The Explorer Magazine Fall 2023 | Page 11

Squirrel Feeder Build Saturday , Oct . 21 • 11 a . m . and 2 p . m . McCloud Nature Park
Have you walked the Prairie Maze and are feeling a little nutty ? Why not provide your visiting squirrels with a fine dining experience ? Build a squirrel picnic table feeder for your back yard ! All materials and tools necessary will be provided .
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 4 THROUGH ADULT . CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 16 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A PARENT OR GUARDIAN . FEE : $ 20 / FEEDER ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY OCT . 11 APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION : 1 HOUR
Winter Wreath Workshops Saturday , Dec . 2 11:30 a . m ., 1 p . m ., 2:30 p . m ., 3:30 p . m . McCloud Nature Park
Make holiday memories while creating a wreath to adorn your home or to give as a gift . We will start with wild grapevine and fresh evergreens to assemble the wreath , and then decorate with ribbon and ornaments that we supply ( or bring your own ). This program is a favorite for individuals and families , so register early !
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 6 THROUGH ADULT FEE : $ 15 / WREATH ( UP TO 2 PEOPLE PER WREATH ) ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY NOV . 28 APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION : 1 HOUR
Astronomy Saturday , Oct . 28 • 7 p . m . McCloud Nature Park
Take stargazing to new heights by escaping the light pollution of the city and heading to McCloud Nature Park , where thousands of stars twinkle like jewels in the dark night sky !
The Indiana Astronomical Society partners with Park Naturalists to hold this sky seminar and viewing . These programs , led by expert sky watchers , are geared for the novice astronomer . This program will begin with a brief informational session (“ sky seminar ”) where you will learn which planets and constellations will be visible that night .
These seminars last about 30 minutes and are best suited for ages 8 through adult .
IMPORTANT NOTE : Sky seminars will take place rain or shine , but sky viewings are dependent upon clear skies . If poor weather is forecasted or any severe weather advisories are issued , the skyviewing portion of the program will be canceled .
For updates regarding the seminars , follow the Hendricks County Parks and Recreation Facebook page or call the Weather and Program Hotline at ( 317 ) 718-6111 .
RECOMMENDED FOR AGES 8 THROUGH ADULT | FREE TO ATTEND NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION : 2 HOURS
Turkey Games Saturday , Nov . 18 • 1 to 3 p . m .
W . S . Gibbs Memorial Park
Did you know that bowling three strikes in a row is called a turkey ? Join a naturalist at Gibbs and partake in some turkey-themed games to get warmed up for
Thanksgiving ! Meet at the central parking lot .
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES FREE TO ATTEND
NO ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION :
2 HOURS ( ONGOING )
Winter Campfire Saturday , Dec . 9 • 1 p . m . W . S . Gibbs Memorial Park
It may be cold outside , but we ’ re bringing warmth to the park ! Join a naturalist for a winter campfire , complete with gourmet smore ’ s and hot cocoa . Be sure to stick around for enjoyment of the sledding hill or bird-watching . Meet at the central parking lot .
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL AGES | FEE : $ 5 / PERSON ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY DEC . 5 APPROXIMATE PROGRAM DURATION IS 2 HOURS ( ONGOING )
Jamestown Area Christmas Bird Count Saturday , Dec . 16 • 8:30 a . m . McCloud Nature Park
Add to a century of citizen science data by participating in the Jamestown area bird count ! With experienced birder Roger Hedge and others , you will count all birds heard and seen . This data will be compiled by the Audubon Society and will be used by scientists to measure bird populations . Birders of all levels are welcome to participate .
Dress for the weather , wear comfortable shoes or boots , bring water , snacks , and binoculars and a bird field guide if you have them . Heated restrooms are available at the McCloud Nature Center .
Count birds at McCloud Nature Park for several hours in the morning and then continue to cover the rest of the Jamestown area if you wish .
Contact Roger Hedge at 317-473-3222 ( cell ) or rogerlhedge @ gmail . com for more information .
Fall 2023 • 11