Adults
Nature Classes and Field Trips
april
Explore the Great Outdoors with the experts
Event Details
Sign up for our year-round Nature Classes and Outings! These programs offer nature novices and experienced naturalists alike an array of opportunities to explore and learn about our area’s natural history.
Event Details
Sign up for our year-round Nature Classes and Outings!
These programs offer nature novices and experienced naturalists alike an array of opportunities to explore and learn about our area’s natural history. Our experienced naturalists lead small group classes and trips to parks and wild spaces throughout the DC-metro region — and beyond. Lectures are held at our Woodend Sanctuary. Field trips are reached by private vehicle or carpool.
Map of Field Trip Destinations
Link to DC Audubon Society’s map of Wheelchair Accessible and Metro-accessible birding spots
Link to Maryland Ornithological Society’s “Best Birding Sites in Maryland and DC”
Want to see what programs you are registered for? Log into your online account here.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Event Details
Questions? Email pam.oves@anshome.org. Covid-19 Update - Walks and Field Trips As long as area jurisdictions remain in at least Phase II of Covid-19 precautions, we are
Event Details
Questions? Email pam.oves@anshome.org.
Covid-19 Update – Walks and Field Trips
As long as area jurisdictions remain in at least Phase II of Covid-19 precautions, we are planning to offer in-person field trips to natural areas throughout the DMV. Should there be any changes to these plans, we will notify trip participants and all ANS members through e-mails and/or social media.
* Both leaders and participants are required to wear face masks and observe social distancing throughout the field trip.
* Both leaders and participants are required to complete a health questionnaire before participating in the field trip.
* Maximum number of participants for the field trips will range from 5-8, depending on field trip location, trip focus, and leaders’ preferences.
* Our schedule of field outings will be updated every four-six weeks to add new listings farther out. This “rolling schedule” will help us respond to any changes in the Covid situation which may arise.
Did you know that we are offering a number of great Naturalist Hour Zoom presentations? Visit www.anshome.org/naturalist-hour for an overview of dates and topics being offered—as well as to register for these online nature learning opportunities.
APRIL
Spring in the Parks
8:30-11:30 am
B. Friday, April 2 – Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, VA WAITLIST OPEN
C. Saturday, April 17 – Rachel Carson Conservation Park, MD WAITLIST OPEN
D. Sunday, April 25 – National Arboretum, DC CANCELLED
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Join our Senior Naturalist for these broad-based nature hikes in four of this region’s protected areas. On each outing, we’ll experience the dramatic seasonal changes in the natural world ignited by spring’s longer hours of daylight and warming temperatures. We’ll search for showy wildflowers, the unfolding leaves of trees and shrubs, and all manner of spring wildlife activity. Be prepared to walk between 1- 2.5 miles on natural surface trails which may be rocky, uneven, and/or possibly muddy/slippery. Hikes B and C include uphill/downhill, with the steepest walking on B. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
B: Saturday, April 3 – Dyke Marsh, VA (Lisa Shannon & Rob Hilton) WAITLIST OPEN
C: Thursday, April 8 – Huntley Meadows, VA (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
D2: Saturday, April 10 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Headquarters Tract, MD (Lisa Shannon and Rob Hilton) SECOND SESSION ADDED
D: Sunday, April 11 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Headquarters Tract, MD (Len Bisson) WAITLIST OPEN
E: Sunday, April 18 – Lois Green Conservation Park, MD (Mark England) WAITLIST OPEN
F: Wednesday, April 21 – Wootton’s Mill Park, MD (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
G: Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) WAITLIST OPEN
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
Beginning Wildflower ID 1 SPOT LEFT
Saturday, April 3 (9 am-Noon)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $42
April’s spring wildflowers are 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 honing the observational skills which are key to IDing wildflowers. As we’re learning the names and niches of species such as Virginia bluebells, dutchman’s breeches, toad trillium, and more, we’ll also take time to simply enjoy their beauty. Expect some rocky and uneven terrain on the our natural surface trails. REGISTER
Geology of Difficult Run, VA WAITLIST OPEN
Tuesday, April 6 (9 am-Noon)
Leader: Joe Marx
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Virginia’s Difficult Run descends through a curved, picturesque gorge from Piedmont upland at Georgetown Pike to near sea level at the lower end of Mather Gorge. Outcrops of all the rock types found in Great Falls Park occur among the stream’s cascades and little waterfalls. We will hike down the gorge towards the River and, as time runs out, return uphill to the parking lot. Maximum hike is about 2 miles, with 175 feet of altitude lost and regained. Trail surfaces are unpaved and generally level, but expect some muddy and rocky spots. The examination of several bedrock exposures requires clambering onto dry sections of the stream bed. NOTE: our geology hikes move farther and faster than our usual naturalist’s shuffle. REGISTER
Bluebells and Budbreak at Boundary Bridge WAITLIST OPEN
Wednesday, April 7 (9:30 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
Members $30; nonmembers $42
We’re delighted that the author of the award-winning book, A Year in Rock Creek Park and the critically acclaimed, City of Trees, will offer her 15th year of ANS nature walks in the country’s oldest urban national park. Under her expert guidance, you will witness the annual floral miracle of Virginia bluebells, spring beauties, and trout lilies in the floodplain forest, while the leaves of tulip tree and American beech begin to spill from their buds. We’ll hope to catch bloodroot, wild ginger, cut-leafed toothwort and other blooming spring ephemerals as we explore both floodplain and upland woods at a leisurely pace. Time permitting, we’ll do a bit of “forest bathing.” Throughout, we’ll keep our eyes and ears open for belted kingfishers, wood ducks, migrant songbirds, and tiny spring peeper frogs. REGISTER
Spring Saunters Along the Canal
Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
Section C: April 7 – Widewater WAITLIST OPEN
Section D: April 14 – Widewater SPOT OPEN
Section E: April 21 – Violettes Lock SPOT OPEN
Section F: April 28 – Violettes Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
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 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 glorious unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. NOTE: Spaces are limited, so thanks for not registering for more than one walk per destination. REGISTER
Landscapes for Life: Conservation Gardening
Thursdays, April 8-May 27 (1:30-3:30 pm)
Leader: Jenny Brown
Members $240; nonmembers $275
This April and May take a deeper dive into the world of gardening. Using a curriculum developed by the US Botanic Garden and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, our Garden Outreach Associate will teach you to nurture both native and edible plants to feed wildlife, while making your own lifestyle more sustainable. This series of eight classes will be held in person at Woodend in the outdoor classroom of our Learning Garden. Throughout the eight-week course, students will learn specific skills and explore the demonstration gardens at Woodend, but also work on design plans for their own gardens. The group will be limited to 10 people for social distancing and participants will wear face masks. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
C: Thursday, April 8 – Huntley Meadows, VA (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
D2: Saturday, April 10 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Headquarters Tract, MD (Lisa Shannon and Rob Hilton) SECOND SESSION ADDED
D: Sunday, April 11 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Headquarters Tract, MD (Len Bisson) WAITLIST OPEN
E: Sunday, April 18 – Lois Green Conservation Park, MD (Mark England) WAITLIST OPEN
F: Wednesday, April 21 – Wootton’s Mill Park, MD (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
G: Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) WAITLIST OPEN
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
The Magic of Early Spring Woods
Fridays (10 am-12:30 pm)
A: April 9 – Monocacy Aqueduct, MD 2 SPOTS OPEN
B: April 16 – Carderock Recreation Area, MD WAITLIST OPEN
Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $30; nonmembers $42
A stroll through an early spring woods can be magical, with the colors and forms of tree’s and shrub’s unfolding leaves and blooms catching the eye. In bottomland woods, there’s the added delight of spring wildflowers underfoot. Our leader can’t wait to share two of her favorite spots along the Potomac River: the habitats along the level C&O Canal Towpath at Monocacy Aqueduct, and the floodplain trail of Billy Goat C downriver from Carderock, just outside the Beltway. These walks follow possibly muddy/slippery natural surface trails. Billy Goat C includes some uneven ground, but none of the rock-hopping and scrambling of the trail’s upriver sections. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
D2: Saturday, April 10 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Headquarters Tract, MD (Lisa Shannon and Rob Hilton) SECOND SESSION ADDED
D: Sunday, April 11 – Patuxent Research Refuge/Headquarters Tract, MD (Len Bisson) WAITLIST OPEN
E: Sunday, April 18 – Lois Green Conservation Park, MD (Mark England) WAITLIST OPEN
F: Wednesday, April 21 – Wootton’s Mill Park, MD (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
G: Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) WAITLIST OPEN
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
The Secret Lives of Spring Wildflowers WAITLIST OPEN
Sunday, April 11 (2-4:30 pm)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $42
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 and Dutchman’s Breeches race to complete their flowering and fruiting cycles before the brief window of spring sunlight gets shut out by the unfolding forest canopy. Our leader will spill some of their secrets in a roughly 1.5-mile round trip walk between Violettes and Riley’s Locks along the C&O Canal. REGISTER
Budbreak and Spring Wildflowers on Theodore Roosevelt Island WAITLIST OPEN
Wednesday, April 14 (9:30 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Join Melanie Choukas-Bradley, author of the award-winning new book, Finding Solace at Theodore Roosevelt Island, for an early spring exploration of Theodore Roosevelt Island, a 90-acre island in the Potomac that serves as a fitting memorial to our conservationist and naturalist 26th president—and Audubon Naturalist Society member! We’ll witness the miracle of budbreak among the island’s remarkable trees and see the floodplain forest come alive with Virginia bluebells, spring beauties, trout lilies, cut-leafed toothwort and wild ginger. Of course, we’ll keep our eyes open for wood ducks, great blue herons, belted kingfishers, ospreys and bald eagles. Melanie will share details of the island’s fascinating history during the walking exploration of this picturesque urban oasis. REGISTER
Spring Saunters Along the Canal
Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
Section D: April 14 – Widewater WAITLIST OPEN
Section E: April 21 – Violettes Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Section F: April 28 – Violettes Lock 1 SPOT LEFT
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
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 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 glorious unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. NOTE: Spaces are limited, so thanks for not registering for more than one walk per destination. REGISTER
The Magic of Early Spring Woods
Fridays (10 am-12:30 pm)
B: April 16 – Carderock Recreation Area, MD WAITLIST OPEN
Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $30; nonmembers $42
A stroll through an early spring woods can be magical, with the colors and forms of tree’s and shrub’s unfolding leaves and blooms catching the eye. In bottomland woods, there’s the added delight of spring wildflowers underfoot. Our leader can’t wait to share two of her favorite spots along the Potomac River: the habitats along the level C&O Canal Towpath at Monocacy Aqueduct, and the floodplain trail of Billy Goat C downriver from Carderock, just outside the Beltway. These walks follow possibly muddy/slippery natural surface trails. Billy Goat C includes some uneven ground, but none of the rock-hopping and scrambling of the trail’s upriver sections. REGISTER
Spring in the Parks
8:30-11:30 am
C. Saturday, April 17 – Rachel Carson Conservation Park, MD WAITLIST OPEN
D. Sunday, April 25 – National Arboretum, DC CANCELLED
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Join our Senior Naturalist for these broad-based nature hikes in four of this region’s protected areas. On each outing, we’ll experience the dramatic seasonal changes in the natural world ignited by spring’s longer hours of daylight and warming temperatures. We’ll search for showy wildflowers, the unfolding leaves of trees and shrubs, and all manner of spring wildlife activity. Be prepared to walk between 1- 2.5 miles on natural surface trails which may be rocky, uneven, and/or possibly muddy/slippery. Hikes B and C include uphill/downhill, with the steepest walking on B. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
E: Sunday, April 18 – Lois Green Conservation Park, MD (Mark England) WAITLIST OPEN, SECOND SESSION ADDED SUNDAY, APRIL 25 – FULL
F: Wednesday, April 21 – Wootton’s Mill Park, MD (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
G: Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) WAITLIST OPEN
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
Bluebells in the Bottomland WAITLIST OPEN
Tuesday, April 20 (10 am-1 pm)
Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Nothing could be finer than a stroll through the bottomlands along the Potomac River this time of year. Spring beauties, golden ragwort, Virginia bluebells and more add color to the forest floor. Overhead, trees such as maples, elms, and cottonwood unspool their flowers and leaves. Our route–mostly level but possibly muddy and/or slippery–follows the River Trail from Great Falls, MD. We will move upriver along the floodplain and return along the C&O Canal Towpath–a total of a little over 2 miles. REGISTER
Spring Fungus Walks
A: Wednesday, April 21 (9:30-11:30 am) WAITLIST OPEN
B: Saturday, April 24 (9:30-11:30 am)
Each walk: members $30; nonmembers $42
Leader: Serenella Linares
As temperatures warm and spring rains fall, it’s time to get introduced to some of the local fungi while finding out more about their natural history and vital functions in the natural world. Our own Woodend Sanctuary will be the site for these walks on trails that are natural surface. The expert leader is one of our own staff, whose knowledge about any and all mushrooms that might pop up in your yard has earned her the accurate and affectionate nickname Mushie. NOTE: the focus of our field outings will be fungi’s important and under-appreciated role in forest ecology, not the edibility of particular species of mushrooms. Since spaces are limited, please register for only one session. REGISTER
Spring Saunters Along the Canal
Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
Section E: April 21 – Violettes Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Section F: April 28 – Violettes Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
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 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 glorious unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. NOTE: Spaces are limited, so thanks for not registering for more than one walk per destination. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
F: Wednesday, April 21 – Wootton’s Mill Park, MD (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
G: Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) WAITLIST OPEN
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
Spring at Widewater
Thursday, April 22 (9:30 am-1 pm)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $42
We’ll embrace all things spring on this loop hike along the Potomac, a 4-mile stretch we return to frequently. We’ll keep our eyes and ears open for birds, butterflies, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and more as we hike upriver along the C&O Canal from the Widewater area to Great Falls, MD. Of course, our search will include the abundant wildflowers and trees along the River’s rich bottomland and upland habitats. Our return walk follows the Berma Road trail above the Canal. Note: This hike will move faster and farther than our usual naturalist shuffle. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
G: Saturday, April 24 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Cathy Stragar) WAITLIST OPEN
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
Spring Fungus Walks
B: Saturday, April 24 (9:30-11:30 am)
Each walk: members $30; nonmembers $42
Leader: Serenella Linares
As temperatures warm and spring rains fall, it’s time to get introduced to some of the local fungi while finding out more about their natural history and vital functions in the natural world. Our own Woodend Sanctuary will be the site for these walks on trails that are natural surface. The expert leader is one of our own staff, whose knowledge about any and all mushrooms that might pop up in your yard has earned her the accurate and affectionate nickname Mushie. NOTE: the focus of our field outings will be fungi’s important and under-appreciated role in forest ecology, not the edibility of particular species of mushrooms. Since spaces are limited, please register for only one session. REGISTER
Spring in the Parks
8:30-11:30 am
D. Sunday, April 25 – National Arboretum, DC CANCELLED
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Join our Senior Naturalist for these broad-based nature hikes in four of this region’s protected areas. On each outing, we’ll experience the dramatic seasonal changes in the natural world ignited by spring’s longer hours of daylight and warming temperatures. We’ll search for showy wildflowers, the unfolding leaves of trees and shrubs, and all manner of spring wildlife activity. Be prepared to walk between 1- 2.5 miles on natural surface trails which may be rocky, uneven, and/or possibly muddy/slippery. Hikes B and C include uphill/downhill, with the steepest walking on B. REGISTER
Spring Saunters Along the Canal
Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
Section F: April 28 – Violettes Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
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 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 glorious unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. NOTE: Spaces are limited, so thanks for not registering for more than one walk per destination. REGISTER
Late April Riverwalk WAITLIST OPEN
Thursday, April 29 (4-7 pm)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $40
Push away from your desk early and join our late afternoon through early evening stroll through bottomland woods along the Potomac River, just above Great Falls, MD. We’ll search for colorful wildflowers, blooming trees, and general spring wildlife activity, including birds, butterflies, and amphibians. The natural surface river trail is mostly level, but could be muddy and/or slippery. Our round-trip walk is roughly 2 miles. REGISTER
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
H: Thursday, April 29 – National Arboretum, DC (Paul Pisano) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with this series of short bird walks at nearby parks. These walks are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can sometimes be overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for both resident and migrant birds by song and sound. We’ll discuss the arrival sequence of these spring travelers, practice finding them in the field, and attempt to learn the songs of many species. Our trips include walking on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Trips E, F and H include some mild uphill/downhill. Trip H will run from 8-11 am. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Event Details
Questions? Call Pam at 301-652-9188 x16 or email pam.oves@anshome.org. Covid-19 Update - Walks and Field Trips As long as area jurisdictions remain in at least Phase II
Event Details
Questions? Call Pam at 301-652-9188 x16 or email pam.oves@anshome.org.
Covid-19 Update – Walks and Field Trips
As long as area jurisdictions remain in at least Phase II of Covid-19 precautions, we are planning to offer in-person field trips to natural areas throughout the DMV. Should there be any changes to these plans, we will notify trip participants and all ANS members through e-mails and/or social media.
* Both leaders and participants are required to wear face masks and observe social distancing throughout the field trip.
* Both leaders and participants are required to complete a health questionnaire before participating in the field trip.
* Maximum number of participants for the field trips will be 8, depending on field trip location, trip focus, and leaders’ preferences.
* Our schedule of field outings will be updated every four-six weeks to add new listings farther out. This “rolling schedule” will help us respond to any changes in the Covid situation which may arise.
MAY
Spring Early Birds (7-10 am)
I: Saturday, May 1 – Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, VA (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
J: Sunday, May 9 – Governor’s Bridge Natural Area, MD (Len Bisson) WAITLIST OPEN
K: Tuesday, May 11 – Pennyfield Lock, MD (Mike Bowen and Anne Cianni) WAITLIST OPEN
L: Saturday, May 15 – Kingman Island Park, DC (Lisa Shannon and Rob Hilton) WAITLIST OPEN
M: Tuesday, May 18 – Little Bennett Park, MD (Mark England) WAITLIST OPEN
N: Saturday, May 22 – Hughes Hollow, MD (Len Bisson) WAITLIST OPEN
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
As May arrives, spring migration peaks and then winds down. The walks on this second half of our series are designed for beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pace and range of bird activity can often seem overwhelming. On each walk, we’ll search for and spend time observing and appreciating both resident and migrant birds by sight and sound. Our field outings are undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants will provide their own binoculars. Due to Covid precautions, there will be no sharing of spotting scopes on these trips. REGISTER
Geology at Great Falls, MD WAITLIST OPEN
Tuesday, May 4 (9:30 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Joe Marx
Members $30; nonmembers $42
People in our region find Great Falls both fascinating and perplexing. Arguably our most dramatic landscape feature, its origin and development remain obscure to many of us. We will take a relatively easy hike from the Great Falls (MD) Tavern Visitor Center to the falls overlook and adjacent areas along the towpath for a round trip of 1.5-2 miles. During the walk, we will discuss how the bedrock of the Great Falls area formed in tectonic collisions hundreds of millions of years ago and how the waxing and waning of the continental glacier led to the much more recent creation of the falls. Our geology walks move at a faster pace and over a greater distance than our usual naturalist’s shuffle. REGISTER
Spring Saunters Along the Canal
Wednesdays (10 am-12:30 pm)
Section G: May 5 – Riley’s Lock
Section H: May 12 – Riley’s Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Section I: May 19 – Pennyfield Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Section J: May 26 – Pennyfield Lock WAITLIST OPEN
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
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 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 peak of spring change– and then watch as summer starts sneaking in. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. NOTE: Spaces are limited, so thanks for not registering for more than one walk per destination. REGISTER
Spring on Wheels Along the Potomac ONE SPOT LEFT
Thursday, May 6 (8:30 am-1 pm)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $34; nonmembers $48
Spring has sprung and the Towpath along the Potomac River is one of the finest places in the DC-metro area to experience this season’s richness. In order to cover more territory and visit more habitats, we’ll use bikes to explore the stretch from Swain’s Lock to Blockhouse Point, an 8.75 mile round-trip ride. We’ll dismount often to look for spring wildflowers, butterflies and other insects, and reptiles and amphibians—all the while keeping an eye and ear open for spring bird activity. Bring your own bike. REGISTER
The Trees of Spring WAITLIST OPEN
Friday, May 7 (10 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $30; nonmembers $42
By early May, most of the trees in our region are sporting the new growing season’s leaves. Some early-blooming species are already bearing developing seed containers while a few late bloomers are biding their time. Join our tree-hugging leader for an introduction to and appreciation of the large trees lining the flat Berma Road trail, which parallels the Towpath above the Widewater stretch of the Canal. REGISTER
Spring in the Parks (8:30-11:30 am)
E: Saturday, May 8 – Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, DC WAITLIST OPEN
F. Sunday, May 16 – Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, VA
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Each walk members $30; nonmembers $42
Our Senior Naturalist wraps up this spring’s series of broad-based nature outings to protected areas offering a wide range of habitats to explore. Early in the month, we’ll visit the wetlands and woodlands of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens alongside the Anacostia River, DC. Mid-month, we’ll walk the open grasslands and Occoquan Bay bottomlands near Woodbridge, VA. Be prepared to walk between 1- 2.5 miles on natural surface trails which may be muddy/slippery. REGISTER
Appalachian Spring WAITLIST OPEN
Sunday, May 9 (8:30 am–1 pm)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $34; nonmembers $48
Spring rains, warming temperatures, and longer hours of daylight ignite a great burst of life in the valleys and ridges of the Appalachian Mountains. One of the best ways to explore this seasonal richness is along the Appalachian Trail. Our Senior Naturalist leads this search for spring blooms, butterflies, and breeding bird activity amongst the rocky terrain of Maryland’s South Mountain. Starting at Gathland State Park, we’ll hike along the AT for around 1.5 to 2 miles before retracing our steps. Note that the AT here is rocky and uneven–and there will be some moderately strenuous uphill/downhill. We’ll stop often to observe natural phenomena, but will then periodically pick up the pace to try and cover the distance stated. REGISTER
Marvelous May at Widewater WAITLIST OPEN
Friday, May 14 (9 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $42
We’ll embrace all things spring on this loop hike along the Potomac, a 4-mile stretch we return to frequently. We’ll keep our eyes and ears open for birds, butterflies, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, and more as we hike upriver along the C&O Canal from the Widewater area to Great Falls, MD. Of course, our search will include the abundant wildflowers and trees along the River’s rich bottomland and upland habitats. Our return walk follows the Berma Road trail above the Canal. Note: This hike will move faster and farther than our usual naturalist shuffle. REGISTER
Wonders at Woodend: Forest Bathing Through the Seasons ONE SPOT LEFT
Saturday, May 15 (10 am-Noon)
Leader: Melanie Choukas-Bradley
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Savor the natural joy of this season on a forest bathing walk led by Melanie Choukas-Bradley, a longtime ANS field trip leader and author of The Joy of Forest Bathing—Reconnect with Wild Places & Rejuvenate Your Life. Discover the magic of shinrin-yoku, translated as “forest bathing,” a nature-oriented mindfulness practice that originated in Japan and has become popular all over the world. Experience the restoration of our Woodend Sanctuary as we explore and commune with the living things in its meadows, forest, and Blair Garden. Our leader is a Nature & Forest Therapy Guide with certification from the Association of Nature & Therapy Guides and Programs of Sonoma County, CA. A walk will be scheduled each season in 2021. REGISTER
On the Wing in Late Spring WAITLIST OPEN
Friday, May 21 (8:30-11:30 am)
Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $30; nonmembers $42
As the pace of spring’s dramatic changes in the natural world slows down, we’ll visit the bottomland habitats of Riverbend Park along the Potomac near Great Falls, VA. We’ll keep eyes open and ears attuned to things on the wing: birds, butterflies, dragonflies, bees, and other insects. Of course, we’ll pay attention to the plant company these winged things keep, as well. Natural surface trails may be muddy—and will include some uneven and rocky stretches. REGISTER
Who’s Afraid of Latin? WAITLIST OPEN
Saturday, May 22 (8:30-11 am)
Leader: Kit Sheffield
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Many of us shy away from using scientific names when we start learning to ID and appreciate plants. Does that sound like you? Truth is, these tongue-twisters can tell us about the discovery and uses of plants, in addition to where they grow, some of their ID characteristics, and their relationships to other plants. It becomes easier to understand and remember the scientific names by noticing common English words that use the same root (no pun intended). On this stroll along the C&O Canal Towpath from Violette’s Lock, we’ll start to think about these names in new ways, while also enjoying the lingering spring blooms. REGISTER
Birding-by-Ear Walks
A: Sunday, May 23 (7-10 am) WAITLIST OPEN
B: Thursday, May 27 (7-10 am)
Leader: Mark England
Members $30; nonmembers $42
Do you hear what I hear? The various songs and calls made by 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 sometimes be confusing and frustrating. Our leader will help participants learn to listen for and begin to recognize some of the species breeding in our region. Each walk will split field time between the Blue Mash Nature Trail and nearby Rachel Carson Conservation Park. Due to limited spaces, only one walk per person, please. REGISTER
Mountain Laurel Meander WAITLIST OPEN
Friday, May 28 (10 am-12:30 pm)
Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $30; nonmembers $42
As spring gives way to summer, enjoy blooming Mountain Laurel and other plants of oak/hickory woodlands along Northwest Branch Creek in upper Silver Spring, MD. Be prepared for some gentle uphill/downhill–and perhaps several small stream crossings—on our hike using the natural-surface Rachel Carson Greenway Trail. REGISTER
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Continuing Education / NHFS
april
Event Details
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take classes in the NHFS program. Most environmental education is aimed at children and youth. Because nature programming
Event Details
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take classes in the NHFS program. Most environmental education is aimed at children and youth. Because nature programming wasn’t a part of my suburban childhood (and I might not have cared about it or retained it in any case) I am thrilled to be able to learn about natural history as an adult – ‘when the student is ready, the teacher appears.’ Thanks to the Audubon Naturalist Society, natural history is becoming a passion.” Field Studies student R. Gray
This unique continuing education program for adults provides a comprehensive and stimulating view of our region’s natural history and conservation issues. Taught at the college freshman level, these courses are open to anyone 18 years of age or older, professionals and amateurs alike. A Certificate of Accomplishment in Natural History is awarded to those choosing to complete a required curriculum of 39 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), but anyone can enroll in any class for the sheer pleasure of learning.
Registration Info for Natural History Field Studies Classes
Registration is now being handled completely online by the Audubon Naturalist Society (not the Graduate School USA) through our adult program registration system.
- Questions? Contact pam.oves@anshome.org.
- Refund Policy for NHFS classes: ANS will provide you with a refund (minus a $25 administration fee) if you cancel your enrollment no later than the day following the first class lecture. After this date, no refunds will be provided. In the event of a course cancellation due to insufficient enrollment or other events beyond our control, we will notify you as soon as possible and provide you with a full refund.
SUMMARY OF REQUIRED COURSES
Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, classes are currently being offered via online Zoom sessions with optional in-person field trips. These locally-based outings will be limited to groups of 8 participants, with mask-wearing and social distancing required. Registrants can elect to enroll in online classes only or choose to participate in field trips as well, space allowing.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Event Details
Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, NHFS classes are being offered via online Zoom sessions with some courses offering optional in-person field trips as well. Students can register for the virtual
Event Details
Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, NHFS classes are being offered via online Zoom sessions with some courses offering optional in-person field trips as well. Students can register for the virtual lecture sessions only, or for lectures plus field trips, assuming space is available. NOTE: The locally-based field outings will be limited to groups of 8 participants, with mask-wearing and social distancing required. Different courses may offer different field trip options, so please read the course description carefully before registering.
March 17 – June 3, 2021
Freshwater Ecology
NATH8217E, 3 CEUs
Class night and time: Tuesdays, 7-9 pm
Class meetings: April 6-June 1
Field trip dates: April 24 (Group A AM, Group B PM) and May 15 (Group A AM, Group B PM)
Location: Online via Zoom
Zoom lectures only: Members $240; nonmembers $265
Zoom lectures + field trips: Members $300; nonmembers $330
Instructor: Cathy Wiss
REGISTER ONLINE
This course will focus on stream ecosystems and the human-caused stressors that affect them. Topics include forms of freshwater; stream structure and function; benthic macroinvertebrates, freshwater fish, and their ecological interactions; stormwater management and ecological restoration. At the end of this course, students will have an understanding of physical, chemical and biological processes of freshwater bodies. Self-exploration of local waterbodies will be emphasized. On field trips, students will visit stream restoration sites, examine fish and aquatic organism habitat types, and sample for benthic macroinvertebrates. Registration closes April 2.
Required Reading
The Biology of Streams and Rivers, by Paul S. Giller and Bjorn Malmqvist (Oxford University Press, reprinted 2011)
Pond Life, a Guide to Common Plants and Animals of North American Ponds and Lakes, by George K. Reid (A “Golden Guide” from St. Martin’s Press, revised 2001)
Cathy Wiss is a team leader in the ANS Water Quality Monitoring Program at two monitoring sites on Ten Mile Creek in Montgomery County, MD. From March 2008 through August 2020, she served as the ANS Water Quality Monitoring Program Coordinator. In addition, Cathy has worked to preserve streams, trees, and a wetland in her neighborhood and to encourage developers to incorporate Low Impact Development techniques into their projects. She holds a Juris Doctor degree from Catholic University Law School, a Bachelor of Arts degree from Smith College, and a certificate in Natural History Field Studies.
Spring Flower Identification FIELD TRIP OPTION FULL
NATH7135E, 3 CEUs
Class night and time: Wednesdays, 6-8 pm
Class meetings: March 17-May 12
Field trip dates: Location TBA: Group A: April 15, Group B: April 18;
Thompson WMA Group A: May 2, Group B: May 4
Location: Online via Zoom
Zoom lectures only: Members $240; nonmembers $265
Zoom lectures + field trips: Members $300; nonmembers $330
Instructor: Clare Walker
REGISTER ONLINE
Follow the changing of the season this spring as we look closely at wildflowers blooming in the Mid-Atlantic each week. The class will include field identification during different life stages, plant family relationships and habitat preferences so you can get outside and hunt yourself (by recording flower observations in an optional iNaturalist class project). Explore the relationships between the plants and their pollinators and seed dispersers to gain an understanding of each flower’s role in the ecosystem. Spring wildflowers deserve our admiration for their incredible adaptations to overcome seasonal vagaries from low temperatures to short growing seasons. The field trips feature two of the area’s best wildflower locations. Students will choose field trip group at a later date. Registration closes March 12.
Recommended Textbook: Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide by Lawrence Newcomb. Publisher: Little, Brown & Company, ISBN 10: 0-316-60442-9 OR if you prefer a digital flower identification guide: The Flora of Virginia app: https://floraofvirginia.org.
Clare Walker is an environmental educator at Irvine Nature Center where she manages the woodland gardens. She previously worked as an education specialist at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources developing programs and guides about pollinators and other wildlife concerns. She is currently assisting the USGS Bee Lab in creating pollinator gardens for specialist bees. Ms. Walker did her PhD work studying Peatlands, at Huddersfield University.
Introduction to Ornithology FIELD TRIP OPTION FULL
NATH7118E, 3 CEUs
Class night and time: Thursdays, 7-9 pm
Class meetings: April 8-June 3
Field trip dates: Hughes Hollow – Group A: April 24, Group B: April 25; Little Bennett Regional Park – Group A: May 22, Group B: May 23 (max 8 students)
Location: Online via Zoom
Zoom lectures only: Members $240; nonmembers $265
Zoom lectures + field trips: Members $300; nonmembers $330
Instructor: Gemma Radko
REGISTER ONLINE
Learn about birds and their special characteristics. Study their external and internal anatomy, feather structure, plumage and special adaptations for flight and feeding. We’ll study bird behavior including migration, courtship, mating, nesting, and care of the young. And we’ll explore bird habitats, ecology, conservation, and distribution worldwide. Field trips emphasize field identification, bird song and other behavior. Students will choose field trip group at a later date. Registration closes April 2.
Recommended Textbook: A good field guide such as Sibley or National Geographic.
Gemma Radko is the Communications/Media Manager for the American Bird Conservancy. She completed MAPS (Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship) training through the Institute for Bird Populations in1998. A licensed bird bander, she operated the MAPS station at Adventure in Potomac, MD. B.A., Allegheny College.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Nature Travel
april
Event Details
February, 2022--The Tropical Wonderland of Costa Rica, led by ANS Senior Naturalist Stephanie Mason and local guides. Please email Carol at carol.hayes@anshome.org with any questions about
Event Details
- February, 2022–The Tropical Wonderland of Costa Rica, led by ANS Senior Naturalist Stephanie Mason and local guides.
- Please email Carol at carol.hayes@anshome.org with any questions about our Nature Travel program and upcoming trips.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Water Quality Monitoring
april
Event Details
Stream Science at ANS For 25 years, ANS has been teaching the natural history of aquatic ecology and training volunteer stream monitors who track the health of our region’s streams. Learn from
Event Details
Stream Science at ANS
For 25 years, ANS has been teaching the natural history of aquatic ecology and training volunteer stream monitors who track the health of our region’s streams. Learn from the experts: study stream science in our introductory classes, and you just might be inspired to become a stream monitor yourself! Our advanced classes are perfect for those interested in deepening their knowledge about biological stream monitoring and are taught by instructor Cathy Wiss. Each class runs 45 – 70 minutes and includes extensive photos and videos collected by our own monitoring volunteers and staff, plus several carefully curated recommended videos from other sources.
SELF-PACED ONLINE CLASSES AVAILABLE ANY TIME
Stream Science Introduction:
- Healthy Stream Biology. An introduction to monitoring and non-insect macroinvertebrates
Advanced Macroinvertebrate Identification Series:
- Caddisflies
- Beetles
- Megaloptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera
- True Flies
- Damselflies and Dragonflies
- Mayflies
- Stoneflies
- Bonus review session included if you sign up for the full series
REGISTRATION & FEE INFORMATION
Registration required: click here to register online for self-paced classes.
Cost: each class $25 non-members / $15 ANS members / Free for anyone who has monitored with the ANS program in the last two years. 15% discount for entire class series ($170 non-members / $102 members, includes a bonus review session).
Contact cleanstreams@anshome.org for more information.
See the full list of classes on our Water Quality Monitoring Page.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Conservation Café
Master Naturalist
Free Birding Trips
april
Event Details
Directions Given the uncertainty of the Covid-19 situation this fall, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Free Birding Trips through at least the
Event Details
Directions
Given the uncertainty of the Covid-19 situation this fall, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Free Birding Trips through at least the end of the year. Keep an eye on anshome.org/covid-19-updates, emails, and our Facebook page for updates.
Did you know that we are offering a number of great Naturalist Hour Zoom presentations this month? Visit www.anshome.org/naturalist-hour for an overview of dates and topics being offered—as well as to register for these nature learning opportunities.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Beginner Bird Walks
april
Beginner Bird Walks at Woodend
Event Details
Walks currently on hold due to CDC/state/county regulations. Please watch this space for when we can reopen these walks. Have you ever wanted to learn about the birds you
Event Details
Walks currently on hold due to CDC/state/county regulations. Please watch this space for when we can reopen these walks.
Have you ever wanted to learn about the birds you see regularly around Washington? Did you know that about 250 birds either pass through or make this area their home?
Join us every Saturday morning at Woodend for our Beginner Bird Walks. An excellent place to come for those just starting out or for those who want to learn more about our area’s birds. From 9-10 am a volunteer leader will guide you through the important how tos: from how to use binoculars to how to identify our most prevalent resident birds.
Meet at the Audubon Naturalist Shop parking lot. Bring binoculars or use ours. Register here.
These gentle walks happen every Saturday morning from March through June, and September through November. Walks take place only on the first Saturday of December through February. There are no walks in July and August.
Be sure to visit the Audubon Naturalist Shop after the bird walk. The shop opens at 9 am on Saturdays and if you let the cashier know you attended that morning’s bird walk they will provide you with a coupon for a discount in the shop.
Time
Year Around Event (2021)
Location
Woodend Nature Sanctuary
8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA