fontenelle forest's january / february 2015 leaflet

The Newsletter of Fontenelle ForestJanuary - February 2015

2January - February 2015

Officers

Management

Directors

Honorary Trustees

Phone: 402.731.3140Web: fontenelleforest.org

Fontenelle Forest Nature Center1111 Bellevue Boulevard NorthBellevue, NE 68005

Neale Woods14323 Edith Marie AvenueOmaha, NE 68112

INFORMATION

STAFF

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

To provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature.

We want to inspire current and future generations to care for the natural world.

OUR MISSION

To be a national leader in environmental stewardship and education and the region’s premier nature center

OUR VISION

Paul Halbur \ PresidentAngela L. Burmeister \ President-ElectJon T. Hansen \ SecretaryLevi Scheppers \ TreasuryJim Hawkins \ Advisor

Angela AthyCatherine M. BarmettlerAnn ChristiansenToba Cohen-DunningCatherine Demes Maydew David M. DvorakLorraine A. EggerMike HamiltonHoward J. KaslowGerry LauritzenTad Leeper

Julie LiakosKelly MannSusan Nemer-HaddixAthena RamosTodd RiversRobert D. Rose Julee SauerChristine Schulte

Laura Lenarz Shiffermiller | Executive DirectorChristi Churchill | Director of DevelopmentGene Ericson | Director of Facilities Jeanine Lackey | Director of Research & StewardshipRick Schmid | Director of Operations Brad A. Watkins | Director of Communications

Debra Beck NaturalistJim BeebeChief Ranger at Neale Woods Elizabeth ChalenManager of Programming and OutreachLinda Dennis Education AssistantKeith FehrenbacherFacilitiesBetsy FinchManager of Raptor RehabilitationGary GarabrandtRangerKareen HickmanDevelopment & Volunteer AssociateCatherine Kuper Educator Denise LewisEducator/Raptor RecoveryKate Murphy Educator Tony PalmerAnimal Care TechnicianJosh Preister Chief Ranger at Fontenelle Forest Alex ShiffermillerManager of Visitor ServicesBarb ShiffermillerManager of Customer Service Joan SovernsManager of Donor Relations and MembershipJanet StanderAssistant Manager of RaptorRehabilitationJamie Vann Naturalist

Joe Vavak Communications AssistantRonnie WellsManager of Events and ExhibitsAlex WilesAnimal Care SpecialistDeborah Woracek Manager of Day Camps

Part-Time EducatorsKyle AndersonAmy CampagnaJulianne CarbonellLindsay CooleyKathy FischerMichelle FossDianne GuinnTisha JohnsonSeth Krone-KeithMatt MillerJean NenemanGrace NoeckerTony PalmerNick SauvageauDorie StoneChelsea Taxman

Visitor Services AssistantsHelen BeebeBrian Mark ConoverBrenna Watkins

Mogens BayGeorge F. HaddixNeal C. HansenRhonda A. and Howard L. HawksGerry and Bruce LauritzenMarilyn MammelNancy and Mike McCarthyCynthia C. and Thomas F. McGowanAnn PapeWalter Scott, Jr.Ann Stinson

January - February 20153

Save The Date

FEATHER OUR NEST 2015

SAVE THE DATE

FARM TABLE

Fontenelle Forest Guild

$175 / PERSON

DINNER @ 7PMCOCKTAILS @ 6PM

APRIL 16RSVP

APRIL

24

friday

Featuring

CLAYTON CHAPMANTHE GREY PLUME

NICK STRAWHECKERD A N T ERISTORANTE PIZZERIA

PAUL KULIKLE BOUILLON

JARED CLARKER A I L C A RM O D E R N A M E R I C A N K I T C H E N

OMAHA NEBRASKA 68131OMAR BAKERY BUILDING 4383 NICHOLAS STREET

Paper is wonderful! The world is educated on paper. Great ideas are started on paper. Businesses are founded on pa-per. Love is professed on paper. Important news is spread on paper. Paper is a natural product that has connected people to people for over 2,000 years.

We know that paper is one of the few truly sustainable re-sources on our planet; however, it should be used carefully, heedful of environmental impact. We have taken our cue from the World Wildlife Fund that stated, “… responsibly produced and used, paper has many advantages over other, nonrenewable alternative materials.” As an environmentally mindful group, we examined how the Forest should address this issue. In 2015, we are implementing new practices throughout the organization to better manage paper con-sumption.

One of the most important changes relates to you and the delivery of the Leaflet. Starting with the March/April is-sue, the default delivery method for our newsletter will be electronic which means you will receive your newsletter via email unless you specifically request a paper copy. It will also be available on our website.

The reasoning behind this decision is simple. Printing and mailing nearly 6,000 newsletters, six times each year, is one

of our largest uses of paper and energy. It creates signifi-cant carbon footprint impact due to use of paper and ink; and carbon emissions due to printing presses, transport, and delivery. We want to responsibly use natural resources and to model a standard of behavior that demonstrates our environmental stewardship.

It is our hope that you will embrace our plan and help us carry forward this initiative. Our work is only possible because others believe in what we do. As a member, you are vital to the wellbeing of Fontenelle Forest and I thank you for your support.

Respectfully yours,

Laura Lenarz Shiffermiller

If you would like to continue to receive a paper newsletter via the mail, please visit:

fontenelleforest.org/leaflet

Or stop by the front desk at the Nature Center.

OUR DIRECTOR


As a Fontenelle Forest Member, your benefits include:

• FREE admission to Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods for 12 months

• 26 miles of marked trails within the extraordinary Loess Hills• Two wheelchair accessible boardwalks with Missouri River and

wetland views• Diverse ecosystems, hidden lakes, and rare wildflowers• A premier birding location with over 246 recorded species• Family-friendly exhibits• Acorn Acres: A forest playscape with nine exploration areas• Habitat Hollow for indoor play and learning• Unique entertainment options: critter encounters, guided hikes,

children’s programs

Membership Benefits

JOIN FONTENELLE FOREST

• FREE members-only events and other programming• 10% discount at The Gift Shop at Fontenelle Forest• Subscription to Fontenelle Forest’s newsletter “The Leaflet”• Free or discounted admission to over 180 nature centers nation-

wide through ANCA• Every time you visit, two of your guests can receive ½ priced

admission• Discounts on Winter and Summer Camps• Access to trails before and after hours

For more details and information, please visit our website at fontenelleforest.org /membership

Nature Explorers: Tracking CoyotesCoyote are very elusive critters as they are nocturnal, hunting at night. They are a top predator within Fontenelle Forest. During the winter, these usually solitary animals will hunt in small groups. After examining coyote artifacts, the group will hike along the pond and stream trails searching for evidence of coyote activity. For children ages 5 – 12. Registration is required.

January 241:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.WLCLeader(s): Kate Murphy

Nature Explorers: When the Sap FlowsWhen winter changes to spring, the cool nights and warm days bring life back to the trees of the forest. The group will do sev-eral experiments to discover how this pro-cess works. Then we’ll use stethoscopes and try to listen to the flow. For children ages 5 – 12. Registration is required.

February 281:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.CBLeader(s): Kate Murphy

JUST FOR CHILDREN

Mud Pies Drop by to explore nature activities with your child. One adult is required for every two children. A different natural science topic is introduced each week through in-teractive stations within “Habitat Hollow”.Check the calendar at fontenelleforest.org to learn the weekly topic. This program is for children ages 5 and younger.

Monday - Thursday9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Kate Murphy

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

New at Fontenelle Forest For 2015!

Naturalist NookThe Naturalist Nook will be a permanent place for viewing, discovery, and hands-on-learning located in the Nature Center. Different seasonal themes will be highlighted on a regular basis and will include wildlife displays, artifacts, activities and more.

Beginning January 17th, a Fontenelle Forest Naturalist will be staff-ing the Naturalist Nook on Thursdays and Saturdays from 11:00a.m. until 2:00p.m. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the forest and learn more about everything from geology to botany.

The complete Naturalist Nook will be finished in early February. This all new display will have materials on view that tell the story of Fontenelle Forest. When not staffed, the Nook will be accessible to all visitors to the Nature Center.

Friday Campfire ProgramsThe first Friday evening of each month will be a time to bring your family and friends out to Fontenelle’s Camp Brewster for a campfire program. There will be stories and perhaps songs with a different focus each month.

Saturday Morning HikesNew at Fontenelle Forest this year, every Saturday at 10:00am we will offer a hike with a different theme.

• The 1st Saturday of the month will be a conservation-focused hike. • The 2nd Saturday of the month will be all about wildlife. • The 3rd Saturday of the month will be on plants. • The 4th Saturday of the month will focus on tracking (Dirt Time) • If there is a 5th Saturday of the month, we will hike the same trail

throughout the year to observe the seasonal changes that occur.

The hikes will begin at various locations throughout Fontenelle prop-erty, and will generally run around 1 ½-2 hours. Each month will be a different focus, so join us for as many hikes as you can!


S.U.N. (Seniors Understanding Nature): The Galapagos ExperienceAlex Wiles, Fontenelle Forest’s Animal Care Specialist, and his wife traveled to the Galapagos Islands for an ecology class in July, 2014. They worked directly with the Giant Tortoises on Santa Cruz Island and went snorkeling with the sharks and fish. They will share their stories and slides of this incredible adventure.

January 139:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.FFNC

Programs are listed in chronological order

PROGRAMS

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION - GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG

Campfire Program: New Year, New BeginningsBring a blanket and a buddy and bundle up for stories of new beginnings! January 1st may be the beginning of the year for many people, but ringing in the new can happen any time of year. Songs and stories from different cultures will entertain and enlighten. This is an all-weather activity. Please bring a cup for hot cocoa after the campfire.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Winter’s Hidden GemsJoin us for a reading of the children’s book “Snowflake Bentley”, which discusses the life of a man who photographed thousands of snowflakes to prove that no two were alike. After the story, create your own unique snowflake. Then head outside to search for snowflakes and other often overlooked gems of winter, from nests in the trees to fallen leaves on the ground.

Raptor Bird-day Party!We all know the date of our birthdays, right? Well, all of our resident raptors have the same birthday, January 1st! Join us as we celebrate their “bird-days” Satur-day, January 10th here at the forest. Sing a silent birthday song to various birds and their handlers, and snap a birthday photo or two of these amazing creatures.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Tracks and Scat DetectivesMatch up tracks and scat to animals found in the Fontenelle Forest. Every family will receive a free copy of the Nebraska Wild-life Tracks booklet and card set. We’ll then use this booklet to hike out onto the trail in search of these wildlife clues left behind.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Birds in WinterWe will walk casually on the boardwalk and to Child’s Hollow to see how many different species of birds we can see and identify. We will also see and talk about how birds survive in the cold winter months of Nebraska. Be sure to dress ap-propriately for the weather. This program is great for those ages 12 and over.

Wildlife Hike: Eagles!We will take a hike to Hidden Lake in search of Bald Eagles, and talk more in depth about this bird and how it survives day to day!

Plant Hike: Winter Tree IdentificationLearn to identify trees in the winter by looking at bark and twigs.

January 27:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.CBLeader(s): Michelle Fossand Tad Leeper

January 41:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Judy Belland Stephanie Brown

January 101:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Denise Lewis

January 111:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Chris Robie

January 181:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Clem Klaphake

January 1010:00a.m.WLCLeader(s): Grace Noecker

January 1710:00a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Eric Scholar

Dirt Time: A Tracking AdventureLearning to track animals requires many hours in the field, often on your hands and knees, studying animal signs up close. This is the dirt time, literally time to look and dig and track in the dirt. It is only through this regular dirt time that we can hone our skills as trackers, and this is our opportunity to get together with others who are interested in learning more about the animals who call this forest home. All are welcome, and no prior experience tracking is needed. Come prepared for the weather and the great possibility of muddy or snowy boots...the more mud and snow, the easier it is to find tracks!

January 2410:00a.m.WLCLeader(s): Wanda Pendleyand Seth Keith

Fontenelle Forest Photo ClubThis month’s topic is “Using a Go-Pro Camera.”

January 157:00p.m.FFNC

Conservation Hike: Importance ofPredator DiversityLearn about the importance of predator diversity and what predators live in Fon-tenelle Forest.

January 310:00a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Matt Miller


S.U.N. (Seniors Understanding Nature):Outdoor Fun in Nebraska ParksGreg Wagner, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission Public Information Officer and TV personality will speak about our state’s wonderful parks and the recreation-al opportunities they offer to young and old. Always entertaining, Greg Wagner should provide us with a great tour of the state.

February 109:45 a.m. - 11:00a.m.FFNC

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Campfire Program: Who IS That?Bring a blanket and a buddy and bundle up for an evening of owl lore! Good omens and bad omens, cute and scary, songs and stories, February is all about owls. This is an all-weather activity. Please bring a cup for hot cocoa after the camp-fire.

February 67:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.CBLeader(s): Michelle Fossand Tad Leeper

Bird ClubOur guest speaker will be Bill Whitney from the Prairie Plains Institute near Aurora Nebraska. Bill will talk about prairie restoration and maintenance and the importance of his alliance with the Nebraska Land Trust. There is no Bird Club meeting in January.

February 57:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Rick SchmidMembers Only

Family Sundays in the Forest: Mammal Pelts and Skulls Nature TableNearly everyone loves to touch soft animal fur! Stop by the nature table in the Great Hall of the Fontenelle Forest nature center and study our wild mammal pelts and skulls up close. At the same time you’ll learn how some of the furry year-round residents of Fontenelle Forest keep warm in the winter.

February 81:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Tad Leeper

Family Sundays in the Forest: Winter WalkHead out on a hike to the Missouri River to look for eagles, ducks, and other birds of winter. Bring along your binoculars if you have them, and we will search the for-est for all the creatures who call this place home.

February 11:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Bob Fuchs

Snowshoe HikeDust off your hiking boots and get out to the Forest for an afternoon adventure on snowshoes. No snow? We will head out for a hike through the wintery woods.

February 82:30p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Kelly Propst

Bird Banding at Aksarben AquariumGet a people’s-eye-view of our feathered friends as we capture live birds, “tag” them with tiny light-weight leg bands and release them back into the wild. Drop by any time between 9:00a.m. and 11:00a.m. and stay as little or as long as you like. All ages are welcome, and anyone who wishes may touch a live bird. We welcome donations of bird seed, which can be made through Wild Birds Unlimited in Rockbrook Plaza (402.399.9976).

Conservation Fusion!Conservation Fusion is an international conservation organization whose efforts focus on the island nation of Madagascar. Stop by Conservation Fusion’s table to learn more about the work that is be-ing done, to learn about the connections between our forests here at Fontenelle and the forests of Madagascar. Also, create a craft or take-home item with a conserva-tion theme.

February 79:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.Schramm Park SRALeader(s): Rick Schmid

February 710:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.FFNC

Expeditionary WalkWhen a fifth Saturday occurs in a month, a group will take a short walk along Stream Trail to view and record seasonal changes. Bring a camera! Each 5th Saturday, we’ll note plant and animal activity (especially the beavers). Please dress for the weather.The trail is fairly flat and can somewhat accommodate strollers.

January 3110:00a.m.WLCLeader(s): Kate Murphy

Winter in the Forest Night HikeImagine being in a cold, dark, quiet for-est with snow gently falling around you. Though we can’t promise the snow gently falling, we can promise the cold, quiet beauty of a night hike through the forest. And if there is snow, bring your snowshoes if you own a pair. Otherwise we will use the Forest’s snowshoes – first come first serve. Regardless, we promise you an evening of snowy delight! Please dress for the weather. We will be hiking on upland forest trails off the board walk.

January 297:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Tad Leeperand Sharon Draper

Family Sundays in the Forest: Snowshoe HikeIf you have ever wanted to try out snow-shoes with your family, this is your chance. Come tromp through the snow (if we have some!) in our snowshoes and experience how much fun it can be. No snow? No problem! We will hike in our boots!

January 251:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Bob Goetschkes

Conservation Hike: The Managed Deer HuntLearn about the reasoning behind and the importance of Fontenelle Forest’s yearly managed deer hunts.

February 710:00a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Matt Miller


FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION - GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG

Winter Writing Hike & WorkshopExplore the sights and sounds of the forest through the lens of writing! Poet, teacher, and Master Naturalist Jeff Lacey will lead you on a trek through the forest, with stops for guided writing along the way. This is a great chance to brush off your writing skills and to celebrate the forest with your own prose or poetry in a community of writers. All ages are welcome. The hike will stick primarily to the boardwalk. If weather is obstinate, an inside walk-and-write activity will be held.

February 281:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Jeff Lacey

Family Sundays in the Forest:Hiking 101 - Getting Started!There are many reasons to go hiking. From stress relief and exercise to recon-necting with nature and the thrill of explo-ration, hiking is an activity that everyone can enjoy. This is the first session of many covering the basics of hiking. In this ses-sion, we’ll be discussing how to get started. Once we finish our discussion, we’ll head outside and take a hike along the board-walk. Please bring weather-appropriate clothing for the outdoor portion of the program.

February 221:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Stephanie Brown

Family Sundays in the Forest:What’s Going On Down Under?After a fresh snowfall the forest appears to be so quiet and peaceful. However, it’s not so quiet and peaceful under the snow. Join me as we talk about what is happening “down under.” We will be outside and off the boardwalk. Please dress for the weather.

February 151:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Sharon Draper

Insect ClubTony Palmer, Insect Club member and Fontenelle Forest Educator, will conduct an education program titled, “Insects, Arachnids and Relatives (An Overview of Arthropods).”

February 267:00p.m.FFNCLeader(s): Rick SchmidMembers Only

Raptors.. Live! Valentine’s EditionFall in love with our resident educational raptors this Valentine’s day. Meet our birds and their handlers, and learn about their lives and histories. Be sure to bring your camera for photos with your loved ones, both human and feathered!

February 149:45a.m. - 10:45a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Denise Lewis

Wildlife Hike: Canines of Fontenelle ForestOn this hike we will learn more about the foxes and coyotes of the canine family that live in Fontenelle Forest, and search for the signs and clues they leave behind them.

Plant Hike:Winter Survival and DormancyLearn about how trees survive the winter months.

February 1410:00a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Grace Noecker

February 2110:00a.m.FFNCLeader(s): Kathy Fischer

Fontenelle Forest Photo ClubPhotographer Jake Olson will show his work, speak about his style and how he uses Social Media in his business.

February 197:00p.m.FFNC

Dirt Time: A Tracking AdventureLearning to track animals requires many hours in the field, often on your hands and knees, studying animal signs up close. This is the dirt time, literally time to look and dig and track in the dirt. It is only through this regular dirt time that we can hone our skills as trackers, and this is our opportunity to get together with others who are interested in learning more about the animals who call this forest home. All are welcome, and no prior experience tracking is needed. Come prepared for the weather and the great possibility of muddy or snowy boots...the more mud and snow, the easier it is to find tracks!

February 2810:00a.m.WLCLeader(s): Wanda Pendleyand Seth Keith

Save the Date

Saturday, March 14Ancient People of Fontenelle Forest: an Archeologist’s Perspective

Evidence exists that people referred to as Nebraska Phase Culture lived along the ridges of the Missouri River from about 1000 to 1300AD. We know they built and occupied earth lodges and left remains of their life in cache pits. There are more than 70 known sites at Fontenelle Forest, and several of those sites have been explored by archeologists since 1935.

Join Iowa State Archeologist, Lynn Alex for an overview of the story of these people based on her work at a similar site in Glenwood, Iowa. Lynn will share how an archeologist studies a site and will have avail-able some of the artifacts she has found as well as some artifacts from Fontenelle Forest. 9:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. General presentation on Archeology and Ne-braska Phase culture with some interactive opportunities.1:00p.m. - 4:00p.m. Field Study Group-Limited to 24 people, first come first served. Includes a hike to several known sites for hands on learning.

Members: $5 for morning session / $10 entire day (morning and hike)Non-members: $12 for morning session / $17 entire day

Visit fontenelleforest.org for more information and to register.

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Fontenelle Forest (FF) welcomes you to a summer of discovery and learning in a place where the quiet wild of nature offers an un-paralleled opportunity for your child to learn. Nature Discovery Day Camps feature science based learning through play taught by FF’s year-round professional educators. Our staff is committed to providing your child with high quality, positive experiences.

Visit fontenelleforest.org/camps for more information and to register. Space is limited. Registration begins January 5th. Proof of age is required.

A Grand AdventureBring your favorite grandchild to share a two day adventure at Camp Brewster. The camp will center on the prairie and animals that live in this habitat. The day includes prairie crafts, games and snacks.

Each session is limited to 10 camper/grandparent teams. Campers should bring their own lunches. Snacks provided. Cost: $90 / $145 non-members

Crazy about CrittersIf you love animals, this is the camp for you! From reptiles and amphibians to mammals, birds, and insects…you will look at all of them up close. Learn how these critters, move, eat, and spend their days. Campers will have a chance to meet some of our resident educational animals during this informative week.

Each session is limited to 30 campers. Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $280 non-members

Welcome to the WetlandsDiscover the wetlands habitat. Find a beaver’s den, dip in the pond for water in-sects, go fishing, and learn about a wetland food web. The mornings will be spent in explorations and hands on with wetland animals. In the afternoon, you will play games, do experiments, be creative with crafts, and develop a portfolio to take home Friday.


Bugged Out in NatureGet down and buggy at Camp Brewster! Discover flying bugs, crawling bugs, and hopping bugs, water bugs, baby bugs and big bugs. The campers will explore field, pond, and prairie using nets, jars, and hand lenses. They’ll also enjoy buggy art, stories, and snacks.

Each session is limited to 15 campers. Snacks provided. Cost: $65 / $120 non-members

Open the Door, Let’s ExploreThere are exciting secrets hidden in nature around Camp Brewster. If you love the idea of exploring both, the forest and the prairie, then this is the camp for you. Each day you’ll explore a different natural concept from life cycles to adaptations. Outdoor games, songs, and art activities are included. Who knows what you will discover!


June 4-59a.m. - 1p.m.Camp Brewster

OR

July 27-289a.m. - 1p.m.Camp Brewster

June 1-38:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.Camp Brewster

OR

July 29-318:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.Camp Brewster

June 8-128:30a.m. - 4p.m.Camp Brewster

June 22-268:30a.m. - 4p.m.Wetlands

June 29-July 18:30a.m. - 4p.m.Camp Brewster3 Day Camp

Grands and Me (Ages 4-8 with grandparent)Give your grandchild wonderful memories of special times with you in the

great outdoors. We will learn about nature through games, hikes, animal

visitors, and more.

Discoverers (Preschool, Ages 4-5)Let your four or fi ve year old discover Camp Brewster. These three day

sessions are for those not entering kindergarten in the fall of 2015.

Adventurers (Ages 5-8)These camps are designed for children who are ages 5 – 8 years on June

1, 2015. From exploring the wetlands and forest to learning about our

animals, everyone will fi nd a learning adventure this summer.

Nature Discovery Day Camps 2015

REGISTER ONLINE AT FONTENELLEFOREST.COM/CAMPS


VoyageursOutdoor adventures will fill this week as you explore the life of a Voyageur. We will practice important wilderness survival skills used by fur traders like orienteering, shelter building, and tracking. We will learn how to catch the spirit of the wilder-ness as we explore both the wetlands and the upland forest. Are you ready for a week of adventures?


Invertebrate InvestigationsThis week of multi-legged fun awaits you as we explore the world of insects, spiders and other fascinating arthropods. Who made that web hanging on the tree by the trail? Do all spiders even make webs? How many eyes does a spider have? We will answer these and other questions as we delve into the world of the invertebrates.

Each session is limited to 30 campers. Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $280 non-members.

Exploring EntomologyAre you interested in arthropods? Do you know which insect smells with his feet? Or which is the strongest, loudest, or fastest of all insects? If you would like to know the answers to these and other ques-tions about amazing arthropods – this is your camp. We will also investigate other invertebrates. Nets will be used and the specimens studied will be released.


Nature’s EngineersWe will explore both the prairie and the forest at Camp Brewster to find what nature’s engineers have done there. From the bee’s honeycombs and the bird’s nests, to the beautiful spider webs we will discover the wonders of nature’s ingenuity. Be prepared to add your own touches to the environment.


Welcome to the ForestTrek the upland and riparian woodlands. Discover animal adaptations from tiny mosquitos to white-tailed deer. Encoun-ter some of the animals who call our forest home. In the afternoons meet some the historical characters of Fontenelle Forest’s past. Make toys and play games to match the visitor’s historical time period.


Wilderness Hiking This week of outdoor expeditions through Fontenelle Forest will be filled with op-portunities to learn about nature, make friends, study the plants and animals around us, and explore the quiet wild that is inside each of us. Are you ready for a week of wilderness expeditions?


Challenge Camp (3 days)Your adventure will begin with the chal-lenge of completing a ropes course taught by trained instructors. Then practice your outdoor skills and stretch your knowledge during this fun camp. The adventure continues as you learn proper fishing techniques and explore our wetlands. We will spend time hiking some of the less-traveled trails. Stories, crafts, and games are also a part of this week.


June 8-128:30a.m. - 4p.m.Wetlands

July 6-108:30a.m. - 4p.m.Wetlands

July 6-108:30a.m. - 4p.m.Camp Brewster

June 22-268:30a.m. - 4p.m.Camp Brewster

July 20-248:30a.m. - 4p.m.Fontenelle Forest

July 20-248:30a.m. - 4p.m.Wetlands

June 29-July 18:30a.m. - 4p.m.Wetlands3 Day Camp

Explorers (Ages 8-12)Explore more! We are o" ering children who are ages 8 – 12 years on June

1, 2015 a chance to spend more time honing their science skills as they

enjoy a week of exciting explorations, activities and games.

Adventurers (Ages 5-8) con’t Explorers (Ages 8-12) con’t

REGISTER ONLINE AT FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG/CAMPS

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Tigger the Wolf SpiderShe may be tiny (relatively speaking) but she is mighty! A mighty hunter, and for an arachnid, she is a mighty mother. Because her scientific family name, Lycosidae, her type of spiders are called the wolf spiders. Her genus is now Tigrosa, formerly Hogna, so we named her ‘Tigger’. Her full name is Tigrosa aspersa, according to our local favor-ite entomologist, Tony Palmer (thank you, Tony, for your help finding information about Tigger).

Wolf spiders have a distinctive eye placement pattern that sets them apart from other spiders. They have their 8 eyes with 4 small eyes in a row at the bottom of their head then 2 huge (for a spider) eyes facing forward and the last 2 eyes are found behind the huge eyes and they face the sides. They hunt using their eyes and their sensitive-to-vibrations touch. They do not build a web but will instead chase down prey. Wolf spiders are some of the fastest spiders and can run up to 2 feet per second! They are nocturnal and primarily hunt insects. There are about 125 -200 different species of wolf spiders found in North America and around 2,300 world-wide. They occupy almost every habitat on earth except for the deep ocean and Antarctica. They are among the largest spiders found in Nebraska. Wolf spiders usually will only bite if they are provoked.

Wolf spider females will form their egg sac with silk webbing and then attach the egg sac to her spinnerets found at the back of her abdo-men. If the egg sac is removed she will hunt for it and reattach it to her spinnerets. When the spiderlings hatch they will climb up onto her abdomen and she will carry them around with her until they are ready to hunt on their own. They will gradually disperse from her and scatter to settle in the area.

Adopt an AnimalBy Deborah Woracek, CIG Nebraska Master Naturalist

By Deborah Woracek, CIG Nebraska Master Naturalist

January - One of the coolest times of the year to be on our trails is during the month of January (no pun intended!). You might not think so but there are a lot of things going on out there. If it’s really cold and snowy – our downstairs bird room offers a firsthand look at some of the most common activities – from birds at the feeders to voles tunneling past the window to feast on birdseed leftovers. Thick snow serves as the best blanket for the plants and many of the animals. Even squir-rels, skunks and rabbits will ‘den up’ when the storms prevail and don’t waste energy foraging!

Outside along the trails you can watch the trails for tracks, see scarlet cup fungi; you can listen to Downy and Red-bellied Woodpeckers tapping trees to find insect larvae and pupa to eat. White-Breasted Nuthatches and Black-capped Chickadees are on the prowl for food under the bark too.

The Great Horned Owls are beginning to pair bond. Foxes and coy-otes are also beginning to court each other. Look for Bald Eagles sitting in the shoreline trees if there is open water along the river. The third loop of the boardwalk is a great place to see this exciting winter vista. Consider renting some of our snowshoes to explore the winter forest. Enjoy the quiet there and you might hear the ice crack on the river!

February - February skies are filled with early returning waterfowl as they head to the far north nesting grounds. The big question is, “Will the groundhog see his shadow?” and whether we have 6 more weeks of winter or not. Thirteen-lined groundsquirrels and other burrow dwell-ers are starting to wake up from being dormant.

Foxes and coyotes are getting serious about raising a family now. In the wetlands you might even hear a returning Red-winged Blackbird’s ‘Kankakee’ call staking an early claim for a nesting territory. Our resi-dent birds will start using spring calls so listen for the ‘peter, peter, pe-ter’ of the Tufted Titmouse and the Black-capped Chickadee’s ‘see-saw’ call….always welcome signs that spring might be on its way. You may even catch a glimpse of a butterfly as some will emerge from dormancy on warm winter days to feed.

By the end of the month the fox squirrels are nursing their first batch of young of the year and the Great Horned Owls are sitting on eggs. The bright red male Cardinals will sing from the top of the tallest tree in their territory.

Natural Selections

Tigger can be adopted for $25. You will receive a photograph of her; an adoption certificate, her personal history, and guest pass to share along with having your name added to her enclosure. She currently lives in our animal care facility and goes to programs in her enclosure. Wolf spiders have a life span of about 2years. When she is no longer with us, we will be on the look-out for another Tigger to have to teach children (and adults) all about this small but mighty hunter.

For more information about adopting Tigger or any other educational animal at Fontenelle Forest, call Deborah Woracek at (402) 731-3140 ext.1016 or [email protected].


Party Where the Wild Things Live

Make your child’s next birthday memorable by celebrating it at the Forest! Each party includes a Naturalist led hike, games, and one very cool animal visitor (rabbit, snake, toad, salamander or turtle – it is your choice!). There will be time allotted for eating, singing, and gift-opening. Admission to Fontenelle Forest is included for all participants for that day. One adult must be present for every four children in attendance.Prices are non-refundable unless Fontenelle cancels due to the weather.

Available Dates: February 21Available Times: 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m.Location: Camp Brewster Lodge

$130.00 FF members plus $50.00 refundable cleaning deposit$150.00 non-members plus $50.00 refundable cleaning depositAges: 4-10 (12 child limit per party)

Registration required. Call Debra Beck at 402.731.3140 x1017.Registration and payment must be received two weeks in advance of party date.

Teen Natural istsIf you have a high school student who loves nature, contact Naturalist Jamie Vann at [email protected] for information on the Teen Naturalist Trainee program.

Junior Natural ists

This program is for students who love to explore the natural world and are entering 6th-8th grade! Come join us every second Saturday of the month from 10:00-11:30 am; we’ll practice our outdoor skills, learn from experts, take field trips, and work on service projects. For more information and to join the e-mailing list, contact Lindsay Cooley at [email protected].

Free Fl ight

Long-shot Eagles and Late Babies

When Janet (Stander, Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation) and I looked at the wing of the immature Golden Eagle we had just placed on the exam table, we both started to cry. The humerus (the main arm bone) was broken, and both ends of the bone were exposed. We should have euthanized her- but something in her eyes and demeanor made us pause. We asked Dr. Mark Falloon at Pitts Veterinary Hospital in Lincoln if he would try to repair this awful wound, which was also badly infected. The bird never missed a beat, eating well as she recovered from three surgeries. Finally, she was ready for the big Eagle Flight Pen at the Rehab Center in Elmwood. Gradually, she was able to attain the high perches, her repaired wing only slightly droop-ing.

Another Golden Eagle arrived at the Center; found lying prone on the ground emaciated, not mov-ing. The only thing we found after testing was an abnormally high white blood cell count-cause unknown. Antibiotics helped this young male gradually regain his strength. He was ready for the big flight pen. For a couple of days, the two eagles looked at each other. Then the female attacked the smaller male, pre-venting him from eating or even perching. Luckily, he was more agile and able to avoid her. But we did separate them. I think her determination to kill him actually made her stronger, and she was finally ready to go.

We felt the honor of releasing this Golden Eagle should go to Dr. Falloon, who worked so hard to save her, as he has many of our other injured raptors.

A small contingency of people gathered here; she was banded and taken to a private property with plenty of space and prey. She flew beautifully.

Shortly afterwards, the young male Golden Eagle was also ready. He traveled westward to another large privately owned ranch and released. We don’t get many Golden Eagles; it was very rewarding to see these two special birds return to the wild after initially poor prognosis.

Just when we thought we were finished with Barn Owls for the season, we received two youngsters from a grain bin in late October. In early November, we received two more sets (three each) of baby Barn Owls! Nimbus was pressed into service as a foster parent again. Young, grow-ing Barn Owls each need five big mice every night to develop properly. That’s 40 mice a night these babes were scarfing down! Luckily, my friend and fellow rehabber Sallie in Texas agreed to take them, and we connected with a friend who was heading that way. Transfer was com-pleted, accompanied by a huge sigh of relief, and much gratitude to the transporter. He had no idea owls could sound like steam engines!

By Betsy Finch, Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation


CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT

September 16, 2014 - November 15, 2014

Distinguished Patron($1,000-$2,499)Nelson and Linda GordmanLawrence B. and Jann Thomas

Sustaining Patron($500 - $999)Carol GendlerShawn and Tonya McIlnay

Supporting Patron($250 - $499)Frances BlumkinDean and Ellen CarlsonThomas J. and Marianne B. CulhaneTim and Linda DaughertyDale FunkRick HaleyPatrick and Suzanne HaneyJim and Kay HorwathRobert and Carole JulianRobert and Myrna KrohnEd and Carrie MayScott and Trina McCollisterEric and Laura RiceJohn and Ruth SageFred and Eve SimonBob and Judy A. ThomasStanley M. and Dorothy TruhlsenClarence T. and Judith K. UedaKevin and Nancy VaughanRonald and Linda Wax

Patrons($150 - $249)Barbara BabbittRoland E. and Ingrid BarthChristine and Anthony BatisteC. Shawn BengtsonGary and Pam BirgePhyllis A. BleaseRik and Shannon BonnessHal and Jeanette CappsGreg and Sally CarlsonLeon and Janelle DavisMike Delich and Denise HolterMark and Jill DietrichSid and Dawn DinsdaleJohn D. and Jane EllsworthTerrence J. and Catherine FergusonGordon E. and Nev FredricksonDan Grieb

Richard and Pat HahnJohn M. and Margaret E. HannamTimothy Higgins and Patricia ZiegCynthia HillPam HoesingMike Delich and Denise HolterStanley and Chris HowRichard J. KeefeJoseph and Maxine KirshenbaumMarge KnudsenHal and Ashlee KochDavid J. and Cydney C. KoukolDavid A. and Vicki KrecekRoger and Carol LewisTodd Robinson and Cheryle ManasilDarrell and Beth MetcalfTommy L. Whalen and Nancy MovallRandell M. and Darlene MuellerDick and Marilyn MullerRobert and Melissa MyerLeonard O. and Gail E. OlsenDave and Mary Ann PedersonJohn L. and Julie PetrJack and Karen PrewittLee and Cheri RetelsdorfHarold and Caroline RiceBarbara Marie RiversTodd Robinson and Cheryle ManasilJonathan and Stacey RockmanMaryanne B. RouseTim RouseRick and Carol RussellRalph and Rita SalucciGreg and Carolyn SamuelsonCynthia SchneiderJerry and Beth SmithCarl and Sheryl SmithJennifer Tighe de Soto and Frank SotoJohn and Debbie StalnakerTeri and Stan TeutschGary ThompsonSteve and Molly VachaNorman and Joodi VeitzerGordon and Joy WatanabeTommy L. Whalen and Nancy MovallPhilip and Nancy WolfTimothy Higgins and Patricia Zieg

DonationsAmerica First FoundationChristy R. BarnesDuane and Clair Baylor

Kathryn BennettMark J. and Karen K. BensonNathan BuckRenee ClabornBeth DeanPaul & Oscar Giger FoundationSuzanne HagbergRebecca HammerFred Hawkins, Jr.Gilbert M. and Martha H. Hitchcock FoundationJohn and Cyndi KuglerShelie and Christopher LeighterKate MurphyIrina and Michael NewcombCarol PattersonPatricia J. QuinnAllysen and Jorge RichardsenDouglas and Ann RobeyJohn Royster and Katie BlesenerTasha Ulmer and Mikaela BauerWillis A. and Janet Schaefer Strauss FundLaura WilwerdingRonn Winquest and Mary Lou Winquest

Corporate and Foundation GivingAmazon Smile FoundationAudubon Society of OmahaMichael Forsberg GalleryNebraska Food CooperativeNebraska Rural Electric AssociationOmaha Schools FoundationOriental Trading CompanyUnion Pacific Corporation - GivePlus ProgramUnited Way of Nebraska CityVatterott College

In-Kind DonationsAcorn SupplyDuane and Clair BaylorElliott Bedows and Sheila NortonNathan BuckGeorge CooperiderSteve and Stacia DunhamSuzanne HagbergOriental Trading CompanyJoe and Adrienne PetsickRobert D. Rose and Kathleen Crawford-Rose


Volunteer Trail and Land Stewardship Winter/Spring Dates for Land Stewardship are: February 28, March 28, April 18, May 9 and May 13.

Fontenelle Forest provides a monthly opportunity for volunteers to assist our Rangers with land and trail projects. These projects help preserve the land and forest so current and future generations can experience the quiet wild of nature. No special skills required except a love of being outdoors and a willingness to get dirty. :-) All volunteers are asked to wear long pants and bring work gloves, if they have them. We will provide a light breakfast and lunch. Bug spray is also provided by the Forest.

First time volunteers interested in participating in the Volunteer Land and Trail Stewardship Group, please contact Kareen Hickman, Development Associate. Current volunteers will be contacted by the Rangers.

Feather Our Nest – April 24, 2015 from 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.We are seeking high school volunteers who are interested in helping with Feather Our Nest. Volunteers will help with set up and clean up, sell raffle tickets, help with the silent auction. Volunteers should by 16 years or older and comfortably interacting with the public.

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities and EventsSaturday, January 3 – 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Teacher Naturalist Training

Saturday, January 24 – 5:30 p.m. – 7:30p.m.Volunteer Land and Trail Stewardship PotluckThe potluck is open to all Land Stewardship volunteers – Tuesday/Thursday volunteers and our monthly Saturday volunteers. Bring your favorite side dish and Fontenelle Forest will provide the main dish and drinks. Please RSVP to Kareen Hickman by January 20th at [email protected] or 402-731-3140.

Saturday, February 7 – 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Teacher Naturalist Training

Current Volunteers To sign up for any of these volunteer activities:Sign up online at www.fontenelleforest.org/volunteerEmail: [email protected] Call: 402-731-3140 x1024

Want to get involved as a volunteer? Please contact Kareen Hickman at [email protected] or 402-731-3140 x1024.

CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT

A Special Thank You to Our Donorsand SponsorsCatholic School ProgramAn Education Program for Students in the Omaha Archdiocese Friend of the Forest

Environmental ExpeditionaryLearning InitiativeAn Education Program for Western Hills Magnet CenterLincoln Financial Foundation

Erosion Abatement & Restoration ProjectJim and Mary HawkinsLozier FoundationNebraska Environmental TrustPapio-Missouri River Natural Resource DistrictR. Joe Dennis Foundation

Free Forest AdventuresDr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation Forest SustainerBlack Walnut Friend of the Forest Methodist Health System Sarpy County TourismShagbark Hickory J. William and Ruth Lind Scott Fund Kiewit Companies Foundation

WebologyAn Education Program for Omaha Public School Fourth Grade StudentsOmaha Schools Foundation

H2Omaha: Missouri River Science Education Initiative An Education Program for Omaha Public School Sixth Grade StudentsOmaha Schools FoundationWilliam Leopard Charitable Lead Trust Interpretive Trail Kiosk SponsorBob and Evelyn Veach Foundation

Youth Environmental Education ProgramGFH and SAH FoundationH. Lee and Carol Gendler Charitable FundLawrence R. and Jeanette James FoundationMammel Foundation The Miller FoundationRobert H. Storz Foundation

Volunteer News

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� ! � � " � �NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDOmaha, NE

Permit No. 679

Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005

• Hours: Open daily, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

Closed December 25 & January 1

• Trails open dawn to dusk for FF members. Non-mem-

bers admitted before close have trail access until dusk

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members FreeOne Day Membership $7 Adult | $6 Senior (62+)| $5 Child (2-17)

Neale Woods14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, NE 68112

• Trails open year round, dawn to dusk

• Nature center CLOSED for renovation

Admission:Fontenelle Forest members FreeOne Day Membership $5 Adult | $4 Senior (62+) | $3 Child (2-17)

Phone: 402.731.3140 Email: [email protected] Web: fontenelleforest.org Find us on:

GENERAL INFORMATION

fontenelle forest's january / february 2015 leaflet

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