March: Spring into Phenology – Buds, Blossoms, and Birds

Spring into Phenology — Buds, Blossoms, and Birds

As winter slowly thaws into spring, there are new nature discoveries emerging every day! This month, you and your family can join us as we gear up for springtime phenology – through observing and recording natural events like melting ice, new hatchings, blossoms, and migrations. Listen for bird calls, identify local plant and animal species, discover when tree sap starts to flow, and learn about habitats, seasons, and climate through outdoor hikes, phenology scavenger hunts, hands-on nature journaling activities, photo displays, interactive exhibits, and more.

Special activities include:

“Loop” NOW SHOWING on Science on a Sphere! Nature is full of circles and cycles. Learn about circulation and what is going on in the world around you – your scientific curiosity will be compelled and creative exploration inspired through this beautiful Science on a Sphere film.

“Sugaring in Wisconsin”: In early spring, forests of sugar maple, Wisconsin’s state tree, are tapped by the hundreds at many commercial and family-run “sugarbushes.” Weather plays a critical role in the production of maple syrup, and sugaring seasons are very sensitive to changes in climate, such as temperature and precipitation. Learn how climate change in Wisconsin is impacting this cultural, economic, and very delicious springtime tradition.

Nature Journaling: As winter slowly thaws into spring, there are new nature discoveries emerging every day! Learn about nature journaling and phenology (the study of natural occurrences and appearances), and make a nature journal to take home.

Phenology Scavenger Hunts: Borrow a Scavenger Hunt Booklet (and check-out a Family Trailside Backpack!) from the Front Desk to learn about local species on our grounds, and come back inside to enter your observations into our touchscreen phenology database!

Guided Nature Hikes: Hike our grounds with a naturalist to learn about changes in wildlife and the landscape at ALNC throughout the weeks of late winter/early spring. Inquire about guided hikes at the front desk (hikes are dependent on naturalist staff availability).

Plus, join us Sunday, March 29 from 1-4pm for Maple Syrup Fest!