Explore Nature & Fun This Spring at the Ansonia Nature Center

Jr. Rangers: In-Person

Thursday, April 25– June 13, 3:30 -5:00 p.m.

Calling all teens 11 to 14 years old who love nature!  Has your child wanted to work with animals, garden, help maintain our trails, and help with conservation and community science projects?  Then this is the opportunity to help the Nature Center in our 8–week after-school program.  Parental permission and registration are required.  Class size is limited; this class fills up fast!  Click here to register anytime after 7:30 a.m. after Wednesday, March 13th.

Conservation Corps

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Remaining March Dates:  Tuesday, March 19, Thursday, March 21, Saturday, March 30

April Dates:  Tuesday, April 2, Wednesday, April 3, Tuesday, April 9, Tuesday, April 16, Wednesday, April 17, Saturday, April 27, Tuesday, April 30

Join Ranger Maria in preserving and enhancing the precious forests and meadows of the Nature Center!  The Conservation Corps is on a mission to protect the integrity of our habitats by removing invasive vegetation and nurturing our valuable trees and plants.  Our dedicated team is committed to safeguarding the tree canopy and preventing the further encroachment of destructive plants.  From cutting down invasive Asiatic Bittersweet vines to clearing out other invasive species, we’re actively working to restore and maintain the health and biodiversity of our beloved landscapes.  Whether you’re 18 or 80, our Conservation Corps warmly welcomes newcomers who are eager to make a positive impact on the environment.  Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.  Click here to register.

Animal Shelter Building - Woodland Habitat Edition

April 6, 2:30 p.m.

Discover the diverse array of animals that call the woodland home and gain valuable knowledge about their shelter needs.  Participants will identify areas where a selected woodland site lacks suitable shelter for animals, such as songbirds, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.  Using hand tools, we’ll work together to cut invasive plants and construct woodland shelters to provide sanctuary for these creatures.  Join us for an educational and rewarding experience that combines habitat exploration with practical conservation efforts.  Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.  Click here to register for this FREE program.

Needle Felted Mushrooms

April 7, 11 a.m.

Learn the art of needle felting with Ranger Dawn by making your own felted mushroom!  Each attendee will get a complete kit with wool and felting needles.  If we have time, we’ll explore free-form felting too.  Adult program.  FEE: $20, payable in advance in person - cash or check made to the Ansonia Nature Center.  Click here to register.

Sunday Guided Hike: Explore Vernal Pools

April 7, 1 p.m.

Come learn about our local amphibians and their importance during our hike to the Nature Center’s vernal pools.  Amphibians play a unique role as indicator species in determining the health of our environment.  These fascinating creatures secretly inhabit our woodlands and wetlands; help our staff lift rocks and logs to find these slippery creatures beneath.  Make sure you and your family wear old clothes and shoes because we will get wet and dirty.  Click here to register for this FREE program.

Summer Nature Days Dates

July 8- 12, July 15-19, July 29 – Aug. 2, August 5-9

Nature Days Registration Opens Monday, April 8^th!

For children 6 to 11 years old who love the outdoors and wildlife, these popular classes will be educational and allow them to explore the 156 acres the park offers.  We will visit a variety of habitats in the park, such as wetlands, fields, and woodlands.  Hikes, games, crafts, and cooking will be incorporated into our lessons.  A great choice for a fun summer experience!  TUITION PER WEEK:  $153 for priority students (Ansonia residents and current family–level FANCI members); $180 for all others.  Click here to register.  You may register your child for only one week of camp - a waiting list for other weeks will be available after all weeks have been filled.

Total Solar Eclipse

Monday, April 8, 1:30 p.m.

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and the earth, completely blocking the face of the sun.  Join Ranger Jeremy at the Nature Center for an afternoon viewing during the eclipse’s totality.  We will craft proper viewing instruments; supplies are limited, so bring your own cereal (or similar) cardboard box.  This class is suitable for all ages.  Click here to register for this FREE program.

All About Bluebirds

April 13, 10:30 a.m.

Time for Bluebirds!  Join Ranger Evelyn for a fun and educational presentation.  Take a walk through the Nature Center’s Bluebird habitat and look for these harbingers of spring.  Dress for the weather.  Binoculars are available to borrow.  This class is suitable for all ages.  Click here to register for this FREE program.

Earth Day Art Show

Submissions Due April 15

Earth Day Celebration

Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The Ansonia Nature Center invites everyone to join us this Earth Day.  This year’s theme is Legacy:  Past, Present, and Future.  This year’s celebration will feature Ojibwe flute artist Allan Madahbee, and we will unveil “Sugar Maple Year in a Day”, a 5’ x 20’ mural painted by artist Amie Ziner.  Enjoy hikes, live animals, environmental exhibitors, local vendors, a raffle, and food trucks at this annual event.  All ages are welcome to this family-friendly festival.  No park admission fee.  Click here to learn more.

Family Organic Garden

Tuesdays, April 23– June 25, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.

ANC will lead fun, family-friendly activities in our organic garden.  Learn about growing a variety of fruits and vegetables.  Dress appropriately; remember you will get water and/or soil on your clothing.  This program is FREE, with the potential to take home fresh local produce!  The class size is limited to 10.

Click here to register.

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Ansonia Nature Center is located at 10 Deerfield Street, Ansonia, CT • 203-736-1053 • www.AnsoniaNatureCenter.org