Bellies on the Boardwalk Program at The Ridges

Spring has finally returned to Door County, and so have guided birding hikes at The Ridges Sanctuary. A naturalist will lead Discovery Bird Hikes, Saturdays at 6:30 am, beginning May 10 and running through July 26. Not-so early Birding 101 hikes will be held on May 17, June 21, and July 19 at 9 am.

Both hikes are free for Ridges members, $5 for the general public, and children under 18 hike for free. Hikers meet at The Ridges Nature Center, 8288 County Q in Baileys Harbor.

Those in search of a more in-depth birding experience should mark their calendars for May 19, 8 am – noon. Accomplished birding guide Daniel Edelstein will lead Warbler Watch, a half-day outing to some of the best bird-filled areas in the northern enclaves of Door County.

Participants will carpool from The Ridges Nature Center, 8288 County Q in Baileys Harbor. Fees for the Warbler Watch tour are $30 for Ridges members and $40 for the general public.

Come and explore the diverse and abundant aquatic fauna that inhabit the wetlands of The Ridges Sanctuary on May 17 at 1 pm. Lie on the boardwalk to use, nets, buckets, hands or feet to scoop up some tadpoles, whirligig beetles, dragonfly larvae and all manner of tiny wetland creatures.

During this afternoon of hands-on learning, Ridges naturalists will help identify collected critters and also talk about what these organisms can tell us about water quality and the importance of wetlands as habitats.

Bellies on the Boardwalk is part of The Ridges Natural Connections series, nature programs designed for adults and families. Program fees are $10 for adult Ridges members, $13 for adult general public and $5 for children under 18. Participants should meet at the Marshall Cabin, 8288 County Q in Baileys Harbor.

Space for both programs, and advance registration is required. To register, call 920.839.2802 or visit RidgesSanctuary.org.