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| November |
Saturday, November 14
Community Service
Visitor Center, Fremont
8:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
If you are interested in improving the refuge for visitors and for wildlife, join us in Fremont for a community service project. We will do either a trash cleanup or a planting/weeding project. Dress appropriately for the task and for the weather. Gloves and tools will be provided. Bring your own water bottle. Meet in the parking lot at the NEW Visitor Center. Driving an additional 2.5 miles may be required since the project may be at a different location. For more information, or to make reservations, call 510-745-8695 and leave us your name, your telephone number and the number of people in your group. |
*Monster Bacteria and Other Suspicious Critters
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Let’s explore the salt marsh’s hidden habitats! See monster bacteria, some of whom love rotten eggs, and some of whom make the air we breathe. Dr. Wayne Lanier knows all about it! Join our microbial ecologist for a short hike where we will use field microscopes to dive down into a tiny world – an ecology hidden from view. Ages 8 to 80 and beyond! Please call Debra at 262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations. |
Exploring the Dunes
Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Here’s your chance to explore this refuge that is usually closed to the public. This guided tour (1-1.5 mile) will focus on the wonders of Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge. Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy hike along the dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations required. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624 for additional information and directions. |
*Brownie Eco-Explorer Patch
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Come and learn about habitats, food chains, and how you can help wildlife. Then take a walk to explore the refuge habitats. Maximum ratio of 1 adult to 5 children. Space is limited to 20 people and program fills quickly. Reservations for fall scout programs begin on Thursday, August 27 between 3 p.m. - 4 p.m. and will continue until program is booked. Please call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. Note: badges are not provided. |
*ABC’s of Raptors
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Is it an accipiter or buteo? It could also be a falcon or a kite. Learn the difference as we explore the birds of prey we call raptors. Recommended for grades 3 and up. Kids make their own raptor guidebook! Led by Ed Kantack. Call Debra at 262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations. |
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young children. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-745-8695. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. |
|
Sunday, November 15
*Beginning Bird Watching
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
9:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Ever wonder what birds we have in our very own community? Come learn about the many local and migratory birds. We’ll start with a slide show indoors to learn how to recognize the regulars, then borrow binoculars and take a walk to try your new skills. All ages welcome. Reservations required. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. |
Medicinal Plant Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Join a naturalist and learn the medicinal properties of plants commonly found on the refuge. Find out how these plants can be used to make home remedies for colds, coughs, indigestion and much more. Reservations Required. Call 510-745-8695. Led by Roy Sasai. |
|
Saturday, November 21
Beginning Birding Clinic
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
If you can’t tell your egrets from your cormorants this class is for you! We’ll learn about binoculars, identification books, and other birding basics through hands-on activities and conversation. Then we’ll go out into the field to practice our new skills. Binoculars and books provided during the class, but if you have your own please bring them. Be prepared to be outdoors for about an hour. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Jennifer at 408-262-5513 ext.106. |
Community Service – Gardening
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Come help in our native plant garden by removing non-native plants, pruning, mulching, or doing various other jobs that help protect wildlife and clean up our gardens. We’ll be starting preparations for planting native species. Bring your own gloves or borrow a pair of ours – tools are provided. Dress in layers and bring water and sunscreen. Be prepared to get dirty! Ages 9 and up. Participants 18 and under must be accompanied by a chaperone. Please call Debra for reservations at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. |
*Family Bird Walk
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Visitor Center, Fremont
Let family walks become a shared time of nature learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-745-8695. |
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Sunday, November 22
Birds in Culture
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
What do turkeys, eagles, and hummingbirds all have in common? We rely on birds nearly every day as a source of food or as parts of an ecosystem – they even appear in our money! Sign up for this program and find out how birds have been important parts of various cultures all over the world. Participants will see a slide show, hear a story, and take part in a craft that illustrates the significance and symbolism of our feathered friends. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All ages are welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. |
Deep Ecology in the Marsh for College and University Students
New Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Come to the refuge to learn about the basic ecological principles as they apply to a salt marsh. We shall understand the nature of the intricate relationships that exist between the various entities found in the marsh. At the end, we will have a much clearer and deeper understanding on the “interconnected as well as the interdependence of objects” in nature. Reservation required. Call 510-745-8695. Led by Mansur Nur. |
|
| December |
Saturday, December 5
Beginning Birding Clinic
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
If you can’t tell your egrets from your cormorants this
class is for you! We’ll learn about binoculars, identification
books, and other birding basics through
hands-on activities and conversation. Then we’ll go
out into the field to practice our new skills. Binoculars
and books provided during the class. Be prepared
to be outdoors in the weather for about an hour.
Reservations Required. 408-262-5513 ext.106. |
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy
stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting
of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s
night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds,
and smells of the refuge as night descends. Meet
at the Visitor Center located by the first parking lot
to the right on Marshlands Road. Not suitable for
young children. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call
510-745-8695. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. |
|
Sunday, December 6
Salinity Sleuths
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Calling all sleuths! You are invited to come investigate
the salt marshes and find out why salinity is so
essential. This program will focus on the importance
of Bay salinity and how it relates to endangered species
habitat. Participants will have the opportunity to
hear from a presenter and go on a guided walking
tour along the New Chicago Marsh Trail. RESERVATIONS
REQUIRED – All ages are welcome. Call Eric
at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. |
|
Saturday, December 12
Exploring the Dunes
Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Here’s your chance to explore this refuge that is usually
closed to the public. This guided tour (1-1.5 mile)
will focus on the wonders of Antioch Dunes National
Wildlife Refuge. Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy
hike along the dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations
required. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624
for additional information and directions. |
* Junior Girl Scout
Wildlife Badge
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Calling all Junior Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County!
Anyone out there need to earn a Wildlife badge?
We’ve got the program just for you! Come to the
wildlife refuge and learn about features of different
creatures, observe animal behavior, see how you
can help wildlife, and so much more. Take a walk
to explore the habitats at the south end of the bay.
Maximum ratio of 1 adult for every 5 children. Space
is limited to 20 people and program fills quickly.
Reservations for winter scout programs begin
on Tuesday, November 24th between 3-4 p.m.
and will continue until program is full. Call Debra
at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. (Note: badges are not
provided) |
*Marshlands of Dreams
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Join a refuge ranger on a 1- mile walk of the LaRiviere
Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to
marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized
the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and
transportation. There are opportunities for bird watching
as well. Led by Paul Mueller. |
* Seasons and Weather
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Why is it summer in San Jose, California when it’s
winter in Sydney, Australia? Do you know the difference
between the equinox and solstice? Discover
the answers to these questions, learn some interesting
facts about weather, and how it affects people
and wildlife. Suitable for ages 9 and up. Led by Ed
Kantack. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for
reservations. |
|
Sunday, December 13
In Search of: California Grey Fox
Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn about the California Grey Fox, the only
canine which can climb trees. What do they look
like? Where do they live? What do they eat? Where
have they been seen? What is the best time to see
them? What’s in our habitat that makes them unique
to the Bay Area? We will share information about this
rarely-seen fox to optimize your chances of capturing
a glimpse of them. The tour will be comprised of a
45-minute lecture about the California Grey Fox and
use of binoculars. Dress warmly and bring binoculars
and rain gear for a 45-minute walk. Led by Roy Sasai. |
|
Saturday, December 19
Salt Pond Restoration 101:
An Introduction to the Project
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Restoration of 15,100 acres of South San Francisco
Bay salt ponds to wetlands habitats has begun.
Please join us for overview of this incredible project
happening in our backyard. Program will be held indoors
in the auditorium. All are welcome! |
|
Sunday, December 20
Chompers & Stompers
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Have you ever wondered why birds come in so many
shapes, sizes, and colors? Come and find out why!
We will examine different bird specimens we have
collected over the years to see how birds have
evolved into some extraordinary features and behaviors.
Participants will have the opportunity to listen to
a presenter and go on a guided walking tour along
the New Chicago Marsh Trail. RESERVATIONS
REQUIRED – All ages are welcome. Call Eric at
408-262-5513 ext. 104. |
|
Sunday, December 27
In Search of: California Grey Fox
Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn about the California Grey Fox, the only
canine which can climb trees. What do they look
like? Where do they live? What do they eat? Where
have they been seen? What is the best time to see
them? What’s in our habitat that makes them unique
to the Bay Area? We will share information about this
rarely seen fox to optimize your chances of capturing
a glimpse of them. The tour will be comprised of a
45-minute lecture about the California Grey Fox and
use of binoculars. Dress warmly and bring binoculars
and rain gear for a 45-minute walk. Led by Roy Sasai. |
|
| January |
Saturday, January 9
Exploring the Dunes
Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Here’s your chance to explore this refuge that is usually
closed to the public. This guided tour (1-1.5 mile)
will focus on the wonders of Antioch Dunes National
Wildlife Refuge. Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy
hike along the dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations
required. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624
for additional information and directions. |
*Brownie Eco-Explorer Patch
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Come and learn about habitats, food chains, and how
you can help wildlife. Then take a walk to explore the
habitats at the south end of the bay. Maximum ratio
of 1 adult to 5 children. Space is limited to 20 people
and program fills quickly. Reservations for winter
scout programs begin on Tuesday, November
24th between 3-4 p.m. and will continue until program
is full. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102.
(Note: badges are not provided) |
*Marshlands of Dreams
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Join a refuge ranger on a 1- mile walk of the LaRiviere
Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to
marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized
the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and
transportation. There are opportunities for bird watching
as well. Led by Paul Mueller. |
*Webelos Naturalist Badge
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Anyone out there need to earn a Naturalist badge?
We’ve got the program that’s right for Webelos!
Learn about birds, migration, flyways, food chains,
human impact, and the importance of wetlands. Then
take a walk and use our binoculars to spot birds in
the wild. Maximum ratio of 1 adult for every 5 children.
Space is limited to 20 people and program fills
quickly. Reservations for winter scout programs
begin on Tuesday, November 24th between 3-4
p.m. and will continue until program is full. Call
Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. (Note: badges are
not provided) |
|
Sunday, January 10
Watershed Appreciation
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Did you know that you live in an incredibly unique
and critical watershed? Join us at the Environmental
Education Center to learn about what makes this
place so exciting, and how you can help protect it.
Participants will have the opportunity to hear from a
presenter, take part in hands-on activities, and go on
a guided walking tour along the New Chicago Marsh
Trail. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All ages are
welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. |
*In Search of:
Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse
Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn about the tiny (about the size of your
thumb) endangered Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse.
What do they look like? Where do they live? What do
they eat? Where have they been seen? What’s in our
habitat that makes them unique to the Bay Area? We
will share information about this rarely seen mouse
to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse of
them. The tour will be comprised of a 45-minute lecture
about the Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse and use of
binoculars. Dress warmly and bring binoculars and
rain gear for a 45-minute walk. Led by Roy Sasai. |
|
Saturday, January 16
Oliver Salt Works Hike
Eden Landing Ecological Reserve, Hayward
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Hidden among the salt ponds is one of the East Bay’s
most intriguing historical sites. The refuge and the
South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project are sponsoring
this hike to the old Oliver Salt Works within
the Eden Landing Ecological Reserve. We’ll be walking
into an area of the Reserve not yet open to the
public so please be prepared to walk several miles
on unimproved levees. Reservations required. Call
408-262-5513 ext.106. |
Community Service
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Do you need to fulfill community service requirements?
Or would you just like to come lend a hand?
Come help in our native plant garden by removing
nonnative plants, pruning, mulching, or various other
jobs that help protect wildlife and clean up our gardens.
It’s a great service project for scout groups,
high school students needing community service,
church groups, or home-schooled groups. Bring your
own gloves or borrow a pair of ours – tools are provided.
Dress in layers and bring water and sunscreen.
Be prepared to get dirty! Ages 9 and up. Participants
18 and under must be accompanied by a chaperone.
Call Debra for reservations at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. |
*Quackers and Honkers
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
It’s winter and most waterfowl have migrated from
the North to a milder climate. Many are spending the
winter here in the Bay Area. Enjoy a brief slide show
about our migratory ducks and geese. Then join us
on a leisurely walk to see which ducks are residing
at the refuge this year. Open to all ages. Led by Ed
Kantack. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for
reservations. |
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll
along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the
sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night
shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells
of the refuge as night descends. Meet at the Visitor
Center located by the first parking lot to the right on
Marshlands Road. Not suitable for young children.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-745-8695.
Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. |
|
Friday, January 22
*Night Sky Party!
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Meet the stars of winter! Join amateur astronomer,
Bob Havner and some friends as we learn about
constellations. Make a star chart and then venture
outside to view the night sky through a telescope.
Afterwards, warm up with some hot chocolate. Bring
your own binoculars or spotting scopes if you have
them. Dress warmly, as it gets cold in the evening.
Fun for the whole family! Program will go on sprinkling
rain or shine. Program will be canceled only if
it is pouring rain. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call
Debra at 408-262-5513 ext 102. |
|
Saturday, January 23
Beginning Birding Clinic
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
If you can’t tell your egrets from your cormorants this
class is for you! We’ll learn about binoculars, identification
books, and other birding basics through
hands-on activities and conversation. Then we’ll go
out into the field to practice our new skills. Binoculars
and books provided. Be prepared to be outdoors
in the weather for about an hour. Reservations required.
Call 408-262-5513 x106. |
*Brownie Eco-Explorer Patch
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Come and learn about habitats, food chains, and how
you can help wildlife. Then take a walk to explore the
habitats at the south end of the bay. Maximum ratio
of 1 adult to 5 children. Space is limited to 20 people
and program fills quickly. Reservations for winter
scout programs begin on Tuesday, November
24th between 3-4 p.m. and will continue until program
is full. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102.
(Note: badges are not provided) |
*Family Bird Walk
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Visitor Center, Fremont
Let family walks become a shared time of nature
learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their
personal bird watching field guides, and then head
out onto the trails to find those birds. Learn about the
salt marsh habitat along the way. A limited number
of binoculars are available to borrow. Meet at the
Visitor Center located by the first parking lot to the
right on Marshlands Road. Recommended for children
ages 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call
510-745-8695. |
*Beginning Bird
Photography Workshop
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Whether you are interested in photography tips or
would like to get to know some of the birds commonly
sighted at the refuge, join us! We will discuss ideal
sighting and photography conditions, lighting, composition,
and equipment. We will also have a slide
show to familiarize you with some common shorebirds
at the refuge. Then we will go on an easy walk
and try out our skills. Please be sure to bring your
camera and/or binoculars and wear comfortable
walking shoes. Led by Jen Woo. Recommended for
ages 14 and up. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102
for reservations. |
|
Sunday, January 24
Magical Mystery Marsh Show
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The refuge’s own Amazing Xander will astonish and
excite you with mysterious and eye-popping illusions.
Come and see why your local national wildlife refuge
is truly a magical place. Participants will have the
opportunity to take part in a magic show, hear from
a presenter, and go on a guided walking tour along
the New Chicago Marsh Trail. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – Spaces are limited, all ages are welcome.
Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. |
In Search of:
Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse
Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn about the tiny (about the size of your
thumb) endangered Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse.
What do they look like? Where do they live? What do
they eat? Where have they been seen? What’s in our
habitat that makes them unique to the Bay Area? We
will share information about this rarely seen mouse
to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse of
them. The tour will be comprised of a 45-minute lecture
about the Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse and use of
binoculars. Dress warmly, bring binoculars and rain
gear for a 45-minute walk. Led by Roy Sasai. |
|
Saturday, January 30
Birding the Refuge
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
In the wintertime, there’s always something great to
discover on the refuge. Join us as we practice our
birding skills in the different habitats around the
Education Center. Families and beginners welcome.
Meet near the building entrance. Call 409-262-5513
x106 for information. |
*Life at the Bottom of the
Food Chain
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Wetlands microbes are often called “the lungs of the
earth.” Explore the dynamics of microbial communities
in LaRiviere Marsh ponds. Join microbiologist
Wayne Lanier, PhD for a brief presentation in the
Visitor Center, then a microscope hike to LaRiviere
Marsh where we will sample and view the most ancient
creatures on earth. See how they produce the
oxygen we breathe and take up the carbon dioxide
we produce. Discover how the tides shape these vital
communities. Easy short hiking level. Ages 9-90
years. Call 510-745-8695 for reservations. |
|
Sunday, January 31
Duck Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Thousands of ducks winter in the San
Francisco Bay every year
Hear a short lecture
on duck identification.
Then we’ll head
out on the trail to
try your new skills.
A limited number
of binoculars
are available to
borrow. Dress
warmly. Led by
Carmen Minch. |
|
| February |
Saturday, February 6
*Junior Girl Scout
Wildlife Badge
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Calling all Junior Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County!
Anyone out there need to earn a Wildlife badge?
We’ve got the program just for you! Come to the
wildlife refuge and learn about features of different
creatures, observe animal behavior, see how you
can help wildlife, and so much more. Take a walk
to explore the habitats at the south end of the bay.
Maximum ratio of 1 adult for every 5 children. Space
is limited to 20 people and program fills quickly.
Reservations for winter scout programs begin
on Tuesday, November 24th between 3-4 p.m.
and will continue until program is full. Call Debra
at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. (Note: badges are not
provided) |
*Marshlands of Dreams
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Join a refuge ranger on a 1- mile walk of the LaRiviere
Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to
marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized
the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and
transportation. There are opportunities for bird watching
as well. Led by Paul Mueller. |
*Webelos Naturalist Badge
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Anyone out there need to earn a Naturalist badge?
We’ve got the program that’s right for Webelos!
Learn about birds, migration, flyways, food chains,
human impact, and the importance of wetlands. Then
take a walk and use our binoculars to spot birds in
the wild. Maximum ratio of 1 adult for every 5 children.
Space is limited to 20 people and program fills
quickly. Reservations for winter scout programs
begin on Tuesday, November 24th between 3-4
p.m. and will continue until program is full. Call
Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. (Note: badges are
not provided) |
|
Sunday, February 7
Webelos Naturalist Program
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Attention Webelos! Earn your naturalist badge in just
two hours. During this hike, learn about birds, flyways,
food chains, and the importance of wetlands.
Bring your binoculars, or borrow one of ours. Space
is limited to 15 Webelos. Call 510-745-8695. Led by
June Smith. |
|
Saturday, February 13
Birding the Refuge
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
In the wintertime, there’s always something great to
discover on the refuge. Join us as we practice our
birding skills in the different habitats around the
Education Center. Families and beginners welcome.
Meet near the building entrance. Call 409-262-5513
x106 for information. |
*Life at the Bottom of the
Food Chain
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Wetlands microbes are often called “the lungs of the
earth.” Explore the dynamics of microbial communities
in LaRiviere Marsh ponds. Join microbiologist
Wayne Lanier, PhD for a brief presentation in the
Visitor Center, then a microscope hike to LaRiviere
Marsh where we will sample and view the most ancient
creatures on earth. See how they produce the
oxygen we breathe and take up the carbon dioxide
we produce. Discover how the tides shape these vital
communities. Easy short hiking level. Ages 9-90
years. Call 510-745-8695 for reservations. |
Exploring the Dunes
Antioch Dunes NWR, Antioch
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Here’s your chance to explore this refuge that is usually
closed to the public. This guided tour (1-1.5 mile)
will focus on the wonders of Antioch Dunes National
Wildlife Refuge. Wear sturdy shoes for the sandy
hike along the dunes. All ages welcome. No reservations
required. No facilities. Contact 510-521-9624
for additional information and directions. |
|
Sunday, February 14
Valentine’s Day In the Marsh
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Spice up your Valentine’s Day with a guided tour of
the New Chicago Marsh. The Environmental Education
Center in Alviso hosts a variety of habitats that
support incredibly unique native flora and fauna.
Participants will have the opportunity to hear from a
presenter and go on a guided walking tour of the New
Chicago Marsh Trail. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All ages are welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513
ext. 104. |
*In Search of:
California Clapper Rail
Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn about the endangered and rarely seen
California Clapper Rail. What do they look like?
Where do they live? What do they eat? Where have
they been seen? What are the best time and the best
tide to view them? What’s in our habitat that makes
them unique to the Bay Area? We will share information
about this rarely seen bird to optimize your
chances of capturing a glimpse of them. The tour will
be comprised of a 45-minute lecture about Clapper
Rails and use of binoculars. Dress warmly and bring
binoculars and rain gear for a 45- minute walk. Led
by Roy Sasai. |
|
Saturday, February 20
Ravenswood Hike
Bedwell Bayfront Park, Menlo Park
10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
The 2.3-mile perimeter trail at Bedwell Bayfront Park
offers great opportunities to discover winter wildlife
and to discuss how future wetlands restoration will
shape this piece of the Bay. Offered by the refuge
and the Friends of Bedwell Bayfront Park. Meet at the
main parking lot bathrooms at Bedwell Bayfront Park.
Call 408-262-5513 ext. 106 for information. |
*Living Wetlands
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Our refuge consists of salt marsh, salt ponds, and
tidal and non tidal sloughs. Learn about human and
wildlife dependence on our wetlands. How does the
marsh affect a nice seafood dinner at your favorite
restaurant? The answers can be found by enjoying
a slide show depicting the life and death struggles
of our marsh inhabitants. Open to all ages. Led by
Ed Kantack. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for
reservations. |
* Beginning Bird
Photography Workshop
Environmental Education Center, Alviso
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Whether you are interested in photography tips or
would like to get to know some of the birds commonly
sighted at the refuge, join us! We will discuss ideal
sighting and photography conditions, lighting, composition,
and equipment. We will also have a slide
show to familiarize you with some common shorebirds
at the refuge. Then we will go on an easy walk
and try out our skills. Please be sure to bring your
camera, binoculars, and wear comfortable walking
shoes. Led by Jen Woo. Recommended for ages
14 and up. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for
reservations. |
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll
along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the
sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night
shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells
of the refuge as night descends. Meet at the Visitor
Center located by the first parking lot to the right on
Marshlands Road. Not suitable for young children.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-745-8695.
Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. |
|
Saturday, February 27
*Family Bird Walk
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Visitor Center, Fremont
Let family walks become a shared time of nature
learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their
personal bird watching field guides, and then head
out onto the trails to find those birds. Learn about the
salt marsh habitat along the way. A limited number
of binoculars are available to borrow. Meet at the
Visitor Center located by the first parking lot to the
right on Marshlands Road. Recommended for children
ages 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call
510-745-8695. |
|
Sunday, February 28
Duck Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Thousands of ducks winter in the San Francisco Bay
every year. Hear a short lecture on duck identification.
Then we’ll head out on the trail to try your new
skills. A limited number of binoculars are available to
borrow. Dress warmly. Led by Carmen Minch. |
*In Search of:
California Clapper Rail
Visitor Center, Fremont
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn about the endangered and rarely seen
California Clapper Rail. What do they look like?
Where do they live? What do they eat? Where have
they been seen? What are the best time and the best
tide to view them? What’s in our habitat that makes
them unique to the Bay Area? We will share information
about this rarely
seen bird to optimize
your chances of capturing
a glimpse of
them. The tour will
be comprised of a
45-minute lecture
about Clapper Rails
and use of binoculars.
Dress warmly and
bring binoculars and
rain gear for a 45- minute
walk. Led by Roy
Sasai. |
|
| It is the policy of the Fish and Wildlife Service to accommodate individuals with disabilities. If you have questions concerning programs, or if you need accommodation to enable you to participate, please contact a visitor services staff person, either at the Visitor Center or at the Environmental Education Center. |
| *Trails are generally level. Surface and trail conditions vary. Please call for accessibility information. |
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