It feels like just last week that we opened for the season and now the month of July is almost over! As August kicks off, that means there’s only a short time left to get in a canoe or kayak paddle through Scarborough Marsh before the center closes after Labor Day weekend.
We started off July with our busiest weekend of the summer over July Fourth. So many people came out to paddle the marsh and enjoy the start of summer. At our first Tiny Tot Tour of the season (pictured above), little ones of all ages walked along the Nature Trail seeing Snowy Egrets, touching algae, and taking in the wonders of the salt marsh.
We also hosted the first of two bird monitoring days that take place during the season. The day was overcast, but we had a great group of birders out documenting the birds they saw in all sections of the marsh. Some birders were able to spot the rare Seaside Sparrow upstream on the Dunstan River!
The next bird monitoring will be Saturday, August 23. Novices are welcome and will be paired with advanced birders. All the data collected helps researchers determine the health of the marsh and is entered into eBird.
We also could really use volunteers to help search for insects and plants during our Insect and Plant Biodiversity Day, Sunday, August 17, from 9 am-12 pm. Help us survey the habitat around the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center. Our data is shared with scientists to help determine the health of the marsh and to notice any changes or new trends that are developing.
This summer has brought spells of rainy weeks, hot and humid days, and wind gusts galore. We never know what a day at the marsh will bring. Despite all the turns in the weather, the first kayak tour of the season was able to get out on the water! Led by Bill, one of our longtime volunteers, everyone loved being out on the water learning about the plants, animals, and history of the marsh.
We have exciting events in August for all ages both on and off the water. As well as all our signature programs for children and families, we’ve got lots of programs for adults too, from Nature Sketching by Canoe on August 2, to our Create a Seashell Wreath workshop on August 20. Come create a wreath out of Blue Mussel shells for a unique souvenir that will get your guests talking!
Find all Scarborough Marsh events here >
