Walker Nature Center
A LOOK INSIDE • Calendar of Events 4 • Kids’ Corner 6 • Halloween House 8
Nature Notes By Sharon Gurtz
SEPTEMBER • • • •
Northern Water Snake and Copperhead young are born. Goldenrods bloom. Hummingbirds migrate to Central America. Young Red Fox begin dispersing.
OCTOBER • • • •
Tree nuts are ripe. Black-throated Blue and other warblers are migrating. Asters bloom. Snakes seek winter dens.
NOVEMBER •
Raccoon and Red Fox grow winter coats. • Juncos and sparrows arrive from the north. • Native Witch Hazel blooms. • Deer rut peaks.
BRANCHING OUT Possum PR By Idalina Walker
The first time I held a baby opossum, it looked up at me with those dark eyes, wrapped its tail around my finger, and my heart melted. It is one thing to learn facts about an opossum’s adaptations, opposable thumbs and impressive family lineage, but quite another to hold a palm-sized ball of marsupial in your hand and realize that in two months this sweet joey (baby opossum) will be nearly full grown. As an adult, you rarely hear opossums referred to in kind ways. They are often maligned as being “the ugliest cat in the world” or a “beady eyed, rat tailed rodent.” Yes, opossums do have quite the toothy grin but show some respect for a mammal with 50 teeth. Challenge yourself to look beyond reflexive reaction and get to know the best groundskeeper in your neighborhood… the Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana).
Winning the cool adaptations lottery
Opossums are the only marsupials (pouched mammals) found in North America and the only known mammals to have lived alongside the dinosaurs. In the last 70 million years, they have adapted successfully to changing ecosystems. These nocturnal animals have taken the ability to eat just about anything to the extreme—venomous snakes, sure no problem. They can even dine on a rabid animal without contracting the disease. Their low body temperature helps to make them resistant to common animal diseases like rabies and distemper. While they may pose an occasional threat to garden fruits and vegetables, they generally prefer decaying plant matter. So chances are they will help clean up, rather than clean out, your garden. They will also devour any pet food left outdoors, as they are not one to turn down an easy meal. Continued on page 2
Fall 16 Volume Eighteen
Possum PR Continued from page 1
Walker Nature Center 11450 Glade Drive, Reston, VA 20191 Enjoy year-round access to trails, free parking and restroom facilities dawn to dusk.
FEATURES
72 acres of forested land, a picnic pavilion, demonstration gardens, educational signage, a campfire ring, two streams, a pond, the entrance to 44-acre Lake Audubon and an interpretive green building, known as Nature House.
Helping prevent Lyme disease
One strong selling point for opossums is that they are also tick vacuums. A recent study, conducted by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, discovered the normal tick load of opossums in the wild is around 200 ticks, and they’re consuming more than 95 percent of those ticks as part of their grooming process. Thus a single opossum is responsible for removing about 5,500 ticks per year from the environment. In a time when tick borne illnesses like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Fever are on the rise, this endeavor should be greatly appreciated.
Playing possum
NATURE HOUSE HOURS
Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays
Saturday 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Sunday 1–4 p.m. CLOSED Sept. 5 Labor Day Oct. 28-30 Halloween Nov. 24-25 Thanksgiving
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Most likely, you have seen an opossum along roadways where they have adapted quite nicely as one of our resident carrion eaters. Sadly, opossums sometimes end up as roadkill themselves. When they are threatened, they develop debilitating seizures that cause them to “play dead.” Although this trait is quite useful when facing off a predator such as a dog, coyote, bobcat or owl, it can be quite ineffective when threatened by a predator of the automobile variety. When “playing possum,” the animal falls down, sticks out its tongue, drools and foams at the mouth. Sometimes it excretes urine and droppings or emits a viscous green fluid from a sac under its tail. Yes, grossing out predators has proven to be an effective strategy for winning the survival game against native predators that are reluctant to eat anything that looks dead and smells like spoiled meat. While younger opossums are less likely than mature individuals to play possum, even older animals don’t always collapse in a confrontation. They may growl, bite or, most typically, flee at a whopping top speed of 7 miles per hour. Almost any predator can outrun them, which may be why playing possum evolved as a defense.
A lot to do in 24 months
703-476-9689 • www.reston.org naturecenter@reston.org www.facebook.com/walkernaturecenter
@restonnature Groups: Please call ahead to arrange your visit. Branching Out is a quarterly publication of the Walker Nature Center (WNC), owned and operated by Reston Association. The mission of the WNC is to foster an environmental stewardship ethic in the community. It is named after Reston’s first Open Space and Nature Center Director, Vernon J. Walker.
Branching Out is printed on 100 percent recycled paper using soy ink. It is produced using 100 percent wind power. Please recycle.
2
In their short two year life span, opossums stay incredibly busy. Sometimes they produce two litters in one year although in our climate the second litter is at greater risk of mortality. Our cold Northern Virginia winters can result in frostbitten ears and tails. Opossums do not hibernate, but rather seek shelter under stumps, in hollow trees and logs, and in buildings or rock piles. They will spend 3-4 days in their den before hunger drives them out to look for food. If you are lucky enough to have one of these critters come around, you can rest assured it is cleaning up what it can, and will likely move along to help someone else next. Even the stray opossum that may meander into your garage or house is easily convinced to move along with a broom. Don’t let that toothy display fool you.
Wildlife Count Notables Annually, RA staff and volunteers explore key natural areas throughout Reston to share in discovering new places and species while collecting information about our wild neighbors. Summer Bird Count- On June 4, 15 people counted 1,100 birds of 55 species. While colder weather in May and count day conditions likely produced the below average numbers, there were still some nice surprises such as a pair of Ring-necked Ducks on Lake Thoreau. It was the first time this species was spotted on a Summer Bird Count. Butterfly Count- On July 9, 25 people counted 197 butterflies of 25 species. Results were submitted for inclusion in the North American Butterfly Association’s 4th of July Butterfly Count Report. Like the birds, numbers were below average. One factor may be increased pesticide use as people elect to spray for mosquitoes. The chemical used is not specific to mosquitoes and poses a threat to beneficial insects. Common Wood Nymphs were a delight throughout the Sunrise Valley Wetland Park. Dragonfly Count- On July 30, we welcomed back Ken Rosenthal as count leader for a day. 9 people counted 114 dragonflies of 14 species. Blue Dashers, Amberwings and Slaty Skimmers were most prevalent. Notably absent were Ebony Jewelwing damselflies.
Thanks to everyone who participated in the 2016 counts. If you’d like to get in on the action, mark your calendars for the Winter Bird Count Saturday, Jan. 7.
Storytelling Night:
WILDLIFE Adults Only
Saturday, September 17, 8 p.m., Walker Nature Center
Come out for a fun evening of true personal storytelling as told by Virginia’s premiere storytelling troupe Better Said Than Done. The show is intended for an adult audience. Refreshments (beer, wine, coffee, sodas and snacks) available for purchase.
Together We Make Reston Great By Katie Shaw Years ago, Reston Association added “Get Involved” to the Reston motto “Live, Work, Play”. Each time I compile this list of thank yous, I can appreciate why. It’s amazing that the list which appears here in each quarterly issue isn’t for the whole year but just for last three months.
Donors:
Russell Evans; Don Coram & Farideh Mirmirani; Charlie & Julie Bond; Friends of Reston; Leidos; Susan Sims; Whole Foods Market
Volunteers:
Joanne & David Bauer; Matt Bender; Julie & Charlie Bond; Emily Bowman; Bill Brown; Bill Burton; Anne Cannizzaro; Emma & Karen Cantwell; Ian Carmack; Don Coram; Norma & Alex de Beer; Freya De Cola; Marilyn Dicke; Robin Duska; June Ferrara; Melissa Gildea; Joel Goldman; Janine Greenwood; Carol & Jay Hadlock; Carol Hartgen; Nancy Herwig; Brigitta Hulmann; Karen Hutchison; Diana Kalaly; Jennie Koffman; Leon Kolankiewicz; Julia Persing Kolb; Helaine Krob; Dale Lichtblau; Pat Lenz; Paulette Lincoln-Baker; Allison & Tim Lou; Sharon McHugh; Ilene & Jim McNeal; Mona Miller; Farideh Mirmirani; Michelle Moore; Cynthia O’Connell; Erika Olimpiew; Izumi Oshima; Terri Ostrowski; Barbara Paolucci; Lei Peguignet; Ellen Perrins; Eveleen Sass; Jillian & Kay Schmid; Emma Shahin; Ray Smith; Jean Tatalias; Brenda Van Doorn; Jenny Vick; Verna Webb; Marianne Zawitz If you would like to volunteer, contact habrock@reston.org or fill out the volunteer application at www.reston.org. If you would like to donate, tax deductible contributions are gratefully received by our charitable 501c3 organization, Friends of Reston, 11450 Glade Drive, Reston, VA 20191 or donate online at www.friendsofreston.org. Include a note that your donation is for the nature center. You will receive a letter for tax purposes. Thank you.
Fee: $15 On sale at http://eventbrite.com or at the door. Advance tickets are recommended due to limited seating. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Sponsored by Friends of Reston. All proceeds benefit the nature center. Butterfly Spotting at the 23rd Annual Count Check out our wish list. Under “Wish List,” select “Find a Wish List or Registry,” then type in “Walker Nature Center”. You can purchase the item on the spot and have it shipped directly to us as a gift, so we will know who to thank. We were delighted to receive a surprise delivery of finger puppets and crayons from Karen Olive for our children’s programs.
3
September
GOODBYE SUMMER CAMPFIRE Friday, Sept. 2 ∙ 6:30–8 p.m. $7/person RA members ∙ $9/person Non-members WNC Campfire Ring - On Soapstone Drive, between Glade Drive and Lawyers Road. All ages
Get a jump-start on your Labor Day holiday with some fun around a crackling campfire. Roast a hot dog and make a s’more. Stomp your feet, sing some songs and enjoy the last weekend of summer. Reservations required by Aug. 31. POSSUM PARTY Thursday, Sept. 8 ∙ 10–11 a.m. Or 1:30–2:30 p.m. $7/child RA members ∙ $9/child Non-members Ages 3 to 5
What does it mean to play possum? Learn fun possum traits, read a favorite story about a harvest soiree, and celebrate the end of summer possum style. Refreshments and a craft included. Reservations required by Sept. 5. WORM COMPOSTING Sunday, Sept. 11 ∙ 2–3:30 p.m. $30/bin RA members ∙ $35/bin Non-members Adults
Ever thought about composting but just don’t have the space? Worm composting is a natural method of recycling food waste. It’s so simple and odor free that it can be done anywhere. See an established bin and make one to take home. Learn how to turn your kitchen scraps into rich organic soil and compost tea. Reservations required by Sept. 8. PEAK-A-BOO: ANIMAL HIDE & SEEK Monday, Sept. 12 ∙ 10–11 a.m. or Tuesday, Sept. 13 ∙ 10–11 a.m. $7/child RA members ∙ $9/child Non-members Ages 18 months to 35 months
Join an exciting nature trail adventure! Use clues such as animal tracks, sounds and traits to find animals hidden along the trail. Read a story, enjoy a snack and take home an animal craft. Reservations required by Sept. 8. FALL CONTAINER PLANTING Wednesday, Sept. 14 ∙ 2–3 p.m. $13/person RA members ∙ $18/person Non-members Senior Adults, 55 years and older
Are your summer annual plants fading but you still want decorative planters that last into the colder months? Learn what plants can be used in a fall container garden. Also, discover creative items to use such as gourds or branches. Make a small container garden to take home. Reservations required by Sept. 9. To register, email Ashleigh@reston.org or call 703-435-6577.
4
LOG ROLL Saturday, Sept. 17 ∙ 11 a.m.–Noon $6/person RA members ∙ $8/person Non-members All ages
Let’s grab our bug boxes and go on a bug hunt. We’ll roll logs, dissect logs, shake shrubs and dig through leaves. By the end, we should have an amazing assortment of bugs, slugs and grubs! Make a bug box to take home. Reservations required by Sept. 14. BIRD WALK: WALKER NATURE CENTER AND SNAKEDEN STREAM VALLEY Sunday, Sept. 18 ∙ 7:30–10:30 a.m. Free Walker Nature Center - 11450 Glade Drive. Adults FERMENTATION: SAUERKRAUT WORKSHOP Wednesday, Sept. 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $20/person, RA member ∙ $25/person, Non-member
The ancient technique of fermentation produces some of the most beloved food products around the world. Learn about this technique then practice it by making a jar of your own sauerkraut to take home. Oktoberfest is the perfect time of year to discover this recipe. Guest Presenter: Katie Strong, Virginia Cooperative Extension. Reserve by September 16. BAT NIGHT AT THE LAKE HOUSE Thursday, Sept. 29 ∙ 7–8 p.m. $5/person RA members ∙ $7/person Non-members The Lake House, 11450 Baron Cameron Ave. All ages
Enjoy a program at Reston Association’s new Lake House! We’ll scan the sky for our favorite flying mammal, and use a bat monitor to detect bat traffic. Learn the latest from the bat world and enjoy some wildlife on Lake Newport. Reservations required by Sept. 26.
October
NATURE WALK AT RESTON NATIONAL GOLF COURSE Monday, Oct. 3 ∙ 3–5 p.m. Free South Lakes Park Adults
Learn about the natural resources and experiences that this valuable open space provides. Look for wildlife and visit old field and pond habitats. Co-sponsored by Rescue Reston. Meet at South Lakes Park, 11100 South Lakes Drive between Escalante Court and Olde Crafts Dr. Reservations required by Sept. 29. PAINTING WITH NATURE Thursday, Oct. 6 ∙ 10–11 a.m. Or 1:30–2:30 p.m. $6/child RA members ∙ $8/child Non-members Ages 3 to 5
Use natural paintbrushes to explore texture, pattern and color. Enjoy great results and a new understanding of the world around us. Reservations required by Oct. 3. SO YOU WANT TO KEEP HONEYBEES? Saturday, Oct. 8 ∙ 2–5 p.m. $5/person RA members ∙ $7/person Non-members Reston Association - 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive. Adults
Certified Master Beekeepers will present an overview covering the basics of keeping honeybees. This class will introduce to you what honeybees are, rules and regulations for keeping them locally, costs/equipment and time involved in keeping them. This presentation will help you decide whether to pursue keeping honeybees. Reservations required by Oct. 5. MUSHROOM HIKE Sunday, Oct. 9 ∙ 1:30–2:30 p.m. $5/person RA members ∙ $7/person Non-members Adults
Explore the forest with local mushroom expert Mark Richman. Look for the fruiting bodies of these curious organisms that live 99 percent below ground. Learn about their life cycle, the types found in our area and which edible mushrooms are commonly foraged for. Reservations required by Oct. 6. PAPER MAKING Monday, Oct. 10 ∙ 1–2:30 p.m. $6/child RA members ∙ $8/child Non-members Ages 5 to 12
Since ancient Egyptian times, people have been making paper for both artistic and practical purposes. Discover how to make your own recycled paper and learn how to use it in future craft projects. This is a perfect way to enjoy your day off from school. Reservations required by Oct. 6.
of Events BACKYARD COMPOSTING Thursday, Oct. 13 ∙ 7–8 p.m. $5/person RA members ∙ $7/person Non-members Adults
Dealing with all of the fallen leaves in the yard can be tough. Learn how to recycle them the natural way. Plants will love the rich organic soil that your composting efforts provide. Also learn how kitchen waste and other yard debris can be composted right in your own backyard. Guest presenter: Brenda Frank, Fairfax Master Gardener. Reservations required by Oct. 10. BIRD WALK: BRIGHT POND Sunday, Oct. 16 ∙ 7:30–10:30 a.m. Free Bright Pond - Bright Pond Lane, park at the end of the cul-de-sac. Adults FALL FOLIAGE, FOODS & FUN Sunday, Oct. 16 ∙ 2–3:30 p.m. $7/person RA members ∙ $9/person Non-members All ages
Trees are showing their true colors as their green fades into beautiful reds, yellows and oranges. Take a fall foliage walk and conduct simple experiments to separate leaf color pigments. Sample tree treats and make a caramel apple to take home. Reservations required by Oct. 13. THE IMAGINATION TREE Monday, Oct. 17 ∙ 10–11 a.m. Or Tuesday, Oct. 18 ∙ 10–11 a.m. $7/child RA members ∙ $9/child Non-members Ages 18 months to 35 months
Every season offers new textures and colors to discover. Learn and play with autumn’s vibrant array of colors and shapes. Practice naming colors, counting objects, and learn some new nature vocabulary. Enjoy a snack and make a craft. Reservations required by Oct. 13.
November
FALL CAMPFIRE Friday, Nov. 4 ∙ 6–7:30 p.m. $7/person RA members ∙ $9/person Non-members WNC Campfire Ring - On Soapstone Drive, between Glade Drive and Lawyers Road. All ages
Enjoy an evening in nature singing and eating around a crackling fire. Make campfire popcorn and roast your own hot dog. Sweeten things up with s’mores. Bring a flashlight. All supplies provided. Reservations required by Nov. 1. PUPPET SHOW: HOW TURTLE TRIED TO FLY SOUTH Tuesday, Nov. 8 ∙ 10–10:45 a.m. Or 11:15 a.m.–Noon $6/child RA members ∙ $9/child Non-members Ages 3 to 8
Enjoy a morning snack while watching this fun puppet show adapted from a Sioux legend. After the show, learn more about turtles and meet a real one up close. Reservations required by Nov. 4. GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Thursday, Nov. 10 ∙ 10–11 a.m. Or 1–2 p.m. $6/child RA members ∙ $8/child Non-members Ages 3 to 5
Can’t go over it, can’t go around it, must go explore it. Read a classic interactive story and take home a cuddly craft. The nature center is a wonderful place to go on a bear hunt with a camera and binoculars. Reservations required by Nov. 7. BIRD WALK: LOWER GLADE STREAM VALLEY Sunday, Nov. 13 ∙ 7:30–10:30 a.m. Free Glade Stream Valley, park on Glade Drive at Twin Branches Road. Adults
BEAR NECESSITIES Monday, Nov. 14 ∙ 10–11 a.m. Or Tuesday, Nov. 15 ∙ 10–11 a.m. $7/child RA members ∙ $9/child Non-members Walker Nature Center - 11450 Glade Drive. Ages 18 months to 35 months
It’s time for a fun morning of bear explorations. “Forget about your worries and your strife” and learn about native black bears as well as brown bears, polar bears and more. Perhaps Balu will bring by a snack, and we will make a beary cute craft. Reservations required by Nov. 10. THANKSGIVING CRAFTERS Saturday, Nov. 19 ∙ 10:30 a.m.–Noon Or 1–2:30 p.m. $20/centerpiece RA members ∙ $25/centerpiece Non-members All ages
Start your holiday season with this festive workshop. Make a beautiful centerpiece with native materials and 4 simple napkin rings for your Thanksgiving table ($1 per additional ring). Enjoy mulled cider and seasonal treats as we work. All supplies provided. When making reservations, include the number of people and how many centerpieces you wish to make. Reservations required by Nov. 16. TURKEY TRAIL Saturday, Nov. 26 ∙ 11 a.m.–Noon $5/person RA members ∙ $7/person Non-members Walker Nature Center - 11450 Glade Drive. All ages
Let’s get moving after your big Thanksgiving meal. Sharpen your skills of logic as you follow the clues left from a “wild” turkey to see where they lead you. Discover more about these fascinating birds. Reservations required by Nov. 22.
All programs will be held at the Walker Nature Center, 11450 Glade Drive, unless otherwise noted.
Call 703-476-9689 and press 5 or email naturecenter@reston.org for reservations and information. Advanced reservations are required for all fee-based programs. Programs may be canceled in the event of severe weather, severe weather warnings or low enrollment. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
5
Color Changing Milk Try this experiment at home to watch some neat color changes. Be sure to get an adult’s permission and help. Supplies: Plate or bowl Milk Food coloring Liquid dish soap Cotton swab (like a Q-Tip)
1. Place plate or bowl on a level surface like a countertop. 2. Pour milk into the plate or bowl until it is about ¼” deep. 3. Add one drop each of 2-4 different colors of food coloring in the center of the milk. Have the drops close together but not touching. 4. Dip the tip of the cotton swab into the dish soap. Gently dip the soap-covered swab into the center of the food coloring drops and hold it there. Observe what happens to the drops of food coloring. How many colors do you see now?
Fall Color Changes By Earl the Squirrel (with help from Abby Stocking) In the fall, we squirrels love to watch the changing colors of the leaves. It’s like our own nature fireworks as reds, yellows and oranges brighten up the forest. But did you know that leaves are not the only things to change colors in the fall? Many types of animals also change their colors as they get ready for winter. White-tailed Deer are a bright reddish-brown color during the summer months. In the fall, they begin to shed their fur. New hairs grow in that are grayer in color. This gray coloring helps them camouflage, or blend in, with the duller colors we see in our winter woods. The deer’s winter fur will also be longer and thicker to help them keep warm when it gets cold. Some birds also change color. American Goldfinches are the most common example around here. In the summer, male goldfinches are a bright yellow color with dark black wings. Starting in September, the birds slowly molt, or lose, their old feathers. The feathers that grow back in are a much darker, yellowish brown color. Like the deer, the darker colors probably help them blend in during the winter. This protects the birds from getting eaten by predators like hawks.
Hidden Goldfinches Contest Throughout this newsletter there are hidden goldfinches – some brown and some yellow. How many of each color can you find? DON’T COUNT THE TWO ON THIS PAGE.
Email your answer to naturecenter@reston.org. One lucky person with the correct answer will win a free program pass. Deadline: Oct. 1 While we squirrels don’t get to do any color changing ourselves, we think it’s cool that our animal friends get to morph like the leaves. This fall see if you can spot any of this color magic.
Kids’ Corner 6
Get Nuts for Clean Water Citizens throughout the Potomac River watershed are invited to take part in a native seed collection effort. Collected seeds are donated to state tree nurseries where they are nurtured and transplanted for use in streamside and riverside reforestation.
You can help to restore native forests and protect streams one acorn at a time. When you rake the leaves, don’t throw out the acorns. Get involved in this fun activity that can be enjoyed by all.
HOW TO HELP:
• Collect nuts in your yard or other open areas where they will be unable to grow. • Please do not collect at the nature center or any natural area in Reston. •
Separate the nuts by species and place them into breathable bags (no plastic bags). Identification aids are available at the nature center and online at the link below.
• Label each bag with the kind of nuts that are inside. • Store in a cool dry place then drop them off at the nature center.
WHEN:
Seed drop offs are accepted from Oct. 1 to 21.
WHERE:
Information and collection bags can be picked up at the nature center. Please deposit bagged and identified acorns in the container on the side porch.
For more information, see www.growingnative.org.
Native Spotlight: POSSUMHAW VIBURNUM (Viburnum nudum) By Sharon Gurtz Possumhaw Viburnum is a native shrub that is hard to beat for seasonal interest in the natural garden. Top it off with its wildlife value and this is a serious contender for your home’s garden.
Photo by: Chris Evans Country: United States Organization: University of Illinois http://www.forestryimages.org
Sometimes called Smooth Witherod, this multistemmed viburnum typically grows 5 – 12’ tall but can reach 20’ with a spread about one-half its height. It is disease-resistant and fairly easily grown, tolerating a wide variety of light and soil conditions. There are smaller cultivars available such as ‘Winterthur’ or ‘Brandywine’ that also provide brilliant fall foliage. The common name Possumhaw is presumed to have originated with the colonists as they likely observed opossums digging their noses in the fruits of a shrub that resembled a European Hawthorn. Many English colonists named newly discovered plants and animals after their English look-alikes without necessarily being closely related. For example, several bushes with red fruits were called Haws. That’s how our American Robin got its name – its red breast is reminiscent of the European Robin, which is a member of the Old World flycatcher family not closely related to the American Robin which is actually a thrush. Seasonal Star Status This plant adds appeal to your garden in several seasons of the year. Spring clusters of white flowers are followed by a marvelous fruit display, and summer’s bright green, glossy leaves transition to a vibrant crimson color in fall. In September and October, this plant earns its star status. Groups of pea-sized berries begin changing from pink to shades of blue and black. Wildlife Value After the fruits turn blue the birds move in. Robins, cardinals and even woodpeckers will pick them clean. Small mammals also dine on the berries. In addition to being a food source for birds, this shrub can also provide nest sites and cover. Fortunately, the deer will be busy browsing other plants and usually leave this shrub alone as we have observed at the nature center. Insect pollinators such as native bees and butterflies are drawn to Possumhaw, visiting the flowers in the spring. The plant also serves as a host species for gossamer butterflies (blues, coppers, hairstreaks and harvesters.) With so much to offer, it is surprising this shrub isn’t more commonly used in native gardens. We love the Possumhaw Viburnum at the nature center – come check it out.
7
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID RESTON, VA PERMIT NO. 21
www.reston.org Walker Nature Center 11450 Glade Drive Reston, Virginia 20191
EVENT INFO & TICKETS
You’re invited to the best family friendly Halloween event this side of Transylvania — RAIN OR SHINE. This is NOT a horror show or a haunted house. Meet a creative cast of characters, including live animals, along our nature themed Trick-or-Treat Trail and inside our Nature House, turned Halloween House for this very special evening. Enjoy jack-o-lanterns, carnival style games, sound and light effects, and creatures of the night. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Ticket price includes a Trick-or-Treat bag. Additional concessions (ex. popcorn, cotton candy, apple cider) will be on sale. Participants are encouraged to wear non-scary costumes, and enjoy the activities at their own self-guided pace. Recommended for families with children ages 3-10 years.
Choose from one of four event times: Friday, Oct. 28, 6-7:15 p.m. or 7:30-8:45 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, 6-7:15 p.m. or 7:30-8:45 p.m. Gate opens 15 minutes prior to the event start time. Please park along Glade Drive or at Glade Pool, and bring a flashlight.
Tickets $10/person (Adults and children who are 18 months or older must have a ticket.) Advance tickets only. Tickets go on sale Monday, Oct. 3 at 9 a.m. A $1.54/ticket service charge will be applied to all sales. All event times sell out on the first day. We highly recommend that you purchase your tickets online on Oct. 3.
Buy your tickets online at www.eventbrite.com at the following links:
http://halloweenhousefri1.eventbrite.com http://halloweenhousefri2.eventbrite.com http://halloweenhousesat1.eventbrite.com http://halloweenhousesat2.eventbrite.com
For more information, call 703-476-9689, and press 5 or email naturecenter@reston.org.
Fall 16 Volume Eighteen