Russell Lands Naturalist Events Through August

Finishing out July and heading into August, Naturalist Marianne will be very busy with Wildlife Presentations and Guided Nature Tours, including the ever-popular Night Hike!

Wildlife Presentations

Our Russell Forest Neighbors
Friday, July 30 – 6-8pm (during Friday On The Green)
Saturday July 31 – 8am-12pm
The Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads

Stop into the Naturalist’s Cabin during the dates and times listed above to see some local Russell Forest representatives and learn about the role they play in the woods. You’ll discover what they eat, how they live, and what types of habitats they prefer. Naturalist Marianne will be on hand to interpret the displays and also tell you all about the myths surrounding some of our local wildlife. There will be plenty to learn about! No charge—everyone is welcome!

August Aquatics!
Friday, August 6 – 6-8pm
Saturday, August 7 – 8am-12pm
Friday, August 13 – 6-8pm
Saturday, August 14 – 8am-12pm
Friday August 27 – 6-8pm
Saturday, August 28 – 8am-12pm
The Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads

Join Russell Lands’ Naturalist Marianne at Russell Crossroads for an informative exhibit featuring wet wildlife! August is all about the aquatic species that call Lake Martin home. A variety of tanks and terrariums will be on hand while our Naturalist interprets and teaches from this display of denizens of the deep. Multiple soggy specimens will make a splash as they demonstrate the features that make them more at home in the water than out. Come to the cabin at your leisure to get a lesson on the spot about the critters on exhibit. Display includes live animals and is appropriate for all ages. No charge—everyone is welcome!

Guided Nature Tours

Let’s spend some time in the woods!
Saturday, July 31 – 1pm
Meet at Willow Point Cutoff Trailhead

For almost two hours, we will be in the woods identifying the variety of plant and animal life we discover. In addition to learning from the finds in the forest, we will search for wet residents keeping cool in summer temperatures. This energetic hike will offer both learning and exercise. Insect repellent and sunscreen will be provided—bring your own drinking water and comfortable shoes—preferably some that can get wet! Appropriate for participants ages 5–105.

Night Hike!
Saturday, August 28 – 6:45pm
Meet at Wilson Road Trailhead

The sun will set as we walk Russell Forest trails. Let’s listen to the evening sounds slowly turn into nighttime noises. The forest settles into a different rhythm at night. BE THERE TO FEEL IT! As the light dims, we will be in the woods identifying the variety of plant and animal life we discover. This energetic hike will offer both learning and exercise. Insect repellent will be provided – bring your own flashlight, drinking water, and comfortable shoes. Appropriate for participants ages 5+.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED! There is a $10 fee for this program. Please contact Naturalist Marianne at 256.496.2710 or [email protected] to inquire and to register.

For all Guided Nature Tours: It is recommended that participants have a moderate fitness level and are able to stand or walk for at least two hours. Walking pace will be relaxed with frequent stops. Comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothing and shoes are advised. Participants may also wish to bring bottled water, sunscreen and insect repellent. Binoculars and cameras are welcome. There are no bathrooms on the Forest Trails.