Panorama | Summer 2017

panorama

Summer 2017

Reptiles & Amphibians at the Center

WELCOME HELEN BOOMSMA Executive Director

As the new Executive Director of Schlitz Audubon, I am beyond thrilled to invite you to immerse in summer at the Center. I look forward to advancing our environmental education programs while improving your visitor experience and implementing the Conservation Plan.

Looking into a pond, it’s nearly impossible to see what goes on below the surface.

In this issue of Panorama, we bring special focus to the reptiles and amphibians inside our ponds. Amphibians are vital indicator species and can be the first to inform scientists of problems in both wet and dry ecosystems. In the following pages, we offer these creatures the recognition they deserve.

You’ll learn how our reptile and amphibian ambassadors make a huge impact during our outreach and onsite educational programming. At the Center, nobody is too young to learn about animals, as evidenced by the animals in our Preschool classrooms.

Some volunteers take an in-depth approach, bolstering vital data needed by the scientific community by joining us as citizen scientists. Citizen Science informs our conservation efforts, and we’re working to not only conserve, but increase reptile and amphibian populations at our Reptile and Amphibian Conservation Area.

Our new Welcome Booth is complete and we can now invite you to explore without needing to first step foot inside the building to register.

The Booth is designed to offer guests guidance when visiting and provides a seamless transition to what we’re all here to explore: the outdoors. The structure, designed and built by our Facilities Manager Jason Festerling, and generously funded by the Board of Directors, Patti and Jack McKeithan, and the Paula and Ed Gebhardt Family, beautifully complements the style of our main building.

Summer is upon us and in our ponds and prairies, our woodlands and lakeshore, beautiful and fascinating life abounds. I hope that you will visit us soon as the splendor found on these trails is remarkable. Nature strengthens and restores us in our sometimes chaotic lives, but it also has many lessons to share. Come join the adventure and activity, or participate in one of our many environmental classes or workshops offered throughout the seasons. We look forward to seeing you on the trails!

Welcome to our new board member!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers John Grunau President Tim Gerend Past President Kevin J. Kane Treasurer Meg Kinney Secretary Jane B. Bell VP-Development John E. ‘Jack’ Gebhardt VP-Governance Board Aliah M. Berman Jonathan T. Bloom Shane Delsman Margarete R. Harvey Debra Katz Dennis Kois Eva Osborne Justin K. Patrick Benjamin T. Pavlik Arthur T. Phillips Sanderson S. ‘Andy’ Read Benjamin F. Rikkers John Schaub Mark Siler Carol Wolcott Mai Der Yang 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 Margarete R. Harvey Honorary Directors Edwin P. Wiley Director Emeritus Dorothy K. Vallier (1910-2013)

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

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Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

SEASONAL SIGHTINGS Discover the beauty of the Center through the seasons!

JIM HYATT Family Programs Manager

A funny thing about reptiles and amphibians, or “herps” as we call them in the herpetology field, is it’s easiest to find them when looking around your feet. As an educator, I find that children often discover these creatures before adults see them.

In early summer, what looks like crickets are usually young toadlets that have just emerged from the ponds. The small black tadpoles with gold flecks at Mystery Lake have grown up and are now looking for homes in the forest. When walking on a trail that passes a wetland, please be especially mindful where you place your feet, as youthful toads are hopping toward the forest. They are extremely fragile, so please do not pick them up.

Mystery Lake and Boardwalk Pond are home to numerous Painted and Snapping Turtles. If you’re lucky you might even spot a Blanding’s Turtle, which are a Species of Special Concern in Wisconsin. Blanding’s are known by their bright yellow chin and helmet-shaped shell.

Being ectothermic, turtles are only as warm as their surroundings. They can be seen sunning on logs, sometimes on top of one another. Unlike humans, who receive our energy from food, turtles acquire 70% - 80% of their energy from sunlight. Thus, they bathe themselves in sunlight, and the turtle on top receives the majority of the sun’s energy.

Garter Snakes, which live all over the Center, use the sun the same

A Garter Snake near the Center’s parking lot.

way as turtles do. The best place to find snakes is near a southern-facing wall, which absorbs and radiates the sun’s heat. Walls and asphalt stay warm after the sun goes down, so it is common to see snakes “sunning in the dark” on certain areas of the parking lot.

Later on in summer, the majority of the frogs in the ponds will be Green Frogs and Bullfrogs. They look a lot alike, but there is one secret to tell them apart: the Green Frog has two raised lines, which run down each side their back, known as dorsolateral ridges.

This summer, spend a little time with your eyes toward the ground and you’ll discover the creatures that hop, wriggle, and crawl through Schlitz Audubon.

A Painted Turtle basks atop a Snapping Turtle at Mystery Lake.

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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EDUCATION

Amazing Ambassadors TOM FINLEY Director of Education

EDUCATION There really is no substitute for the chance to interact with living, breathing animals in a learning environment. Schlitz Audubon provides this opportunity with a wide range of animal ambassadors. Presently, the Center has more than twenty reptiles and amphibians that make appearances during field trips, programs, and at public outreach events. That includes nine snakes, one toad, one salamander, 10 turtles and one impressive Blue-tongued Skink.

While we prefer species native to Wisconsin, there are some, such as Maria, the Rosy Boa Constrictor, that possess the perfect disposition to be education animals. These animals have arrived at the Center via donation (such as Boxy the Box Turtle whose family could no longer care for her) or through organizations such as the Humane Society or the Department of Natural Resources that may acquire an animal that cannot be released back into the wild.

They each have a special story to tell, one that helps us relate the mysteries of nature to children and adults alike.

School programs, summer camps, and outreach programs benefit from the awe these wonderful animals inspire - and our Nature Preschool students have an extra opportunity for meaningful interaction. Our Preschool houses turtles, toads, salamanders, frogs, one gecko, and throughout the school year, Preschoolers assist in

feeding, observation, and proper care of the animals in each of the three classrooms. In doing so, children learn about unique adaptations, food preferences, and to respect all life found in nature.

All of our animals are housed in accordance with animal husbandry guidelines and they receive the very best care, guided by a licensed veterinarian. This includes regular check-ups, prescribed and unique diets, routine weight monitoring and medical intervention when situations arise. Typical dinners for these herps, as they are known in the field, include crickets, meal worms, mice, night crawlers, berries, small fish, and vitamin-enriched pellets. In their care room, we even have the lighting system timed to mimic the number of hours of sunlight according to the time of year.

We take these animals to outreach events throughout the greater Milwaukee community. For some, this can be a unique first experience and a step toward beginning to engage the natural world. With Jim Hyatt as our resident reptile and amphibian guru, it might not be obvious that he once had a fear of snakes. Through interaction, Jim came to learn that these animals have more to admire than to be afraid of. One can now consider Jim a reptile advocate, and an example of how interactive education can lead anyone to develop a passion for the creatures that inhabit the natural world.

Families interacting with Cooper, a Fox Snake.

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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CITIZEN SCIENCE

The Importance of Citizen Science MICHELLE ALLISON Nature Store Manager

This year, amphibians are receiving special attention from our Citizen Science program! Scientists consider amphibians an indicator of environmental health because their semipermeable skin makes them sensitive to pollutants and other changes in the water.

Several amphibian species depend on the diverse wetland habitats on our property, and we are seeking volunteers to assist in monitoring frog, toad, and salamander populations. Citizen Scientists inform the Center’s conservation and land management decisions, and also contribute to larger monitoring efforts on the county, state, and national levels.

Scientists all over the world are studying declining amphibian populations. However, scientists do not have enough time or resources to gather all the data they need. Volunteers play an integral role in amphibian conservation through Citizen Science programs. When participating in any of the Citizen Science programs at Schlitz Audubon, volunteers learn how to follow the scientific protocols established for each project, making them Citizen Scientists.

As part of our Water Quality Monitoring Program, Schlitz Audubon is collaborating with the Milwaukee County Parks Citizen-based Wetland Monitoring Program to gather data on the amphibian and invertebrate species inhabiting our ponds. Volunteers receive training on how to identify frogs and salamanders in each of their life stages: egg, larva, and adult. Aquatic invertebrates provide an important food source for amphibians, so we are also recording observations of crayfishes, Fairy Shrimp, and many other invertebrate species. By learning more about which species inhabit the ponds, we will gain a better understanding of the dynamic ecosystem interactions taking place. For example, by collecting

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data on the crayfish species, we learn more about the elaborate tunnel systems they dig, which can then become habitat for overwintering animals, such as snakes.

The Center is also participating in The Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey (WFTS), coordinated by the Wisconsin DNR and in cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey and the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program. Since 1984, WFTS has conducted statewide surveys to monitor the distribution and populations of the twelve frog and toad species found in Wisconsin. Three surveys take place throughout spring and summer, when frogs and toads are breeding. After sunset, survey volunteers drive to 10 listening stations near key wetland habitats, and listen for frog and toad calls. Of the 10 stations, two are here at the Center, where past surveys have recorded Spring Peepers, Gray Treefrogs, Green Frogs, and American Toads.

As we continue to grow and develop our Citizen Science program, more opportunities arise for volunteers to get involved. This year, Schlitz Audubon staff will begin monitoring for Frogwatch USA, a national Citizen Science program supported by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Like WFTS, Frogwatch USA involves listening to frog and toad calls during the breeding season and recording observations. Next year, we will host a training session for volunteers to learn how they can participate in this national program, right here at Schlitz Audubon!

Thank you to all of our Citizen Science volunteers whose research helps us improve these 185 acres. You can get involved at any time!

Visit www.schlitzaudubon.org/citizen-science to learn how you can learn and help.

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

FEATURE

WETLAND

HEROES Reptiles and amphibians are vital to our ecosystem— and they need us to champion their survival.

ED MAKOWSKI Communications Specialist

Blanding’s Turtle Emydoidea blandingii A Species of Special Concern in Wisconsin.

FEATURE It is nearly impossible for our eyes to grasp what takes place below the surface of a pond. Inside them, entire populations of animals will swim, eat, procreate, and hunker down for winter.

Some of these most fascinating creatures are reptiles and amphibians, and aside from turtles sunning on a log, we rarely see them.

The Center’s grounds are home to three species of turtles: Painted Turtles, known for their contrasting colors, Snapping Turtles, famous for their strong bite, and Blanding’s Turtles, which are a Species of Special Concern in Wisconsin. Turtles are reptiles, called Chelonians, and are easily identifiable by their protective shells. From an evolutionary standpoint, the leap that allowed reptiles to divorce themselves from living in the water is the amniotic egg (unlike amphibians, which have a larvae stage, such as tadpoles). So for reptiles, the egg came first.

Reptiles and amphibians live in similar habitats, so it can be easy to overlook their differences. Reptiles have thicker skin than amphibians, and are covered with scales instead of mucus glands. Reptile fertilization is also internal, differing from many amphibians. Reptiles are relative exhibitionists, lying across any surface in the sunlight. By contrast, amphibians prefer areas that are cool, dark, and moist. One often has to overturn a few dozen logs to find a single salamander, and although this can be exciting, this practice is harmful to salamanders and their habitat.

Blue-spotted Salamanders are the only confirmed salamander on the Schlitz Audubon property. Mudpuppies were introduced

to select ponds decades ago, but since they are bottom pond dwellers, we cannot definitively say whether they exist on the property. Mudpuppies, however, are known to reside in Lake Michigan.

Salamanders have a fascinating method of courtship, in which males create a spermatophore structure on the bottom of the pond. After a courtship dance, the female then locates the specific male’s spermatophore and fertilizes her eggs. Within days she will lay a golfball to baseball sized egg mass of 30 – 250 eggs.

Frogs are also amphibians, and when we hear frogs and toads call in springtime, akin to birds, it is indeed the males attempting to woo females. If you see a smaller frog on the back of a larger frog, chances are you’re witnessing amplexus, which is frog courtship. Males possess special nuptial pads on their toes to grasp onto the female during amplexus. The smaller male clings the back of the female, and fertilizes eggs as they are released from her body.

Frogs belong to the order Anurans, which translates to “without a tail,” in Greek. People often wonder how frogs differ from toads, but toads are actually a type of frog. Toads live farther away from water than other frogs, but still need to return to water to procreate. They have thicker skin than more water-oriented frogs and they have smaller legs to hop shorter distances, rather than frogs’ longer leaping legs. Since toads aren’t as fast as other frogs, they need different methods to protect themselves. Parotid glands behind their eyes produce a poison that makes them taste nauseating to predators.

Painted Turtle at Boardwalk Pond, May 2017.

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Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

FEATURE FROG SPECIES FOUND AT SCHLITZ AUDUBON ARRANGED BY AVERAGE SIZE

1.25” Spring Peeper

1.8” Eastern Gray Treefrog

2.4” Wood Frog

3.2”

3.2”

Eastern American Toad

Northern Leopard Frog

6”

3.4”

American Bullfrog

Green Frog

Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer

Eastern Gray Treefrog Hyla versicolor

American Bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianus

HABITAT Woodlands & shrubby areas, temporary or permanent ponds & wetlands during breeding season.

HABITAT Treetops, forests, swamps, old fields, farm woodlots. Breed in ponds near trees or shrubs.

HABITAT Any still, permanent body of water.

DIET Small arthropods such as spiders, beetles, ticks. Tadpoles eat decaying leaves and algae.

DIET Insects and insect larvae, also spiders and snails.

DIET Bullfrogs will eat almost any small animal they can capture and swallow, including fish, invertebrates, & small birds.

INTERESTING FACT During winter, this frog’s breathing and heartbeat stop after glucose fills its cells. In spring it thaws and returns to the trees.

INTERESTING FACT American Bullfrogs have incredibly strong hind legs. The current record jump of 21 feet, 5.75 inches is held by “Rosie the Ribeter.”

WHERE TO FIND THEM AT THE CENTER Teal Pond—their tadpoles can be found at Teal, and the adults will sometimes call from under the deck.

WHERE TO FIND THEM AT THE CENTER Mystery Lake—you can easily find them sitting on a lily pad in summer.

INTERESTING FACT When calling to females, the male Peeper’s vocal sac will inflate like a balloon larger than its head!

WHERE TO FIND THEM AT THE CENTER Boardwalk Pond and Peeper Pond—they are much easier to hear than to see.

The name amphibian translates to “dual lives,” referencing their tiles native to the county have disappeared. tadpole, or larval, stage of living in a pond, and then their adult stage in which they’re able to exist outside of water. But nearly But the people who manage nature centers and natural areas all of them return to water to perpetuate their species. are working together to bolster the populations of these vulnerable animals. Three years ago, through Casper, Schlitz AuduAmphibians are vital indicator species, and are often the first bon provided Blue-spotted Salamander eggs to Mequon Nature animals to inform us when something is amiss in the ecosystem. Preserve to reintroduce a population on their property. Later, The permeability of their thin skin makes them susceptible to Schlitz Audubon secured a Wood Frog egg mass from the Freiss environmental changes, and their dual lifestyle can inform peo- Lake area to place in one of our ponds, as we no longer had Wood ple about the overall quality of both wet and terrestrial environ- Frogs on our grounds. We are pleased to report, that as of spring ments. One could consider amphibians the proverbial canaries 2017, for the first time in decades, we have heard at least three outside of the coalmine. The existence of frogs is an indication male Wood Frogs calling to females. that we are being responsible caretakers of an ecosystem. Their absence is an indication that something has gone awry.

As easy as it may be to disregard amphibians, they perform functions that far outweigh their diminutive stature. The habitats As stewards of the land, it is imperative for us to pass these spe- where many amphibians live - wetlands and ponds - provide cies onto future generations. vital ecosystem services such as water filtration and storm water retention, and offer habitat for many other species as well. If Overall, amphibian species are in decline across the world for a amphibians are indicating that their habitat is unhealthy, it is variety of reasons, habitat loss and pollution being two of the big- an indication that our living, working, and playing space is also gest problems. Gary Casper is a research scientist at the UW-Mil- unhealthy. So when the frogs stop calling, we should all be liswaukee Field Station in Saukville, and contributed research tening. and writing to The Vanishing Present: Wisconsin’s Changing Lands, Waters, and Wildlife. According to Casper’s research, in Written with contributions from: Milwaukee County, 46% of the species of amphibians and rep- Jim Hyatt, Don Quintenz, and Marc White

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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Map Legend Locator - Letters face north

CONSERVATION

Loops

E Brown Deer Road

Wheelchair Accessible

Reptile & Amphibian Conservation Area North Pond

G

North Ravine Trail

Entrance Road

Secondary Trails

Lake Terrace Trail

Seasonal Ski Trail

Gentian Pond

Pond

The establishment and assessment of management stands in 2014 Lake Michigan Wetland On the Center’s grounds, an area exists that you may not be aware showed that the predominant native ground-layer plants in the Main Building of but provides important habitat for our ecosystem.

Schlitz RACA are Common Wood Sedge, White Avens, Wild StrawberC B Observation Tower Audubon’s Reptile and Amphibian Conservation Area (RACA) ry, Calico Aster, Woodland Violet, Downy Yellow Violet, and Fowl E D F Restroom includes 38.5 acres, or 21% of our 185-acre preserve.

Manna Grass. With additional sunlight, these Seasonal resilient native species will assert greater dominance and reducePavilion the amount of bare ground and storm water runoff. Additional native trees, shrubs Amphitheater L and ground-layer species will be restored through seeding and J Steps H I transplanting. Trees will include Hackberry, Red Maple, and YelRest Areas K low Birch. Shrub-layer plants will include Leatherwood, Ninebark, Service Road Elderberry, Trail Lengthsand Wild in milesCurrant. Ground-layer species will include 1.3 Reptile and Amphibian West Meadows Trail Schlitz AudubonMint, and Golden Alexanders,.8 Swamp Lousewort, Downey Wood Conservation Area Lake Terrace Trail Boundaries .65 South Ravine Trail Michigan Lily.

MARC WHITE Director of Conservation Iris Pond

Hidden Pond

West Meadows Trail

Teal Pond

Norman C. Huth Trail

Wigwam

Prairie Pond

Old Farm Machines

Eagle’s Nest

Boardwalk Pond

Mystery Lake

Peeper Pond

Rock Pond

Green Tree Accessible Loop

South Ravine Trail

Bird Blind Pond

Woodland Loop

Solitude Marsh

Explore the Reptile and Amphibian Conservation Area by visiting theWoodland Loop.

This area includes Solitude Marsh, Research Pond – a permanent pond, Boardwalk Pond – a semi-permanent pond, and 17 vernal ponds. Established in 2015, while the Schlitz Audubon Conservation Plan, was being created the RACA forms the core habitat for Spring Peepers, Blue-spotted Salamanders, Blanding’s Turtles, and Prairie Crayfish. With the implementation of the Conservation Plan, this area will also provide improved habitat for 23 priority breeding bird species.

Norman C. Huth Trail

.4

North Ravine Trail

.4

Woodland Loop

.4

Doctors Park

AsGreen weTreework to heal.26 the wounds caused by deforestation, agriculAccessible Loop 1/8 Mile ture, and invasive species, we can contemplate restoration of longer duration vernal ponds that can support reproduction of additional amphibian species that once called this land home, including Chorus Frogs, Leopard Frogs, and Spotted Salamanders. Over the coming years, our volunteer land stewards will also be working to improve habitat to support Blanding’s Turtle reproduction and provide overwintering habitat to support the restoration of Dekay’s Snake, Eastern Milk Snake, and Northern Red-bellied Snake.

Restoration of the Reptile and Amphibian Conservation area will provide a refuge for many declining species in Milwaukee County—species that bring a fuller understanding of our world and our role in caring for it.

Considerable challenges lie ahead.

Over the next ten years, Emerald Ash Borer will kill off 35% of all canopy and sub-canopy trees in the RACA. With the death of ash, sunlight will penetrate into the ground layer.

Ongoing work to control invasive Buckthorn and Honeysuckle in the shrub layer will allow even more sunlight to reach the ground-layer. Early detection and rapid response efforts focused on the control of ground-layer invasives Garlic Mustard and Dames Rocket will be critical. With increased sunlight they could come to dominate the Reptile and Amphibian Research Area and further reduce native biodiversity.

Blue-spotted Salamander are a species that will benefit from the Reptile and Amphibian Conservation Area.

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Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

IN MEMORY MEZZANINE ART GALLERY

Raptors in Focus July 1 - September 15

This summer, we will exhibit photographs from the 2018 Schlitz Audubon Raptor Calendar. Photographs are taken at the annual Raptors in Focus event at the Center. This year more than 80 photographers participated and submitted images for consideration for the calendar. The images selected for the 2018 Raptor Calendar will be on display through September 15. Visit the gallery and join us in celebrating our fantastic feathered ambassadors.

Raptors at State Fair August 3-13

Jean Pagel with a group of students in 2008

JP’s staff photo, taken in September 1999.

Jean Pagel, who was a beloved educator at Schlitz Audubon for more than 17 years, passed away on May 5, 2016.

Her passion for the natural world was cultivated long before she arrived with us. “JP,” as her colleagues knew her, was born in 1940 and grew up on a farm in Rosendale, about 70 miles northwest of Milwaukee. Jean described herself as a “ditch kid,” playing in wetland ditches and forests on the way home from school. It is here that she first discovered the frogs, turtles, snakes, and other animals that so captured her imagination.

The farm work ethic was instilled in Jean and became a part of her character. After high school, she acquired her teaching certificate at UW-Oshkosh and began working as a schoolteacher in Fox Point/Bayside. Jean continued pursuing her studies, eventually earning a Master’s Degree in Education. After taking time off as a stay-at-home mother of two, she worked as a substitute teacher. Jean then enrolled in the Master Naturalist program at Riveredge Nature Center, which rekindled her passion for plants and gardening. Afterward, she worked for several years at the Boerner Botanical Gardens.

In time, a position opened at Schlitz Audubon, and Jean found her perfect educational home. Here, she invited children to make discoveries on the trails and in the ponds during field trips and summer camps. As told by her husband Dan, with whom she shared 46 years, Jean’s love and passion for the Center could only be matched by her love for her grandchildren.

For our 11th year in a row, Schlitz Audubon’s Raptor Program will be at the WI State Fair! Nestled in We Energies Energy Park, staff and birds will be out daily between 9am3pm. Our Harris Hawk and Turkey Vulture fly while the Bald Eagles, owls and Peregrine Falcon educate about adaptations. We look forward to seeing you!

State Fair Schedule 9:00am | 10:30am* | 12:00pm | 1:30pm*

Jean brought many gifts to the Center, both to her students and colleagues. Her decades of education and experience created an outstanding teacher. She was dedicated to connecting children with the natural world. Jean was continually bringing people together – a few wedded couples have her to thank for their lives together. She possessed a rich and infectious laugh, which echoes in the memories of the teaching staff. Jean’s spirit lives on in all of us who worked with her.

Later this summer, a bench memorializing Jean will be placed at Mystery Pond, where so many children found their first frog or turtle with Jean as their guide. If you would like to honor Jean’s legacy of environmental education, we invite you to donate to Schlitz Audubon in her memory. Thank you to everyone who has already donated on Jean’s behalf. Donations in Jean Pagel’s memory will support education and scholarship programs.

Three additional meet & greets with the Raptors are held throughout the day. *Main stage programs always feature one of our magnificent Bald Eagles, our Peregrine Falcon, and a beautiful owl.

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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

Registration helps us prepare for our programs.

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.

Raptor Saturday

Saturday, July 1 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm Saturday, September 2 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

July Wings of Wonder: The ability to fly has long inspired those of us on the ground. Join our resident birds to learn not only about the mechanics of flight, but how flight is different between species. We will examine the different shapes and flight patterns of raptors and learn how these differences help them excel in their habitats.

August There is no Raptor Saturday in August. Join us at Wisconsin State Fair!

September Scavenging animals are often characterized as dirty and menacing in stories.

We want to take the opportunity to show they are anything but! Some of our resident birds, who are known as scavengers, will teach us that not only are they some of the cleanest animals around, but we are also incredibly fortunate that they clean our shared environment! Join us as we learn their side of the story.

Free with membership or admission Sponsored by:

Spiritual World of Nature: Native American Energy Healing* Wednesday, July 5 | 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Dennis King, carrier of the Bear Medicine, will perform his healing ceremony, which includes the sacred Water Ceremony, on the shore of Lake Michigan. Experience a powerful healing method seldom seen off the reservation.

Dennis comes from a lineage of healers and he continues their legacy.

M: $10 NM: $15

Summer Canoe Trip* Thursday, July 6 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Summer Hand-in-Hand*

Frogs-a-Hopping July 10, July 11, July 12, July 13 Butterflies July 24, July 25, July 26, July 27 Salamanders August 7, August 8, August 9, August 10 9:30am - 11:00am

Explore the natural world with your young one during these special one-day programs.

Participate in free play, art, a story, and a nature hike. Four dates are offered for each program. Select the morning that works best for you. This program is for children aged 2 - 4 and their adult.

Canoe on the Milwaukee River with Center staff Cassie Rincon, Corinne Palmer, and AJ Grill. We’ll bring nets and strainers to sift through the water and discover what’s swimming around. The trip begins at a private park in Mequon and finishes at Thiensville Village Park. All canoeing and safety equipment is provided. Details will be emailed to participants. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Digbii Tuesday, August 1 | 6:30pm -7:30pm

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

Discovery Nature Hiking*

Monday, July 10 | 9:00am - 10:00am

Experience the wonders of summer as we walk along the meadows, woods, and wetlands of the Center. Don Quintenz will lead you to the seasonal events that stir our sense of beauty or imagination and help answer the questions that nature evokes in us. The entire program takes place on the trail.

M: $7 NM: $12

Great American Eclipse* Monday, July 10 | 6:00pm - 7:30pm

On Monday, August 21 a total solar eclipse will sweep across wide sections of North America.

This program will provide you with information on how to properly view and photograph the eclipse, where it can best be seen, and how it differs from a lunar eclipse. Schlitz Audubon volunteer, and UWM lecturer, Kathy Brehmer, will present this illuminating program. A passionate astronomer, Kathy has travelled to Africa and Venezuela to view previous eclipses. The next total solar eclipse isn’t until 2024 so learn how to make the most of this event before it happens!

M: $7 NM: $12

Summer Evening Concerts

The Kitchen Boys Tuesday, July 11 | 6:30pm - 7:30pm Milwaukee Classical Guitar Society Tuesday, July 18 | 6:30pm - 7:30pm Trapper Schoepp Tuesday, July 25 | 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Join us Tuesday evenings for performances by local artists at our Pavilion. Music ranges from classical to bluegrass, folk, jazz and everything in between. Bring your favorite snacks and drinks, a blanket or chairs, and enjoy the show! Performances will take place indoors to our Auditorium in the event of inclement weather.

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Free with membership or admission

Photo Club*

Wednesday, July 12 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm Wednesday, August 9 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm Wednesday, September 13 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm

Photographers of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate in monthly hikes. Center Naturalist Cassie Rincon guides participants to locations that offer unique photographic opportunities. Everyone works together to further their art, share photography ideas, and capture memories. Schlitz Audubon does not provide cameras. Participants 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Free with membership or admission

Bird Club*

Wednesday, July 12 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm Wednesday, August 9 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm Wednesday, September 13 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Co-presented with Milwaukee Audubon Society. Please check our online calendar for specific topics each month. Young adults and birders of all interest levels are welcome to join this free drop-in program.

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M: $15 per pair NM: $20 per pair

Free to all

CALENDAR Audubon Babies*

Friday, July 14 | 10:00am - 11:15am Friday, July 28 | 10:00am - 11:15am Thursday, September 14 | 10:00am - 11:15am Thursday, September 28 | 10:00am - 11:15am

Children are never too young to enjoy the wonders of nature. Come enjoy a hike on trails filled with sensory explorations while meeting new friends. We will start inside and venture out when everyone is ready. Dress for the weather, but if the conditions are not appropriate to go outside we will explore indoors.

We recommend waterproof shoes or boots.

This program is for babies 6 - 24 months with their adult.

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

Fireside Conversations: Book Club* Fridays, July 14 - Aug. 4 | 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Pilgrim at Tinker Creek is an exhilarating meditation on nature and its seasons. This personal narrative highlights one year of exploration on foot in the author’s own neighborhood in Tinker Creek, Virginia. She infuses various contemplations on nature and life. Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim has been lauded by critics, and won the Pulitzer Prize for General Nonfiction when it was first published. Discussion led by Ann Winschel.

M: $10 NM: $15

Citizen Science: Moth Watch* Wednesday, July 26 | 8:00pm - 10:00pm

Schlitz Audubon is participating in the National Moth Week Citizen Science survey - and you can help! Learn how moths differ from their daytime cousins, butterflies, and why they are so important to the ecosystem.

Then we will go outside to visit bait trees and ultraviolet light stations in search of moths.

Free with membership or admission

Tai Chi*

Wednesdays, July 26 - September 13 4:00pm - 5:00pm

This is a continuing Tai Chi class,, led by Alice Kuramoto, who has over 30 years of experience with Tai Chi. This Chinese exercise is based on slow, gentle movements, meditation, and breathing. Its health benefits include improving balance, posture, muscle strength, and lowering blood pressure. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

M: $80 NM: $96

Hangin’ with Hyatt: Family Canoe* Saturday, August 12 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Jim Hyatt has the perfect paddling experience for your whole family! He’ll get your family set with lifejackets, paddles, and critter catching gear. We’ll venture out onto Mystery Lake, a one-acre pond that is perfect for beginners and little ones. A great morning of discovering turtles, toads, frogs, and water insects.

M: Youth $7 | Adult $10 NM: Youth $12 | Adult $15

Summer Astronomy with Binoculars* Monday, August 14 | 8:30pm - 10:00pm

Discover the wonders that lurk near the center of our home galaxy, the Milky Way, in the constellation Sagittarius. View star clusters, nebulae, and double stars, as well as the planets Jupiter and Saturn, through binoculars and telescopes. Bring your binoculars, a jacket, mosquito repellant, and a reclining lawn chair.

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

Plants of the Beach Hike*

Tuesday, August 15 | 9:00am - 10:00am

Beaches are one of the most challenging places for plants to survive. The shift from saturation to bone dry, as well as the pounding waves and strong winds ae just a few of the reasons for this. Join Senior Ecologist Don Quintenz for a close look at how these plants can make a home in this seemingly serene, yet surprisingly hostile, environment.

M: $7 NM: $12

Environmental Voices: Protecting Vital Bird Resources in Warnimont Park*

Wednesday, August 30 | 9:00am – 12:00pm Rain date Thursday, August 31 | 9:00am – 12:00pm

Brian Russart, Natural Areas Coordinator for Milwaukee County Parks, will lead us on an exploration of Warnimont Park. The park contains a diversity of habitat types (northern forest, lowland forest, upland shrubs, grasslands, clay bank fens, coastal ravines, and rocky beach) and is an important nesting and migratory bird stopover site within Milwaukee County. 189 species of birds have been recorded at Warnimont Park. Transportation provided.

M: $15 NM: $20

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Wisconsin Master Naturalist Volunteer Training Course*

September 5 - October 12 10 Tuesday/Thursday evening sessions 2 Saturday sessions

The Wisconsin Master Naturalist Program is a statewide effort to train volunteers to participate in education, citizen science, and stewardship in their communities. In this 40-hour course, which takes place at Schlitz Audubon, staff will provide training about the natural history of Wisconsin through classroom instruction, field experience, and two off-site field trips. The course also includes a capstone project, which provides an opportunity to practice some of the skills needed for volunteer work. Topics will include Geology, Ecology, Plant Communities, Wildlife, Interpretation, Water, Aquatic Life, and Human Impacts. Participants will receive certification upon successful completion of the course.

For more information and to register visit ww.wimasternaturalist.org

Fee: $250

Spark!* Tuesday, September 12 | 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Schlitz Audubon is proud to continue a second year of this special gathering for people going through memory loss and cognitive changes such as Alzheimer’s, as well as their caregivers. Led by our Director of Education Tom Finley, each month is devoted to learning about the simple beauty found in nature and how it enriches our lives. Programs take place inside the Auditorium and may include a short outdoor component, close to the building, so dress for the weather. Themes are seasonally-based and change each month.

Free to participants & their caregivers

Citizen Science: All about Monarchs* September 16 | 10:00am - 11:30am

Families with young children can be Citizen Scientists, too! Learn about the life cycle and migration of Monarchs in an interactive, child-friendly program. Then venture out with nets and tags to participate in an international Monarch study. We will also have time to color a paper Monarch to send to Mexico as part of the Symbolic Migration Project shared with Mexican children. This program is for families with children ages 7 and younger. An adult must accompany children.

Free with membership or admission

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CALENDAR Citizen Science: Monarchs and Migration* Saturday, September 16 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Learn about the life cycle, threats, and programs that support these amazing butterflies.

Then venture out with nets and tags to participate in an international Monarch study. This program is designed for children ages 8 and above, as well as adults.

Free with membership or admission

Veterans Family Hike* Saturday, September 16 | 10:00am - 11:30am

Join one of our naturalists on a guided hike to visit some of the best sites the Center has to offer. We’ll explore the areas with the most natural activity, beginning with the wheelchair-accessible trail through the woods and to Mystery Lake.

Free to all active-duty service members

and veterans, and their immediate families.

Repamphibiantile Sunday Sunday, September 17 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm

The days are getting shorter and reptiles and amphibians are beginning to hunker down for winter. Before they retreat into brumation, hold a snake and marvel at salamanders. Bring the whole family to gain a deeper understanding of these often misunderstood creatures.

This is an interactive and educational program for all ages.

Free with membership or admission

Nature Mondays*

Series 1 | Autumn Afternoons September 18 - October 23 1:00pm - 3:30pm

Nature Mondays is a six-week series hosted by the Schlitz Audubon Nature Preschool for children ages 4 - 6. We meet once a week on Monday afternoons. In this series, Preschool teachers focus on nature experiences that are age appropriate, and make use of the Preschool’s wonderful indoor and outdoor classrooms. Nature Mondays is the perfect option for families who would like their children to share in the Nature Preschool experience, but prefer a short-term commitment.

Register for this program through the Preschool by calling 414-352-2880 x154. Forms required for this program are available on the Preschool page of our website.

M: $200 for full series NM: $250 for full series

Fall Hand-in-Hand*

Thursday September 21 | World of Bugs Session 1 | 9:00am - 10:15am Session 2 | 10:30am - 11:45am

Explore nature with your little ones! Hike, play, enjoy 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 yearolds and their adult.

M: $12 per pair NM: $17 per pair Additional child, age 1 and up: $10

Spiritual World of Nature: Natural Burial and Spirituality*

Monday, September 25 | 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Sister Suzanne Moynihan will explore the spirituality of death in relationship to the rest of nature. She also discusses natural burial, including the definition, history, and the positive reasons for choosing it. Sister Moynihan has long focused on helping people with their end of life transition and she will share some local and other resources to help you continue your research.

M: $10 NM: $15

Environmental Voices: Compost Crusader*

Wednesday, September 27 12:30pm - 4:30pm

Directing food waste out of landfills (with their finite capacity and their methane emissions), and into the production of a 100% organic compost, is the mission of Compost Crusader. With founder/president Melissa Tashjian, we’ll visit the south-side facility featuring transportation equipment and a metal working shop. In Caledonia, our tour with James Jutrzonka of Blue Ribbon Organics will demonstrate how Compost Crusader’s collected food waste becomes the “gold” of compost.

M: $20 NM: $25

Discovery Nature Hiking* Thursday, September 28 | 9:00am - 10:00am

Experience the wonders of summer as we walk along the meadows, woods, and wetlands of the Center. Don Quintenz will lead you to the seasonal events that stir our sense of beauty or imagination and help answer the questions that nature evokes in us. The entire program takes place on the trail.

M: $7 NM: $12

Fireside Conversations: Book Club* Fridays, September 29 - November 3 2:00pm - 3:00pm

In her most recent book This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate, Naomi Klein proposes that any human response to the crisis of climate change which doesn’t take into consideration the underlying capitalistic system, which drives the catastrophic warming of the planet, is futile. Klein offers a vision of a broad and multi-dimensional approach to the climate crisis, which includes the possibility of a transformed economic system.

Discussion led by Tom Galten.

Milwaukee River Clean Up Saturday September 30 | 9:00am - 12:00pm

Please join Director of Education Tom Finley at our riverfront Cleaver Property for a morning of debris removal. This incredible and dynamic 40-acre property is located on the south side of Brown Deer Road, just east of the Green Bay Avenue bridge. Bring along old clothes, boots, and gloves. We will provide garbage bags, water to drink, and will have several pair of hip waders on-hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, paddle your own canoe or kayak to meet us on the river. Please note: there are no restroom facilities at this site.

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Free to all

Hatha Yoga Class*

Every Monday from 5:30pm – 6:45pm

Start your week right with our yoga instructor Claire Stillman. Classes are designed for all levels of students, they are therapeutic in nature, and will be challenging at times. All students are taught to observe their body and breath, and to practice within their capacity.

We will hold class outside as weather permits; bring mosquito repellant, and a light jacket.

The first class is always free!

M: $100 for 10 weeks $15 for single class NM: $120 for 10 weeks $20 for single class

Word with a Bird Saturdays and Sundays | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Each Word with a Bird program focuses on the specific skills, traits and adaptations that make that bird such a unique creature. Meet a different bird each time! While visiting the Center make sure to spend some time outdoors on the trails. There will be no WWB on July 8, August 5 – 13, or September 9 and 10.

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M: $10 NM: $15

Free with membership or admission

THANK YOU THANK YOU In Memory Of Daniel S. Berry Bill and Barb Faude Alan and Carol Pohl George Barger Jasun and Jill Macek Andrew Boyd, M.D. Patrick and Donna Behlmer Jim and Jane Bell Thomas and Lisa Berentsen John and Nancy Dickens Tom and Bette Drought Raneé and Brenton Field Anne and Dean Fitzgerald Herbert and Mary Fran Hentzen Robert and Charlotte Hinson David and Nancy Szatkowski

Richard P. Franz, Jr. Marv Olson

Peter J. Holzhauer Kimberly Pollock

Todd Honeyager Bonnie M. Bruhn

Richard E. Lehmann Bill and Kimba Geiger Donna and Brad Iwanski

V. Frederick Nast, Jr. Judith Eschweiler

Jean Pagel Henry J. Eckstein Family Carol Thomas

Raptor Sponsorships Jean P. Reyer Dorothy and Scott Armstrong Liz and Larry Brewer Kipley and Laura Carpenter Eric and Alan Durant William and Lisa Feld Greg Hathaway David Hershberger Carol C. Nelson Donna Philipps and Family Gary and Lisa Puhl Helen and Thomas Pykett James and Barbara Pykett Steven and Linda Reyer Richard Stollberg and Judy Olson Joan Wessel Judith Wessel

Gail Seefeldt Claudia and Kyle Zellmann

Helen H. Siegrist Russell and Susan Yale

Malary – American Kestrel

In Honor of Scott Ford Sue Holcomb In Honor of Lindsay Obermeier Sue Holcomb In Honor of Madelyn Sislow Sue Holcomb In Honor of Sara Sloan Sue Holcomb In Honor of Susan Strecker Sue Holcomb

Windchill – Snowy Owl In Memory of Alina Ellis Joe and Lorna Hilyard

In Honor Of Beth Chapman Virginia Johnson Diane Visty Dick and Dayle Dieffenbach

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Admission

FREE admission to Members Adults: $8 | Youth $5 (ages 3 — 17) 1111 East Brown Deer Road | Milwaukee, WI

Hours

Open 7 days a week | 9:00am - 5:00pm Summer Hours | June-August Monday-Thursday | 9:00am - 8:00pm

414-352-2880 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Credits for Panorama | Summer 2017 Marketing Manager Nancy Quinn Design | Illustration | Photography Zoe Finney Editing | Select Writing Ed Makowski

Summer 2017 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

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Schlitz Audubon Nature Center 1111 East Brown Deer Road Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53217

U.S. Postage

PAID

Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 4168

REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS PANORAMA

RAPTOR DAY September 9 9:00am - 4:00pm Adult $10 | Youth $5 Join us for a festival celebrating everything raptors! All resident birds await you on Center trails.

Birds fly right overhead during Free Flight Demonstrations.

Sign up for a personal meet & greet with your favorite raptor and get a photo! Presentations on Whooping cranes and vultures! All proceeds support our resident raptors.

More details at www.schlitzaudubon.org