The Norman Bird Sanctuary is welcoming spring with a series of events designed to connect the community with the natural world, from geology hikes and stargazing to wildlife encounters and family open houses.
The season kicks off Thursday, March 19, with a Golden Hour Geology Hike from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., exploring the ancient rock formations along the Middletown coastline. That same evening, wildlife biologist Alyssa Grayson will present a lecture on the intersection of art and conservation science from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
On Friday, March 20, a guided mindful meditation session will be held from 9 to 9:45 a.m. in Mabel’s Studio, overlooking the sanctuary’s fields and stone walls.
Later in the month, amateur astronomer Michael Corvese will lead a beginner’s stargazing session Tuesday, March 24, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a Woodcock Walk on Wednesday, March 25, from 6 to 8 p.m., offering visitors a chance to witness the American Woodcock’s evening courtship display.
On Saturday, March 28, the sanctuary will host a free Curiosity Lab Open House from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a “Tracks & Scat” wildlife presentation, a meet-and-greet with Hunter, the sanctuary’s rescue red-tailed hawk, crafts and an opportunity to learn about the volunteer Naturalist Ambassador program.
In April, Dr. Michael Bernarsky will present “Origins of the Ocean” on Thursday, April 9, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Looking ahead, summer camp registration opens April 6 at 9 a.m., and the sanctuary’s annual Beach Bash is set for July 29.
Tickets for all programs are available at NormanBirdSanctuary.org. The sanctuary is located at 583 Third Beach Road in Middletown.