education
First Crossing
Washington Crossing Historic Park 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing, PA, United States(Proceeds support future park programs) During the first crossing event, hundreds of troops row across the river in uniform just as they do on Christmas Day. In addition, special colonial-era activities and demonstrations throughout the historic village provide your family with a full day of fun and learning. A great way to see the reenactment if you can’t make it on December 25! COST: $8 for adults, $4 for children age five to 11, and free for those under five
Connect With Nature – Nature’s Winter Gifts to Wildlife
Rancocas Nature Center 794 Rancocas Road, Westampton, NJ, United StatesThe habitat at Rancocas offers a natural bounty for the wildlife that over-winter here. Build a wildlife shelter, make edible ornaments for the animals, and learn about the preserve’s winter food chain. Preregister by calling RNC at 609-261-2495. There is no charge for this program, but donations are encouraged.
The Christmas Bird Count with Debbie Beer
John Heinz at Tinicum National Wildlife Refuge 8601 Lindbergh Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, United StatesThe Christmas Bird Count was started on Christmas Day, 1900, by ornithologist Frank M. Chapman as an alternative to the holiday tradition of hunting birds. Now over a hundred years old, this annual bird census involves thousands of volunteers across the Western Hemisphere, who count all the birds they see in 24 hours within a defined area. Researchers, conservation biologists and wildlife agencies use the data compiled to study the long-term status of North American bird populations. You can help too! Join Heinz Refuge's annual Christmas Bird Count this December. Be part of this vital program while enjoying cold winter birds and the warm camaraderie of fellow Citizen Scientists!
Map & Compass in the Woods ~ Wilderness Survival Series
Silver Lake Nature Center 1306 Bath Road , Bristol, PA, United StatesThe arts of Map reading and Compass use are very useful tools when exploring the wilds of Pennsylvania. Use of GPS on cell phones may give many false confidence. Use how to combine these tools in the deep woods of Silver Lake Nature Preserve. Families, individuals, all ages welcome!
Christmas Crossing Re-enactment
Washington Crossing Historic Park 1112 River Road, Washington Crossing, PA, United StatesGeorge Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas Day crossing of the Delaware River and defeat of the Hessians in Trenton is considered a turning point in the Revolutionary War. You can witness this historic event for yourself during one of two reenactments in December. Join fellow citizens from around the country for a Bucks County tradition featuring several hundred reenactors clad in Continental military dress and George Washington himself. Listen as General Washington delivers an inspiring speech and then leads his troops across the river in replica Durham boats. River crossings are contingent upon safe conditions for participants. However, even if conditions do not allow for crossing, ceremonies, speeches and commemorative activities still occur. We suggest visitors arrive before 1 PM on Christmas Day to ensure a good place along the viewing line.
Winter Tree ID
Saunders Woods Preserve 1020 Waverly Rd, Gladwyne, PA, United StatesTrees can be tricky to I.D. in winter, when tell-tale leaves are long gone. But branches, bark, and other features provide clues for us to discover and appreciate. Lace up sturdy boots and join preserve manager Luke Hamilton on a leisurely-paced hike to learn about trees, and enjoy a winter woodland landscape. Event is free! Please complete and submit the secure, on-line registration form on the Natural Lands Trust website, or call 610-353-5587 ext. 221.
Let’s Get Native
Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association 31 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington, , NJ, United StatesJoin Michael Van Clef, founder of Ecological Solutions, LLC, as he shares his expertise in ecological management, native plants and stewardship of natural resources. Learn about beneficial additions to your yard and where to find them! Take home some native starter seeds and information on native plants around the Watershed Reserve. Also being held at Fairview Farm on April 26th - visit njriverfriendly.org/resident for the registration link
Naturalist Foray
A family fun afternoon to see what is happening at the Nature Center. What creatures are out and about? What’s blooming? No dogs allowed. Inclement weather cancels the event. Pre-registration needed/limited spaces
Croaks and Trills – A Frog & Toad Search
Peace Valley Nature Center 170 Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA, United StatesCome slosh with us as we traverse the trails to the place where the frogs and toads are. Learn about their habits and habitats. It may be muddy (tis, spring you know), so be aware of the possibility of wet conditions. Rain date - May 21 Family $10; Individual $5 (Members No Fee) Pre-registration required/limited spaces
Naturalist Foray: Birds and their Songs
Peace Valley Nature Center 170 Chapman Road, Doylestown, PA, United StatesVisit the bird blind and then walk the trails looking for spring migrants and those hearty birds that remained all winter. Bring your binoculars if you have them. NO FEE: Pre-registration Required