Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Darke County Parks... Hike Report


Darke County Parks & Recreation…
Early Morning Discovery Hike Report

The last Early Morning Hike of 2010 has come and gone and while we were out in the cold and snow, the birds seemed to still be enjoying the holidays elsewhere!
We had plenty of tracks along the trail to keep us busy and a few birds chirping here or there, but the most exciting bit of news was the return of an American Kestrel spotted on the power lines along the north prairie.  Kestrels have been few and far between of late and seeing this individual was a treat.


Project FeederWatch was a different story this week!  We had a record 17 Northern Cardinals spotted all at one time at the feeders!  Last year's record was just 14.  In addition, we had good numbers in American Tree Sparrows (10) and Carolina Chickadees (10).  The Cooper's Hawk still makes several rounds each day adding a bit of adrenalin to the counting!


Check out our Early Morning Discovery Hikes each Tuesday morning at 9 am held at Shawnee Prairie Preserve.  (Note winter start time of 9 am)  In addition, come out and count the birds with us every Monday and Tuesday from 9:30-11:30 am at the Nature Center.



Program Reminders:

Soaring with Eagles
Thursday, Jan. 13:  6pm
Head out to the Nature Center for an informative program all about Bald Eagles!  This program was originally scheduled for Monday, January 10, but due to a scheduling conflict, has been moved to the 13th.  Call the Nature Center for questions.
Holiday Hours
The Nature Center & Park Offices will be closed January 1 in order for to allow staff to visit with families.  Parks and trails will remain open dawn-dusk.

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