The Great Outdoors
In the forest, it's playtime for critters, work time for fungi

Wildlife Presentations
Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads

Saturday, September 4: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Sunday, September 5: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Saturday, September 11: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Saturday, September 18: 11:00am – 12:00pm

Birds do it, squirrels do it... come out and play!
September’s cool morning breezes encourage you to fill your lungs with freshness and enjoy opportunities to frolic outdoors. We’re not the only ones who are stirred towards recreation this month: many local animal species also exhibit “play” behavior when weather permits. Although they may be too shy to frisk for us, there will be selected species on display in the Naturalist’s Cabin for our discussion on how, when and why wild animals play. In some respects, we have many of our playtime habits in common with our wild neighbors. Wrestling raccoons will remind you of brawling boys and scrapping squirrels will remind you of that kid who sat behind you in homeroom. We’ll look at the form and function of play in a variety of Russell Forest residents. Live animals – bring your camera! No charge – everyone is welcome!

If you have questions for Marianne, she can be contacted at 256.496.2710 or Naturalist@Russelllands.com.

Guided Nature Tours
Meet at Wilson Road Trailhead

Saturday, September 4 - 9:00am
Saturday, September 11 - 9:00am
Saturday, September 18 - 9:00am

Spend time with a real fungi!
Mold. Mildew. Mycelia. Mushrooms. Once you get the eye for these manifestations you’ll find that they are ubiquitous. The wetter month of September will give us the opportunity to discover a variety of mushrooms and other fungi that are hard at work in our local woods. Their job as decomposers is one of the most important in Russell Forest. The colloquial names of some species are fun to learn and hard to forget. As we walk the trail, we will discuss the functions of the fungus and try to imagine how differently the landscape would look without them. The trek will begin at the Wilson Road Trailhead and last for approximately 90 minutes. Impromptu discoveries always abound. Learn while you exercise! Appropriate for participants ages 5 - 105.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED! There is a $10 fee for this program. Please contact our Naturalist at 256-496-2710 to inquire and to register.

For all Guided Nature Tours: It is recommended that participants have a moderate fitness level and are able to stand or walk for at least two hours. Walking pace will be relaxed with frequent stops. Comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothing and shoes are advised. Participants may also wish to bring bottled water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Binoculars and cameras are welcome. There are no bathrooms on the Forest Trails.

If you have questions for Marianne, she can be contacted at 256.496.2710 or Naturalist@Russelllands.com.

To see all events, view the Russell Lands On Lake Martin interactive events calendar >