Nature Walks with the Mass Audubon Society

Please register through Mass Audubon by visiting www.massaudubon.org/west

TIME TRAVELING WITH TREES: READING A CHANGING LANDSCAPE

Wednesday, July 16th, 4-5:30pm

Have you ever wondered what stories trees could tell if they could talk? Or how trees grow and change over their lifetime, what trees can tell us about a place's history, and the ecological roles of different species? At this outdoor walk on the grounds of Chesterwood, find the answers to these questions and more. You'll learn how the area has changed over the past 11,000 years, what clues to look for when reading the history of a New England landscape, and how to identify a few common tree species in the area -- all while taking in the scenery of Chesterwood's historic gardens, forests and wetlands. 

This program will cover up to 1.5 miles of level or gradually sloping trails, which could be surfaced or unsurfaced. Pre-registration is recommended. If the program is not full, a limited number of walk-ins can be accommodated by cash or check in exact change. Credit card payments are for pre-registrations only.

Summer Evening Birding at Chesterwood

Wednesday, July 30th, 6-7:30pm / Wednesday, September 10th, 5-6:30pm

Take a stroll through forests, fields and wetlands in search of birds as they settle down for the night. Adults and juveniles of many species including colorful wood-warblers, orioles, thrushes, and more are possible for us to see this time of year. This beginner-friendly walk will focus on the basics of bird-finding and identification as well as observing the behavior of the birds we can see. We will pause and enjoy observing birds rather than focusing on maintaining an intensive list of every bird in the area.

Pre-registration is recommended. If the program is not full, a limited number of walk-ins can be accommodated with cash or check in exact change. Credit card payments are for pre-registrations only.

Birds, Butterflies and Midsummer Blooms at Chesterwood

Wednesday, August 13th, 9-10:30am

The gardens and trails on the grounds of Chesterwood provide more than just a look into the history of the Berkshires: they also make excellent places to view birds, butterflies and other animals that depend on the same plants we enjoy for their beauty. We will move slowly and stop frequently as we explore Chesterwood's grounds. During the walk, you'll learn the basics of bird and butterfly identification of the species we see. You'll also learn what you can do to help wildlife from your own backyard once you return home. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a loaner pair from us. This program will cover up to 1 mile of distance on surfaced or unsurfaced trails.

Pre-registration is recommended. If the program is not full, a limited number of walk-ins can be accommodated with cash or check in exact change. Credit card payments are for pre-registrations only.