Celebrate Earth Week at GUS with a variety of hands-on activities and nature-based projects led by GUS educators and partners from across the North Shore. This is a free, family-friendly event, open to the public.
Each year on the first warm rainy night of spring, wood frogs and mole salamanders begin a mass migration to the vernal pools where they breed. If you happen to be out on one of these evenings, the experience can be like a spectacular amphibian celebration. It's called "Big Night!" For families and kids ages 4 and up.
Join the Trustees as darkness settles on the farm to immerse yourself in a nighttime adventure, guided only by the glow of the full moon. On this journey, participants will learn about the mysteries that the full moon holds, and hear folk lore from around the world that celebrates her presence. We will venture out into the night to walk in her soft glow and listen for the sounds of nighttime on the farm. The evening will end with hot chocolate and a newfound appreciation for the magic that the night sky holds.
March is a great month to look for owls. Both Great Horned and Barred owls will have babies in their nests, so these species tend to be vocal and active. Join us for a short hike through the woods at Camp Denison to look and listen for these majestic birds. We will also keep our ears open for howling coyotes and search Baldpate Pond for beavers!
The Trustees host live owl presentations by Marcia and Mark Wilson of Eyes On Owls. Meet 6 live owls up close and personal! By sharing photos, stories, and live owl demonstrations, the Wilsons highlight our local owls’ unique adaptations, habitats and behaviors in the wild, while sharing tips on how you can look and listen for owls yourself. And everyone gets to practice the owls’ calls during the hooting lessons!
Come explore what nature has in store at some of our most amazing wild places on the north shore. Our engaging and experienced staff will introduce families to local beaches, forests, and wetlands to make observations in nature, identify wildlife, and enjoy hands on science activities outdoors. Sign up for one, some, or all!
Some animals hibernate, some migrate, and some stay active in winter. Explore the sanctuary woodlands looking for clues of what animals have been eating and where they have been sleeping. Discover tracks in the snow and guess which animals made them. We will cover the basics during a short indoor introduction, but most of our time will be spent in the woods following the trails of raccoons, coyotes, foxes, and other woodland animals!
Enjoy ongoing activities throughout the day at Mass Audubon's Annual Audubon Nature Festival. This year's special feature will be live owl presentations by Marcia and Mark Wilson of Eyes On Owls. Come see live owls up close, learn about their natural history, and join in a hooting lesson.
Join a refuge ranger for a guided walk in the winter landscape at Parker River. We will discuss various adaptation strategies birds and animals use when winter's chill comes calling. Learn how you might adapt to and even enjoy winter! If snow is present, we will look for tracks in the snow.
Join Hamilton-Wenham Recreation to enjoy the “Wolf" Full Moon with guided walks, treats, fire-pits and a craft for kids! Hike one or both routes, or just come out to enjoy a warm drink by the fire in the light of the full moon. Fire-pits, warm drinks, light snacks and a “wolf moon” inspired craft are included in the registration fee.
