call 978-465-5753 to register.
Registration is not complete until you receive confirmation from a staff member. Outdoor programs may be canceled if there is inclement weather. For more information, visit their Web site http://parkerriver.fws.gov.
The refuge visitor center is located at 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport.
Nature Tots: Wintertime Fun! Tuesday, Jan. 5 and Wednesday, Jan. 6, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m., ages 3 to 5. How do animals survive the cold winter? Introduce your preschooler to the wonders of wildlife in winter through stories, songs and fingerplays in this hands-on interactive program. Program will include both indoor and outdoor activities, so dress for the weather. Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center.
Refuge History Tour Sunday, Jan. 10, 11 a.m. to noon. Did you know that the refuge was once home to hotels, restaurants and private cottages? Join us on a winter hike to discover the history of Parker River and Plum Island. View the last private home on the refuge and learn how the refuge was established to protect habitat for wildlife. All ages welcome; however, not recommended for children under 12. Space is limited to 10 participants. Meet at refuge Parking Lot 1.
Nature Detectives: Homeschool Tracking Program Friday, Jan. 22, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., ages 6 to 10. Introduce your homeschooler to the art and science of tracking wildlife. We will discover the clues animals leave behind and become wildlife detectives in this fun, educational program. Program will include both indoor and outdoor activities, so dress for the weather. Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center.
Whose Clues? Saturday, Jan. 30, 1 to 2:30 p.m., ages 6 to 9. How can you tell when an animal has been around? Can you discover the clues that they leave behind? Follow the animal tracks and become a wildlife detective in this fun, educational program. Program will include both indoor and outdoor activities, so dress for the weather. Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center.
