Saturday, February 4, 10:00 a.m.
Groundhog Hike, Indian Rock Shelters Trail
Look for tracks and hiding places of groundhogs and other woodland creatures with MLCT president Ben Diebold and director Bob Kuchta. See the modest beginnings of the Neck River, and rock ledge caves used for winter shelter by members of the Hammonasset Tribe. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy boots, or snowshoes if appropriate. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Meet at the trailhead on Lake Drive.
Saturday, February 18, 10:00 a.m.
Winter Wildlife Tracking, Lowry Woods
Search for animal tracks and signs at MLCT's newest property - the Lowry Woods Community Forest, with local naturalist Erik Becker. We'll look for signs of white-tailed deer, coyotes, rabbits, grey squirrels, flying squirrels, red foxes, owls, bobcats and more. This adventure is open to all ages.
Meet in the Lowry Woods parking lot on Warpas Road. No dogs please.
Red-bellied Woodpecker
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a common bird in the Land Trust forests. Its name is somewhat odd since the pinkish color on the breast area is seldom visible, but the red cap is prominent. Look for zebra-stripes on the back and flashes of white on the wings when it’s in flight. The male has the red all the way to the bill, but females only have a red crown and brown before their beak. The call is a quick quirrrr, and a ch-ch-ch-chirrrrrrr! Thirty years ago the Red-bellied Woodpecker would have been a rarity in Connecticut, but today it’s one of our most common birds.
Painting © Michael DiGiorgio