Washington Area Butterfly Club

Events Archive

2004 Butterfly Events

January 2004
February 2004
March 2004
April 2004
May 2004
June 2004

July 2004
August 2004
September 2004
October 2004
November 2004
December 2004

Ongoing

Sundays, April - October
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walks, Vienna, VA: 12:30 p.m. Reservations not required. The walk is free, but admission to the gardens is $4/adult, $2/child (age 7 - 17), and $2/senior (age 60 or older). Walk into the winged worlds of birds and butterflies with a free, introductory guided stroll with butterfly and bird photographer William B. Folsom. Learn how the gardens attract these enticing, almost magical creatures. Rental binoculars are available at the Visitor Center. Weather dependent; call 703-255-3631 to confirm walk plans. Held at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, VA.
Sundays, April - October
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walks, Vienna, VA: 12:30 p.m. Reservations not required. The walk is free, but admission to the gardens is $4/adult, $2/child (age 7 - 17), and $2/senior (age 60 or older). Walk into the winged worlds of birds and butterflies with a free, introductory guided stroll with butterfly and bird photographer William B. Folsom. Learn how the gardens attract these enticing, almost magical creatures. Rental binoculars are available at the Visitor Center. Weather dependent; call 703-255-3631 to confirm walk plans. Held at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, VA.
Saturday, May 29 through Monday, October 11
The Great Pollinator Partnership, Washington, D.C.: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. daily. Exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Co-Sponsored by North American Pollinator Protection Campaign. "Dynamic Duos: Plants and Pollinators," located in the West Orangerie. This photographic journey includes images that are a tribute to the bees, butterflies, beetles, birds, bats, flies, wasps, and other species that perform the prodigious and vital work of transferring pollen—all in exchange for a little nectar and pollen to go. "Dancing with Flowers: The Pollination Connection," held on the Terrace. Twelve pollination gardens, each devoted to a different theme, will provide the answers and help you understand why your future, the global economy, and the survival of fine dining depend on these humble pollinators. The Conservatory main entrance is located at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. For more information, visit this Web site: http://www.usbg.gov/education/events/The-Great-Pollinator-Partnership.cfm.
Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, October 31
Butterflies LIVE! Richmond, VA: Open during regular Garden hours, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The price is included in regular Garden admission: $9 adults; $8 seniors (55+); $5 children (3-12); free for children under 3 and members. Butterflies LIVE! beckons visitors to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. This walk-through exhibit of live butterflies features hundreds of jewel-winged beauties in the North Wing of the Garden’s new Conservatory. At any given time, more than 400 North American butterflies will make up the exhibit, which includes special plantings inside and outside the Conservatory. Outside the Conservatory, a colorful butterfly garden will attract "wild" butterflies and include signage with information on creating butterfly-friendly habitats. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, a 40-acre public garden with a new Conservatory, is located at 1800 Lakeside Avenue in Richmond, VA. To learn more, call (804) 262-9887 or visit www.lewisginter.org.

January 2004

Wednesday, January 7

Winter Meadow, Prince Frederick, MD

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Ages 3-5. Fee: $3.00 per child. Winter is a great time to visit the meadow - how will it be different from when we were there in summer? Are the birds still around? What about the insects? We'll go for a walk outside and then come back inside for some warm treats! Dress for the weather. Held at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, 2880 Grays Rd., Prince Frederick, MD. Call 410-535-5327 to make reservations.
Event added Jan. 1, 2004.

Thursday, January 8

Where Did They Go? Bethesda, MD

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Ages 3 – 6 w/adult. Fee: $2. Join us for a lighthearted look at migration and hibernation. We’ll see what ladybugs do in the winter and learn where hummingbirds go when the flowers fade. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.

Thursday, January 8

Beetles: Overlooked Pollinators, NW Washington, D.C.

7:00 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. Join the Entomological Society of Washington for a lecture by Johnathan Mawdsley of the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation. Held in the Cathy Kerby Seminar Room (CE-340) of the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History at 10th & Constitution Ave., NW. Parking at that hour is usually available on Constitution Avenue. The room is in a secure area of the museum. Ask for an escort at the Constitution Avenue entrance.
Event added Jan. 1, 2004.

Thursday, January 8

From Rainbows to Rain Gardens: Growing 1,000,000 Rain Gardens for the Chesapeake Bay, Alexandria, VA

7:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public. Join the Potowmack Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society for a lecture by Carole Ann Barth, an Environmental Planner who works in the field of Low Impact Development for the Prince George's County Department of Environmental Resources. Carole Ann Barth co-authored the BayScapes program, teaches BayScapes at the USDA Graduate School, and has been a guest on National Public Radio discussing local efforts to recycle rain water, attract frogs, and make backyards wildlife friendly and good for the environment. Ms. Barth's talk will focus on five types of Rain Gardens that homeowners can easily install. She will also explain what rain gardens are and how they fit into low-impact development and conservation landscaping. Held at Green Spring Gardens Park, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA. For more information, call Shirley Gay at 703-920-1913.
Event added Jan. 1, 2004.

Friday, January 9 - April 25

Birds, Bugs and Butterflies, Alexandria, VA

A fiber arts exhibition with a nature theme. Held at the Horticulture Center at Green Spring Gardens Park, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA. The Horticulture Center is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and Sunday, noon - 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, January 10

Winter Meadow, Prince Frederick, MD

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Ages 3-5. Fee: $3.00 per child. Winter is a great time to visit the meadow - how will it be different from when we were there in summer? Are the birds still around? What about the insects? We'll go for a walk outside and then come back inside for some warm treats! Dress for the weather. Held at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, 2880 Grays Rd., Prince Frederick, MD. Call 410-535-5327 to make reservations.
Event added Jan. 1, 2004.

Saturday, January 10

Family Nature Walk: Live Frozen Animals, Bethesda, MD

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. All ages. Foxes grow thick winter coats, snakes and groundhogs hibernate underground, and orioles leave us altogether when winter comes. Yet spiders, butterfly pupae, and wood frogs survive even when their body temperatures dip well below freezing. Come out and explore the many ways life copes with cold. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. Call 301-299-1990 to make reservations.

Saturday, January 10

BayScapes, Prince William, VA

10:00 a.m. - noon. Free; registration required. Less mowing, less fertilizing, less pesticide use, low-input, less work! How does that sound for yard work this year? BayScapes are attractive, colorful landscapes that have the added bonus of being environmentally-sound. Master Gardener Lorrie Andrew-Spear tells you how to achieve these landscapes that also provide diverse habitats for songbirds, butterflies, and other creatures. Held in the Community Room of Chinn Park Regional Library, 13083 Chinn Park Drive, Prince William, VA. Call 703-792-7747 (the Master Gardener volunteer-staffed Help Line) to register.

Friday, January 16

Sleepy Time in The Woods, Rockville, MD

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 - 7. Fee: $2. It’s hibernating time! Join us to see who’s snoring the winter away. Tales, activity and a craft. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD. 301-924-4141.

Saturday, January 17

WABC Monthly Meeting, Chevy Chase, MD

10:00 a.m. Free; open to the public. Dr. Austin P. (Bob) Platt from the University of Maryland presents "37 Years of Collecting, Rearing, and Hybridizing Admiral Butterflies." Back in 1965, Dr. Platt began studying the intra- and interspecific relationships of North American Admirals (Limenitis, or Basilarchia). His work has involved collecting and cross-hybridizing the various species and forms of these large, colorful butterflies. He will have a few trays of butterflies and present a slide show. Held at the Teale Center (formerly the Gate House) of the Audubon Naturalist Society.
Directions to the Teale Learning Center (ADC Montgomery County Map 39-B-2): Exit I-495/Beltway onto 185, Connecticut Avenue South. Turn left onto Manor Road. At the traffic light, turn right onto Jones Bridge Road. At intersection of Jones Bridge and Jones Mill Roads, turn left onto Jones Mill. (Proceed with caution - traffic light gives a simultaneous green light to left turns from Jones Bridge and north-going Jones Mill traffic on your right, but visibility of vehicles on Jones Mill is partially obscured.) Drive north on Jones Mill just past road sign indicating Nature Center and turn left onto the entrance road to ANS. The Teale Center is the first building on the right. Parking is limited at Teale Center; please continue up entrance road and park near the Mansion. Walk downhill to Teale Learning Center.

Wednesday, January 21

Planting for Wildlife, Stevenson, MD

7:30 p.m. For the January program of the Greater Baltimore Chapter of the Maryland Native Plant Society, Daryl Dutrow of Wildlife Landscapes will speak on "Planting for Wildlife." Held at Irvine Nature Center, 8400 Greenspring Avenue, Stevenson, MD. Directions: From I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) take the Greenspring Avenue exit north. Irvine is on the left @ 1 mile north of the beltway. Contact: Ann Lundy at 410-366-9365 or aplundy@attglobal.net.
Event added Jan. 11, 2004.

Saturday, January 24

Nature in Winter, Loudoun County, VA

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. ANS members: $24; Nonmembers: $34. Leader: Cliff Fairweather. Discover the often surprising adaptations of plants and animals for surviving the unique stresses posed by winter. Freezable frogs, shivering chickadees, and insect anti-freeze are just some of the adaptations we'll cover. We'll meet at the Blue Ridge Center for Environmental Stewardship in western Loudoun County for a one-hour lecture followed by a day of field exploration. This program will involve moderately strenuous hiking in potentially very cold temperatures. Register online at www.audubonnaturalist.org/eereg.htm

Saturday, January 24

Nature in Winter Walk, Ellicott City, MD

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Fee (nonmembers): $5. Field trip with the Chesapeake Audubon Society. Let Mother Nature chase away your winter blues. Join Marian Dodson on her annual Nature in Winter Walk as we search one of the Park's many trails for signs of life thriving despite mid-winter's chill. We'll spend the afternoon looking for the plants that blossomed so prettily last summer, finding where the Whitetail Deer bed down for the night, and discovering how birds and insects survive in the cold. Held in the Avalon Area of Patapsco Valley State Park, 8020 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD. To make reservations, contact the leader, Marian Dodson, at 410-852-9913 (evenings, 6-10 p.m.), or by e-mail at ChesAudubonInfo@aol.com.

Saturday, January 31

Landscape Design Lecture Series, Part IV: Introducing Native Plants to the Home Garden, Alexandria, VA

10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Fee: $12. Native plants grow in the climate and soils of the region where they evolved. Gardeners who grow native plants celebrate the beauty of our native flora and help foster diversity. But which native plants perform reliably in a garden? Brenda Skarphol, native plant expert, will make suggestions and explain why natives can enhance your landscape. Held at Green Spring Gardens Park, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA. Call 703-642-5173 to make reservations.

Saturday, January 31

Introduction to Natural/Wildlife Gardening, Falls Church, VA

[no times could be found for this class] Registration required. Falls Church resident registration begins Jan. 5; non-residents, Jan. 12. A City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks winter class. Novice and experienced gardeners will learn the basics of how to have a beautiful yard that is healthy for the watershed and the environment and that supports local wildlife. Topics include the natural history of Falls Church's landscape, the benefits of a more natural approach to our yards today, components of a natural garden, and how to get started in your own yard. Guest presenters will provide expert information on specific topics. Participants are encouraged to bring 1-2 photos of their own yard. Instructor: Mia Mussolino, National Wildlife Federation Habitat Steward. Guest presenters: Liz Nalle, Virginia Native Plant Society (Potowmack chapter) and Dave Eckert, Falls Church natural historian. Register at the Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church, VA, or call 703-248-5077.
Event added Jan. 1, 2004.

February 2004

Thursdays, February 5 through April 8
Introductory Beekeeping, Boyce, VA: 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Fee: $85 FOSA members, $105 nonmembers. Additional family members free. Learn the basics for establishing and maintaining honey bees in this practical introductory beekeeping course. Besides providing a healthy, natural supply of honey, bees are essential to the world’s food supplies as plant pollinators. Find out the buzz on bees in this fascinating workshop. Held at Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce, VA. 540-837-1758 or e-mail: ejd4u@virginia.edu
Saturday, February 7
Sassafras Safari, Pasadena, MD: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Vehicle entry fee: $5.00. Ages 10 and up. Adults must accompany children. Join Ranger Smith at the Visitors Center for a walk to a nearby patch of Sassafras trees and learn how to identify this tree in winter. Back at the Ranger Station, there will be a short discussion about the history and folklore surrounding this tree. Warm up with a cup of hot Sassafras tea and enjoy some Sassafras candy too. Recipes will be provided for you to take home. Held at Downs Park, 8311 John Downs Loop, Pasadena, MD. Office: 410-222-6230; Events: 410-222-6239. Note: listing reads "Saturday, February 6"; call to ensure date.
Saturday, February 7
Long Branch Nature Center Fund Raiser, Arlington, VA: 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. $20. All Ages. Registration is required. Long Branch Nature Center cares for scores of injured wildlife each year and successfully returns them to the wild. Here's an opportunity for you to help us help local wildlife. All proceeds will be used to support the center's Wildlife Rehabilitation program. This event promises to be educational, fun and very WILD. Light refreshments will be served. Held at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington, VA. Call 703-228-6535 to register.
Tuesday, February 10
Bee Mine! Sterling, VA: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Ages 3-5. $6. In the early 1700's, it was an important job on the farm to keep bees. Children will visit the museum's display about a boy named George Wenner whose chore it was to keep his family's bees, and discuss the importance of bees. Participants will taste honey on crackers and create a bee skep to take home. Please alert us to any food allergies when registering. Held at the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum at Claude Moore Park, 21544 Cascades Parkway, Sterling, VA. 703-421-5322.
Thursday, February 12
Butterflies and Their Plant Hosts, Augusta County, VA: 7:30 p.m. Monthly meeting of the Shenandoah Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society. Richard Schiemann of Harrisonburg, a member of the North American Butterfly Association who leads the annual Green County Butterfly Count, will talk about butterflies and host plants. Richard is an energetic retired minister who knows his butterflies. Held at the Augusta County Government Center, South Board Room, Rt. 11, Verona.
Directions: From Bridgewater area/north of Verona: travel south on I-81, taking Verona exit. At top of ramp, turn right. At Rt. 11 intersection/traffic light, turn left onto Rt. 11. Travel about ½ mile on Rt. 11 to the next traffic light where there is a green sign saying "Augusta County Gov. Center" on the light arm (you will see a Good Year Tire shop on your right) and turn left onto Dick Huff Lane. *Travel down Dick Huff Lane over the railroad tracks and take your first right into the parking lot of the ACGC, which is a large white building with a green roof. Now you want to bear to the right and then left in the parking lot, going around the building to the entrance that faces the railroad tracks and is located about mid-way down the length of the building. Go up the outside stairs and through the double doors.
From Staunton area/south of Verona: travel north on I-81 to exit 225. At bottom of exit ramp, turn left onto Woodrow Wilson Pkwy/Rt. 275. Travel about 1.5 miles to the intersection and traffic light at Rt. 1l. Turn right onto Rt. 11. At the next traffic light, less than 1.5 miles on Rt. 11, you will see the sign for ACGC on the arm of the traffic light and turn right onto Dick Huff Lane. Proceed as above*.
Friday, February 13
A Wing Thing Camp, Sterling, VA: 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ages 6-10. $30. Birds, bats, butterflies—some of the world's most successful and interesting animals fly. You’ll enjoy bird watching, conducting experiments, and participating in activities and crafts as we learn about animals and flight. Bring water, a snack, lunch, and be sure to dress for the winter weather. Held at Claude Moore Park, 21544 Cascades Parkway, Sterling, VA. 703-444-1275.
Sunday, February 15
The Sunday Naturalist: Animals in Winter, Blandy, VA: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Fee: $4 FOSA members, $6 nonmembers; under 12 free with a paying adult. Take a guided tour with an expert naturalist who will answer your questions about the mysteries of nature. Held at Blandy Experimental Farm, 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce, VA. Meet at Information Pavilion. Reservations encouraged but not required. 540-837-1758 or e-mail: ejd4u@virginia.edu.
Tuesday, February 17
Butterfly Gardens, Frederick, MD: 7:30 p.m. Monthly meeting of the Catoctin Chapter of the Maryland Native Plant Society. Jim Gallion will give a talk on butterfly gardens in the conference room at the William Talley Recreation Center (old Armory) at the corner of Second and Bentz Streets in Frederick. Weather permitting, Joe Metzger will be on hand for plant ID. In addition, the Catoctin Chapter is planning a wildflower garden along the railroad tracks in Thurmont. Christine Maccabee, Diana Heaney, and Joe Metzger removed some of the plants and Christine, Louisa Thompson, and Joe selected about a dozen species we plan to purchase as seeds and some seedlings. We are hoping to get a grant from the Chesapeake Bay Trust. The garden will help by eliminating broadcast herbicide used by the railroad company over the .3 mile stretch of track and will secure the slope against erosion. Eventually it can be used for educational purposes to show people some "real" native wildflowers instead of those currently being used by the highway department.
Directions: From US 15 going north, take the Rosemont Avenue exit. Get off and go straight across, this will put you on Second Street. From US 15 going south, take the Rosemont Avenue exit. Get off and turn right, go under the highway and turn right at the light onto Second Street. Continue through the four way stop and traffic light and watch for diagonal parking on the right before you get to the building and next light. It's the only building on the right between the lights. Go in the entrance at the back of the building (farthest from Bentz Street) at the basement level. Sign in at the desk and ask for directions to the conference room.
Thursday, February 19
Saving the Baltimore Checkerspot: Maryland's Official State Insect, Stevenson, MD: 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Fee: $8 (members $5). Adults. Almost four decades ago, the beautiful Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly, whose markings are reminiscent of the Maryland State flag, was named Maryland's official state insect. At the time, the butterfly was common in the state's many upland wet meadows. But since the mid-1990s, its numbers have plummeted throughout the region, probably due to the explosion in the region's whitetailed deer population. Whitetails have a decided preference for this butterfly's regional host plant, white turtlehead (Chelone glabra). In 2002, the Baltimore Checkerspot was added as a "species of concern" to the state's threatened and endangered list. Pat Durkin, director of the Baltimore Checkerspot Restoration Project, will present a slide talk about the natural history of the Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly and new efforts to restore it in Maryland. Held at Irvine Nature Center, 8400 Greenspring Avenue, Stevenson, MD. 410-484-2413.
Friday, February 20
Maryland Entomological Society Monthly Meeting, Baltimore County, MD: 8:00 p.m. (lecture begins at 8:15 p.m.) Dr. Christopher Swan will be speaking about Consequences of Resource Heterogeneity for Stream Ecosystems. Dr. Swan is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Systems at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). His research on stream ecosystems is particularly focused on the "riparian effects" on stream food webs and leaf litter decomposition dynamics in streams, as well as insect bioenergetics related to leaf litter quality. He has also researched detritivore interactions in streams, the role of invasive herbivores on riparian systems, and their effects on stream ecosystems. He has published his findings in journals such as Ecology, Restoration Ecology, Biology and Ecology and Journal of the North American Benthological Society. Dr. Swan is a member of several professional societies and is the communications editor for the Ecological Society of America-Aquatic section. He is also on the board of directors for the Maryland Water Monitoring Council. Meeting held at the UMBC Bioscience Bldg. Room 004.
Added 2/19/04.
Monday, February 23
Dragonflies over Howard County Skies, Columbia, MD: 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. The Natural Resources and Land Management Division presents the Environmental Awareness Lecture Series presentation Dragonflies Over Howard County Skies. Join us for an evening to explore the ecology, natural history, and myriad of dragonfly species in Howard County. The lecture features Bob and Joanne Solem and Susan Muller. Held at the Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks Headquarters, 7120 Oakland Mills Rd., Columbia, MD.
Added 2/14/04.
Thursday, February 19
Toward Greener Lawns, Arlington, VA: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Free. Adults. Learn ways to care for your yard that are better for people, wildlife, and our waterways. Lawn care suggestions are based on the Bayscapes concepts, developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay. Registration is required. Held at Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 N. Military Rd., Arlington, VA. 703-228-3403.
Thursday, February 26
WABC Monthly Meeting, Arlington, VA: 7:30 p.m. Free; open to the public. "Gardens That Attract Butterflies" will be the topic of the February meeting. Dr. Desiree Di Mauro will share results of the first two years of an ongoing butterfly garden survey investigating numbers and species of butterflies seen in similar gardens in urban, suburban, and rural areas; and the effects of garden size, number of blooming plants, and neighboring pesticide use. Dr. Di Mauro will also discuss the most frequently seen butterflies, their preferred plants, and participation in the 2004 study. The meeting will be held at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 South Carlin Springs Road, Arlington, Virginia.
Directions from Washington Beltway (495), VA exit 8/Route 50: Drive north on Route 50 about 5 miles. Turn right onto Carlin Springs Road. The nature center is about 1/3 mile on the left behind a doctor's office building; the sign and driveway are just beyond the building (just before the building for those coming from Columbia Pike). Drive behind the building and down the wooded driveway. Map 16-G-8 on ADC No. Va. map.
Saturday, February 28
Nature Hike at Severn Danza Park, Severn, MD: 10:00 a.m. This half-mile all-purpose nature hike will take us through fields and woods along the park’s perimeter path. Butterflies and wildflowers in February—it’s always possible, and we’ll look for these and other signs that spring is just around the corner. For directions, additional information, or to preregister (required), please call 410-222-6244.
Saturday, February 28
Introduction to Natural/Wildlife Gardening, Falls Church, VA: [no times found for this class] Registration required. A City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks winter class. Novice and experienced gardeners will learn the basics of how to have a beautiful yard that is healthy for the watershed and the environment and that supports local wildlife. Topics include the natural history of Falls Church's landscape, the benefits of a more natural approach to our yards today, components of a natural garden, and how to get started in your own yard. Guest presenters will provide expert information on specific topics. Participants are encouraged to bring 1 or 2 photos of their own yard. Instructor: Mia Mussolino, National Wildlife Federation Habitat Steward. Guest presenters: Liz Nalle, Virginia Native Plant Society (Potowmack chapter), and Dave Eckert, Falls Church natural historian. Register at the Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St., Falls Church, VA, or call 703-248-5077.
Saturday, February 28
Backyard Wildlife Habitat Workshop, Arlington, VA: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Adults. Registration is required. Learn how to create a backyard sanctuary by providing habitat for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Find out how to have your property certified by the National Wildlife Federation as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat. Held at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 S. Carlin Springs Rd., Arlington, VA. Call 703-228-6535 to register.
Sunday, February 29
Monarch Larva Monitoring Project Training Workshop, Boyds, MD: 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Adults. Free, but advance registration required. Become a citizen scientist and contribute to National Science Foundation-funded basic research. Volunteers will learn Monarch biology and data survey protocol and receive a free kit of MLMP equipment to be used in the weekly monitoring of their milkweed plot. Suitable for individuals, families, teachers and students, homeschoolers, and organized groups with adult leaders. Held at the Black Hill Visitor Center, Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD. If interested, call 301-972-5990 or contact the trainer at fawn.foerster@mncppc-mc.org. For information about the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project, go to http://www.mlmp.org.

March 2004

Tuesday, March 2
Junior Naturalists 1: Flying High, Potomac, MD: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Ages 6 – 9 (under 8 w/adult). Fee: $7/child. Explore the mystery of flight as mastered by insects, birds, and bats, then make a simple kite to send soaring in the blustery March sky. Meet at Adventure Conservation Park in Potomac (call for directions). Offered by Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.
Thursday, March 4
Evolution of Dragonflies, Washington, D.C.: 7:00 p.m. Free and open to the public. Join the Entomological Society of Washington for their March meeting. Frank Carle, of Rutgers University, will be speaking about the evolution of Dragonflies. Held in the Cathy Kerby Seminar Room at the National Museum of Natural History, 10th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW DC.
Saturday, March 6
Family Nature Walk: March Meander, Bethesda, MD: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. All ages. Spring is here, but we’ll have to search for it! Bittercress blooms, red maple flowerbuds, and the occasional Spring Peeper or butterfly emerging on a warm day all await the explorer who braves the mud. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.
Saturday, March 6
Creating Backyard Habitat Workshop, Fairfax, VA: 9:00 a.m. - noon. Cost: $36. Learn how you can turn your yard into a haven for wildlife and create a healthier environment for you and your family. After learning about the elements of a good habitat, participants will work together to design a backyard habitat for an imaginary home. Offered by the Fairfax Audubon Society. Taught by Carol Hadlock, a Habitat Steward with the National Wildlife Federation’s Backyard Habitat Program. Carol works at The Bird Feeder, helping customers make their yards bird-friendly, and also serves on the FAS Board of Directors, chairing the Education Committee. Held at Fairfax High School, 3500 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax, VA.
Saturday and Sunday, March 6 - 7
Second Annual Meadowlark Nature Photography Exhibition, Vienna, VA: 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Some events require a fee. At this juried event, view hundreds of exquisite color and black & white nature prints for display and sale. Additional activities include a free professional photo critique, lectures, and free camera checkup. WABC member Bill Folsom will sign his Butterfly Photography book (Saturday) and is also presenting several lectures both days. Visit the Meadowlark Photo Exhibit web site for complete details and schedule. Held at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, VA.
Sunday, March 7
Beekeeping Class, Chantilly, VA: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Free; 12 years and up. Reservations required. Professional beekeeper Dane Hannum will demonstrate equipment needed for beekeeping and how to order it. Help Dan prepare the Walney hives for spring and enjoy a dessert made with honey. Held at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 5040 Walney Road, Chantilly, VA. 703-631-0013.
Monday, March 8
Miss Spider's Tea Party, Ridgely, MD: 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Children. Fee: $6 (includes craft and snack). Let’s have a bug Tea Party! Each of us can create our own beautiful and strange bug friends to be the special guests at our party. We can learn about the buzzing, flying, crawling, skittering, strange world of the sometimes beautiful, sometimes scary bugs. Did you know there are a million bugs in your backyard? (Of course, we can't invite them all to our party!) Held at Adkins Arboretum, 12610 Eveland Road, Ridgely, MD. For more information or to register, call 410-634-2847, extension 10.
Tuesday, March 9
Miss Spider's Tea Party, Ridgely, MD: 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Children. Fee: $6 (includes craft and snack). Let’s have a bug Tea Party! Each of us can create our own beautiful and strange bug friends to be the special guests at our party. We can learn about the buzzing, flying, crawling, skittering, strange world of the sometimes beautiful, sometimes scary bugs. Did you know there are a million bugs in your backyard? (Of course, we can't invite them all to our party!) Held at Adkins Arboretum, 12610 Eveland Road, Ridgely, MD. For more information or to register, call 410-634-2847, extension 10.
Saturday, March 13
Livable Landscapes: Design with Habitat in Mind, Shepherdstown, WV: March 1 - March 6: $50 (includes lunch). No tickets will be sold after March 6, and none will be available at the door. Rick Darke's program on Livable Landscapes at the Eastern Panhandle Horticulture Forum, sponsored by the Shenandoah-Potomac District Garden Clubs, will illustrate beautiful and creative ways for gardeners to interpret and emulate the patterns and processes found in local ecologies. Held at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Tickets are now available from Nancy Alfriend at 304-725-2040. For more information, contact Carolyn Thomas, Shenandoah-Potomac District of Garden Clubs, at 304-267-3115 or at webethomas@aol.com.
Saturday, March 13
Copeland Native Plant Seminar, Hockessin, DE: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. $75 includes lunch and field trip shuttles. Keynote speaker: C. Coleston Burrell on Art, Ecology & Wild Gardens. Other lecture topics cover Gardening in Partnership with Nature and Planting What Belongs. Includes choice of field trips to several gardens/natural areas or Backyard Wildlife Habitats, book signings, and more. Visit the Web site for complete details/registration info. Held at the Ashland Nature Center, which is located at the junction of Brackenville and Barley Mill Roads in Hockessin, Delaware.
Sunday, March 14
Birds, Bugs, and Butterflies, Alexandria, VA: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join Green Spring's assistant director Sherrie Chapman for a Curator's tour of "Birds, Bugs, and Butterflies," a fiber arts exhibit with a nature theme. Held at Green Spring Gardens Park, 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA. Call 703-642-5173 for details on cost and to make reservations.
Monday, March 15
Wonderful "Windsday", Sterling, VA: 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. OR 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Ages 3 – 6; $9.00. Windy weather is a part of spring. We'll learn the basics of weather and make a butterfly kite to try out in the wind. Held at Claude Moore Park, 21544 Cascades Parkway, Sterling, VA. 703-444-1275.
Tuesday, March 16
Beetle Mania! Rockville, MD: 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 – 6. Fee: $2. Beetles are the largest insect group of all. Lady bugs, June bugs—go buggy with us! Get your beetle facts thru stories, craft, and a hike. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD. 301-924-4141.
Wednesday, March 17
Creating a Wildlife Sanctuary in Your Own Backyard, Ridgely, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Do you delight in observing songbirds, butterflies, and other critters? Learn how to attract beneficial wildlife to your yard by providing food, water, cover, and places to raise young. Discover how you can have your backyard certified as a wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. Master Gardener Carol Jelich recently participated in the Habitat Steward training program sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation and Irvine Nature Center. Her backyard in Annapolis was certified by NWF in 1999. Held at Adkins Arboretum, 12610 Eveland Road, Ridgely, MD. Call the Arboretum at 410-634-2847, ext. 10 for additional information and to register.
Friday, March 19
Puppet Show: the Caterpillar and the Polliwog, Wheaton, MD: 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. OR 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. All ages. Fee: $1, exact change only. No reservations required. A silly tadpole thinks he’ll turn into a butterfly. See if he does! Held at Brookside Nature Center in Wheaton Regional Park, 1400 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, MD. 301-946-9071.
Saturday, March 27
WABC Monthly Meeting, Chevy Chase, MD: 10:00 a.m. Free; open to the public. Denise Gibbs will be speaking about Studying Migrating Monarchs at Chincoteague. The fall Chincoteague Monarch Monitoring Project has been conducted from 1997 through the fall of 2003. This study at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge originated as an extension of the Cape May Monarch Monitoring Project, established by Dr. Lincoln P. Brower and Richard K. Walton. Both projects used the same protocols, and data collected during the seven seasons has contributed to a better understanding of the migratory behavior, patterns, and requirements of Monarchs. Denise is currently researching and writing a book about the fall Monarch migration along the Atlantic Coast. Held at the Audubon Naturalist Society Headquarters Teale Learning Center, 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD.
Directions to the Teale Learning Center (ADC Montgomery County Map 39-B-2): Exit I-495/Beltway onto 185, Connecticut Avenue South. Turn left onto Manor Road. At the traffic light, turn right onto Jones Bridge Road. At intersection of Jones Bridge and Jones Mill Roads, turn left onto Jones Mill. (Proceed with caution - traffic light gives a simultaneous green light to left turns from Jones Bridge and north-going Jones Mill traffic on your right, but visibility of vehicles on Jones Mill is partially obscured.) Drive north on Jones Mill just past road sign indicating Nature Center and turn left onto the entrance road to ANS. The Teale Center is the first building on the right. Parking is limited at Teale Center; please continue up the entrance road if necessary and park near the Mansion. Walk downhill to Teale Learning Center.
Tuesday, March 30
Storytime: I Wish I Were a Butterfly, Rockville, MD: Session 1: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Session 2: 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Ages 3 – 6. Fee: $2. Learn about caterpillars and butterflies with a story and craft. Now is the time to start planning your butterfly garden. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD. 301-924-4141.

Ongoing

Sundays, April - October
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walks, Vienna, VA: 12:30 p.m. Reservations not required. The walk is free, but admission to the gardens is $4/adult, $2/child (age 7 - 17), and $2/senior (age 60 or older). Walk into the winged worlds of birds and butterflies with a free, introductory guided stroll with butterfly and bird photographer William B. Folsom. Learn how the gardens attract these enticing, almost magical creatures. Rental binoculars are available at the Visitor Center. Weather dependent; call 703-255-3631 to confirm walk plans. Held at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, VA.

April 2004

Saturday, April 3
Hiking for Bugs! Laurel, MD: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Ages 8 - 10. Where have all the bugs been? Search for bugs and learn about their unique adaptations on this guided hike. Held at the National Wildlife Visitor Center, which is located on Powder Mill Road between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 197 in Laurel, Maryland. For info/reservations, call 301-497-5887 or visit http://patuxent.fws.gov/
Added April 2
Sunday, April 4
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Sunday, April 4
Butterflies: Nature’s Festival of Color, Laurel, MD: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Ages 10+. Discover the role that butterflies play in the ecosystem and learn to identify several common to Maryland on this guided 3-mile hike. Field guide recommended. Bring water and dress for the outdoors. Held at the North Tract of Patuxent Research Refuge, which is located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32 in Laurel, MD. For more info, call 301-497-5887 or visit http://patuxent.fws.gov/
Added April 2
Wednesday, April 7
Bug Fest! Rockville, MD: 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. ongoing. All ages (under 14 with an adult). Fee: $5/participant. No reservations required. Bugs are the best! Join us for a special insect festival. Learn about bugs, meet bugs, and make a bug craft to take home. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD. 301-924-4141.
Wednesday, April 7
Rare and Endangered Butterflies of Southern Maryland, Clinton, MD: 7:30 p.m. (Social time starts at 7:00 p.m., with refreshments.) Dick Smith will be speaking at the Southern Maryland Audubon Chapter on Rare and Endangered Butterflies of Southern Maryland. He will discuss biological aspects as well as known and potential occurrence areas in Southern Maryland for such species as Frosted Elfin, Carolina Satyr, Palamedes Swallowtail, Giant Swallowtail, Great Purple Hairstreak, Silvery Checkerspot, Dion Skipper, Cobweb Skipper, Leonard's Skipper, and Dusted Skipper. The program will take place at Clearwater Nature Center, Cosca Regional Park (CRP), Prince George's County, Clinton, Maryland. Directions to CRP are as follows: from the north, take Rt. 5 south to Clinton and turn right on Rt. 223 (Woodyard Rd.). Follow to Rt. 381 (Brandywine Rd.) and turn left. Follow this to Thrift Road where you turn right. Go through the residential section and look for the signs on the right for the Nature Center.
Added April 6
Saturday, April 10
Naturalist Training: Insects and Spiders, Lothian, MD: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. For adults or older teens. Entrance Fees: Adults: $2.50; Children under 18: $1.50; Over 60: $2.00. Volunteers are needed to lead a variety of weekend programs for families. This workshop will focus on the basics of entomology and provide activities that make a "Bug Hunt" fun and educational. Held at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD. 410-741-9330.
Saturday, April 10
Bugs 101, Lothian, MD: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. All ages welcome. Entrance Fees: Adults: $2.50; Children under 18: $1.50; Over 60: $2.00. Here's your chance to learn about the cool critters found crawling in our fields and under our logs. Held at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD. 410-741-9330.
Sunday, April 11
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Tuesday, April 13
Bats, Bugs and Boxes, Frostburg, MD: 7:00 p.m. Free. Allegany County Bird Club meeting. Liz McDowell will present "Bats, Bugs and Boxes." Meet at the Frostburg Public Library. The library is at 65 East Main Street in Frostburg on the left side if you come up from Route 36. Go past the 7-11 (also on the left) and park on the street or turn left just before the library and park in the parking garage underneath the building. Contact Barbara Gaffney at (301) 895-4646 for more information.
Thursday, April 15
Butterflies and Insects, Sterling, VA: 9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Ages 3-5. $7.00. Supply fee: $2.00. Learn about butterflies and insects in this one-day class. Take home crafts to show off to your family. Class location: Sugarland Run HOA. Offered by the Sterling Community Center, 120 Enterprise Street, Sterling, VA. 703-430-9480.
Sunday, April 18
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Sunday, April 18
Eggs to Legs, Lothian, MD: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. All ages. Entrance Fees: Adults: $2.50; Children under 18: $1.50; Over 60: $2.00. Investigate animal life cycles such as insect and amphibian metamorphosis. Meet live animals hatched from eggs and take a hike outdoors in nature's nursery. Dress warmly. Held at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD. 410-741-9330.
Sunday, April 18
Butterfly Gardening, Huntingtown, MD: 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Family program. Fee: $5.00. We can't plant butterflies, but we can plant flowers that the butterflies love! What plants will bring beautiful butterflies to your garden? Some butterflies and caterpillars only eat one type of plant. Find out what they like to eat, then plant seeds that will bring the butterflies to take home with you. Wear clothes that can get dirty. Held at Kings Landing Park on Huntingtown Road in Huntingtown, MD.
Sunday, April 18
Bayscaping Workshop, Pasadena, MD: 1:00 p.m. Adults. BayScapes are environmentally sound landscapes benefiting people, wildlife, and the Chesapeake Bay. This program teaches how to practice conservation landscaping and water conservation and how to create diversity, use native plants, create wildlife habitat, and use Integrated Pest Management. Held at Lake Waterford Park, Pasadena Road and B&A Blvd., Pasadena, MD. For more information and to pre-register, please contact the park office at 410-222-6248.
Monday, April 19
Looking for Bugs, Bozman, MD: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ages 3-5. Fee: $3.00; pre-registration required. Make a craft and try to catch insects. Held at the Jean Ellen DuPont Audubon Sanctuary, 23000 Wells Point Rd, Bozman, MD. Call 410-745-9283.
Added April 2
Tuesday, April 20
Bigger and Closer, Huntingtown, MD: 10:30 a.m. - noon. Ages 3-5. Fee: $3.00. Bugs are moving all around us as the spring season warms up. Some are so tiny, it's hard to see them. Let's get a closer look by using special glasses and tools that will make them bigger and easier to see. Come prepared to crawl in the grass. Treats for all! Held at Kings Landing Park on Huntingtown Road in Huntingtown, MD.
Wednesday, April 21
Beautiful Butterflies, Leesburg, VA: 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Ages 2-3. $4.50. Create and decorate beautiful fluttering butterflies for all to see! Held at Douglass Community Center, 407 E. Market Street, Leesburg, VA. 703-771-5913.
Wednesday, April 21
Native Plants for Birds and Butterflies, Mt. Airy, MD: 7:30 p.m. The Central Maryland Audubon chapter will present a short program on Native Plants for Birds and Butterflies at the Mt. Airy Library. Cheryl Farfaras, Resources Manager of the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area, will answer all your questions about designing native plants into your home landscape. Also, there will be lots of handouts and plant lists to study. This is a good way to prepare for the Audubon's Native Plant Sale held on the following Saturday, April 24. Cheryl grows many plants from seed and promises to have some on hand to give away. The Mt. Airy Library is at 705 Ridge Ave in Mt. Airy, MD. Contact Cheryl at 410-997-9492, cfarfaras@co.ho.md.us, or Bill at 410-795-6546, us013410@mindspring.com
Added April 18
Thursday, April 22
WABC Monthly Meeting, Arlington, VA: NOTE: This meeting will start at 8:00 p.m.! A planning meeting and potluck supper for WABC members only will precede the meeting at 7:00 p.m. Free; open to the public. Wayne Wehling of the USDA will teach us about Bordano, Italy's Butterfly City, and will also discuss regulations affecting the interstate transport of butterflies. The meeting will be held at Long Branch Nature Center, 625 South Carlin Springs Road, Arlington, Virginia.
Directions from Washington Beltway (495), VA exit 8/Route 50: Drive north on Route 50 about 5 miles. Turn right onto Carlin Springs Road. The nature center is about 1/3 mile on the left behind a doctor's office building; the sign and driveway are just beyond the building (just before the building for those coming from Columbia Pike). Drive behind the building and down the wooded driveway. Map 16-G-8 on ADC No. Va. map.
Information updated April 6
Saturday, April 24
Spring Fling Lawn and Garden Show and Sale, Manassas, VA: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Free. Over 80 garden displays, exhibits, and clinics will be featured on all aspects of gardening, along with vendors and free activities for the children. Held at the Prince William Fairground, 10624 Dumfries Road, Business 234, in Manassas, VA. For more details on vendors and activities, visit their Web site.
Saturday, April 24
Spring at the Pond, Pasadena, MD: 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Ages 8 and up (adults must accompany children). Daily vehicle entry per vehicle: $5.00. Join Park Rangers Adam Smith and Sue Payne as they look for turtles, birds, and bugs at the Wildlife Pond. Turtles, butterflies, wildflowers, and birds will be the goals of the program. Meet at Brightwater Pavilion. Held at Downs Park, 8311 John Downs Loop, Pasadena, MD. 410-222-6230.
Saturday, April 24
Butterflies: Nature’s Festival of Color, Laurel, MD: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Ages 10+. Discover the role that butterflies play in the ecosystem and learn to identify several common to Maryland on this guided 3 mile hike. Field guide recommended. Bring water and dress for the outdoors. Held at the North Tract of Patuxent Research Refuge, which is located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32 in Laurel, MD. For more info, call 301-497-5887 or visit http://patuxent.fws.gov/
Added April 2
Saturday, April 24
Nature Tots: Flutter Friends, Laurel, MD: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. AND 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Ages 3 - 4. Introduce your preschooler to the wonderful world of butterflies in this interactive program with songs, a butterfly search and craft. Held at the National Wildlife Visitor Center, which is located on Powder Mill Rd. between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Route 197 in Laurel, MD. For info/reservations, call 301-497-5887 or visit http://patuxent.fws.gov/
Added April 2
Saturday, April 24
Butterflies and Wildflowers in Howard County, Maryland, Howard County, MD: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Free and open to the general public. The Middle Patuxent Environmental Area is one of the premier natural areas in eastern Howard County, with many woodland trails as well as open fields maintained for wildlife habitat. Join butterfly expert Dick Smith and botany expert Bob Solem as we explore the area for 1-1/2 to 2 miles and identify the variety of spring butterflies and wildflowers the area has to offer. Sponsored by the Howard County Bird Club (chapter of MOS).
Directions: take Rte. 29 north past central Columbia and exit at Rte. 108 west toward Clarksville. Proceed west for 5 miles and turn left at Trotter Road. We will meet at the parking area for the Environmental Area on the left approximately 1/2 mile south of Rte. 108. Bring binoculars with close-focus and bring water (no facilities are available).
Added April 18
Saturday, April 24 - Sunday, April 25
Natural Heritage Weekend: Bicycling the Dismal Swamp, Suffolk, VA: Full weekend field trip. ANS members: $50; Nonmembers: $70. An Audubon Naturalist Society adult foray. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, located in southeastern Virginia, is laced with many miles of quiet back roads that are closed to motor vehicles. It's an ideal place to explore natural history by bicycle. We'll stop often to look for wildlife and wildflowers. The Swamp's butterfly and songbird faunas are especially rich, and we'll spend a good bit of time searching for a wide variety of each. Additionally we can expect to see an assortment of southern plants and, if we're lucky, turtles, frogs, snakes, or mammals. Sturdy bicycles are recommended, as some roads are rough, although we'll only ride 15-20 miles per day. Overnight options include motels in the Suffolk, Virginia, area; details will be sent with the foray confirmation notice. Friday travel is recommended, as activities begin in the swamp on Saturday morning. Register online at http://www.audubonnaturalist.org/eereg.htm
Sunday, April 25
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Sunday, April 25
The Butterflies of Soldiers Delight, Owings Mills, MD: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. A Baltimore Bird Club field trip. Meet at the Nature Center for a 20-minute slide show on the butterflies of the Soldiers Delight Serpentine Barrens, Deer Park Rd., Owings Mills, MD. Then join Dick Smith for a field trip as he searches out these beautiful insects and gives us an opportunity to see them up close and personal. Cancelled if raining. CALL OR E-MAIL TO CONFIRM DATE. Coordinator: Gail Frantz, (410) 833-7135, guineabird@aol.com.
Tuesday, April 27
Native and Introduced Earthworms in Urban and Rural Habitats, Silver Spring, MD: 7:30 p.m. A Maryland Native Plant Society meeting. The voracious appetite of the non-native earthworm has been linked to a decline in the forest floor community, which, in turn, affects woodland mammals, invertebrates, and microbes. Yet, native earthworms play important roles in our forests and wetlands. Dr. Kathy Szlavecz of Johns Hopkins University is investigating the role of native and non-native earthworms (and other soil invertebrates) in both urban and natural environments through the Baltimore Long-Term Ecosystem Study. She will also discuss the ecological implications of the non-native species and the role natives play in natural ecosystems. Held in the large meeting room at White Oak Library, 11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD. Directions: Exit the Washington Beltway at New Hampshire Ave (exit 28). Go north about 2 miles. The library is the first building on the right, once you have passed under Route 29, just after the Sears store.
Friday, April 30
Garden Insects, Washington, D.C.: 12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m. Free; pre-registration required. Have you ever been in your garden and not known what that bug was on your plant? Well, here is your chance to learn more about the insects common in the D.C. area. Find out if they are "good bugs" or "bad bugs" from Whitney Cranshaw, Professor and Extension Specialist at Colorado State University. Mr. Cranshaw will also discuss non-chemical ways to get rid of those pesky insects. A book sale and signing will follow the program. Held at the U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, D.C.

May 2004

Sunday, May 2
WABC Field Trip to Blue Mountain, Linden, VA: 10:30 a.m.; full-day field trip. Rain date: May 9. Open to WABC members and their guests. Free, but registration is required. Leader: Butterfly Expert Harry Pavulaan. In this gorgeous spring setting near Linden, Virginia, we'll be looking for Appalachian Tiger Swallowtail, Appalachian Azure, West Virginia White, and other Appalachian butterflies. We could even see Early Hairstreak, like we did at this location last year. Thompson WMA is famous for its Giant Trilliums, which are expected to be in bloom during our visit. Our full-day trip begins with a short walk around the lake and into the forest, followed by a drive to the top of the mountain, where Appalachian Tiger Swallowtail and Appalachian Azure frequently can be found. Bring cameras, binoculars, and note pads. Nets are welcome, as close observation is needed to distinguish Appalachian Tiger Swallowtail from Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Appalachian Azure from Summer Azure. You might want to bring lunch and something to drink.
Directions to Thompson Wildlife Management Area (also called Blue Mountain) near Linden, Virginia: Take Rt. 66 west. Exit at Markham. Drive north on Rt. 688 to lake entrance. Allow about an hour and a half for the drive. Meet at the lower parking lot near the lake.
Sunday, May 2
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Wednesday, May 5
You're Buggin’ Me, Philomont, VA: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Ages 6 - 12. $15. Journey into the insect world and learn their uses and natural enemies through stories and crafts. Held at the Philomont Community Center, 36592 Jeb Stuart Road, Philomont, VA. 540-338-5882.
Thursday, May 6
Watch Us Work: Beneficial Insect Release, Wheaton, MD: 9:00 a.m. New this spring, Brookside’s professional gardening staff will offer a series of Thursday demonstrations in the garden, showing our visitors exactly how to succeed at a particular task, while answering questions in an informal setting. What better way to learn about gardening techniques than from the professionals who garden every day? Garden demonstrations are free of charge and no registration is required. Held at the conservatories at Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton MD.
Thursday, May 6
Storytime: "Ladybug, Ladybug," Rockville, MD: Session 1: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Session 2: 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Ages 3 - 6. Fee: $2. Learn about helpful bugs in the garden and how to attract them to your garden. Make a ladybug to take home. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD.
Saturday, May 8
Wings of Fancy Butterfly Show Opening Day Celebration, Wheaton, MD: 12 noon - 4:00 p.m. Free; no registration required. Welcome the butterflies with a colorful painted face (compliments of our facepainter), hear a butterfly story, and make a butterfly craft on this special opening day of Brookside Gardens’ live butterfly exhibit. The Butterfly Exhibit is located in Brookside Gardens south conservatory located at 1500 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton, MD. Call 301-962-1400 for more information or visit the Wings of Fancy Web site.
Saturday, May 8
Butterflies and Moths, Alexandria, VA: 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Families. Explore the world of Lepidoptera in Dora Kelley Nature Park with a Naturalist. A catch-and-release session is featured. Dora Kelley Nature Park is at 5700 Sanger Ave. in Alexandria, VA.
Sunday, May 9
Appalachian Spring, Linden, VA: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ANS members: $27; Nonmembers: $38. Leader: Stephanie Mason. Spring rain, warming temperatures, and longer hours of daylight ignite a great burst of life in the valleys and ridges of the Appalachian Mountains. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Thompson Wildlife Management Area in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Linden, VA, a wildlife reserve that is well known for its botanical diversity. The floral display is especially rich in early May, when the hillsides are covered with millions of large-flowered trillium, along with other species such as yellow ladies-slipper, showy orchis, pennywort, and wood betony. Our field trip will focus on the rich wildflower display, but we will also take time to listen and look for spring migrants, butterflies, and other inhabitants of the preserve.
Sunday, May 9
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Tuesday, May 11
Noses For Nectar, Bethesda, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Ages 3 – 6 w/adult. Fee: $3. What’s the power of a flower? Why, nectar of course! Many animals love sweet nectar, from rats, to bats, to lizards, to lemurs. Find out how their specialized noses help them find it. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.
Wednesday, May 12
You're Buggin’ Me, Philomont, VA: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Ages 6 - 12. $15. Journey into the insect world and learn their uses and natural enemies through stories and crafts. Held at the Philomont Community Center, 36592 Jeb Stuart Road, Philomont, VA. 540-338-5882.
Wednesday, May 12 and May 19
Going Buggy, Sterling, VA: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Ages 2 - 3. $14; $3 supply fee. Buzz! Whirl! It sounds like spring has gone buggy! Come and experience a world of bugs through art, songs, and stories. Instructor: Karen Robar. Held at the Sterling Annex Community Center, 1115 W. Church Road, Sterling, VA. 703-430-6673.
Wednesdays, May 12 - May 26
Things with Wings, Sterling, VA: 9:45 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 - 5. $15. Supply fee: $3. Time to fly with the best. Create insect-type crafts with wings to buzz around with your friends. Held at the Sterling Community Center, 120 Enterprise Street, Sterling, VA. 703-430-9480.
Thursday, May 13
Beautiful Butterflies, Wheaton, MD: 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Ages 6 - 8. Fee: $4. Reservations required. Discover the wonders of these beautiful insects. Take a short hike and make a nifty craft. Held at Brookside Nature Center in Wheaton Regional Park, 1400 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, MD. 301-946-9071.
Friday, May 14
Bats 'N Bugs, Baltimore, MD: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. $3.00. Ages 6 & up, reservations required. Night hike at Carrie Murray Nature Center, 1901 Ridgetop Road, Baltimore, MD.
Added May 5
Saturday, May 15
Butterflies: Nature’s Festival of Color! Laurel, MD: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Ages 10+. Discover the role that butterflies play in the ecosystem and learn to identify several common to Maryland on this guided 3-mile hike. Field guide recommended. Bring water and dress for the outdoors. Held at the North Tract of the Patuxent Research Refuge, located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32.
Saturday, May 15
Wings and Wildflowers, Great Falls, VA: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. ANS members: $22; Nonmembers: $31. The varied habitats of Great Falls Park on the Virginia side of the Potomac River harbor a colorful display of late spring blossoms and butterflies. We'll look for wildflowers such as spiked lobelia, wild pink, and Indian Cucumber root, as well as blooming woody plants, including mountain laurel and fetterbush. Butterflies we might expect to see at this time include the zebra swallowtail, red-banded hairstreak, and red-spotted purple. Though the focus of our explorations will be plants and butterflies, we'll also look and listen for the breeding activities of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Sunday, May 16
Spring Butterflies of Nottingham Barrens, Chester County, PA: Full-day field trip. ANS members: $27; Nonmembers: $38. Nottingham Barrens in southeastern Pennsylvania, just across the Maryland border, is home to prairie and savanna communities in pitch pine serpentine barrens. Under the guidance of butterfly expert Dick Smith, we'll spend the day in the field looking for serpentine endemics such as Cobweb and Dusted Skippers, Falcate Orangetips, and a variety of Duskywings as well as the more familiar species. We'll organize carpools from Woodend and a second stop along the way. 2 1/2 hour drive.
Sunday, May 16
Dancing Dragonflies, Lothian, MD: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Entrance Fees: Adults: $2.50; Children under 18: $1.50; Over 60: $2. These interesting insects start out their life in the water and look like small monsters. Once they emerge from their aquatic habitat, they become beautiful, elegant flyers. They are just beginning to emerge from Jug Bay's ponds, so join us in watching these amazing insects dance through the air. All ages welcome. Held at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD.
Sunday, May 16
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Monday, May 17
Organic Gardening, Prince William, VA: 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Free; registration required. Organic gardening is more than just cutting back on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers—and it doesn't mean just letting the garden go. Come learn the basics of this different approach that aims to work with your natural allies in the soil and in the insect and plant world. Speaker: Jeff Schneider, Master Gardener Volunteer PWC. Held in the Community Room of Chinn Park Regional Library, 13083 Chinn Park Drive, Prince William, VA.
Monday, May 17
Ladybugs and Other Backyard Buddies, Annandale, VA: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ages 5 - 11 years. $4. Hooray for the 6-legged, 4-legged, and 0-legged heroes of our backyard. Meet these curious creatures and release your own ladybug into the garden. Hidden Oaks Nature Center is located at 7701 Royce St., Annandale, VA.
Monday, May 17 and May 24
Thinking About Ants and Other Insects, Sterling, VA: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 - 5. $12. Learning through play, easy experiments, stories, movement, and art. $3 supply fee. Instructor: Roni Breza. Held at the Sterling Annex Community Center, 1115 W. Church Road, Sterling, VA.
Wednesday, May 19
You're Buggin’ Me, Philomont, VA: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Ages 6 - 12. $15. Journey into the insect world and learn their uses and natural enemies through stories and crafts. Held at the Philomont Community Center, 36592 Jeb Stuart Road, Philomont, VA.
Wednesday, May 19
Meadow Meandering, Bethesda, MD: 11:00 a.m. – noon. All ages (under 8 w/adult). There are two meadows at Locust Grove, and they’re not the same! Immerse yourself in both to find out what makes them different. Be sure to wear long pants, socks, and closed toe shoes. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD.
Thursday, May 20
Watch Us Work: Planting a Butterfly Garden, Wheaton, MD: 1:00 p.m. New this spring, Brookside’s professional gardening staff will offer a series of Thursday demonstrations in the garden, showing our visitors exactly how to succeed at a particular task, while answering questions in an informal setting. What better way to learn about gardening techniques than from the professionals who garden every day? Garden demonstrations are free of charge and no registration is required. Held at the outside conservatories at Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, MD.
Thursday, May 20 and Friday, May 21
Monarch Larval Monitoring Project "Train The Trainer" Workshop For Naturalists and Educators, Clarksburg, MD: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day. Adults. Free, but advanced reservations required. Incorporate this project into your nature center programs or school curriculum. Developed at the University of Minnesota in order to collect long-term data on Monarch larval populations and milkweed habitat, it involves volunteers from across the U.S. and Canada. Learn more at http://www.mlmp.org. Take home quality teaching aids, basic scientific equipment, and resources. Offered through Black Hill Regional Park. Meet at Hawk’s Reach Activity Center at Little Bennett Regional Park, 23701 Frederick Road, Clarksburg, MD.
Thursday, May 20
Weekday Walk: Flying Creatures, Columbia, MD: 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Walk with the Howard County Bird Club at Font Hill Wetland Park off Centennial Lane in Columbia, MD. Park at sign for park off Font Hill Drive. Easy walking on paved paths to search for dragonflies, butterflies, and birds. No facilities. Directions to the Park: From US 29 go west on US 40 2.4 miles to Centennial Lane. Turn left (south) less than 0.1 mile to stoplight at Frederick Road. Turn left and continue appx. 0.2 mile to Font Hill Drive. Turn right and continue 0.4 mile to the park sign.
Added May 5
Thursday, May 20
Lake Life, Reston, VA: 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Fee: $5. Ages 5 - 12. Lake life is lively in the spring. Look for tadpoles, water birds, baby insects and butterflies. Walk the turtle walk and see how close you can get to one of these shy creatures. Wear wading shoes and old clothes. Dip nets will be provided. Location: Walker Nature Education Center North Side. Park on Glade Drive, just east of the entrance to the WNEC parking lot.
Added May 5
Friday, May 21
I Live in the Garden, Leesburg, VA: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Ages 3 - 5. $6. There is more to a garden than plants. Discover the wonderful creatures that inhabit the fields. Bring a lunch and a drink. Held at Douglass Community Center, 407 E. Market Street, Leesburg, VA.
Saturday, May 22
Focus on Butterflies! Wheaton, MD: 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Fee: $20; registration required. Don’t miss this opportunity to have the butterfly show to yourself—almost! On these special mornings, a limited number of photographers will be welcomed (with their tripods) into the conservatory to photograph Brookside’s remarkable butterflies prior to the show opening to the public. Enjoy a quiet morning in the conservatory, when the light is perfect and the butterflies are just becoming active—they’re likely to be basking or perched this early in the day. A limit of 10 photographers will be allowed into the conservatory for these unique offerings. The photo opportunities are offered five times.
Saturday, May 22
Butterflies in Their Habitats, Sterling, VA: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Ages 6 and up; Free event. Explore the world of butterflies! This slide show led by entomologist Dexter Hinckley will introduce different species of butterflies, their natural history and habitats, and what you can do to attract these jewels of the sky to your garden. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited. Held at Claude Moore Park, 21544 Cascades Parkway, Sterling, VA.
Sunday, May 23
Butterflies: Nature’s Festival of Color! Laurel, MD: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Ages 10+. Discover the role that butterflies play in the ecosystem and learn to identify several common to Maryland on this guided 3-mile hike. Field guide recommended. Bring water and dress for the outdoors. Held at the North Tract of the Patuxent Research Refuge, located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32.
Sunday, May 23
Bugs 101, Lothian, MD: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Entrance Fees: Adults: $2.50; Children under 18: $1.50; Over 60: $2.00. Here's your chance to learn about the cool critters found crawling in our fields and under our logs. All ages welcome. Held at Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, 1361 Wrighton Road, Lothian, MD.
Sunday, May 23
May Bee, Maybe Not, Prince Frederick, MD: 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Fee: $3. What are the bees buzzing about? What are the bees busy doing now? Bring your family and learn what it's like to live in a hive and find flowers for food. Can you get enough nectar to eat? Make a beeswax candle to take home. Please bring a hair dryer. Held at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp, 2880 Grays Rd., Prince Frederick, MD.
Sunday, May 23
Ladybugs and Other Backyard Buddies, Annandale, VA: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ages 5 - 11 years. $4. Hooray for the 6-legged, 4-legged, and 0-legged heroes of our backyard. Meet these curious creatures and release your own ladybug into the garden. Hidden Oaks Nature Center is located at 7701 Royce St., Annandale, VA.
Sunday, May 23
Bugs and Butterflies, Millersville, MD: 4:00 p.m. All ages; pre-registrations required. Join Ranger Shawna on this hike to look for insects, including caterpillars and butterflies. Held at Kinder Farm Park, 1001 Kinder Farm Park Road, Millersville, MD.
Added May 5
Sunday, May 23
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Monday, May 24
Nature Quest: Bugs, Springfield, VA: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Ages 4 - 6 years. $3. All insects can be bugs, but can all bugs be insects? This age-old question will be answered through a slide show, live bugs on display, and the first insect safari of the season. Held at Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Blvd., Springfield, VA.
Tuesday, May 25
Storytime: I Wish I Were a Butterfly, Rockville, MD: Session 1: 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.; Session 2: 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Ages 3 - 6. Fee: $2/child. Learn how to encourage butterflies to visit your garden and make a butterfly to take home. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD.
Wednesday, May 26
You're Buggin’ Me, Philomont, VA: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Ages 6 - 12. $15. Journey into the insect world and learn their uses and natural enemies through stories and crafts. Held at the Philomont Community Center, 36592 Jeb Stuart Road, Philomont, VA.
Thursdays, May 27, June 3, 10, 17, and 24
Monarch Larval Monitoring Survey, Boyds, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Ages 12 - adult. Free, but reservations required. Join the naturalist in a survey of the Black Hill Regional Park native wildflower meadows for monarch eggs, larvae, chrysalises, and adults. Held at the Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD.
Saturday, May 29
The Great Pollinator Partnership, Washington, D.C.: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. daily. Exhibit opens at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Runs through October 11. See above under Ongoing.

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Saturday, May 29 - Sunday, October 31
Butterflies LIVE! Richmond, VA: Open during regular Garden hours, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. New live butterfly exhibit opens at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Runs through October 31.
Saturday, May 29
Bug Babies, Leesburg, VA: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. ANS members: $5; Nonmembers: $8 per child. Come out to Rust and explore the fascinating world of bugs. This is the time of year when baby bugs are abundant, and we can use them to learn about life cycles and the many ways bugs have adapted to their environment. We hope to see a baby praying mantis and some ladybug larvae, to name a few. Rust Sanctuary is located at 802 Children's Center Road, Leesburg, VA.
Saturday, May 29
Bugs in the Bog, Laurel, MD: 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Ages 5 - 7. Come tromp through the wetlands with us to look for little critters in this fun program. Dress to get wet and muddy! Held at the National Wildlife Visitor Center on Powder Mill Road between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 197 in Laurel, Maryland. Call 301-497-5887.
Saturday, May 29
New Germany BioBlitz, Grantsville, MD: 12:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Cost: $2 per person. Come out to New Germany State Park and participate in this 24-hour species search. Everyone is invited to see how many species of mammals, birds, plants, fish, amphibians, reptiles, fungi, and insects are living in this 400-acre park. Join college professors, natural resource professionals, and naturalists in this 24-hour search. Explore diversity in your own backyard. New Germany State Park is located at 349 Headquarters Lane, Grantsville, MD. If you are interested in being a surveyor, call 301-895-5759.
Directions: The park is five miles southeast of Grantsville, in the heart of the Savage River State Forest. Visit http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/newgermany.html
Sunday, May 30
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.

June 2004

Tuesday, June 1
Hoyle’s Mill Conservation Park Butterfly Survey, Boyds, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Adults. Because of the diabase bedrock in this park, there are unique plant communities and their associated insect species. See wildflowers and birds as well. BYO lunch and water. Offered through the Black Hill Visitor Center, Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD. Call 301-916-0220 for more information.
Tuesday, June 1
Tour of Dancing with Flowers: The Pollination Connection, Washington, D.C.: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. The Botanic Garden's summer terrace exhibit highlights the importance of pollinators. Tour through the exhibit and discover how plants and their pollinators need one another for survival. Look at plant adaptations that attract different pollinators, and adaptations of pollinators to gather pollen and nectar from different plants. The U.S. Botanic Garden is at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, June 1
The Coevolutionary Dance of Pollinators and Their Flowers: Who Pollinates What? Washington, D.C.: 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. FREE. Pre-registration requested. Learn what kinds of pollinators visit and pollinate different types of flowers simply by looking at and understanding their shapes, colors, scents and floral rewards. Dr. Stephen Buchmann, Pollination Ecologist and author, takes us on a whirlwind tour of some of the world’s most fascinating plants and their airborne pollinators. Learn why pollinators prefer to visit certain flowers and not others. Held at the U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
Wednesday and Thursday, June 2 and 3
South Jersey Wild Lands, NJ: Full-day Field Trips. ANS members: $44; Nonmembers: $62. Explore surprisingly wild and biologically rich natural areas in southern New Jersey. Visit vast wetlands along the shores of Delaware Bay, where horseshoe crabs will be courting (the full moon is June 3) and the last northbound shorebirds will still be feeding. Search for nesting birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and wildflowers in woods and wetlands at the southern edge of the Jersey Pine Barrens. Overnight options include campgrounds and a wide range of motels, hotels, and B&Bs. Register online at www.audubonnaturalist.org/eereg.htm.
Thursday, June 3
June Bugs are Beetles! Rockville, MD: 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Ages 3 – 6. Fee: $2. Explore the world of those green, low-flying bugs and other beetles through live bugs, activities, and a craft. Held at Meadowside Nature Center, Rock Creek Regional Park, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville, MD. 301-924-4141.
Thursday, June 3
Monarch Larval Monitoring Survey, Boyds, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Ages 12 - adult. Free, but reservations required. Join the naturalist in a survey of the Black Hill Regional Park native wildflower meadows for monarch eggs, larvae, chrysalises, and adults. Held at the Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD. 301-916-0220.
Thursday, June 3
Amazing Cicadas and Other Insects, Bethesda, MD: 4:00 p.m. – approx. 5:30 p.m. Ages 6 – 12 (under 8 w/adult). Fee: $4/child. Learn about the astounding life cycles of periodical cicadas and other insects, then head outside with nets and containers to see what we can find. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.
Friday, June 4
Early Morning Hike, Potomac, MD: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Adults. No Fee. We’ll stretch our legs and explore the birds and butterflies along the C&O Canal. Meet at Violette's Lock. Offered through Meadowside Nature Center. Call 301-924-4141 for information/reservations.
Friday, June 4
Temple Ruins, Mayan Beekeepers, Honey and Sacred Bees Without Stings: "Xunan Kab" of Southern Mexico, Washington, D.C.: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free. Pre-registration requested. Dr. Stephen Buchmann, Pollination Ecologist and author, takes us on a travelogue to the turquoise coasts and tropical rainforests of Quintana Roo, Mexico, to the land of the Maya. He describes the biology of social honey-making bees, without stingers. Buchmann has begun a multi-year project bringing forgotten beekeeping practices to a younger generation of Mayan beekeepers. The U.S. Botanic Garden is at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
Friday, June 4
Tour of Dancing with Flowers: The Pollination Connection, Washington, D.C.: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. The Botanic Garden's summer terrace exhibit highlights the importance of pollinators. Tour through the exhibit and discover how plants and their pollinators need one another for survival. Look at plant adaptations that attract different pollinators, and adaptations of pollinators to gather pollen and nectar from different plants. The U.S. Botanic Garden is at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
Friday, June 4
Bees Bumble, Bethesda, MD: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Ages 3 – 6 w/adult. Fee: $3/child. Bees are beautiful, fat, and fuzzy. Bees are a plant’s best friends. We’ll learn to tell bees from wasps and why we needn’t fear our buddy the bumble bee. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.
Saturday and Sunday, June 5 and 6
Watch Out for What Bugs You, Springfield, VA: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. $3. 3 years old and up plus adult. Do you know what is dangerous and what is harmless in your local woods or even your back yard? Visit a discovery room filled with displays and interactive stations to explore what can really bug you in Fairfax County. From insects to snakes to plants, we'll separate fact from fiction. Held at Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Boulevard, Springfield, VA. Call 703-451-9588 for information.
Sunday, June 6
Beginners’ Bird, Butterfly Walk, Vienna, VA: See listing above under Ongoing.
Sunday, June 6
Butterflies: Nature's Festival of Color, Laurel, MD: 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Ages 10+. Free; registration required. Discover the role that butterflies play in the ecosystem and learn to identify several common to Maryland on this guided 3-mile hike. Field guide recommended. Bring water and dress for the outdoors. Held at the Patuxent Research Refuge North Tract, located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32 in Laurel, MD. Call 301-497-5887 to make reservations.
Added June 5
Sunday, June 6
Butterflies Flutterby, Chevy Chase, MD: Noon - 2:00 p.m. ANS members: $8 per child; Nonmembers: $10 per child. Sipping nectar, fluttering by, their caterpillars munching leaves: there is so much to learn and love about these beautiful, winged insects. We will spend the afternoon hunting for butterflies at Woodend Sanctuary, and have fun with a story and butterfly craft to take home. Woodend is located at 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD. Register online at www.audubonnaturalist.org/eereg.htm.
Monday, June 7
Preschool Nature Hour: Butterflies, Millersville, MD: 1:00 p.m. $2. Learn about butterflies that live in Kinder Farm Park, 1001 Kinder Farm Park Road, Millersville, MD. Meet at the comfort station. To register, call 410-222-6115.
Added June 5
Tuesday, June 8
Hoyle’s Mill Conservation Park Butterfly Survey, Boyds, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Adults. Because of the diabase bedrock in this park, there are unique plant communities and their associated insect species. See wildflowers and birds as well. BYO lunch and water. Offered through the Black Hill Visitor Center, Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD. Call 301-916-0220 for more information.
Thursday, June 10
Monarch Larval Monitoring Survey, Boyds, MD: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Ages 12 - adult. Free, but reservations required. Join the naturalist in a survey of the Black Hill Regional Park native wildflower meadows for monarch eggs, larvae, chrysalises, and adults. Held at the Black Hill Regional Park, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD. 301-916-0220.
Thursday, June 10
How to Get Moths to Land on Your Bedsheets at Night, Chevy Chase, MD: 7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. ANS members: $13; Nonmembers: $22. Come discover the reasons why moths constitute about 90% of all the Lepidoptera on the planet: not bad for a group of animals that have been flying around with some of our most well-known dinosaurs! Join Dr. David Adamski in reviewing many of the common moth species found in the Capital Region. After sunset, he'll help us identify the moths that are attracted to his blacklight set-up on the Woodend grounds. Woodend is located at 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD. Register online at www.audubonnaturalist.org/eereg.htm.
Friday, June 11
Gardening for Wildlife, Washington, D.C.: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free. Pre-registration requested. Join Dave Mizejewski, Manager of the Backyard Wildlife Habitat Program, to discover what it means to garden for wildlife. You’ll learn how to provide food, water, cover, and places to raise young through wildlife-friendly landscape designs and gardening techniques. You’ll also learn how you can have your yard or garden officially certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat™ site. Held at the U.S. Botanic Garden, at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
Friday, June 11
Backyard Wildlife Habitat Garden Tour, Washington, D.C.: 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Free. Pre-registration required. In 2003, part of Bartholdi Park became a certified Backyard Wildlife Habitat™. Tour through this section of Bartholdi Park to see firsthand the habitat requirements needed in any garden to attract wildlife. After this tour, you may want to have your own yard certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat™. Held at the U.S. Botanic Garden, at 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
Friday, June 11
Flight in the Night, Baltimore, MD: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Ages 6 & up: fee. Special effects will be used to draw night animals out. Held at the Carrie Murray Nature Center in Baltimore. Call 410-396-0808 for info/registration.
Added June 5
Saturday, June 12
Butterflies, Springfield, VA: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 6 years and up. Free. Dr. Dex Hinckley returns to share his knowledge and photography of butterflies. Through his slide presentation, Dr. Hinckley will explain the role these beautiful creatures play in our world. Reservations required. Held at Hidden Pond Nature Center, 8511 Greeley Boulevard, Springfield, VA. Call 703-451-9588 for information.
Saturday, June 12
Caterpillar To Butterfly Walk, Herndon, VA: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. All ages; $5. The Butterfly Lady will guide us though the meadow and native plant garden as we have a butterfly scavenger hunt. Sweep nets will be provided for catch and release. Take home some native milkweed to get your butterfly garden started. Held at Runnymede Park, located off of the Herndon Parkway between Elden and Dranesville Roads in Herndon, Virginia. Register online at www.herndon-va.gov or call (703) 435-6800, ext. 2100.
Saturday, June 12
Butterfly Lectures, Richmond, VA: $15 for each lecture. Fee includes Garden admission plus a guided tour for the first 30 registrants for each lecture (11:00 a.m. or 2:45 p.m.). Dr. Gary Ross, revered as "the butterfly evangelist," speaks on Butterfly Biology for Gardeners (10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.) and The Secret Lives of Butterflies (1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.). Registration is required for these lectures; please call (804) 262-9887, ext. 322. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is located at 1800 Lakeside Avenue in Richmond, VA.
Saturday, June 12
Family Nature Walk: Invasion of the Cicadas, Bethesda, MD: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. All ages. Since 1987, they have been growing, feeding, and biding their time. Now it’s time for invasion! Explore the world of the periodical cicadas and see what other bugs we can catch. Held at Locust Grove Nature Center, Cabin John Regional Park, 7777 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD. 301-299-1990.
Saturday, June 12
Bugs, Laurel, MD: 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Ages 5 - 7. Free; registration required. Discover the wonderful world of our six-legged friends through stories, crafts, and a short hike. Held at the Patuxent Research Refuge North Tract, located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32 in Laurel, MD. Call 301-497-5887 to make reservations.
Added June 5
Saturday, June 12
Garden Pollinators, Washington, D.C.: 5:00 p.m. Free. Join Scott Aker at the National Arboretum for a free, informal twilight talk and tour. Meet at the entrance to the National Herb Garden. The United States National Arboretum is at 3501 New York Avenue, NE in Washington, D.C.
Saturday, June 12
Dinner With the Bugs! Wheaton, MD: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. All ages. Fee: $2/adult, $3/child. Reservations required. Bring hot dogs and buns; we’ll supply the fixin’s. Then learn about spittlebugs, use a bubble machine, and make a bubble craft. Held at Brookside Nature Center in Wheaton Regional Park, 1400 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, MD. 301-946-9071.
Saturday, June 12
Bugs Galore, Sterling, VA: 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. All ages; $3.00. Reservations required; pay at door. Discover the fascinating world of bugs and become an entomologist for an evening! Bring a wide-mouthed jar with a lid to catch and release these sometimes mysterious and sometimes comical creatures. Even mosquitoes have an important role to play in nature—besides biting us! Learn this and more during the evening discussion and bug safari. Bug repellant and long slacks recommended. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 703-444-1275 for reservations. Held at Claude Moore Park, 21544 Cascades Parkway, Sterling, VA.
Saturday, June 12
Night Hike, Laurel, MD: 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. All ages. Explore the refuge at night while looking and listening for owls, bugs, bats, frogs and more. Held at the Patuxent Research Refuge North Tract, located on Rt. 198 between the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Rt. 32 in Laurel, MD. Call 301-497-5887 to make reservations.
Added June 5
Saturday, June 12
Wild Ones: Chasing Fireflies, Arlington, VA: 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Registration is required. $1. Children. Learn about these awesome insects and catch some temporarily for a closer look! Held at Gulf Branch Nature Center, 3608 N. Military Rd., Arlington, VA. Call 703-228-4747.
Saturday and Sunday, June 12 and 13
Ecological Organic Garden Tour, Alexandria, VA: 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. tours. Reservations required. Call 703-721-1560 to reserve a date and time. You are invited to a personal tour of natural gardens created by ecological designer Alan Kettler. With over 50 species of native plants, including trees, shrubs, grasses, ferns, and perennial wildflowers, the garden is a colorful biological oasis in a vast suburban wasteland. The garden is 100% pesticide free, barely fertilized, and has been watered only once in the last 5 years. If you are interested in natural organic gardening, this is your chance to learn about plants, animals, and ecolog