Ansonia Nature Center to offer wreath workshop, host annual bird count

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, has a variety of fun activities planned in December.

NATURE’S CHILD: A Tree for Wildlife –  Dec. 2, 10 a.m.

Make some simple pinecone bird feeders, then take a short hike to visit our “giving tree.” 
Preschoolers with an adult will learn about our local evergreen trees and how they make great shelter for wildlife in the winter. 
Tuition: $7 per child ($5 for family-level FANCI members and Ansonia residents). Please register in advance.

WINTER WREATH WORKSHOP – Dec. 3, 10 a.m. 

Celebrate winter and the festive season as you create a wreath from fresh locally grown greens, then decorate your masterpiece with natural trimmings. Enjoy some warm mulled cider and a cookie too! Wreath frames and wire will be provided. Please bring your own hand clippers. Pre-registration required. Materials fee: $15. 

BACK TO BASICS: Needle Felting –  Dec. 3, 1 p.m.

Bring a dose of your own unique creativity for this class based on an ancient craft. Dawn Sotir, needlecraft wizard, will inspire you with her beautiful and practical items made from natural fibers. 
Create a 3D animal of your choice; it’s easier than you might think! Pre-registration only for this popular program. Fee: $10.

117TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT – Dec. 17, 12:30 p.m.

This annual survey provides important data to assess the increase or decline of avian populations worldwide. After an early morning start, the New Haven Bird Club will stop at the Nature Center for their lunch at 12:30. Be ready to join members of the club to look and listen along the park’s trails. For adults. Free.

DRUM IN THE WINTER –  Dec. 17, 5 p.m.

True winter begins on Dec. 21! On that day we’ll have a full 15 hours of darkness! Since June, the days have been getting shorter, but from now on, the reverse will be true. We’ll stoke the fire pit, so bring your drum and other percussion instruments, and warm yourself with good fellowship. Ranger Dawn will lead us. Free, but bring a canned food item for our local homeless shelter.

WINTER NATURE DAYS – Tues.–Thurs., Dec. 27–29, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

For children who love the outdoors and wildlife. These popular educational classes are designed for children 5 to 10 years old. We’ll have a chance to explore the park’s 150 acres and visit a variety of habitats. Come join new and old friends, play games, create beautiful and useful items using natural objects, and even go for a sled ride if we have snow. 
Tuition: $30/day ($90 for all three days) for priority students (Ansonia residents and current family-level FANCI members); $35/day ($105 for all three days) all others. Please come in to register in advance by Dec. 16.

JANUARY 2017

NEW YEAR’S DAY HIKE – Jan. 1, 10 a.m. Bring a healthy start to your new year at the Nature Center. Our ranger will conduct this brisk walk while you learn a little 

natural history trivia along the way. Free, but please register in advance. Inclement weather cancels. 


This is a press release from Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.