The Great Outdoors
Our naturalist gets icky, slimy and spooky in October

Wildlife Presentations
Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads

Saturday, October 9: 10am – 1pm
- Static display at Naturalist’s Cabin at Russell Crossroads
Saturday, October 9: 1 – 2pm 
- Formal presentation at Naturalist’s Cabin
Saturday, October 30: 10am – 1pm
- Static display at tent on The Green
Saturday, October 30: 1 – 2pm
- Formal presentation at Naturalist’s Cabin
Sunday, October 31: 11am – 12pm
- Formal presentation at Naturalist’s Cabin

Creepy and repugnant, but also pretty cool
It seems that nature’s more unsavory specimens have either too many legs or not enough. Spiders, scorpions and snakes – are they as repulsive as they seem at first glance? We say no! In October the Naturalist’s display will focus on some unsettling species from the natural world. Creepy-crawlies will be secured in glass containers for you to examine at your comfort level. This is a great opportunity to safely introduce children to animals that often produce an exaggerated fear response. Slithering snakes will show off their scales and invite you to feel their surprising texture.  See slender-legged spiders strut their stuff and spin their webs. Although their forms seem foreign to us, creepy critters are perfectly designed to do jobs that you and I would rather not have. You’ll find that these seedy creatures are so interesting…it’s scary!  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

Halloween Inspirations
In October we will seek the icky, the slimy and the spooky. Spiders and other creepy beasties abound throughout Russell Forest. Some are bold and sassy, others are shy and unassuming. All of them will give you the willies until you really stop and look at their amazing features and behavior. Very few of our local spider and snake species pose any danger to humans, and we’ll discover the differences between what could harm us and those that we unjustifiably fear. Our search for multi-legged monsters will lead us under logs and beneath the bark of trees – into the hidden world of scary specimens. 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 >