Panorama | Spring 2015

panorama

Spring 2015

Spring Ephemerals Page 4

Nesting Season Page 6

First Year Birding Page 7

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Embrace the Ephemeral NATHAN SMALLWOOD Executive Director

Spring is the time for ephemerals as highlighted in a few pages by our Director of Conservation, Don Quintenz. The word ephemeral is used in everyday speech for a feeling or experience that is fleeting or short lived, or ephemera describing the stuff of lives past.

While seasons, fauna, and the migratory nature of our winged residents are ephemeral, memory and experiences here are not. Since the founding of Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, visitors have had the opportunity to experience ephemeral seasons while developing a permanent, unwavering connection with nature.

As you will see in this issue, most of the connections made or conversations about the Center revolve around our ecosystem. That could be our Thursday morning birders taking notice of which birds are visiting during their travels along the migratory path. Perhaps it’s our preschoolers out snapping photos of nature along the trails. Or maybe it’s the surprise of a father who’s seen it all, but never heard a spring chorus of frogs.

Enjoying the delights of our natural ecosystem is the reason we are here, however, it can be easy to forget the basis which sustains Schlitz Audubon–our fiscal ecosystem. I’d like to let you know about some updates to our fiscal ecosystem, and ways you can plant seed money for the future of the Center.

We’re once again partnering with Northwestern Mutual Foundation. Their generous grant supports our initiative to increase awareness of the Center as a key destination for natural science learning and recreation. Our focus will be growing and sharing our seasonal events with families and youth groups throughout southeastern Wisconsin.

We are excited to announce that Outpost Natural Foods has selected us as their community partner throughout the summer. During this program Outpost creates a partnership strategy tailored to the organization’s individual needs, and includes donations from multiple sources throughout the partnership. We are further engaging other businesses throughout the area and we invite you to help us find businesses and organizations interested in investing in the future of our ecosystem.

Owls are some of our most regal native residents of Schlitz Audubon. With this in mind we’ve created an expanded membership group, the Parliament of Owls. These members have reinforced their commitment to Schlitz Audubon by donating amounts which exceed the general membership rate, further investing in our ecosystem.

On a recent morning, while taking off my coat, I watched a doe with her fawns gradually stepping along the ridge overlooking Lake Michigan. The small puffs of condensation rising briefly and vanishing from their noses. Lake Michigan breathing back and forth against the shore, slowed by ice floes tumbling against one another. That doe will never understand the definition of a nature center, only that this is a bountiful ecosystem to visit. With your continued support, she’ll never know any different.

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers Tim Gerend President Margarete Harvey Past President Sanderson ‘Andy’ S. Read Treasurer Nick Pabst Secretary Jane B. Bell VP-Development John Grunau VP-Governance Cynthia Palmersheim Human Resources Board Shane Delsman John E. ‘Jack’ Gebhardt Chad D. Johnson Kevin J. Kane Meg Kinney Amy Kocourek Justin K. Patrick Lena M. Patton Arthur T. Phillips Benjamin F. Rikkers Jeff Thurston Carol Wolcott Past Presidents John H. Kopmeier, Jr. Philip R. Smith Dennis L. Fisher Terrence K. Knudsen Thomas J. McCutcheon Thomas B. Fitzgerald Randolph H. Dean Stephen F. Geimer Thomas J. Drought David K. Hoover John S. McGregor Honorary Directors Edwin P. Wiley Director Emeritus Dorothy K. Vallier (1910-2013)

Schlitz Audubon is an independent, locally supported partner of the National Audubon Society.

SEASONAL SIGHTINGS

Seasonal Sightings appears in each quarterly so you can learn about seasonal highlights at Schlitz Audubon and then visit and see for yourself!

CASSIE RINCON Naturalist

As spring arrives at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, we welcome back our amphibious friends that were brumating, a form of hibernation for reptiles and amphibians, during the cold winter months.

This is the season when frogs begin their staggered symphony of calls to find their mates.

We begin in March with the Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus) and his high pitched version of quacking. Following him is the Western Chorus Frog (Pseudacris triseriata) chirping continuous “creeek� calls. The final entrant is the Northern Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer) with high-pitched peeps that seem too boastful for his size.

In April, the Wood Frog begins to quiet down and we start to hear from the Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens) with his snores and occasional chuckles and the American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus) with his lengthy trill. During May, the Chorus Frog and the Spring Peeper have found their mates. Listen for the Eastern Gray Tree Frog (Hyla versicolor) with a trill similar to the American Toad, though with a lower pitch. In May, also listen for the Northern Cricket Frog (Acris crepitans), who sounds like pebbles clicking together. Once June rolls around, we hear the one-note twang of the Green Frog (Rana clamitans) and the foghorn call of the American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus).

When visiting the Center, the best locations to hear these loud amphibians are at our ponds and other wet areas; the most popular being Mystery Lake, Boardwalk Pond, and Teal Pond. It is also recommended to take a long stroll to visit the North Pond. Whichever pond you choose, stop by and experience the symphony for yourself!

TOP American Bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus at Mystery Lake.

MIDDLE Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer.

BOTTOM American Toad Anaxyrus americanus.

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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EDUCATION

Spring Ephemerals DON QUINTENZ Director of Conservation & Adult Education

Virginia Bluebells

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Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

EDUCATION When one asks people what is their favorite thing in nature, the two most popular responses are birds and wildflowers. If you ask the plant people which wildflowers, the answer is often spring ephemerals.

The word ephemeral is defined as “the concept of things being transitory, existing only briefly” and came from the Greek word ephemeros, “lasting only one day.” While there is an extensive list of plants that people call ephemeral, botanists reserve the term for plants with a very specific, but peculiar behavior. After the normal appearance in spring they die back before the prime growing season of summer, when most plants take advantage of the warmest, sunniest, and longest days of the year.

If you have ever witnessed an unspoiled prairie or woodland in May you will always remember it. The ground is literally carpeted with color. Most of the flowers of the forest at this time belong to this distinguished group. Dominated by the queen of shade producers, the sugar maple, the forest has two brief periods when light is available at the ground level during the growing season. These ephemerals pour all their growth energy into these periods, before the trees bud out or after they drop their leaves. In so doing, they gain an advantage over plants that create deficits during the shady months. Thus they bear testimony of their intimate connection to the dominant plants that has developed over many millennia.

Spring Beauty

“The ground is literally carpeted with color.”

Our Center is blessed with some high quality sites where both the soil and the vegetational cover have maintained their integrity through the many decades of human disturbance. Closest to our building are the bluff edges to the south between the building and the tower and also alongside the road down to the terrace. Here you can find Virginia Bluebells, Dutchman’s Breeches, Spring Beauty, Cut-leaved Toothwort, Wild Leek, False Rue Anemone, White Trout-lily, Yellow Troutlily, and Annual Bedstraw. Surprisingly these nine species are not related and belong to seven different plant families. This illustrates the strong advantage for all plants to evolve anatomically and physiologically to become better at doing what plants do best – to grow. If they do this better than other plants in the area they can survive there. This type of change is called “convergent evolution,” the name suggesting that unlike species become more alike over time.

Yellow Trout-lily

Mark your calendar now for a family hike in early May. You will never regret building a closer relationship with nature. To quote Wordsworth, “Nature never did betray the heart that loved her.”

Dutchman’s Breeches

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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RAPTOR EDUCATION

Eagles & Hawks use sticks & feathers for their large nests.

DIANE VISTY Raptor Manager

Actual size of a hummingbird nest

Warmer weather indicates that nesting season is upon us. Whether year round residents or migrants, male birds are first to stake claims on the best territories and nest sites. When females arrive, site selection begins in earnest. Nests can take several different forms. The woven cup shape is common, and others use a scrape on the side of a rock cliff. Otherwise a knot-hole in a tree or even an excavation into a mud wall provide safety for the pair’s nestlings. The smallest nest belongs to the Hummingbird, which is just three-quarters of an inch wide and 1 inch tall. By contrast, the Bald Eagle’s nest can be 10 feet wide and 20 feet deep.

Most diurnal raptors (with the exception of the Falcon family) make nests out of sticks and twigs, not out of leaves like a squirrel’s nest. The birds make a depression called a nest cup in the center for the eggs. This is lined with feathers to help their eggs stay warm along with bark strips and fresh green twigs to cushion the eggs and keep away insects. Red-tailed Hawks make sturdy nests, 3 feet wide by 2 feet deep, high up in trees with commanding views.

Cooper’s Hawks, which are common in our neighborhoods, make nests 27 inches wide and 10 inches deep. Unlike Red-tailed Hawks, their nests are not found much higher than 20 feet and in a mix of trees.

Owls, on the other hand, do not make their own nests. Smaller owls like the Screech and Saw-whet depend on woodpeckers to make the perfect home for them. These cavities have easily defended entrance holes no wider than 3 inches and can be 9 inches deep. Larger owls like Barred and Great Gray take advantage of large holes in trees which are about 10 inches wide and 20 inches deep. They lay their eggs at the bottom of the cavity without adding other nesting material to it. Great-horned and Longeared owls take advantage of nests prebuilt by Red-tailed’s and American Crows.

Enjoy watching our frugal bird friends, as they teach us all how they reuse and recycle each other’s homes and roost sites.

RAPTOR SPOTLIGHT We have a Barred Owl in our care named Orion! Orion’s nest tree was blown down in a storm. Along with four siblings, Orion was taken to a rehabilitation facility. As the youngest, Orion and his sister stayed longer at the facility and when they were released, neither wanted to go. Orion will always look to people for his next meal and is therefore unable to be released to the wild. Orion is one of our most vocal birds, calling “who cooks for you!”

Great Gray or Barred Owl tree cavity

Northern Saw-whet Owl or Eastern Screech Owl tree cavity.

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Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

FEATURE

A Birder’s First Year ZOE FINNEY Graphic Designer

–» American Goldfinch on a bare April day in 2014.

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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FEATURE

I never intended to become a birder.

How it came to be that I would choose to drive across the state at the rumor of a Northern Hawk Owl sighting, or stand in complete awe of thirty-five American Robins in the woods near my home on a cold January day, is still a bit of a mystery to me. Birds have captivated me, and because of this, I now spend my days looking up.

My rapid immersion was aided by the fact I work here, at Schlitz Audubon. It’s nearly impossible to work at such a beautiful place and not have your curiosity awakened daily. Besides being at Schlitz Audubon, I’ve always felt connected to nature. While at school, I spent Saturdays at Strouds Run, an Ohio State Park in the foothills of the Appalachians. This became my natural sanctuary away from the commotion of college.

Last spring I realized I had never really looked at a Black-capped Chickadee or noticed the bold color of a male American Goldfinch. Walking through the bare April woods and spotting glimpses of color evoked emotions in me I cannot adequately explain. I was enthralled and my curiosity could not be quenched! I chose to become an active observer, and this is possible for you as well. I didn’t have steps on how to begin birding, so here are some of the things I’ve learned in the last year to help you get started.

Before the spring of 2014, I could name (but not even correctly identify) seven birds: Cardinals, Robins, Crows, Blue Jays, Woodpeckers, Sparrows, and the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

I began to take more hikes with camera in tow, and because it was April, there weren’t too many birds around. I would return with photos of “the regulars” to post to our social media, with no idea what they were. Thank goodness I have patient teachers for co-workers! Don Quintenz and Jean Strelka fielded all of my early birding questions, helping me learn the basics of identification.

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Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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ABOVE Common Yellowthroat Warbler, May 2014.

BELOW Blue Jay, October 2014 .

FEATURE START IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD Become an active observer in your world. You don’t have to book a trip to Costa Rica—although that DOES sound lovely—to become a birder. You don’t even have to find a wooded area! Start with your own backyard and your neighborhood. Now I can’t even walk to the grocery store or post office without wondering what birds are around. It’s amazing what you see when you begin to pay attention.

ACQUIRE BINOCULARS My first pair of binoculars were a $3 garage sale score. I’ve since upgraded to a pair of Nikon Monarchs, but there’s no need to start with a big investment. Before purchasing, visit a store and try several pairs to discover your preferences.

GET A NOTEBOOK I carry my little orange notebook at all times. My first bird observations were messily scrawled across pages. Since I had no clue what I was observing, I recorded as much detail as possible.

There are still a lot of birds I do not know, but my notebook is now filled with tallied lists of 4-letter short-hand abbreviations. If you found my notebook and were not a birder, it would look very cryptic. Wood Thrush is abbreviated as WOTH, or the Blackburnian Warbler (one of my favorites) is BLBW. This system is extremely helpful when you’re out in the field. In the time spent writing out an entire name you could miss seeing a warbler!

BUY A FIELD GUIDE Peterson’s Field Guide to Birds of Eastern & Central North America is my go-to reference. The illustrations and descriptions are extremely helpful, especially for new birders. Sometimes just reading the description will help me realize I’m on the wrong path in determining what bird I’m looking at.

FIND AN EXPERIENCED GROUP OF BIRDERS I would not know nearly as much about birds as I do now if I hadn’t found a special community of birders to learn from.

During spring migration there is a group that meets weekly at Schlitz Audubon on Thursdays at 7:00am. They field my constant questions, point out the songs of birds, and gently tell me when I’m actually looking at an American Robin and not a Baltimore Oriole. The wealth of knowledge I’ve absorbed from my new birding friends is unparalleled.

LEARN THE SONGS (OR AT LEAST TRY) This is the main part of birding that I am working on—learning the songs, calls, and chips of birds. Knowing what sounds birds

ABOVE Belted Kingfisher, September 2014.

BELOW Green Heron spearing a frog, September 2014.

make is a very useful, but difficult to learn, tool to identify them.

I use Merlin Bird ID to practice bird songs. The best practice, however, happens out in the field, with an expert birder who can point out songs and quiz you while you’re walking along.

(Thanks, Marilyn!)

Birds may not be how you connect with nature, but I’m sure there is something out there for you. Open your eyes and become an active observer wherever you are, because there is new, endless beauty every day—even on a short walk, down a busy street to the post office.

BIRDING RESOURCES Peterson Field Guide to Birds of Eastern & Central North America Roger Tory Peterson Illustrations, succint descriptions, and range maps. Also offers a beginner’s “how -to-ID birds” in the opening chapter.

The Sibley Guide to Bird Life & Behavior David Allen Sibley Extensive information for hundreds of species, including: typical movements & habitats, breeding & nesting behavior, description of eggs, and vocalizations.

Merlin Bird ID The Cornell Lab of Orinthology On-the-go field guide.

This is an app for iOS & Android. 400 North American Birds, includes photos, range maps & audio of multiple songs, calls & chips for each species.

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

eBird The Cornell Lab of Orinthology & Audubon Record & submit your birding observations.

View interactive range & species maps that are updated daily, birding hotspots, and sign up for rarity notifications.

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SCHLITZ AUDUBON PRESCHOOL AT SCHLITZ AUDUBON NATURE CENTER

Through the Preschool Lens ELISE HANSEN Preschool Director PATTI DARBY Preschool Teacher

It started with a gift. We received four simple and sturdy bright orange cameras. The goal was to invite our preschoolers to document their outdoor observations and provide a glimpse into their experience at Schlitz Audubon.

We explained the camera’s basic functions and told the children to snap anything that caught their eye. At first many of the children were fascinated by the camera itself, pressing buttons and exploring mechanisms. Initially their pictures centered on classmates.

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As hikes went on, they began to focus on the landscape. Each day gradually took on a quiet thoughtfulness as they slowed their pace to look carefully, stopping their feet to capture an image. These pictures are a record of what they observed, and what they felt was important to document. As viewers we are allowed access to something wonderful—Schlitz Audubon as children see it.

side hidden cracks. They photographed the familiar from new perspectives; acorns left in the bottom of a basket, thin blades of grass growing between the cracks of the sidewalk, a Blue Jay feather that happened to perfectly match a scarf. Their appreciation and love for these events is evident through their photographs. Children captured fleeting moments created by, and constantly evolving at, nature’s whim.

Photographs evolved into records of natural events. There were photos of woodpecker holes on trees, pinecones partially nibbled by red squirrels, a log where a beetle hibernated in-

Sometimes the roles of teacher and student fluctuate. Their photographs teach us to stop our feet, look carefully, and observe the story nature shows us.

Photo by Haris from the Monday, Wednesday Cardinal Class.

Photo by Landon from the Monday, Wednesday Cardinal Class.

Photo by Iva from the Monday, Wednesday, Friday Cardinal Class.

Photo by Oliver from the Monday, Wednesday, Friday Cardinal Class.

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

SCHLITZ AUDUBON VOLUNTEER UPDATE We’re excited to introduce Marissa Lundin, the new Volunteer Coordinator at Schlitz Audubon.

Marissa spent her childhood exploring the wilds of northern Wisconsin near Crandon.

After a foray into printmaking in Minneapolis, she decided to pursue a degree at UW-Milwaukee in Community Education and Engagement. During college she volunteered throughout Milwaukee, leading to a previous position with our friends at Urban Ecology Center. Marissa is excited to find and engage new individuals and help volunteers create lasting relationships with the Center.

Here are some of our current volunteer opportunities: FRONT DESK AMBASSADORS As a front desk ambassador you will be the first to engage with visitors. Our ideal ambassador is outgoing and excited to tell visitors about the wonders of Schlitz Audubon Nature Center.

This person should be able to make suggestions for first time guests, explain the uniqueness and history of our property.

LAND STEWARDS Our land steward team has dozens of projects going all the time. These volunteers like to be outside and working with their hands. This can include heavy lifting, working in all weather conditions, and use of hand tools.

DEVELOPMENT

Thank You Northwestern Mutual Foundation DEBBY FULTON Director of Development

We are pleased to announce that we have received a $30,000 grant from Northwestern Mutual Foundation. Their generous grant supports our initiative to increase awareness of the Center as a key destination for natural science learning and recreation. Growing and sharing our seasonal events with families and youth groups throughout southeastern Wisconsin will be our focus. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening partnerships within three underserved neighborhoods that Northwestern Mutual Foundation supports. Residents of these neighborhoods will have the opportunity to attend our events free of charge and this fits nicely with Northwestern Mutual Foundation’s emphasis on child wellness and overall education for children and families.

2015 ANNUAL GALA

Save the Date for our 2015 Gala

Please join us Friday, June 5 for our annual gala and celebrate the wonders of Schlitz Audubon. Our raptors will be on display and our Naturalists will take guests on a hike before dinner. Ticket and auction proceeds go directly to support the Center’s environmental education programs, including student scholarships. Please visit our website for more information and view photos from past Galas.

To reserve your spot, contact Debby Fulton: dfulton@schlitzaudubon.org 414-352-2880 x152

Thank you to our 2015 Gala Sponsors as of February 27 BDO Godfrey& Kahn, S.C. Inbusch Foundation

Northwestern Mutual Foundation Robert W. Baird

THE “RAY“ TEAM Affectionately named after long time volunteer Ray Jensen. Are you handy?

Do you love getting involved with woodworking projects, performing maintenance, and working on something new every day? Perhaps this description fits someone in your life. If so, our Ray Team meets every Tuesday.

All skill levels welcome!

To become a volunteer, just visit our website and fill out the Volunteer Application, or contact Marissa Lundin at 414-352-2880 x144.

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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CALENDAR Adult Program Family Program Preschool Program Handicap Accessible Member Price Non-Member Price Pre-Registration

Pre-registration helps us prepare for our programs. There will be an additional $2.00 charge for walk-in participants attending a program that requires pre-registration.

Youth price is for those ages 3–17.

18 and up are charged the adult price.

Refunds will only be given to those who cancel 14 or more days before a program. If Schlitz Audubon cancels a program, refunds will be given.

Call 414-352-2880 x0 to register.

Spring Break Matinee: Big Hero 6* Thursday, April 2 | 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Before we turn off the lights, we’ll handle snakes, frogs, and turtles. Then we’ll show Big Hero 6 on the big screen in the auditorium.

Bring whatever you need to be comfortable (blanket, popcorn, stuffed animal).

M: Youth $5 | Adult $10 NM: Youth $10 | Adult $15

Bird Club*

April 8 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm May 13 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm June 10 | 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Co-presented with Milwaukee Audubon Society. Spring brings the possibility of seeing the male American Woodcock’s “sky dance,” and the opportunity to observe spring migrants and residents. Please check our online calendar for specific topics. Young adults welcome.

Spiritual World of Nature: GivernyThrough the Seasons*

Free to all

Dottie Diggs returns with a new slide show, which now comprises images from five visits to Claude Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, France. Dottie will share contemporary and modern impressions of Monet and his work.

Her pictures are set to beautiful music. Nature photography has become Dottie’s new love after being a violinist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra for 37 years.

Wednesday, April 8 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm Tuesday, June 2 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Thursday, April 2 | 2:00pm–3:00pm

M: $10 NM: $15

Discovery Nature Hiking*

We’ll hike along the meadows, woods, and wetlands of the Center on the upper level of the land. Don Quintenz will lead you to the seasonal events that stir our sense of beauty and imagination, and help answer the questions that nature evokes in us. The entire program is taught on the trail.

M: $7 NM: $12

Raptor Saturday

Audubon Babies*

April Learn about birds doing what they do best: fly, hunt, build nests and defend their territory! Who flies fastest? Who has the most wing beats per second? Which bird is the heavyweight champ? Our amazing raptors will be on hand to help demonstrate.

May We’ll discuss birding basics during spring migration and use our excellent raptor team as live models. You’ll learn identification basics and some handy tools every birder should have. After the program head outside and put your skills to use!

June Everyone is dependent on our natural systems working together. We’ll explore why seemingly unlikely pairs of birds and buffalos, ravens and eagles, woodpeckers and owls, make good teams for survival. A few of our raptor friends model some behaviors.

Children are never too young to enjoy fresh air and the wonders of nature. Come enjoy a hike on the trails and some good fellowship. We will meet inside and venture out when ready.

Dress for the weather, we explore outdoors rain or shine. We recommend waterproof shoes or boots. This program is for children 6 months to 24 months and their adult.

Saturday, April 4 | 1:00 - 2:00pm Saturday, May 2 | 1:00 - 2:00pm Saturday, June 6 | 1:00 - 2:00pm

Free with membership or Center admission Sponsored by:

Wednesday, April 8 | 10:00am - 11:15am Wednesday, April 22 | 10:00am - 11:15am Wednesday, May 6 | 10:00am - 11:15am

M: $12 per pair per program NM: $17 per pair per program

Milwaukee River Clean Up*

Saturday April 11 | 9:00am - 12:00pm

Join Director of Education Tom Finley at our Cleaver Property to remove debris left behind by winter weather and river flows. The 40-acre property is located on the south side of Brown Deer Road, just east of the Green Bay Avenue bridge. Wear old clothes, boots and gloves. We’ll provide garbage bags and several pairs of hip waders. The adventurous can bring your own canoe or kayak for river access. See website for directions.

Free to all

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Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

All About Eggs!*

Saturday, April 11 | 9:30am – 11:00am

Join Education Specialist Shelly Rollins to learn all about eggs and the animals that come from them through stories and indoor activities. Then we’ll hike outside to look for these animals. This program is for families with children up to age 7. An adult must accompany children. Adults are free.

M: $5 per youth NM: $10 per youth

Tunes for the Birds*

Sunday, April 12 | 2:30pm - 4:00pm

Celtic Harpist Kim Robertson returns for a special acoustic concert that benefits the Center’s education programs. An acclaimed musician in the Celtic music scene, Kim has been featured at concerts and festivals in Scotland, the USA and Nova Scotia. She will be accompanied by guest vocalist Stephanie Pyfer.

Youth $10 Adult $15

Spiritual World of Nature: Native American Energy Healing* Tuesday, April 14 | 1:30pm – 2:30pm

Experience a powerful group healing session through Dennis King, carrier of the Bear Medicine. Bear Medicine is rarely seen off the reservation. Feel and hear the Bear breathing and growing as true healing power surrounds you. Dennis comes from a lineage of healers from the Oneida Nation.

M: $10 NM: $15

American Indian Experience: The Shore of Lake Michigan* Thursday, April 16 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Throughout history, natural bodies of water shaped the lives of the American Indians, whether for cooking, cleaning, or as a method of transportation. Join UW-Milwaukee Tribal Liaison Officer Michael Zimmerman Jr. as we hike to the beach and discuss water using the Anishinaabe language.

M: Youth $5 | Adult $7 NM: Youth $10 | Adult $12

Family Discovery Hike*

Thursday, April 16 | 4:00pm - 5:30pm Thursday, May 21 | 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Learn to appreciate the science and beauty of seasonal changes. Dress for the weather, including waterproof shoes or boots.

April We’ll hike with binoculars in search of birds that have returned for spring.

May We’ll explore the ponds at the Center.

We’ll bring nets and look for frogs, turtles, and other aquatic life. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults are free.

M: $5 per youth NM: $10 per youth

CALENDAR Hand in Hand*

Thursdays: April 16, May 7 Session 1 | 9:00am - 10:15am Session 2 | 10:30am - 11:45am

Environmental Voices: Causes of Shoreline Erosion*

Thursday, April 30 | 10:30am – 4:30pm

Explore nature with your little ones! We will hike, play, do art activities, and listen to a story. Dress for the weather; we explore outdoors rain or shine. We recommend waterproof shoes or boots. This program is for 2-4 year olds and their adult.

April: Wake Up Pond May: Springtime Pond

Highest rates of wave erosion are often near shoreline structures, such as rubble piles, revetments, or jetties. Geologist Jim Rosenbaum will illustrate how normal sediment distribution is modified by artificial structures, causing erosion and accretion. We’ll view this with walks down to the beaches of Klode and Atwater Parks. Lunch at the Milwaukee Yacht Club is not included in program fee.

M: $12 per pair per program NM: $17 per pair per program

Environmental Voices: Birding for Science*

Tuesday, April 21 & 28 | 7:00am - 9:00am Tuesday, May 5 & 12 | 7:00am - 9:00am

We’re looking for some budding citizen scientists who would like to learn more about birds, birding, and making your bird observations count. We will meet for four weeks during the peak of the spring bird migration. Each program includes an early morning bird walk, followed by time for discussion and questions.

Topics covered will include binocular use and selection, bird identification by sight and sound, as well as data collection and record keeping.

M: $40 NM: $48

Environmental Voices: Tour of Great Lakes WATER Institute* Wednesday, April 22 | 12:30pm - 3:00pm

J. Val Klump, JD, PhD, professor & Associate Dean of Research will be our guide of the nation’s first graduate School of Freshwater Sciences. The tour will include a look at the state-of-the-art research laboratories constructed in 2014 as part of a $53M addition, as well as the extensive aquaculture, marine operations and the state’s flagship Research Vessel Neeskay.

M: $22 NM: $28

Lake Michigan Discovery Hike*

Tuesday, April 28 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm Thursday, June 25 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Lake Michigan, the largest freshwater lake in the world, is both a treasure and a mystery.

Guided by Don Quintenz, we’ll descend to the lower terrace and lakeshore where you’ll learn many of the hidden secrets by the tokens that show themselves through the seasons. The entire program is taught on the trail.

M: $7 NM: $12

M: $20 NM: $26

15th Annual Amphibian Search* Saturday, May 2 | 9:00am - 12:00pm

Meet Jim Hyatt at the Southern Kettle Moraine and you’ll explore special amphibian breeding ponds. We’ll supply nets and hip waders for you to go deep into these ponds in search of frogs and salamanders. Maybe you’ll even find a turtle or giant water bug. Directions will be sent out upon registration.

M: Youth $6 | Adult $10 NM: Youth $11 | Adult $15

Free Bird Walks

Saturdays, May 2, 9, 16 | 7:30am

Paul Boyer will lead free bird walks for adults in May. Paul has been leading spring bird walks at our Center for many years and has grown quite a following. He is an expert birder and can lead you to those rare birds that always seem to elude us. Meet in the main parking lot. No preregistration required.

Free to all

Spiritual World of Nature: Natural Self-Care* Monday, May 4 | 7:00pm - 8:00pm

“Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees,” stated John Muir. An emerging body of research demonstrates the power of nature interaction to enhance one’s approach to emotional self-care. In this interactive presentation, Philip Chard, a leader in the field of applied eco-psychology, will illustrate specific ways to partner with the natural world in finding greater life balance, emotional well-being, and personal fulfillment.

M: $10 NM: $15

The Unseen Majority*

Tuesday, May 5 | 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Microorganisms are the most common life form on planet earth. Many believe that they only cause illness and disease. The truth is that without them plants and animals would not exist. Join professional microbiologist Richard Albert in exploring the fascinating world of microorganisms and how they affect us all.

M: $10 NM: $15 Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Animal Mothers*

Saturday, May 9 | 9:30am – 11:00am

Join Education Specialist Shelly Rollins on Mother’s Day Eve to celebrate and learn about animal mothers. We’ll read stories and take part in activities, as well as meet a live animal.

We’ll then take a hike to see how many animals we can spot. This program is for families with children up to age 7. An adult must accompany children. Adults are free.

M: $5 per youth NM: $10 per youth

International Migratory Bird Day*

Saturday, May 9 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

In observance of International Migratory bird Day we’ll present a special flighted Raptor program in our auditorium. Come and witness the majesty of these beautiful creatures.

Free with membership or Center admission

Environmental Voices: Warblers and Milwaukee County Bird Conservation* Wednesday, May 13 | 7:00am – 3:00pm Rain date Thursday, May 14 | 7:00am – 3:00pm

Join expert birders Jean Strelka, Mike Wanger, and Don Quintenz for a warbler foray through some of Milwaukee County’s best bird conservation areas. This occurs during peak of migration while obstructive vegetation is minimal. Many people become lifelong “birders” when they witness the amazing diversity and beauty of birds such as warblers.

We will learn why these areas are so important to birds. Transportation provided. Bring a bag lunch.

M: $39 NM: $46

Raptors in Focus Photo Shoot*

Saturday, May 16 | 9:00am – 12:00pm Rain Date: Sunday, May 17 | 9:00am – 12:00pm

Join us for our annual Raptors in Focus photo shoot. Bring your camera and get up close and personal with our amazing birds of prey. Keep photos for yourself or submit them for consideration for our annual calendar.

M: Youth $15 | Adults $40 NM: Youth $20 | Adults $50

Horicon Marsh Birding Trip*

Tuesday, May 19 | 9:30am – 6:30pm

Tour Horicon Wildlife Refuge, the premier wetland in the Midwest, with skilled naturalists. Discover this “Wetland of International Importance” by tour van, pontoon boat, and on foot. We will hike trails that extend out into the marsh from the new DNR headquarters.

Transportation, interpretation, boat cruise, and fees are all included. Please bring your own lunch and snacks.

M: $69 NM: $79 13

CALENDAR Door County Getaway*

Tuesday, May 26 8:00am - Friday, May 29 8:00pm

This year includes spending a day on Washington Island, touring the grounds and facilities of a brand new raptor education facility, visiting a new net zero home, and exploring a brand new Door County Land Trust acquisition containing old growth boreal forest, very large sea caves, lots of rare ferns, and 1000 feet of shoreline on North Bay. We will stay at Lawrence University’s beautiful Bjorklunden lodge on the shore of Lake Michigan. Interested persons can contact Don Quintenz for more information at 414-352-2880, ext. 156.

Price includes all costs except for dinner on Friday. Add $111 to the prices below for a

single room.

M: $556 NM: $635

Spiritual World of Nature: Poems of Place*

Monday, June 8 | 7:00pm – 8:00pm

Milwaukee poet Susan Firer, author of Milwaukee Does Strange Things to People, will lead this program. She’ll read a selection of poems on place, focusing on poems connected to Lake Michigan and other poems that use nature’s imagery. She then will share writing ideas and a poetry mini-workshop, concluding with the opportunity for interested participants to read their poems.

M: $10 NM: $15

Camouflage: Can You See Me?*

Saturday, June 13 | 9:30am – 1 1:00am

Animals have many ways to escape predators.

We’ll start inside with stories and camouflage related activities. Then we’ll hike, looking for camouflaged animals along the trail. This program is for families with children up to age 7. An adult must accompany children. Adults are free.

M: $5 per youth NM: $10 per youth

Hangin’ with Hyatt: Leisure Time* Saturday, June 13 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

We’ll start with a live animal and craft. Then we’ll head outside to check out the ponds. The program ends with a family game of disc golf.

Bring your Frisbee! Best suited for families with children ages 8 and up.

M: Youth $6 | Adult $8 NM: Youth $11 | Adult $13

Monday, June 15 I 6:00pm - 7:15 pm

Come join as we practice Nia; a holistic, mindful fitness that incorporates dance, martial, and healing arts. Nia’s philosophy is that through movement we find health.

Nia empowers all people to connect to body, mind, emotions, and spirit through sensation.

Practicing outdoors in nature increases the joy of this experience. Nia is designed to be practiced barefoot, though active shoes are acceptable.

M: $10 NM: $15

Teaching in Nature*

Wednesday June 24 | 6:00pm - 7:30pm

If you’re a teacher who would like to learn more about the Center and using nature as an educational tool, this program is for you! We’ll discuss how our school programs can help meet the educational needs of your students.

Enjoy social time and even a summer evening hike with Director of Education Tom Finley.

We’ll listen for birds, observe aquatic life, and discuss how nature can be infused into any curriculum.

Free to all

Environmental Voices: Milwaukee River Restoration*

Wednesday, June 24 | 9:00am - 12:00pm

We’ll visit River Revitalization Foundation (RRF), Milwaukee’s urban land trust. RRF staff will lead us on a tour of both banks of the Milwaukee River, teaching us about the organization and its efforts in preserving the quality of the Milwaukee River and the surrounding land. We’ll also hear about history of the river, the Milwaukee River Greenway Coalition, and the land trust’s restoration efforts.

M: $22 NM: $25

Summer Canoe Trip*

Monday, June 29 | 10:00am - 12:00pm Wednesday, July 1 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Canoe on the Milwaukee River with Naturalists Cassie Rincon and Corinne Palmer. We’ll provide nets and strainers to sift through the water and discover what’s swimming around.

Trip starts at a private park in Mequon and finishes at Thiensville Village Park. Details will be emailed upon registration. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

M: Youth $10 | Adult $15 NM: Youth $15 | Adult $20

Repamphibiantile Sunday*

Meet and touch Schlitz Audubon’s snakes, frogs, turtles, and salamanders! Bring questions, and you’ll learn more about these often misunderstood creatures.

Froggin’ Fest*

Sunday, June 14 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Free with membership or Center admission 14

Spiritual World of Nature: Outdoor Nia*

Tuesday, June 30 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Join the friend of the frogs, Jim Hyatt, as we celebrate all things frog. We’ll start inside, where Jim will show live frogs, play their calls, and kids will participate in amphibian Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Froggin’ Fest* continued contests. Then we’ll head to Mystery Lake to see what we can catch. Jim’s got nets, but bring your muddin’ shoes.

M: Youth $6 | Adult$8 NM: Youth $11 | Adult $13

Hatha Yoga Evening Class*

Every Monday | 5:30pm - 6:45pm

Lisa Lewis, LMT, CYT leads this yoga classdesigned for all levels of students. Classes are therapeutic in nature, and will be challenging at times. Students are taught to observe their body and breath and to practice within their capacity. Come enjoy spring! When the weather is warm enough class will be held outside.

The first class is always free!

M: $100 for 10 weeks NM: $110 for 10 weeks

Summer Evening Concerts

Tuesday evenings | June 2 - August 25 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Join us on Tuesday evenings for an hour performance by local artists. Music covers a vast array of styles including classical, blue grass, folk, and jazz. Some entertainers will involve the audience. Performances will take place at the pavilion, or held in the auditorium in case of inclement weather. Bring your blanket and/ or chairs, dinner and/or other refreshments and enjoy the show!

Free with membership or Center admission

Summer Twilight Hikes

Thursday evenings | June 4 - August 27 6:30pm – 7:30pm

Join us on Thursday evenings for a Naturalist guided nature hike. We’ll explore this enchanted time of evening together, looking and listening for who else is out there in the forest, pond, and prairie.

Free with membership or Center admission

Word With A Bird

Every Saturday & Sunday | 1:00pm 2:00pm

April April showers bring roadside puddles and a chance to see feathered predators bathing for the first time since fall. Get a closer look than a drive by allows by coming in and meeting some of your raptor neighbors.

May The perfect day: A hike at Schlitz Audubon and a visit inside the Center to meet a bird of prey. We’ll be featuring one of our high flying hunters and discussing their special adaptations.

June Learn about the exceptional birds that keep your garden safe. Better than any rodent or insecticide, these raptors are always patrolling for pests looking to eat your harvest.

Free with membership or Center admission

THANK YOU Memorials Barbara Boehm Gayle Kolp Bob & Marjorie Zamorski

Lois & Don Nelson Lucille Nelson Katie Mason

John P. Boschek Geri & Marvin Olson

Marion Chester Read Patricia & Frank Capozzi Truman D. & Barbara L. Schultz

Dorothy Fowler Philip Blank Jackie Bruce Nancy Peske Darrow Ava Evans Karen L. Richards Arleen Temple Elouise Gage William Kummer Gary T. Gage Camille & Jennifer Gage

Harold Reifschneider Rose & Bruce Campbell Colette Dickson Rodney & Linda Gehrig Debra C. Servi Joan Wallner David Ruenzel Mary Fitzgerald

Tim McCarthy Janice Mahlberg & Michael DiOrio

Gail Seefeldt Abbott ADD R&D Team Wiesbaden, Germany Amy, Lisa, Julie, Michelle, Kristi & Nicky Anonymous (2) The Annis Family Rich & Sue Batton Melanie Beasley Carrie Brock Abigail Williams Budzynski Jeff & Debbie Cherney

Honoraria

Raptor Sponsorships

Lorna Cadmus Robert & Nancy Cadmus

Barley | Barn Owl Libby Barrow & Family Sue B. Holcomb (In honor of Rich & Lorrie Giesen; Sally Smaida; & Jackie Weber)

Todd Honeyager Kevin & Paula Cannon Kathy Starck LeNae Lederer Geri & Marvin Olson

Mrs. Barbara B. Collings Elaine D. Marshall Tim Gerend Gregg Oberland Frank & Barbara Heilbronner Lisa Adelberg Sayla Theirl Jack & Nancy Beschta

New Members & Inkind donations will now be listed in our weekly eNews, once a month.

Cysco | Harris Hawk Abbey Smoll Walejko Amanda Schmitt Carey Ami Stevenson Wangeline Amy Letcher Wasil Amy Tincher Durik Anne Jerina Barber Diana Haden Barany Erin Callies Mayrand Heather Menne Heidi Christensen Landmeier Jeanette Griffin Lobas Jodi Missak Julie Mathers Hogan Katie Donnelly Jablecki Katie Long Wollermann

Admission

FREE admission to Members Adults: $8 | Youth $5 (ages 3 — 17) 1111 East Brown Deer Road | Milwaukee, WI 414-352-2880 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Gail Seefeldt (cont) Jeff & Tammy Dassow Larry Daugherty Trevor & Dena Durham Randee Elsing Carrie Engelbright Gary Gall Dave Gasparik Sharon Goldberg Linda Graeper Bonnie Hampton Pam Hanson Nicole Hardina-Wilhelm Linda Havas Nicholas Hughes TJ Johnson Jeff & Brooke Konopacki The Kopp Family Susie Seefelt Lesieutre Merz North America, Inc. Marguerite Olortegui Mary Ann Olson & Family Jenny Pezewski Todd Schroeder Family Nate Seefeldt Ray & Elaine Seefeldt Deb Skarda Stacey Smith Carrie Streiff-Stuessy Monica Treptow Brenda Velasco Kim Weiland

Gail Seefeldt (cont) Shelley Weiler & Family Doris Wirth & Family Denise & Eric Woodruff Marcia & Tim Zimbauer

Kristin Bazzoli Piotrowski Leanne Stevenson Zirbel Leanne Meidam Wincentsen Leilani Kupo Marci Bailey Moling Martha Dobke Mary Rose Gragido Sivik Melissa Ritter Worthington Michelle Sirinek Rebecca Peterson Hughes Rena Pugh Geibel Samantha Ballou Zielinski Sara Allesee Klepp Sarah Sica Elvin Sara Holbach Kleckner Trisha Schmitt Anderson (In memory of Gail Seefeldt)

Gwynne Kennedy & John DiClemente (In memory of Gail Seefeldt) Michael & Shelly Tuominen (In memory of Gail Seefeldt)

Bette Sanderson Shay Anonymous Dorothy Kagen Singer Catherine Singer Charles Spaeth Mark & Tricia Spaeth Polly Van Dyke Anonymous Angel Flanders Pollybill Foundation Edward & Harriet Purtell Bruce & Shirley Schmidt Eleanor Seaman William D. Van Dyke III Anonymous Pollybill Foundation Edward & Harriet Purtell Bruce & Shirley Schmidt Robert Zarne Alan Shlimovitz & Susan Marcus

Dory | Northern Saw-whet Owl Libby Barrow & Family Orion | Barred Owl Anonymous

Hours

Open 7 days a week | 9:00am — 5:00pm

Tallulah | Turkey Vulture Joyce Wolburg Tskili | Great Horned Owl Nicole Hartley’s 2nd Gr. Class (In honor of Nichole Hartley) Wind Chill McCloud | Snowy Owl Anonymous Sandra L. Grung (In honor of the Macek Family) Our Raptor Program David & Liza Sadoff Joseph Pabst (In honor of Nick Pabst)

Join us on social media!

Summer Hours June 1–August 27

Monday - Thursday | 9:00am - 8:00pm

Spring 2015 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

U.S. Postage

1111 East Brown Deer Road Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53217

PAID

Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 4168

Nature Center

Sunday, April 26 | 10:00am - 4:00pm All Members $5 Non-members Adult $10 | Youth $5 Flighted Raptor Show Birding & Nature Hikes Ponding

Canoeing Bird Crafts and more!

Visit www.schlitzaudubon.org for more details!