Panorama | Summer 2018

panorama

Summer 2018

Raptor Identification Page 4

Breeding Birds Page 7

Conservation Update Page 10

WELCOME HELEN BOOMSMA Executive Director

Summer is here and our prairies are bursting with prairie plants reaching toward the sky, while forests offer the calming shade of leaves stretching to soak up the sun. Dragonflies buzz around Mystery Pond and land on lily pads next to gorgeous Blue Flag Irises blossoming along the shore. Throughout summer, children make discoveries and learn about conservation at our Summer Camps.

In this Panorama, we celebrate the birds that spend these months breeding at the Center; their breeding cycle, how we support their populations, and how you can help birds in your yard. You may even discover poetry in the way some birds construct their nests. Throughout summer you will see raptors soaring in our skies and you’ll learn how to identify their silhouettes.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers John Grunau President Tim Gerend Past President Kevin J. Kane Treasurer Meg Kinney Secretary Jane B. Bell VP-Development John E. ‘Jack’ Gebhardt VP-Governance

House Wren capturing insects to feed its young.

An exciting recent update is our new website. The new Calendar includes the ability to filter by category and register for programs online. Our blog shares updates on many topics at the Center, including Donor Impact, Conservation progress, and a series called A Walk in the Woods that showcases images from our trails. Additionally, you can automatically renew your membership, make use of the search capability, and other upgrades in form and function. Our website is intended as an extension of your experience at the Center.

New programs welcome adults to learn alongside other adults throughout summer, as well as programs for families with children. We’ve developed new ways to offer education and discovery into your weekend visit. We’re also excited to begin a new summer concert series, Soundwaves at Schlitz Audubon, which features both adult and all-ages refreshments.

While on the topic of music in nature, jazz musicians will talk about the need for empty spaces within songs. In our West Meadows, throughout winter, Conservation staff controlled 27 acres of invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle using our track loader. We’ve trimmed away a great deal of overgrown noise, creating space for native flowers to sprout alongside melodious bird song. Visit us and explore the harmonies of summer.

Welcome to our new Board Members Heidi Dondglinger | GE Healthcare Diane O’Connor | Community Volunteer

Board Aliah M. Berman Jonathan T. Bloom Shane Delsman Margarete R. Harvey Heidi Dondlinger Debra Katz Dennis Kois Diane O’Connor Eva Osborne Justin K. Patrick Benjamin T. Pavlik Arthur T. Phillips Sanderson S. ‘Andy’ Read Benjamin F. Rikkers John Schaub Mark Siler Carol Wolcott Past Presidents John H. Kopmeier, Jr. Philip R. Smith Dennis L. Fisher Terrence K. Knudsen Thomas J. McCutcheon Thomas B. Fitzgerald Randolph H. Dean Stephen F. Geimer Thomas J. Drought David K. Hoover John S. McGregor Margarete R. Harvey Honorary Directors Edwin P. Wiley Director Emeritus Dorothy K. Vallier

Schlitz Audubon is an independent, locally supported partner of the National Audubon Society.

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

SEASONAL SIGHTINGS Visit the Center and discover the beauty of summer!

KEITH HELM Naturalist

Summer has returned to the shores of Great Lake Michigan!

Our 185 acres are bursting with life and color from beautiful native wildflowers. The ponds and wetlands are brimming with a multitude of aquatic life. Bird calls can be heard throughout the forests, ponds, and prairies. Butterflies, moths, and bees flutter, waft, and buzz from flower to flower.

During the hot days of July, venture through the shady forest to Mystery Pond to catch a glimpse of reptiles and amphibians basking in the sun on logs. The pond is busy with new life, such as Green and Bull frog tadpoles, baby Snapping Turtles, snails feeding on aquatic plants, and predacious dragonfly nymphs hunting

other aquatic insects. Visitors such as the Great Blue Heron or the Blanding’s Turtle with its distinguished dome-shaped shell visit our ponds and wetlands.

August is a marvelous time to visit the trails west of the main building. The prairie is painted with the greens, yellows, and purples of native flowers in full bloom. Barn Swallows zigzag across the tops of long grasses, looking for insects to feed the hungry mouths waiting in their nests. Toward dusk you can catch crepuscular animals beginning to emerge, such as Brown Bats, bioluminescent Fireflies in search of mates, and Great Horned Owls scanning for prey.

September is perfect for visiting Lake Michigan, especially near dusk once the sun has gone behind the trees and the breeze drifts from the surf. You can make an unending array of geological discoveries in the various rocks along the beach, and driftwood logs smooth from water and sand are fun for children to climb on and explore. Make and photograph your own ephemeral art from rocks and driftwood, or build your own driftwood shelter each time you come.

Common Green Darner

Summer is the time of year when nearly every plant, insect, and animal is most active. Any time you visit the Center you’ll find something new to see and explore. Take advantage of our longer summer hours, we’re open 9:00am - 8:00pm Monday – Thursday.

Clouded Sulphur

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

3

RAPTORS

During the warmer months, countless songbirds flit over our heads - often too quickly to identify. Distinguishing raptors is a bit easier, as their larger size and method of flight means they can’t maneuver as quickly as songbirds. Wisconsin is home to many raptors – falcons, owls, hawks, and eagles, and each of these animals has a distinct silhouette that can be used to identify them as they fly overhead. A strategy to determine which bird you’re seeing is to pay close attention to wing shapes and flight patterns. These factors help them fit perfectly into a niche in their environment, and can be used to determine where the birds live and what they eat.

Falcons are some of the fastest animals on the planet. Their stiff, long, and pointed wings allow some of them to dive at speeds over 200mph. It also gives us a clue that they are hunting other fast animals, like pigeons and songbirds. Their slender wings come at a cost; with less surface area these birds have to flap more often to remain aloft. When looking for falcons, watch for slender, triangular wings that flap almost constantly.

4

allows them to live in forests and maneuver quickly through trees. Accipiters flap more often, as they move quicker and have to constantly change direction around obstacles. Watch for a flap-flap-flap-glide pattern from Accipiter hawks.

Eagles have a similar silhouette to Buteo hawks, but are much larger and darker in color. When looking for eagles, keep an eye out for huge, broad, and brown-black wings with slotted (finger-shaped) feathers at the tips of the wings. These birds will be seen soaring when they can, and working hard for slow wingbeats in otherwise gliding flight. Their wings are held straight out at right angles from their big bodies.

Owl silhouettes are just the opposite: broad, soft, and round.

Special ridges on the edges of their wings ruffle the surrounding air, allowing them to fly with complete silence. These larger wings tell us that owls aren’t moving very fast, therefore relying on stealth rather than speed to catch their prey. These big wings also take more power to move, which means that owls don’t flap them as often as falcons do. As sound won’t alert you to their presence, keep your eyes peeled for big wings that flap slowly, steadily, and in shallow movements.

One large species commonly seen in Wisconsin is often mistaken for eagles, and while being a bird of prey, is in fact not a raptor at all. These scavengers have a six-foot wingspan, and are experts at soaring on warm air thermals – they are Turkey Vultures.

Turkey Vultures have an unmistakable flight pattern. Groups of them, referred to as “kettles,” seek out columns of rising air and circle within it, so they rarely have to flap their wings at all. They commonly look like they are “teeter-tottering”, or rocking back and forth to stay afloat as the air moves. Watch for a silhouette that looks V-shaped and for a flash of silver feathers underneath their bodies as they soar overhead.

Hawks fall somewhere in the middle of the two preceding groups; they have broader wings like owls, but the feathers are also somewhat stiff like falcons. However, there are two groups of hawks with unique patterns of movement. Buteo hawks have broad wings and a shorter tail that fans out and are made for soaring. These birds rarely flap at all, as they take advantage of warm air thermals to move around. Accipiter hawks have relatively shorter and more slender wings and a longer tail that

The Schlitz Audubon Raptor Program has a variety of eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, and even a Turkey Vulture that serve as educational ambassadors for their species. Cysco, the Harris’s Hawk, and Tallulah, the Turkey Vulture, are trained in freeflight, and wow the crowds when they show off their impressive wingspans by flying directly over the audience. Seeing these birds spread their wings in free flight programs can help you identify animals you spot in the wild.

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

RAPTORS

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

5

EXPERIENCE

How a House Wren House Becomes a House Wren Home

By Ed Makowski

At Schlitz Audubon, we’re always developing new ways to improve, expand upon, or reinvigorate the experience you have when coming here. After our Welcome Booth opened in the summer of 2017, we began to imagine ways people could have additional interactive experiences.

tional skills. The guided hikes are also tailored to the interests and demographics each group of visitors.

Throughout the day, inside the Great Hall, Nature Ambassadors introduce people of all ages to our various Animal Ambassadors. You may meet a Bluetongued Skink named Grover, Boxy the Jeff Gilardi, our Weekend Naturalist, Box Turtle, one of our other resident earned his Biology PhD with a focus on reptiles or amphibians. insects, and he is an avid nature photographer. He helps guide a weekend Before you attend the 2:00pm hike, volunteer group called the Nature Am- stop by to interact with our Raptors bassadors. Many of the Nature Ambas- during Word with a Bird from 1:00pm sadors are graduates of the Wisconsin – 2:00pm. Each Saturday and Sunday, Master Naturalist program, and each Raptor Volunteers bring a bird or two has their own interest in the natural to the main building to educate all ages world. Some of the Ambassadors are about the unique animal perched on avid birdwatchers, while others focus their glove. Word with a Bird is a great on prairie plants, and some specialize way to have an up-close encounter with animals that can be elusive in the wild. in aquatic pond life.

Seeing and observing one up close can Nature Ambassador Hikes take place help your spotting skills when you’re every Saturday and Sunday, at 11:00am out on the trails. and 2:00pm. These hikes, for all ages, are included in the price of admission Each time you come for a weekend hike or membership. at Schlitz Audubon, a variety of experiences await you. Every visit to Schlitz Each weekend hike is led by either a Audubon offers something new to see, Naturalist or Nature Ambassador, and hear, touch, and learn. is unique to their individual observa-

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

In spring, male House Wrens seek and choose their preferred territory, then construct several partially built nests.

Humans call these “dummy nests” and they’re placeholders so other male wrens won’t build there.

Wrens don’t finish their nests until they encounter a mate. She selects her preferred nest and finishes the foundation with strong twigs and sticks, then decorates the interior with the softer comforts of home.

FEATURE

B

reeding irds

at the Center ED MAKOWSKI Communications Specialist

I

FEATURE

n the excitement surrounding migration, we can sometimes overlook birds that breed at the Center. Some migrants continue flying north to find their nesting grounds, but for many birds our location is their preferred breeding destination. These birds will spend a significant amount of time here propagating the next generation of birds.

Several factors make Schlitz Audubon a desirable habitat for breeding birds. Our location along Lake Michigan, within the Mississippi Migratory Flyway, and our variety and quality of ecosystems, provides stopover habitat for 260 species of birds that have been seen here. Of those 260, approximately 125 species stay here to breed at the Center.

Studying breeding behavior is one way bird observers and scientists come to understand the population trends of bird species.

Each species has its own breeding time, habitat type, and variables that affect their breeding patterns, and therefore which birds we are likely to see at Schlitz Audubon. The vast majority of birds tend to breed in June through August, but some species, such as the American Woodcock, will begin nesting as early as April.

The Cycle of Breeding

FINDING THE PLACE TO BREED Birds travel to their breeding grounds, hoping there will be sufficient habitat to build a nest as well as ample food for extra mouths. Males then select and then defend their territory from other birds by vocalizing or physically menacing other birds.

House Wrens are a unique example, as the male will construct several placeholder dummy nests to mark their chosen territory, then the female mate will select her preferred location and complete the nest. Last year House Wrens nested inside the fencepost hole in front of Sky Walker’s enclosure!

CHOOSING A MATE Bird courtship is fascinating to observe. This is often when we hear males singing to attract a female. Males flaunt vibrant colors, as this indicates they are healthy and can successfully find food. When we hear birds singing, much of their communication is either to attract females or to tell other males to stay out of their territory. For habitat, the American Woodcock requires a thinned forest or grassland and they then use the open sky to perform their “sky dance” to impress potential mates. During this sky dance, males’ wings whistle as they climb, and then as they fly in circles around a territory, then gradually drift to the ground while vocalizing a liquid chirping. You can witness this dazzling display around dusk in the prairie immediately west of the main building in early spring.

BUILDING A NEST Nest building strategies depend on the species. In some, both sexes build the nest together, in others the male is busy defending territory while the female builds, and some males complete the architecture solo. Nesting material can include twigs, grasses, pine needles, leaves, moss, tree bark, feathers, and other organic materials. Some birds are cavity nesters, others nest on the ground, some build hanging nests, as well as just about everything you can imagine in-between. More than a dozen types 8

of nests can be observed at Schlitz Audubon. All of these birds have unique nest needs, and our various habitats such as forests, ponds, prairies, and others, provide these particular needs.

Baltimore Orioles weave a small hanging nest between slender tree branches, and you can see them being built around Mystery Lake in May. The female Song Sparrow spends about four mornings building a nest on the ground. Blue-gray Gnatcatchers often build nests where two branches bifurcate, more than halfway up the height of the tree, using lichen and leaves as camouflage on the outside of the nest. Sometimes, if a bird nest is destroyed (often by weather, predators, or competing bird species) early in the season, the pair will rebuild a nest and work to raise a clutch.

MAKING AND HATCHING EGGS Birds copulate through cloacal contact and the sperm can remain fertile for up to 10 days. Females produce eggs within 24 hours and most clutches are two to four eggs. Incubation time and egg sitting strategies vary. Sometimes males and females take turns, sometimes the male brings the female food while she sits. The Center has four Woodpecker species that breed here, and the males and females take turns incubating on the nest and foraging for food. Depending on the species, some birds are incubated for less than two weeks, while other birds can spend more than a month growing inside of the egg. Some bird species will produce successive clutches within the same year until it’s time to retreat to warmer weather.

FEEDING AND FLEDGING THE YOUNG Once a baby bird hatches, its needs vary depending on the species. Most songbirds are altricial birds and are born without feathers and with their eyes closed, needing their parents to keep them warm and fed. Precocial species, such as ducks, are born with open eyes and feathers and are mobile on foot from the time they hatch. Fledging (the act of leaving the nest) can take place weeks or months from birth, depending on the species. Generally the larger the species the longer time before fledging.

A House Wren feeding its young. This family of House Wrens built their nest in a fence post on our walkway at Schlitz Audubon.

HELPING BIRDS BREED AT THE CENTER Our Conservation Plan prioritizes creating habitat for breeding birds. The Plan includes a list of 20 bird species for which we work to improve breeding habitat. Each bird is listed as Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern in Wisconsin. This

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

FEATURE

A female Baltimore Oriole weaving its hanging nest.

list was created by comparing which species we are likely to see here alongside which are in dire need of breeding habitat.

17 of our 20 priority birds nest either on the ground, or in low branches of shrubs and saplings. As we work to control Common Buckthorn and other invasive species, we will restore native ground-layer and shrub-layer vegetation, providing the necessary habitat for these birds.

Helping Breeding Birds in Your Backyard

The best way to provide for birds is to plant native plants that attract native insects for native birds to eat. Native berry plants such as Cherry, Dogwood, Serviceberry, and Chokecherry provide excellent food for birds. Other native plants such as viburnum and juniper shrubs provide locations and material for nesting. Hackberry trees provide fruit throughout winter, Hawthorn trees offer birds nesting protection specifically because of their thorns. Trees such as Maple, Tamarack, and Birch provide seeds that birds eat. A plethora of wildflowers offer habitat for both insects and birds, such as Asters, Black-eyed Susans, Wild Strawberry, and Sunflowers.

The Red-headed Woodpecker is an example of one of these 20 birds we hope will begin breeding here. Oak Savannas are their optimum habitat, and we are gradually converting areas of the Center into Oak Savanna. Another example is the Field Sparrow, which breed in grassy or shrubby areas that are managed frequently by fire. With effective conservation, we can support Allowing organic material to remain in your yard over winter can the possible nesting and reproduction of our 20 priority species, help birds come springtime. Birds can find food in yard remnants, as well as other birds that share their resource requirements. compost heaps, or eat the insects they attract. Twigs, grasses, branches, and even the lichen that grows on them can become We recently felled a number of trees that had been afflicted with nesting material. We do not recommend leaving out man-made Emerald Ash Borer in areas where they could become hazards, materials such as lint, string, or ribbons in the hopes that birds but left trees that pose no risk. These have been left as future will put them in nests. Manmade materials can be dangerous, can nesting sites for primary cavity nesting birds - birds that exca- retain additional moisture, and some can attract the attention of vate a new nest every year. Some examples of primary cavity predators. A natural nest is the best nest. nesters are Black-capped Chickadees and White-breasted Nuthatches, but these trees will foremost benefit woodpeckers.

Fostering an environment where birds can return to perpetuate Certain birds depend primarily upon primary cavity nesters to excavate a hole that they can use. Since woodpeckers like to excavate new cavities each year, other birds, such as Tree Swallows and House Wrens, take over the abandoned sites.

their species has the benefit of improving our experience while exploring the forests, ponds, and prairies at the Center. By conserving and restoring the land, we provide birds with a space to return to year after year, ensuring that their vibrant colors greet us on the other side of our binoculars. We provide them with a home, and – although not necessarily for us – they sing to our ears’ delight.

Written with contributions from: Marilyn Bontly, Zoe Finney, Don Quintenz, Jean Strelka, and Norma Zehner Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

9

CONSERVATION

The Season of Growth

The planting plan for Butterfly Bend, created by Jane Shero, John Pearce, and Betsy Vokac.

MARC WHITE Director of Conservation

by National Audubon Society’s Coleman and Susan Burke Center for Native Plants. One vital facet of attracting birds is to plant for the insects they eat. These 1,100 native plants will attract a wide variety of insects, and provide ample dining opportunities for migratory, resident, and breeding birds. As additional funding is secured, these plantings will eventually line a new, wheelchair As you arrive at the curve of Brown Deer Road and Lake Drive, accessible trail along the entrance road. you’ll notice a new planting surrounding our sign to greet your arrival. We’ve named this area Butterfly Bend, as this sweeping We recently completed a project with assistance from a wetland landscape of more than 60 native species of undulating grasses delineation team from SEWRPC to better understand where our and sedges, colorful forbs, blooming shrubs, and trees will cre- wetlands exist, so we can effectively restore these vital ecosysate habitat for butterflies and other pollinators. Working with tems. As we move forward with our Storm Water Wetland and our Conservation staff, Butterfly Bend was designed by three of Ravine Stabilization Project, we will reroute trails with wheelour experienced land stewardship volunteers, Jane Shero, John chair accessible paths. This summer, we will develop the trail portion between the Preschool play space and the wigwam. NaPearce, and Betsy Vokac. tive plants displaced by construction will be rescued and used to While driving along East Brown Deer Road, you will observe that restore wetland vegetation on retired trail segments. the West Meadows are more open. Throughout winter, while the ground was frozen, staff spent a great deal of time controlling in- If you’re looking to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, we’re alvasive buckthorn in this area. You can now see through the trees ways looking for groups and individuals to help us improve our 185-acre outdoor classroom. For more information about volunto view North Pond and the Meadows. teering at Schlitz Audubon, visit our website or contact Marie Along the main entrance drive, we’re beginning a Birdscaping Honel, Volunteer Coordinator at 414-352-2880 x144.

Demonstration Planting. This project has been partially funded Summer is the season of growth in our region, and it’s the time when many of our conservation efforts become most apparent.

Throughout the year, staff and volunteers have undertaken a plethora of projects to improve the long-term health of the land and the ways in which we all experience it.

10

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

CONSERVATION MEZZANINE ART GALLERY

Raptors in Focus August - November

This summer, we will exhibit photographs from the 2019 Schlitz Audubon Raptor Calendar. Photographs are taken at the annual Raptors in Focus event at the Center. This year more than xx photographers participated and submitted images for consideration for the calendar. The images selected for the 2019 Raptor Calendar will be on display August through November. Visit the gallery and join us in celebrating our fantastic feathered ambassadors.

Wisconsin Arborist Association Day of Service This spring, members of the Wisconsin Arborist Association (WAA) spent their annual Day of Service at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center. WAA arborists who work for eight different companies removed a total of 79 Ash trees afflicted by Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). These trees were removed from areas that pose potential safety concerns, such as near parking lots, main trails or roads, and near building structures.

Schlitz Audubon is grateful to WAA professionals for providing this extraordinary Day of Service. This donation of seven hours of work by each professional, along with their knowledge and equipment has saved Center staff months, or possibly years, of tree felling work. Additionally, funds provided by the James E. Dutton Foundation have helped the Center’s efforts to recover from EAB. The invasive Emerald Ash Borer Beetle has infiltrated Southeastern Wisconsin, gradually killing ash trees where they stand. 35% of the Center’s tree canopy is comprised of ash trees, which naturally proliferated when the land was retired from agriculture. Schlitz Audubon staff have proactively marked potential hazard trees and have been cutting down infested Ash trees over the past year.

is accelerating our efforts to diversify our tree and plant communities. We’re repopulating our tree canopy with a greater variety of trees native to our region, and which will support a wider range of plant and animal life.

You can help create a more resplendent ecosystem to support the birds, bees, and butterflies that rely on the crucial habitat provided by Schlitz Audubon. Please contact Melanie Johnson at mjohnson@ schlitzaudubon.org or at 414-352-2880 x152 to learn how your support can create vital habitat for the birds we love to hear and Monarchs we love to see wafting throughout our community.

The ecological setback presented by EAB

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

11

CALENDAR Adult Program Family Program Preschool Program Wheelchair Accessible Member Price Non-Member Price Registration Required

Payment is due at time of registration.

Refunds will only be given to those who cancel 14 or more days before a program. If Schlitz Audubon cancels a program, refunds will be given.

Register online at www.schlitzaudubon.org We now have online registration, which means you can register whenever it is convenient for you. Visit the calendar page of our new website. It includes the ability to filter by category or date.

The shopping cart feature allows you to register for multiple programs at a time and to create an account for future use. Registration is still available at the Center and by phone at 414- 352-2880 x0

Summer Canoe Trip* Tuesday, July 3 | 1:30pm – 4:00pm

Canoe the Milwaukee River with Center staff AJ Grill, and Cassie Rincon. We’ll bring nets and strainers to sift through the water and discover what’s swimming around. The trip begins at a private park in Mequon and finishes at Thiensville Village Park. All canoeing and safety equipment will be provided. Program details will be emailed to participants. Youth participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

M: $30 NM: $45

Citizen Science Bat Monitoring*

Tuesday, July 3 | 8:30pm - 10:00pm Thursday, July 12 | 8:30pm - 10:00pm

Bat populations are in decline. Help us gather information for the Department of Natural Resources by participating in acoustic surveys with Cassie Rincon and Michelle Allison.

Together we will walk in a group searching for bats on the property with the Center’s Echo Meter Touch 2 PRO and Anabat. If there is rain in the forecast, we will perform surveys on July 5 and July 11. Youth participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

12

Raptor Saturday

Saturday, July 7 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm Saturday, September 1 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

July Did you know that the dinosaur Velociraptor was named after the group of birds, raptors, which exist today? Come out and learn about other cool parallels between dinosaurs and birds of prey at our first Raptor Saturday after the premiere of Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. Our real-life raptor trainers will give you a sneak peek into the lives of these ancient creatures using some of their close living relatives.

August There is no Raptor Saturday in August – visit our Raptors at Wisconsin State Fair!

September Join us as we celebrate International Vulture Awareness Day during this special Raptor Saturday. Scavenging animals are often characterized as dirty or menacing in stories. Tallulah the Turkey Vulture, along with some of our other resident birds who are known for scavenging, are eager to share their side of the story. Not only are these birds some of the cleanest animals around, they are incredibly important to the overall health of our shared environment.

Free with membership or admission Sponsored by:

Spiritual World of Nature: Native American Energy Healing* Sunday, July 8 | 2:00pm - 3:00pm

Dennis King, carrier of the Bear Medicine, will guide a healing ceremony on the shore of Lake Michigan including the sacred Water Ceremony. Learn about a powerful healing method seldom seen off the reservation. The Creator sends out spirits to help Dennis help others. Dennis comes from a lineage of healers and now he continues their legacy!

M: $10 NM: $15

Citizen Science: Wisconsin Frog and Toad Survey* Monday, July 9 | 8:15pm

Join us at sunset, when we will carpool to ten frog and toad roadside listening stations in northern Milwaukee County. Learn how to identify Wisconsin’s frog and toad species by call. The data collected will help the Wisconsin DNR monitor the health of amphibian populations throughout the state. Surveys take 3-4 hours. For more information, contact Michelle Allison mallison@schlitzaudubon. org. Rain Date Wednesday, July 11.

Soundwaves at Schlitz Audubon Tuesdays July 10 - August 14 6:30pm - 7:30pm July 10 | Pickin’ up Speed July 17 | The Kitchen Boys July 24 | Bruce Dean July 31 | Mike’s Classic Country August 7 | Noah John & Ringing Iron August 14 | John Stano

Join us Tuesday evenings for a performance by a local artist at our Pavilion overlooking Lake Michigan. Music ranges from classical, to bluegrass, to folk, to jazz and everything in-between. Beer, sangria, and soda will be available for purchase. Bring a blanket or chairs and a picnic basket and enjoy the show!

Performances will move indoors to our Auditorium in the event of inclement weather.

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Free with membership or admission

Citizen Science: Fireflies, Nature’s Silent Fireworks* Tuesday July 10 | 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Fireflies light up our summer nights. Learn interesting firefly facts and fiction, discover more about our firefly populations, as well as the environmental factors affecting firefly habitats. We will then venture out to view some of our resident fireflies. All participants will learn the protocol for participating in Firefly Watch, an important, yet simple Citizen Science project you can complete at Schlitz Audubon or in your own backyard.

Monitoring will continue every Tuesday throughout the summer.

Free with membership or admission

Discovery Nature Hiking*

Tuesday, July 10 | 9:00am - 10:00am Friday, August 31 | 9:00am - 10:00am Friday, September 21 | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Experience the wonders of summer as we walk along the meadows, woods, and wetlands of the Center. Senior Ecologist Don Quintenz will lead you to the seasonal events that stir our sense of beauty or imagination and will answer the questions that nature evokes. The entire program takes place on the trail.

Free with membership or admission

Free with membership or admission

M: $7 NM: $12

CALENDAR Surface Design in Clay Art Class* Tuesdays, July 10 - July 31 | 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Surface Design is a mindset for becoming more sensitive and aware to the architecture in nature. During this four-week course, discover Schlitz Audubon on a Surface Design Walk using clay to capture the textures you discover. Adapt natural textures and found objects by creating stamps, molds, and drawings for use in your clay art. Using natural materials, students will produce one-of-a-kind tiles and trays with surfaces rich in texture.

Participants should bring a journal to class for observations and reflections.

M: $75 NM: $95

Bird Club*

Wednesday, July 11 | 6:30 pm - 8:00pm Wednesday, August 8 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm Wednesday, September 12 | 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Co-presented with Milwaukee Audubon Society. Please check our online calendar for specific topics for each month. Young adults and birders of all interest levels are welcome to join this drop-in program on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.

Free to all

Photo Club*

Wednesday, July 11 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm Wednesday, August 8 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm Wednesday, September 12 | 5:00pm - 6:00pm

Photographers of all ages and skill levels are invited to participate in monthly hikes. Center Naturalist Cassie Rincon guides participants to locations that offer unique photographic opportunities. Everyone works together to further their art, share photography ideas, and capture memories. Schlitz Audubon does not provide cameras.

Free with membership or admission

Audubon Babies*

Friday, July 13 | 10:00am - 11:15am Friday, July 27 | 10:00am - 11:15am Thursday, September 13 | 10:00am - 11:15am Thursday, September 27 | 10:00am - 11:15am

Children are never too young to enjoy the wonders of nature. Come take a hike on the trails filled with sensory explorations and meet new friends. We will start inside and venture out when everyone is ready. Dress for the weather but if the weather is not appropriate to go outside, we will explore indoors. We recommend waterproof shoes or boots. This program is for babies 6-24 months with their adult.

M: $12 per pair NM: $17 per pair

Responsibly Raising Monarchs Indoors* Saturday, July 21 | 10:00am - 11:30am

Prairie Flowers and Grasses* Sundays, August 12 – August 19 11:00am - 1:00pm

Monarch Butterfly populations are declining and many people bring Monarch eggs and larvae into their homes to raise them in an effort to help. If done improperly, however, indoor rearing can actually harm the wild monarch population. Join our Monarch experts in a discussion and demonstration of responsible butterfly rearing. We will assemble rearing kits to take home and learn other ways that you can aid this amazing insect. Together, let’s bring back the Monarchs!

Explore our prairie and discover the grasses and wildflowers that grow at Schlitz Audubon.

Join Naturalist Tess Carr and Senior Ecologist Don Quintenz to learn about our prairie grasses, then come the following week to learn to identify prairie wildflowers.

Monday, August 13 | 8:30pm - 10:00pm

M: $10 NM: $15

Citizen Science: Moth Watch* Wednesday, July 25 | 8:00pm – 10:00pm

As part of National Moth Week, learn how moths differ from their daytime cousins, butterflies, and why they are so important to have in the world. Venture outside to visit bait trees and an Ultraviolet light station, used to attract moths, to see what creatures may be living here at Schlitz Audubon. Bring a camera to document your discoveries!

Free with membership or admission

Citizen Science: Canada Goldenrod Study* Saturday, July 28 | 10:00am – 2:00pm

Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis) is a species that can take over and out compete other native plants. This training will educate and prepare citizen scientists to collect data in prairie areas that are co-dominated by Canada Goldenrod. With the use of a small set of tools and plant identification skills, citizen scientists will collect and record the baseline data for goldenrod control. The group will meet early mornings or late afternoons throughout late July to October until the mapped areas are completed. Please bring a bag lunch.

Free with membership or admission

Hangin’ with Hyatt: Family Canoe* Saturday, July 28 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Jim has the perfect paddling experience for your whole family! He’ll get your family set with lifejackets, paddles, and critter catching gear. We’ll venture out onto Mystery Lake, a one-acre pond that is perfect for beginners and little ones. Join us for a great morning of discovering turtles, toads, frogs, and water insects.

M: $30 NM: $40

Summer Astronomy with Binoculars, Planets, and Meteors!* Four bright planets are visible in the evening, and the Perseid meteor shower is just past its peak. We’ll browse the constellations of summer, stopping at planets, star clusters, nebulae, and double stars along the way. Then we’ll take a closer look at our discoveries through telescopes. Bring your binoculars, long sleeves, mosquito repellent, and a reclining lawn chair.

M: $10 NM: $15

Wisconsin Master Naturalist Volunteer Training Course* August 21 – September 27 10 Tuesday/Thursday evening sessions and 2 Saturday Field Trips

The Wisconsin Master Naturalist Program is a statewide effort to train volunteers to participate in education, citizen science, and stewardship in their communities. In this 40hour course, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center will provide training about the natural history of Wisconsin through classroom instruction, field experience, and two off-site field trips.

The course also includes a capstone project, which provides an opportunity to practice some of the skills needed for volunteer work.

Topics will include Geology, Ecology, Plant Communities, Wildlife, Interpretation, Water, Aquatic Life, and Human Impacts. Participants will receive certification upon successful completion of the course.

For more information and to register, visit http://wimasternaturalist.org/

Cost: $250

M: $20 per person NM: $30 per person

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

13

CALENDAR Squirrel Talk Saturday, August 25 | 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Meet Amelia, the Center’s Southern Flying Squirrel, one of Wisconsin’s elusive small mammals. Join us in our dark room and watch as Amelia scurries and glides within an enclosed space. One of our Naturalists will answer any questions you may have about flying squirrels while observing her nutty behavior.

Free with membership or admission

Tai Chi*

Wednesdays, September 5 - October 24 4:00pm – 5:00pm

This is a continuing session of Tai Chi, led

by Alice Kuramoto, who has over 30 years of experience with Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a Chinese exercise based on slow, gentle movements, meditation, and breathing. Its health benefits include improving balance, posture, muscle strength, and lowering blood pressure. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Class will take place in the Pavilion, bring a light jacket as the season moves into fall.

M: $80 NM: $96

Repamphibiantile Sunday Sunday, September 9 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm

The days are getting shorter and reptiles and amphibians are beginning to hunker down for winter. Before they retreat into brumation, hold a snake and marvel at salamanders. Bring the whole family to gain a deeper understanding of these often misunderstood creatures.

This is an interactive and educational program for all ages.

Free with membership or admission

Nature Mondays: Autumn Afternoons*

September 10 - October 15 1:00pm - 3:30pm

This six-week series is hosted the Schlitz Audubon Nature Preschool for children ages 4-6. We meet once a week on Monday afternoons. Preschool teachers focus on nature experiences that are age appropriate, and make use of the Preschool’s wonderful indoor and outdoor classrooms. Nature Mondays is the perfect option for families who would like their children to share in the Nature Preschool experience, but prefer a short-term commitment. Register for this program through the Preschool by calling 414-352-2880 x154.

Forms required for this program are available on our website.

14

The Real Story of Lake Michigan’s High Water Levels Hike* Tuesday, September 11 | 9:00am - 10:00am

Any beachcomber has certainly witnessed the dramatic erosion of Lake Michigan’s forested upper beaches over the last three years. Many folks wonder why the water is so high. It really is not, relative to longer period perspectives.

Join Senior Ecologist Don Quintenz on a hike to our Great Lakes beach to learn the primary influences that have caused these water level changes and what our future holds.

M: $7 NM: $12

SPARK!* Tuesday, September 11 | 1:00pm - 2:30pm

This program is for people experiencing cognitive changes such as memory loss and their care partners. Led by our Director of Education Tom Finley, each month is devoted to learning about the simple beauty found in nature and how it enriches our lives. Programs take place inside the Auditorium and may include a brief outdoor component, close to the building, so dress for the weather. Themes are seasonally based and change each month.

Free to participants and caregivers

Hand-in-Hand*

Thursday, September 20 | World of Bugs Session 1 | 9:00am - 10:15am Session 2 | 10:30am - 11:45am

Explore nature with your little ones! Hike, play, enjoy art activities, and listen to a story.

Dress for the weather; we explore outdoors rain or shine. We recommend waterproof shoes or boots. This program is for 2-3 yearolds and their adult.

M: $14 per pair per program NM: $19 per pair per program

Foray into Wild Mushrooms of Wisconsin* Sunday, September 23 | 10:00am – 4:30pm

Join mushroom expert John Steinke and Senior Ecologist Don Quintenz for a fall walk when mushrooms are most abundant. We will search some of the best habitats in the Southern Kettle Moraine for these striking expressions of nature’s beauty. Distractions are welcomed for any other natural wonders, as is expected on a hike with Don! Participants must be able to walk up and down some small hills. Transportation provided.

M: $65 NM: $75

After School Adventure Club*

Word with a Bird

This after school program is ideal for students ages 5 - 8 without accompanying adults. Join us every week for 90 minutes of outdoor exploration. Schlitz Audubon teachers will lead students on guided hikes to interesting destinations on the property. Each week will include hands-on activities and outdoor play.

Each Word with a Bird program focuses on the specific skills, traits and adaptations that make that bird such a unique creature. Meet a different bird each time! While visiting the Center make sure to spend some time outdoors on the trails. There will be no WWB July 7 and 14, August 4 – 12 (Visit our Raptors at Wisconsin State Fair!), and September 1.

Wednesdays, September 12 - December 12 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Saturdays and Sundays | 1:00pm - 2:00pm

M: $7 NM: $12

Raptor Handling Workshop* Saturday, September 15 | 10:00am–4:00pm

Have you ever wondered what it felt like to be nose-to-beak with a Peregrine Falcon? Or to solve a puzzle with a savvy crow? Spend a day at our Raptor Facility with our Trainers learning all about caring for raptors. We will cover basic avian care and give you the opportunity to train our star birds- a truly exhilarating experience! Come prepared to get dirty and be amazed! Please bring a bag lunch. Beverages provided by the Center.

M: $140 NM: $165

M: $200 for full session NM: $250 for full session

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Free with membership or admission

Hatha Yoga Class* Every Monday | 5:30pm – 6:45pm

Renew your spirit with our Monday yoga classes. Classes are designed for all levels of students, they are therapeutic in nature, and will be challenging at times. All students are taught to observe their body and breath, and to practice within their capacity. When it is warm we will practice outside; bring a light jacket and mosquito repellent. The first class is always free! Online registration is not available for yoga. Please call the front desk or email Sandy (smanning@schlitzaudubon.org) to register for this program.

M: $100 for 10 weeks NM: $120 for 10 weeks

THANK YOU THANK YOU In Memory Of

In Honor Of

Alex Jean A. McKey and Jerry Houfek

Murph and John Burke Kristin and Patrick Burke

Karen Anderson Anonymous Debra Milligan William A. Romberg, Jr.

Beth Chapman Virginia Johnson

Sally Jean Fischer Michele Jabs Van Johnson Catherine Hulder and Ernie Gauger Steve and Barb Johnson Richard and Martha Whitaker

Bette and Tom Drought Molly Gallagher Margarete Harvey Barbara Ryan

Raptor Sponsorships Malary – American Kestrel In Honor of Andrea Brennan Sue Holcomb

In Honor of Aubrey Ellickson Sue Holcomb In Honor of Kim Hoppe Sue Holcomb

Orion – Barred Owl

In Honor of Hootie Richard Miller and Cynthia Mieszala

Tskili – Great Horned Owl In Honor of Levi Krupinski Christine and James Hill

Werner & Elisabeth Knöpfel Elaine Cotter

Wind Chill McCloud – Snowy Owl

Douglas McGarvie Lowell and Frances Adams Beth Durant Raymond P. and Gayle S. Groth Norma L. and Lawrence B. Henderson Glenn and Mary Ann Jahnke Dr. and Mrs. John Mack Mary B. Lubeck Rick and Colleen McGarvie Thomas McGarvie Mr. and Mrs. Robert Perille Steve and Susan Prout Jean E. and Ralph C. Seeger Stephen V. and Paula J. Strother

In Honor of Sullivan Getzel Joe Getzel

Sara Stover Claire and Ernie Hodge Al Szafranski Sheila Johnson Esther Wegner Pat Bakula

Join us on social media!

Admission

FREE admission to Members Adults: $8 | Youth $5 (ages 3 — 17) 1111 East Brown Deer Road | Milwaukee, WI 414-352-2880 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Hours

Credits for Panorama | Summer 2018

Open 7 days a week | 9:00am - 5:00pm

Marketing Manager Nancy Quinn

Summer Hours | June-August Monday-Thursday | 9:00am - 8:00pm

Design | Illustration | Photography Zoe Finney

Summer 2018 | www.schlitzaudubon.org

Editing | Select Writing Ed Makowski

15

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center 1111 East Brown Deer Road Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53217

SUMMER 2018 PANORAMA

Check out our new website! www.schlitzaudubon.org

U.S. Postage

PAID

Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 4168