Nature Classes & Field Trips

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Winter might seem quiet and serene, but you’ll be amazed by how vibrant the season can be with leaf litter, lakes, and shrubs alive with the sights and sounds of winter birds. From the tinkling notes of a Winter Wren to the lively songs of a Ruby-Crowned Kinglet, each walk promises moments that will surprise and inspire everyone from the newly bird-curious to occasional birders to seasoned bird lovers. Expert guides will lead our explorations in parks and greenways throughout the DMV to track foraging sparrows and chickadees, and marvel at the stunning colors of winter waterfowl. Register now for shared nature experiences that are sure to excite! Avid birders, bird-enthusiasts, and bird-curious people of all knowledge levels warmly welcome. REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park.  We’ll proceed at a “naturalists’ shuffle” pace as we look and listen for over-wintering birds and other wildlife, practice winter botany skills, and enjoy the expansive views along the Potomac River that this season.  While the Towpath is flat, it could be muddy or snow-covered.  Our seasonal Wednesday walks will continue with Spring Saunters Along the Canal starting on April 2. REGISTER.

Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $33; nonmembers $46
The Vernal Equinox is the moment in which day and night are of equal length. This is the tipping point between astronomical winter and spring: from here on out, spring is full steam ahead. On this walk, we will experience this transition with the 2.5 mile Rapids Bridge Loop in Rock Creek Park. We will begin walking through winter woods, but when we get closer to Rapids Bridge along Rock Creek, the spring ephemerals put on quite a display. These short-lived blooms take advantage of the early spring: temperatures have warmed and days have lengthened, but the trees overhead have not yet shaded out the sun with new leaf growth. Enjoy this ephemeral moment of transition out in nature! REGISTER.

Leader: Carole Bergmann
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Spring is an exciting time along the Potomac River. Join retired Botanist/Forest Ecologist, Carole Bergmann, for an equinox hike to experience the “close of winter/beginning of spring” in one of Montgomery County’s special Conservation Parks.  We will search for whatever spring ephemerals, trees or shrubs are bursting into leaf or flower in this riverine floodplain habitat. We will also keep our ears and eyes open for amphibian and bird life and visit the largest known tree in Maryland (a sycamore), a County champion Silver maple, a co-champion Cottonwood, and numerous other giants. Expect to walk between 1.5 and 2 miles on natural surface trails or the towpath. Bring water and a snack. No restrooms at this site. REGISTER.

Leader: Paul Pisano
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars.  REGISTER.

Leader: Genevieve Wall
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Whether the weather outside is frightful or not, we’ll find oodles of delight and discovery on the trails of these local parks! This monthly series will explore the progression of winter into spring at several locations throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. From the wetlands of Huntley Meadows, to the farms and forests of Oxon Hill Farm Park, to the creek-side floodplain of Bounday Bridge, each walk will showcase unique and beautiful habitats of the region. Depending on the movements of winter wildlife, we may be in for foraging flocks of overwintering birds, the calling of early-season amphibians, the activities of mammals like beaver, racoons, deer, and foxes, and so much more. Let’s bundle up and hit the parks! Walk A will take place on flat, paved trails and boardwalks. Walk B will be on paved trails, but will have some long sections of gradual incline – both up and down. Walk C will take place on natural surface trails that are mostly flat, but may be muddy, puddly, and have some occasional root and rock tripping hazards. REGISTER.

Leader: Genevieve Wall
Members $33; nonmembers $46
You don’t need to go far by car to enjoy the great outdoors! In this series, we’ll explore the progression of spring one metro stop at a time. As we venture through serene river views, lush stream valleys, and lakeside trails of these metro-accessible parks, we’ll learn about the wildlife and natural history that we encounter along the way. The leader will meet you at the metro right outside the exit turnstile. Expect a 10-15 minute walk from metro station to the trail entrance of these urban parks. We will wander the trails, traveling at the pace of curiosity and stopping often to learn about whatever we encounter along the way. REGISTER.

Leader: Jeffrey Popp
Members $33; nonmembers $46
When the first warm rains of the season come, the amphibian world explodes into activity. Starting in late winter, temporary pools of shallow water, known as vernal pools, come alive with the kickoff of the annual amphibian migration. Since vernal pools dry up with the heat of summer and are not wet year-round, fish populations can’t survive. This makes vernal pools the ideal habitat for frogs, salamanders, and other organisms to raise their young. On this walk, Wildlife Biologist Jeffrey Popp will introduce the group to a vernal pond, and share about the life cycles, reproductive strategies, conservation threats, and phenology of these “masters of two worlds,” the amphibians. Location will be finalized closer to the date so the leader can determine the most productive site in light of the precipitation and temperature patterns we experience in March. Disinfection and preventative instructions will be shared with the group to help protect sensitive amphibian species from the potential spread of diseases. REGISTER.

Leader: Liz Guertin
Members $33; nonmembers $46 (plus $3 entrance fee per vehicle)
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars.  REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s shuffle,” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. The Towpath is flat, but could be muddy and/or uneven. Access to the Towpath at Riley’s Lock includes climbing a steep incline or stairs. REGISTER.

Leader: Mark England
Lecture: Wednesday, April 2 (7-9 pm) at Woodend
Field Trip: Saturday, April 5 (8-11 am) at Black Hill Regional Park
Lecture only: members $24, nonmembers $32
Lecture and field trip: members $48, nonmembers $68
If you’re curious about birds and bird watching but don’t know how to begin, this class is for you. No experience required! Our class on Wednesday night at Woodend Sanctuary will introduce you to the amazing avians that live around us, including identification tips, location recommendations, ethics, equipment, and field guides and other resources. Then, we’ll take what we learned out on the trails with a field outing. The goal of our field morning, which visits Black Hill Regional Park in upper Montgomery County, is to begin developing the ability to find, study, and identify birds in their natural environment. Birding tools such as field guides, binoculars, and other resources will also be discussed. REGISTER.

Leader: Joe Marx
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Soapstone Branch, located in Washington’s Rock Creek Park, is a typical Piedmont stream with a geologic history that includes tectonic collision, sedimentary burial, and relatively recent uplift. Today’s stream valley is underlain primarily by schist and soapstone, metamorphic rocks that formed a half billion years ago through intense heat and pressure. The modern landscape is a product of erosion, as the stream carves into the underlying bedrock. We will hike from Connecticut Avenue down to Broad Branch Road and back, about two miles total. The trail is moderately challenging—unpaved, with some rocky sections and several stream boulder crossings. REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $35; nonmembers $49
During the month of April, spring wildflowers in the Washington area are abundant and dazzling! On this field class, based in the just-outside-the Beltway Carderock Recreation Area, we’ll explore several short trails between the C&O Canal and the Potomac River. We’ll work on developing the observational skills which are key to learning to recognize and ID wildflowers. As we’re learning the names and niches of species such as Virginia bluebells, dutchman’s breeches, toad trillium, and more, we’ll take time to just enjoy their beauty. Expect some rocky, uneven, and muddy terrain as we use natural surface trails with some uphill/downhill walking. REGISTER.

Leader: Jen Brown
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Spring brings an abundance of flowers and is a great time to get outside for observation and sketching. In this class we will cover how to draw three basic flower types, simple flowers, composites, and bell-shaped flowers. We will review the basics of plant structure and measuring techniques for freehand drawing. Then, if weather permits, we will head outside and put our techniques to work sketching the flowers of Woodend Nature Sanctuary. The class will take place both indoors and outdoors (weather permitting) at Woodend; a materials list for art supplies will be distributed in advance. REGISTER.

Leader: Paul Pisano
Members $24; nonmembers $32
It’s time to start brushing up on the voices and field marks of the lovely and soon-to-be-arriving warblers. Even for the most seasoned birders, finding and properly IDing them as they arrive or pass through between late March and the end of May can be a real challenge. Since we all need an annual refresher, we’ve enlisted the help of one of our most experienced bird trip leaders. He will use both photos and recordings to present the general arrival sequence of warbler species in our region. Our tutorial will take place indoors at Woodend Nature Sanctuary. REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $35; nonmembers $49
They’re lovely to behold. But their beauty belies the scrappy, survival strategies of our region’s short-lived spring wildflowers. Coping with cold temperatures, species such as Trout Lily, Spring Beauties, and Dutchman’s Breeches race to complete their flowering and fruiting cycles before the brief window of spring sunlight is shut out by the unfolding forest canopy.  Our leader will spill some of their secrets in a roughly 1.5-mile round trip walk along the C&O Canal Towpath between Violettes Lock and Riley’s Lock. The Towpath is flat, but could be muddy and/or uneven. Access to the Towpath at Riley’s Lock includes climbing a steep incline or stairs. REGISTER.

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars. REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s shuffle,” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. The Towpath is flat, but could be muddy and/or uneven. Access to the Towpath at Riley’s Lock includes climbing a steep incline or stairs. REGISTER.

Lecture: Thursday, April 17 (7-9 pm) Woodend Nature Sanctuary
Field Trip: Saturday April 19 (10 am-2 pm), location TBD (rain date April 20)
Leader: Rick Borchelt
Lecture only: members $24, nonmembers $32
Lecture and field trip: members $48, nonmembers $68
Early spring in the mid-Atlantic is the prime time for our half dozen species of azures and four expected elfins.  After May you’re down to a single azure (Summer Azure) unless you happen to be in the mountains with black cohosh around to entice Appalachian Azures. Compared to azures, elfin identification is a piece of cake. Azure ID is usually more a complex calculus of habitat, flight time, and physical characteristics. Join us for an evening lecture about elfin and azure ID and biology, and then come with us into the field to see which elfins and azures are on the wing. Field trip location will depend on progress of the spring and what is flying. The likely location is Green Ridge State Forest, about 2 hours from the Beltway near Hancock MD, which at this time of year can offer Henry’s, Pine, and Brown Elfins, and Summer, Spring, and Northern Azures depending on altitude.  An added bonus is likely to be a chance to see some MD species of conservation concern, Silvery Blue, Olympia Marble, and possibly Cobweb Skipper. This is the first of three Butterfly Boot Camps: we hope you join us for Hairstreaks (June 18 and 21, registration open now) and Confusing Fall Skippers (September 11 and 13, registration opening in May)!REGISTER.

Leader: Lorena Saavedra Smith
Location: Pohick Bay Regional Park, VA
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Modern lifestyle disconnects us from nature and our historical bonds with our environment, binding our understanding of the interdependent relationships among natural elements and their impact on our well-being. This immersive workshop series is divided into four stand-alone sessions, each session focused on one of the four elements of nature: Water, Fire, Earth, and Wind. This series engages participants in experiential activities to reconnect with each element’s unique qualities and reveals how these forces coalesce into a holistic natural system. Group exercises, reflective discussions, and storytelling help participants draw on generational knowledge that deepens their bond with the natural world. By the end of each session, attendees gain renewed insight, a stronger commitment to environmental stewardship, and the empowerment to advocate for an integrated connection with nature. Join us for the first of four Living the Elements sessions at Pohick Bay Regional Park, where we will explore a deep connection with the water element. Part of the program will involve paddling on the water. Day-of rentals (including kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, life jackets, and paddles) are available at the park on a first-come, first-serve basis. Participants may also choose to bring their own watercraft. If you choose to do so, please be advised you must also bring and wear your own lifejacket. This is the first of four Living the Elements workshops: we hope you join us for Fire (June 14), Earth (September 20), and Wind (November 15)! REGISTER.

Leaders: Alex Green, Lisa Green, and Jim Rapp
Location: Dorchester County, MD
Members $75; nonmembers $90
Take this unique opportunity to learn about history and nature at the same time! Join historian Alex Green from Harriet Tubman Tours and Jim Rapp from Delmarva Birding as spend a day along the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway in Dorchester County, Maryland. During our guided tour, we’ll learn about the life and times of the famed freedom seeker and human rights activist known as “The Moses of Her People,” Harriet Tubman, whose naturalist knowledge helped feed, shelter, and protect people as they escaped to safety along the Underground Railroad. The route courses through the farms and Chesapeake Bay marshes of Dorchester County, home to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and some of the best birding and bald eagle watching on America’s eastern seaboard. REGISTER.

Leader: Carole Bergmann
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Spring is a glorious season along the Potomac River! Join retired Botanist/Forest Ecologist, Carole Bergmann, at the “Mouth of the Monocacy” to experience the riverine/floodplain habitat in April. We will search for/learn about whatever spring ephemerals, shrubs or trees are unfolding into leaf or flower. Additionally, there is an excellent diversity of impressively large trees along the towpath to see/learn about near the Monocacy. While plant life is the focus, we will be attuned to all of the rich bird and amphibian life as well. Expect to walk 1.5 to 2 miles, either on the towpath or on natural surface paths. Bring water and a snack. There are porta-johns at the site. REGISTER.

Leader: Kit Sheffield
Members $33; nonmembers $46
April is a time of dynamic change along the forest floor. For the wildflowers, it’s a race against time to bloom and reproduce before the tree canopy leafs out and blocks out the sunlight. Explore the towpath along the C&O Canal at Violettes Lock and seek out wildflowers along the river. This park is located along the Potomac River near Potomac, MD. The towpath is wide and generally flat. REGISTER.

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars. REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s shuffle,” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. The Towpath is flat, but could be muddy and/or uneven. Access to the Towpath at Riley’s Lock includes climbing a steep incline or stairs. REGISTER.

Leader: Len Bisson
Members $33; nonmembers $46 (plus $3 entrance fee per vehicle)
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars.  REGISTER.

Leader: Genevieve Wall
Members $33; nonmembers $46
You don’t need to go far by car to enjoy the great outdoors! In this series, we’ll explore the progression of spring one metro stop at a time. As we venture through serene river views, lush stream valleys, and lakeside trails of these metro-accessible parks, we’ll learn about the wildlife and natural history that we encounter along the way. The leader will meet you at the metro right outside the exit turnstile. Expect a 10-15 minute walk from metro station to the trail entrance of these urban parks. We will wander the trails, traveling at the pace of curiosity and stopping often to learn about whatever we encounter along the way. REGISTER.

Leader: Mark Garland
Members $260; nonmembers $305
West Virginia’s New River Gorge in our country’s newest National Park, featuring the deep, forested canyon of the New River and extensive deciduous woodlands of varied elevations. It’s a region rich with nesting warblers and other songbirds, diverse wildflower displays, excellent diversity of amphibians and reptiles, and fascinating history. Spend two days taking short walks at several sites in and around the park, watching for birds and other wildlife while enjoying the views, plant communities, and whatever else catches our attention. Swainson’s Warblers and Cerulean Warblers are among the birds that nest in good numbers here. Further east (and closer to the Washington area) is the remarkable Cranberry Glades, where we’ll visit on Tuesday before we conclude. Here high elevation forests surround extensive mountain bogs, habitats that look much more like the Canadian boreal forest than the mid-Atlantic region. Northern Waterthrushes, Canada Warblers, and Mourning Warblers nest at Cranberry, beavers and black bears are common (though sightings can never be guaranteed), and several regionally rare plants can be found. There are various lodging options in the region, with the lodge at Hawk’s Nest State Park a good option, along with several collections of rental cabins. The terrain is hilly. Expect approximately 2-3 miles each day spread out across several shorter walks. The fee covers expert leadership only. REGISTER.

Leader: Jen Brown
Members $35; nonmembers $49
With their vivid colors, patterns, and textures, caterpillars are a fun subject in colored pencil. Using your own photographs or provided pictures we will first cover some tips for drawing caterpillars. We will then explore various colored pencil techniques for adding patterns, texture, and form. The class will take place indoors at Woodend Nature Sanctuary; a materials list for art supplies will be distributed in advance. REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s shuffle,” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. The Towpath is flat, but could be muddy and/or uneven. Access to the Towpath at Riley’s Lock includes climbing a steep incline or stairs. REGISTER.

Leader: Lisa Shannon
Members $35; nonmembers $49
We’ll be looking for early butterflies and dragonflies, especially one particular species of dragonfly (the Cobra Clubtail) that can be found emerging at this time of year at Pennyfield Lock along the C&O Canal. And of course we won’t be able to ignore all the birds and wildflowers that will be around too at this beautiful time of year! REGISTER.

Leaders: Stephanie Mason and Genevieve Wall
Members $35; nonmembers $49
As the pace of spring’s dramatic changes in nature slows down, join our exploration of the field, forest, and freshwater tidal habitats along the western shore of the Patuxent River where it is protected as the Jug Bay Natural Area. We’ll keep eyes open and ears attuned to things on the wing: birds, butterflies, dragonflies, bees, and other insects. Of course, we’ll also pay attention to the plant company these winged things keep. Be prepared to walk between 3-4 miles on uneven but mostly flat natural surface and old road trails. REGISTER.

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars. REGISTER.

Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $33; nonmembers $46
As spring gives way to summer, enjoy blooming Mountain Laurel and other plants of the oak/hickory woodlands along the Rachel Greenway Trail adjacent to Northwest Branch Creek in upper Silver Spring, MD. Be prepared for uneven and rocky natural surface trails with some gentle uphill/downhill stretches. REGISTER.

Leader: Mark England
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Do you hear what I hear? The various songs and calls of birds can help enthusiasts find and ID species, especially when the landscape is fully leafed out. But for beginning and mid-level birders, interpreting this wide variety of voices can be confusing and frustrating. Our leader will help you to learn to listen for and begin to recognize some of the species breeding in our region. He’ll also discuss the upsides/downsides of using Voice ID apps. This walk is intentionally scheduled after the migratory pulse of through-species in order to focus on local breeders—both resident and migratory. The walk will split field time between the Blue Mash Nature Trail and nearby Rachel Carson Conservation Park. REGISTER.

Leader: Paul Pisano
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips and undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars.  REGISTER.

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s shuffle,” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. The Towpath is flat, but could be muddy and/or uneven. Access to the Towpath at Riley’s Lock includes climbing a steep incline or stairs. REGISTER.

Leader: Genevieve Wall
Members $33; nonmembers $46
You don’t need to go far by car to enjoy the great outdoors! In this series, we’ll explore the progression of spring one metro stop at a time. As we venture through serene river views, lush stream valleys, and lakeside trails of these metro-accessible parks, we’ll learn about the wildlife and natural history that we encounter along the way. The leader will meet you at the metro right outside the exit turnstile. Expect a 10-15 minute walk from metro station to the trail entrance of these urban parks. We will wander the trails, traveling at the pace of curiosity and stopping often to learn about whatever we encounter along the way. REGISTER.

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Summertime…and the living is easy—unless you’re a bird busy with nesting chores and the many challenges of raising young. That means summertime can be a more challenging period for nature lovers to encounter birds as they quiet down and move around with greater stealth. Still, the challenge is worth the reward: there is lots to observe, discuss, and enjoy on a summer birding walk, as the nesting, feeding, and fledging stages of life are full of drama, risk, and fascination! When the series begins, breeding bird activity will still be ongoing, but as summer moves into late July and August, the movement of southbound migrants will be underway. This series is geared towards beginning and mid-level birders. Expect some open and sunny field conditions at all of our locations. There will be chances, however, to duck into the shade periodically. REGISTER.

Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Welcome to June! Berma Road is a trail that runs parallel to the Canal Towpath between Widewater and the Stop Gate below Great Falls, MD. On this walk, we’ll stick to the shade of the early summer canopy covering Berma Rd, and learn about the trees, wildflowers, ferns, and other plant species we observe on the shady slopes high above the Potomac River. On this afternoon of the full moon day in June, just ten days from the Summer Solstice, take in the wonder, nature, and history of the construction of the Washington Aqueduct. REGISTER.

Leader: Kit Sheffield
Members $33; nonmembers $46
We will learn about the identification, evolutionary history, and myriad reproductive strategies of ferns on a walk along Fern Valley in the National Arboretum. Our walk will cover less than two miles on mostly natural surface trails that are have some gentle slope to them. REGISTER.

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Come join Lisa Shannon and Rob Hilton at Rieves Pond at Patuxent North Tract. We’ll be looking for dragonflies and damselflies of course, but also warblers, frogs, butterflies, plants, and anything else that catches our eye at this quiet green refuge within a refuge. REGISTER.

Lecture: Wednesday, June 18 (7-9 pm)
Woodend Nature Sanctuary
Field Trip: Saturday, June 21 (9 am-3 pm)
Location TBD (Rain Date: June 22)
Leader: Rick Borchelt
Lecture only: members $24, nonmembers $32
Lecture and field trip: members $48, nonmembers $68
As if the multitudes of Sachems weren’t confusing enough, early autumn in the mid-Atlantic brings second broods of small, brown, often poorly-marked skippers – Crossline, Swarthy, and the infamous “three witches” – Northern Broken-dash, Dun, and Little Glassywing.  Join us as we tick off the ID skills required for these “little brown jobs” of the butterfly world, and the come with us into the field to test our knowledge, but where we will learn that there is no shame in leaving an ID at “sp.” for these small, dull-colored species.  We’ll begin on the Choate Mine Trail at Soldiers Delight NEA northwest of Baltimore and end at the community gardens at the Howard County Conservancy.  We should have an abundance of look-alikes to pore through, and might see the seldom-encountered Leonard’s Skipper.  As an added bonus we could end the field trip with a stop at the nearby Woodstock Snoball Stand! This is the last of three Butterfly Boot Camps. REGISTER.