Walker Nature Center
BRANCHING OUT
A LOOK INSIDE • Calendar of events 4 • Kids’ Corner 6 • Meet the Staff 7
Nature Notes From Weeds to Wreaths DECEMBER By Sharon Gurtz
• • • •
Starlings form flocks. Waterfowl populations peak. Woodchucks hibernate. Fur bearers have winter coats.
JANUARY • • • •
Great Horned Owls begin breeding. White-tailed Deer shed antlers. Red Fox search for mates. Robin flocks are dining on American Holly berries.
FEBRUARY • • • •
By Idalina Walker
The next few months are the perfect time to celebrate the ever-changing beauty of the natural world as we gather with our loved ones on crisp winter days and star filled nights. Biodiversity is one element which can enhance the aesthetics of a landscape while improving habitat for the wild things which rely on it. In Reston, we are particularly aware of the need to control or remove invasive species that are a major threat to the biodiversity of our natural areas. Give a gift to nature by helping us target four invasives known for their ornamental qualities but also their negative repercussions on our forests.
Striped Skunks breed. Daffodils and crocuses begin to bloom. Chipmunks emerge from winter dens and breed. Spring Peepers begin to call.
Winter is a great time of year to identify and tackle the removal of invasive vines, and while doing so harvest clippings to serve as natural winter decor. Join the work of good land stewards and exercise your artistic side at the same time. Combining your love of nature and a dash of creativity can produce some exciting decor to enjoy in the coming months. Once your designs have lost their luster, they should be put in the trash or yard waste bags for your hauler so that they do not get reintroduced to the landscape. Composting invasive plants at home is not recommended. Continued on page 2
Bittersweet
Wisteria
Honeysuckle
Winter 15 Volume Eighteen