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Christmas Birders Needed for Annual Count

An evening hike at The Ridges Sanctuary is nice anytime, but on Dec. 11, the moon will be on the same side of the Earth as the sun, creating spectacular conditions for viewing objects in the sky. Join a Ridges naturalist for a Night Sky Hike at 6:30 pm. The hike route will include key vantage points to enjoy the celestial wonders and end back at the cabins for a campfire and marshmallow roast. Meet at The Ridges Cabins, 8288 County Q, Baileys Harbor. Flashlights are recommended. Hike fees are $5 for Ridges members, $8 for the general public and free for children under 18.

The Ridges Box Lunch Hike will be held on Dec. 16 at 11 am. Luncheon choices include gourmet sandwiches with sliced turkey or roast beef or a wrap made with seasonal fresh vegetables and hummus. Meet at the Cook-Fuller Nature Center, 8166 Hwy. 57, Baileys Harbor. Fees are $15 for Ridges members and $18 for the general public and include your box lunch selection from Top Shelf Café & Gourmet. Register and make a lunch selection by calling 920.839.2802 no later than 4 pm on Dec. 15.

Volunteer bird enthusiasts all over the country are gearing up for the annual Christmas Bird Count, sponsored by the National Audubon Society. The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor coordinates two local bird counts, the Ephraim Count Circle and the Northern Door Count, which are scheduled for Dec. 19. This unique program is open to anyone who wishes to view and count birds seen on that day either in the field or at their home bird feeders.

No need to be an expert birder to participate. You don’t even need to walk outside; many Christmas Birders tally species at their bird feeder, from the warm comfort of their homes. Past Christmas Bird Counts in northern Door County have revealed both common and unusual birds, everything from Black-capped Chickadees to Snowy Owls. New counters are always welcome. For additional information on the Christmas Bird Count, contact Brian Forest at 920.829.2802, or [email protected].

For more information about these and other programs, visit RidgesSanctuary.org or call 920.839.2802.

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