 The Great Outdoors
Naturalist combines nocturnal creatures and football, and makes it fun!
In August, Marianne delves into the creatures of the night, their habits and habitats. But a special presentation for Auburn fans (and everyone) will include her very famous flying friend, War Eagle VII.
Nature Presentations
Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads
Saturday, August 6, 11am-12pm
Saturday, August 13, 11am-12pm
Saturday, August 20, 3 show times! 11am, 12pm and 1pm
Sunday, August 21, 2 show times! 11am and 1pm
August. 6 & 13 - "Waking up the Neighbors"
This month, we’ll be rousing some sleepy animals to burn some daylight with us at the Naturalist’s Cabin. On August 6th & 13th, we will be studying nocturnal animals. Owl, opossum and frog have powers that no human superhero has ever been able to duplicate: they were designed with nighttime in mind. We will examine their marvelous features and discover exactly how they’re able to thrive at times when we are “blind as a bat.” Exceptional hearing, eyesight and other anatomical designs will be discussed and demonstrated. We’ll look closely at an owl’s ear and a toad’s eye – seeing things usually hidden away until nightfall. This is your opportunity to experience some nocturnal magic and still get to bed at a decent hour. No charge – everyone is welcome!
August 20 & 21: "WAR EAGLE!"
On Saturday, August 20th & Sunday, August 21st, Naturalist Marianne will be bringing Auburn University’s War Eagle to the Naturalist’s Cabin. This educational presentation will define raptor by first exhibiting live specimens that are not an eagle before building up to the famous bird that is large in both size and reputation: War Eagle VII. This bird’s call name is Nova and he is a spectacular Golden Eagle that has been flying before Auburn’s home football games since 2004. Presentation will include natural history information about each of the birds in attendance as well as answers to frequently asked questions about how the birds are trained to perform in front of 87,000 Auburn fans. With the opening game on the horizon, this eagle is about to get very busy as he readies the 2010 National Champions for each competition. Now is your chance to see him up close - bring your shakers and a camera – great photo opportunities! 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, August 6, 8am
Saturday, August 13, 8am
Saturday, August 20, 3pm
"Waking the Neighbors"
The nocturnal nappers in Russell Forest will find themselves awakened during our August Guided Nature Tours. Where do nighttime creatures spend their days dozing? We never know what we’ll find, but we will seek snoozing critters and their hideouts during this energetic hike. Favored roosting sites for night birds and burrows for ground-dwelling animals will be identified and examined. Why are these particular spots chosen above others? How do the creatures of the night deal with daytime disturbances? What is the difference between diurnal and crepuscular? We’ll discover answers to this and more as we discuss nocturnal nature on a warm summer’s day. The trek will begin at the Wilson Road Trailhead and last for approximately 90 minutes. Impromptu discoveries always abound. Gain both learning and 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.
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