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We will lead a hike around Oakdale and look for birds and other fall creatures before the snow arrives! We will have binoculars for the kids and family members to use and nets/jars to observe any critters we can find. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather with good hiking footwear. A parent or guardian needs to be present with the children at all times.
Turkey Vulture
Cathartes aura
The naked red heads of the adult turkey vulture look like those of turkeys but they are not the same. The Turkey Vulture is a large bird that soars in the sky and likes to eat carrion (the dead body of an animal). You might see one soaring high in the sky and holding the wings in a little bit of a V-shape.
* Information adapted from Nature Mapping Foundation.
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.
Make a list or, better yet, a chart with picture:
Then go home, have some hot chocolate and talk about your findings.
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.
Saturday, Apr. 17, 2021
Annual Crane Count...
Thursday, Apr. 22, 2021
Bird Walk: N. Jane Addams Trail and Orangeville Wetlands...
Wednesday, Apr. 28, 2021
Bird Walk: Newell Tract, Oakdale Nature Preserve...
Tuesday, May. 4, 2021
Zoom Program: Forest Park Owls: Hiding in Plain Sight...