Learn about pigeons, take a hike in March at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, has scheduled several fun and educational activities in March. 

MAPLE SUGARING FOR FAMILIES – March 7, 11 a.m.
A very long time ago, the native people of the northeastern part of our country shared their sweet tree know-how with the newcomers from Europe. 
Ranger Dawn and Alison present an introduction to making maple syrup the old-fashioned way, and help us to choose just the right tree for tapping into this sweet treat! 
FEE: $6 per person. Please call to register. Family program; children must be accompanied by an adult.

PIGEONS THROUGH THE AGES – March 14, 2 p.m.
Did you know pigeons were first domesticated over 5,000 years ago? Take a deep dive into dove history with Ranger Evelyn. Learn what makes these birds so unique, the role they’ve played in wartime, and even meet Chuckles, our resident ring-necked dove. 
Play the part of a carrier pigeon and learn to navigate the way birds do with an orienteering game. 
For ages 10 and up. FREE. Please register.

SPRING TERM JUNIOR RANGERS – Registration begins March 18.
Calling all kids 11 to 14 years old who love nature! Has your child wanted to work with animals, garden, help maintain our trails, and help with special events? This is the opportunity to help the Nature Center in our 8-week after-school program, starting April 16 at 3:30 pm. Parental permission is required. 
Class size is limited; this class fills up fast! FREE.

HIKE: Signs of Spring – March 22, 1 p.m.
Enjoy this outdoor hike with Ranger Amie to find and listen to emerging mammals, insects, birds, and amphibians that show up in the spring. Learn about what these signs of spring are as you observe animals and plants that are waking from their winter slumber. Wear appropriate shoes for wet and muddy conditions. FREE; for all ages.

TRACKING AND AWARENESS – March 28, 1 p.m.
Brush up on your tracking and awareness skills with Alison Rubelmann, Director of the Ansonia Nature Center. 
This class will be very hands-on, teaching you techniques by doing physical and mental exercises to help expand your senses. We will explore and observe the Nature Center’s property for wildlife signs and tracks using our new tracking skills. Be prepared to go off trail into the bush.
This program is geared for ages 14 and up. Dress for the weather and prepare to spend the afternoon. Bring water and a snack.
FREE. Please register; class size is limited.

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*** ONGOING PROGRAMS ***

Sunday Guided Hikes – Sundays, 1 p.m.
Join a Nature Center guide on Sunday afternoons for fun, exercise, and learning about our trails! See the above listings for hikes with a specific theme.

Fiber Arts Group – Tuesdays, 6 p.m.
Get together with others to work on your fiber arts projects! Bring any kind of fiber work -knitting, felting, crocheting, etc. A great way to dedicate time to your handiwork and socialize too. FREE.

Creature Features – Saturdays, noon.
Come to meet our furry, scaly, and feathery animal ambassadors. You’ll have the chance to touch and hold them in this FREE family program for all ages.

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