wildlife watching

Do you have a little one who enjoys being outdoors? Are you wondering what they can do during the rainy season? Bring your littlest naturalist to the Refuge to stomp in puddles and learn to appreciate the wet weather that makes Oregon so green!

This preschool environmental education program invites children and their families to spend the morning learning about the natural wonders of the Refuge. Volunteer Naturalists will lead nature crafts, share stories, and guide hikes on Refuge trails. The Refuge supplies 'froggy' raingear for the kids, but adults should bring their own. Each date offers a different theme, so Puddle Stompers are encouraged to visit on multiple days.

Day 2 of a 2-Day Training Session. Why should you become a Volunteer Lead? "I became a Lead because I believe strongly in the importance of educating ourselves and the next generation about the need to care for our environment. Columbia Springs is a hidden gem right here in our own backyard and it is a pleasure sharing it with others!" says Ellen, a veteran Volunteer Lead at Columbia Springs. Volunteer Leads receive training, rewards, and access to exclusive events including talks with local experts about various environmental topics. Leads are required to attend both 2/3 and 2/4 training and contribute 20 hours of volunteer service to Columbia Springs.  Volunteer service can be helping at field trips, events, restoration work parties, and more. Registration required. Go to columbiasprings.org/events for more information and to register. Hors d'oeuvres and beverages provided at the training. 

February marks the beginning of a rapid increase in daylight. Experience how the birds react to the expanding daylight by ramping up their vocal activity and learn how to recognize many of their distinct songs and alarm patterns.

Ages:  8 and up

Register:  Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District, 503-629-6350

Explore Sauvie Island in search of magnificent eagles, hawks and falcons. Naturalists and hawk experts host activities at four sites around the island. Enjoy guided bird viewing, meet live raptors and see hawk identification displays. Free hot drinks and donuts in the morning. After check in at Kruger's Farm Market, you'll receive a parking permit, event guide, birding map and picture handouts. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Allow about three hours. Sponsored by the Audubon Society of Portland, Metro, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and Hawk Watch International.

Ages: All ages 

Bald Eagle, Osprey and Great Blue Heron all nest and raise their young at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve. This class introduces you to the life-styles of each of these species and includes a walk of about two miles to view the birds at their nest sites.  Ages 12 -- Adult.
To register visit website (below) or call 503-681-5397. Program #: 49509    

For general program information contact Steve Engel.