










Join Richard as you explore Crane’s Gove Creek at the Oakdale Nature Preserve. Midwestern streams have an interesting natural history from several perspectives, including biology and geology. This exploration will take place at a couple of locations along the stream and you will be wading in water where the opportunity is good.
It is strongly suggested that you wear old shoes that offer toe protection, because there are plenty of rocks and sticks on the bottom of the creek. August and September are lazy months with a slow-down in Audubon activities for kids, so take advantage of this one, led by an experienced “big kid!”
Meet at the main parking area of Oakdale. If you have any questions about the event, call Richard Benning at 815-865-5279.
If you would like to apply for a scholarship for educational opportunities such as courses, programs, and workshops related to our mission, you can find an application form at the monthly meetings near the display section or email nwilaudubon@gmail.com.
Brown Thrasher
Toxostoma rufum
This bird moves its long black bill back and forth through a pile of leaves like a broom sweeping the floor in a kind of “thrashing” motion. Leaves scatter in the air as the bird pokes into the soil and finds a small beetle to eat or maybe some other small insect. Male and female brown thrashers look alike. Their heads, bodies and tails are a rich, brownish, rust color. Their bellies are white with black, teardrop-shaped markings. These birds have long legs, bright yellow eyes and bills that are long and straight.
* Sources include www.kids.nationalgeographic.com and www.allaboutbirds.org.
Children, Nature and You Resources to help you give the children you influence the awe and wonder that only the natural world can inspire
Freeport Park District Information on all the Freeport parks
Freeport Public Library More than books on a shelf...visit the Freeport Public Library
Freeport/Stephenson County Convention and Visitors Bureau Events located in Stephenson County, IL
Getting Kids Involved (The Cornell Lab of Ornithology) Includes bird information, tips, and more for kids and families
The Great Backyard Bird Count for Kids Sponsored by the Audubon Society and other partners
Jane Addams Recreation Trail Ride or Hike the beautiful Jane Addams Trail
Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots A program of the Jane Goodall Institute offering a variety of programs and resources
National Audubon website Use “Get Outside” and “Family Time” prompts
National Wildlife Federation Many family-friendly articles; Ranger Rick family magazine
Paddle the Pecatonica River Water Trail Enjoy Illinois’ “Friendliest Paddle” on the Pecatonica River
Resource Guide Supplement to Last Child in the Woods Designed for parents, teachers, and community leaders to help them encourage children’s enjoyment of the great outdoors.
Severson Dells Nature Center Located near Rockford, IL.
Sierra Club Outdoors The program's goal is to give every child in America an outdoor experience.
Adapted from familyeducation.com.
Go Bug Hunting!
Observe in your own backyard or anywhere. Use a magnifying glass to observe closely all the interesting bugs. What are their colors? How do they protect themselves? Where do they live?
Create Rock Art
Collect rocks and paint them a time-honored and very popular kid activity.
Make Pressed Flower Placemats
Midsummer Memento Wreath
Needed:
Instructions:
Check out our full calendar of activities, events, and educational opportunities. You're sure to find something to interest you. Please join us!
Events include:
For more details, see the current newsletter.
Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2019
Field Trip: Night Walk at Oakdale Nature Preserve...
Tuesday, Mar. 5, 2019
March Program: Clean Energy for All: Building Illinois' Clean Energy Future...
Friday, Mar. 15, 2019
Elkhorn Creek Woodcock Watch...
Wednesday, Mar. 20, 2019
Elkhorn Creek Woodcock Watch...