wildlife watching

The Audubon Society of Portland's Nature Store invites you to a special offsite multimedia presentation by noted photographer and videographer Gerrit Vyn, author of the nationally acclaimed book, The Living Bird: 100 Years of Listening to Nature.  Mr. Vyn will be available to sign books at the event.

Ranging through the Yukon Delta, a woods in Arkansas, a remote village in Russia's Arctic, and even urban Seattle--Vyn's remarkable photographs illustrate nearly 100 North American bird species. The exhilaration of migratory Whooping Cranes, the fragility of the endangered Spoon-Billed Sandpiper, and the wide-eyed beauty of Great Horned Owls all come alive through Vyn's inspiring work.

Join veteran tracker Terry Kem in search of tracks and signs of wildlife along the banks of the Sandy River. Learn the basics of track identification and awareness skills needed to watch wildlife at close range. With practice, beginners can learn to read the ground like an open book.

Ages: 8 and older

Wild animals are secretive, but even the most elusive ones leave clues that a tracker can deduce. Join Metro naturalists for an inspiring lecture May 18 or sign up for the full series for adventures outside May 21 and 28. Field locations will be provided to registered participants.

Ages: 15 and older

Lecture: 6:30 to 9p.m (5/18) Field classes 9a.m to 2p.m. (5/21 and 5/28)

Explore the calm back waters with a naturalist in search of wildlife in this large urban wetland. Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe will provide kayaks, paddles, floatation devices and instruction. Some kayaking experience recommended. Detailed information about what to bring will be provided to registered participants.     

Ages: 15 and older

Kids Fishing Festival features guided fishing for kids ages 5-14, including an hour of fishing for kids with special needs. Kids who fish will get a fishing pole to take home with them. Other activities include crafts, games, a scavenger hunt, and BBQ lunch. Go to columbiasprings.org/events for more information and to register. Space is limited; registration opens March 17th!