As winter settles over Maine, it’s tempting to hunker down indoors. But we invite you to bundle up and join us in embracing and exploring the winter landscapes that make this season so special. At Fields Pond Audubon Center in Holden, we’ve designed a variety of outdoor programs to help you and your family connect with nature and create lasting memories this season!
Our weekly Friday morning bird walks offer a peaceful way to start your day, observing wintering species flit through bare branches and forage for food. If birding is part of your New Year’s resolutions, our Winter Beginner Bird Walk on Jan. 4 is the perfect introduction. Join our Naturalist Val Watson to learn birding basics in a welcoming and relaxed environment.
Winter also leaves behind fascinating clues about its visitors. On Jan. 11, join our Winter Wildlife Tracking Walk to uncover hidden stories etched in snow (or mud, depending on the weather!). During our Seed Sowing Workshop on Jan. 18, Maine Audubon staff will introduce native seed propagation for growing your own wildflowers and other plants from seed. Participants will leave with several pots sown with seeds and ready for maintenance-free outdoor germination! (For a preview of what’s in store, Deb Neuman, host of My Maine Gardens on WABI-TV, came to Fields Pond to talk with Naturalist Val Watson; watch this video to see what she learned.
And remember, the sanctuary trails are open every day from sunrise to sunset. Whether you hike a trail, wander around the Nature Center watching the birds at the feeders, or visit us inside when the Center is open, we encourage you to explore! While you are out and about, snap a photo of a winter landscape or some Maine wildlife at Fields Pond and submit it to our Winter Photo Contest before Jan. 25. Your winning shot could be displayed at the Nature Center for a year and earn you a bundle of Maine Audubon swag!
Then, as we step into February, the Nature Center comes alive with more opportunities to celebrate the season. Our annual WinterFest is Feb.1 and is free for all. We will have family-friendly activities and announce the winner of our Winter Photo Contest! More February programs, like our Valentine’s Day Moonlit Snowshoe Hike and Fish Lead Free Celebration on Free Fishing Weekend can all be found on our calendar of events.
Prefer to stay cozy? Explore nature from home with our online programs and join us virtually for Stories in the Snow on Jan. 9.
Many of our programs are free for Maine Audubon members! For pricing information please visit the Events Calendar. To renew your Maine Audubon membership or become a new member, click here.
No matter how you choose to experience winter at Fields Pond—outside in the crisp air, or from the warmth of home—we’re here to help you connect with nature and embrace the season. We hope to see you soon!
