Animal babies and you

This time of year during your park wanderings, you're bound to spot young birds or other juvenile wildlife that appear to be alone and in need of rescue. But don't be fooled. In most cases, nature's own special plan takes care of youngsters. For example, fawns are typically left alone so that their mothers can go off and feed. So don't worry! She will return.

As for birds, it takes only a short time for them to gain feathers and leave the nest. At first they look awkward and might even spend time hopping around the ground. But rest assured, their parent is watching and answering their calls. With a little practice, the youngsters will be up and flying. If you see a live baby bird without feathers on the ground, it's best to place it up on a leafy branch for the parent to deal with. It is a myth that touching a baby bird causes its parent to avoid it. Birds don't have a very good sense of smell.
 

NC Wildlife Federation 5th Annual Canoe & Kayak-a-thon

June 6, 2009 
 

It is time again for our Annual Canoe & Kayak-a-thon! The event will be held at Riverbend Steam Station on Mountain Island Lake (same location as last year). Specific directions and details will be provided to all registered participants. The event will begin @ 8:30am and last through lunch. All participants and volunteers will receive a t-shirt and lunch!! 

Please note: If you are interested in paddling but need a canoe or kayak – Mecklenburg County Natural Resource Division has donated the use of several canoe & kayaks. Numbers are limited so register early & start raising money for wildlife conservation!!! 

Remember, all money raised is tax-deductible and will go to support the North Carolina Wildlife Federation and ongoing efforts to protect and enhance the wonderful wildlife and habitat of our state. So get registered and go get those sponsors!! Grand prize is a canoe!
Registration info and sponsor forms are available by contacting NCWF at (704) 332-5696 or greta@ncwf.org.
 

The Healing Garden 

40121 * Sunday, June 7

1:30 - 3:00 p.m.*Ages 12 & older, $3/child $4/adult

42532 * Wednesday, June 10

4:30 - 6:00 p.m.*Ages 12 & older, $3/child $4/adult

Come to Latta Plantation Nature Center and learn how to design a special place of healing on your property using fragrant plants, natural materials and landscaping techniques.

Sunset Kayak Tour 

39867 * Thursday, June 25

5 - 8 p.m. * Ages 12 & older, $3/child $4/adult

* Meet at the Horse Trailer Parking Lot

Join us at Latta Plantation Nature Preserve and learn the fundamentals of flatwater kayaking as we enjoy watching the sunset and paddling around Mountain Island Lake.

Nature Photography

42372 * Friday, June 19

6:30 - 8:00 p.m. * Ages 12 & older * $3/participant

Photos can tell a story, inspire us, or remind us of a special moment.  Come to McDowell Nature Center and learn simple techniques to taking incredible nature photos with any camera!

Wet n' Wild Party

McDowell Nature Preserve - Large Picnic Pavillion

40661 * Friday, June 26

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. * Ages 2 - 5 * $5/session

Join us at McDowell Nature Preserve and stay cool while having some fun in the forest!  Enjoy various water related activities and lunch with new friends.  Children must be accompanied by an adult.  Don't forget to wear your sunscreen and to bring a towel and a sack lunch (special dessert provided)!

Nature Exploration Day

44881 * Thursday, June 11

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. * Ages 8 - 12 * $30/child, early/late drop off available for an extra fee 

Reedy Creek Nature Center invites you to help them welcome summertime!  Fishing, hiking, splashing around in a creek, searching for critters and more! Come on out on this first day of summer break as we explore the nature preserve and get back to nature!

VIP Nature Preserve Tour

42650 * Saturday, June 20

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. * Ages 5 & older, $3/child, $5/adult 

Meet us at Reedy Creek Nature Center and come with us for your opportunity to have a personal tour of the nature preserves that are located in the North East district.  We will travel by van to several preserves that are not open to the public as well as some of your favorites like RibbonWalk.  At each stop we will have a naturalist led tour as we hike 1- 2 miles at each site.  Bring water, a bag lunch and wear comfortable hiking shoes.