Upcoming events
Events Calendar
NATR Fest
Come join us at our booth at the the North Alabama Trails & Recreation Fest!
The event is from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Point Mallard Park in Decatur, AL
Clean Up for the Cranes
This litter-pickup event is your opportunity to cleanup the refuge in preparation for the return of migratory ducks, geese, sandhill cranes, and whooping cranes that overwinter at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. The event will start at the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge at 8:00 AM where volunteers will gather and divide into teams before heading out to the refuge to pickup litter. Teams will meet back at the Visitor Center to weigh trash and compete with other teams for the most trash and recyclables collected!
The Cleanup for the Cranes is an official Tennessee RiverLine event sponsored by Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, and the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
Decatur Public Library’s StoryWalk®
Take a walk on Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge’s Atkeson Cypress Trail and read the story Together, written by Isabel Otter and illustrated by Clover Robin.
Available during Refuge hours - (CLOSED Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day).
Meet & Greet with Hope
Come meet Hope, the mascot for the International Crane Foundation! She will be at the Cook Museum of Natural Science, check this link for more details.
FREE (Exhibits Not Included)
Story Time with Hope
Hope, mascot for the International Crane Foundation, will present this free story time for all ages. Hope appears courtesy of the International Crane Foundation.
How to Befriend an Eagle: A Global Falconry Tradition
One of the most fascinating human-animal partnerships is the millennia-old tradition of hunting with golden eagles in Mongolia. Dr. Lauren McGough spent two years in the Altai Mountains, living with nomadic families, learning and documenting this incredible relationship between nomadic Kazakh people and wild eagles. Here she takes you on a whirlwind adventure of what it is like to learn to be an eagle hunter, how to earn an eagles' respect, and how to thrive in one of the world's harshest environments with horses, camels, goats, sheep, dogs and birds of prey. She now uses what she learned in Mongolia to rehabilitate young eagles that never learned to hunt in the wild, bringing these traditions to the USA for a species in need.
Cranes can dance?
Did you know that cranes can dance? They are also incredibly fierce protectors as well! Families are welcome to join us for a morning of learning all about crane dancing and fighting. Participants will get to practice their crane dance moves and learn all about the tough nature of these fancy-footed birds. This interactive program is geared toward families with elementary and middle school aged children and has limited space.
Wild About Whoopers
Wild About Whoopers will be at the Cook Museum of Natural Science, check this link for more details.
Sponsored by Decatur Morgan Hospital
Make & Take Art Activities with ACA Art Faculty
“Paper Plate Birds” and "Thumb Print Cranes" – Make & Take Art Activities with ACA Art Faculty
Come and make some colorful feathered friends with the ACA Art Instructors. Let your imaginations take flight with paper plates and colors!
Christopher Joe
A leader in Alabama birding and ecotourism, Christopher offers insights into connecting people with nature through guided birding and nature tours in Alabama’s Black Belt. https://www.connectingwithbirdsandnaturetours.com/
Wings to Soar
Experience the wonder of live raptors up close in this thrilling educational presentation featuring hawks, owls, and more.
Woodpecker: A Year in the Lives of North American Woodpeckers
Award-winning nature photographer and author introduces his latest work, Woodpecker: A year in the life of North American Woodpeckers, combining stunning imagery with conservation insight.
Trunk Goes Thunk! Story Time, with author Heather C. Morris
Author Heather C. Morris will read her book Trunk Goes Thunk! A Woodland Tale of Opposites and talk with kids about opposites, forests, and using all five senses to explore our wide and wonderful world. All ages are welcome to this free program. For more information, click the link below!
Wings to Soar
Experience the wonder of live raptors up close in this thrilling educational presentation featuring hawks, owls, and more.
Timothy Joe Art Demonstration
Art Demonstration: Art in Nature Conservation with Timothy Joe
Presented at the 2026 Festival of Cranes
Join artist and instructor Timothy Joe for an engaging soft pastels demonstration inspired by the natural beauty of the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Known for his expressive landscapes and dedication to capturing the Southern environment, Timothy will guide attendees through his process—from storytelling, value, composition and color selection to layering techniques that bring light and texture to life.
This demonstration is ideal for artists, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about the pastel medium. Witness the transformation of a blank surface into a vivid, atmospheric scene celebrating the cranes and wetland landscapes that make this refuge so extraordinary.
Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes
All levels welcome. Observation only; no supplies required
Building Blocks of Crane Behavior
Join ICF’s crane behavior workshop for families, where Anne Lacy leads an engaging exploration of crane biology and conservation
Once you see your first crane, watching their behavior raises many questions. These might range from how they interact with each other and with other species, to why and when they are territorial, to how they respond to changes in their environment. Cranes are ideal subjects for behavior studies because of their large size and their social nature within a bonded pair, family group, and subadult cohorts. While scientific studies often customize the various categories, one can begin with the basic five: foraging, alert, social, comfort, and locomotion. In this workshop, International Crane Foundation staff will begin with an introduction of the behavior terms, crane morphology, and life history stages; then progress into guiding smaller groups in interpreting crane behavior using interactive videos of a family of cranes. You will emerge from this experience ready to make your own observations, understanding when a crane is performing behaviors essential to their well-being, and knowledge of how to safely view cranes without disturbing them.
Lee Hedgepeth
An investigative journalist with Inside Climate News, Lee covers the intersection of environmental issues, conservation, and Southern communities.
Free Meet & Greet with Hope
Come and meet Hope, get your picture made with her, or even practice your crane dance moves with her!
Photography Tips with Donald Hood of Status Image Photography
Donald Hood, of Status Image Photography, will discuss ways to make sure your wildlife pictures are the best they can be. Whether you shoot with your phone, a point-and-click camera, or a professional-grade camera, there are techniques you can use to take your pictures to the next level. We will also introduce the amateur photography contest that will be part of the 2027 Festival of the Cranes, giving you one year to perfect your technique. This program is for all ages.
Into Whooperland - A Photographer's Journey With the Rarest Crane in the World
Conservation photographer Michael Forsberg spent the last five years camera-in-hand exploring the natural history of whooping cranes across the continent, meeting people that love them, and discovering how these tall, magnificent and rarest of cranes are navigating our 21st-century world. In this multimedia presentation, Mike will take you on a wild, wonderful, and sometimes heartbreaking journey from whooping crane wintering grounds along the Texas Gulf Coast to their remote nesting grounds in northern Canada, and on migration through the heart of the Great Plains.
Southern Exposure Films
Presented by the Alabama Rivers Alliance and Wild Alabama, this powerful film series showcases short documentaries that highlight environmental issues and natural beauty across the South.
Dr. Richard Beilfuss
President and CEO of the International Crane Foundation, Dr. Beilfuss brings a global perspective to the future of crane conservation.
Building Blocks of Crane Behavior
Join ICF’s crane behavior workshop for families, where Anne Lacy leads an engaging exploration of crane biology and conservation
Once you see your first crane, watching their behavior raises many questions. These might range from how they interact with each other and with other species, to why and when they are territorial, to how they respond to changes in their environment. Cranes are ideal subjects for behavior studies because of their large size and their social nature within a bonded pair, family group, and subadult cohorts. While scientific studies often customize the various categories, one can begin with the basic five: foraging, alert, social, comfort, and locomotion. In this workshop, International Crane Foundation staff will begin with an introduction of the behavior terms, crane morphology, and life history stages; then progress into guiding smaller groups in interpreting crane behavior using interactive videos of a family of cranes. You will emerge from this experience ready to make your own observations, understanding when a crane is performing behaviors essential to their well-being, and knowledge of how to safely view cranes without disturbing them.
Woodpecker: A Year in the Lives of North American Woodpeckers
Award-winning nature photographer and author introduces his latest work, Woodpecker: A year in the life of North American Woodpeckers, combining stunning imagery with conservation insight.
Delicate Dancers and Fierce Fighters: The Natural History of Cranes
Cranes have been a part of human culture around the world for thousands of years. These majestic birds have captivated the hearts and minds of the inhabitants on all 5 continents in which they are found. During this engaging and entertaining presentation, guests will learn all about the natural history of cranes around the world, discover their importance in culture and folklore, and hear the poignant story of Whooping Crane conservation.
Jimmy Stiles
Jimmy Stiles - Herpetologist and Nature Lover: Mr. Stiles will share information about the reptiles and amphibians of Alabama. This hands-on experience is always a hit!
Wings to Soar
Experience the wonder of live raptors up close in this thrilling educational presentation featuring hawks, owls, and more.
Writing With Light
Conservation photographer Michael Forsberg will share insights from his 30-year career documenting the Great Plains and beyond. In this workshop, he’ll offer tips on crafting compelling photographic compositions and teach fundamental techniques to help you feel more confident and prepared in the field.
Wings to Soar
Experience the wonder of live raptors up close in this thrilling educational presentation featuring hawks, owls, and more.
Jimmy Stiles
Jimmy Stiles - Herpetologist and Nature Lover: Mr. Stiles will share information about the reptiles and amphibians of Alabama. This hands-on experience is always a hit!
The Albatross of Midway Atoll
Dr. Lauren McGough spent the previous winter on Midway Atoll counting over half a million active albatross nests. Nearly 70% of the world's Laysan albatross and one third of black-footed albatross nest on Midway, not to mention over a million bonin petrels and endangered species such as short-tailed albatross, monk seals and the Hawaiian green sea turtle. Humans and albatross live in close quarters on this 2.4 square mile Atoll, giving visitors insights into avian behavior that one might never see up close and in person. With its pivotal WWII history, and currently serving as an important emergency runway for airplanes crossing the Atlantic, this little island remains of outsized importance to the world.
Dr. Andy Caven (ICF)
An issue of scale: building coalitions to address wetland habitat connectivity challenges
Batty About Bats with Vicky Smith!
Batty About Bats is an education program intended to educate and excite the audience about the importance of bats. It will increase the public’s knowledge about bats, their importance to the environment and the need for conservation of our natural resources. The program gives important information about bats biology, their adaptations, their habitats, and their importance within the ecosystem in which they live. The programs will address myths and untruths that are associated with bats.
No registration or fee required!
Summer Story Walk at Wheeler NWR
Take a walk and read the story "A Leaf Can Be..." by Laura Purdie Salas and Violeta Dabija. The story is displayed on the Atkeson Cypress Trail.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
Waterfowl Wednesdays
Join us for a guided walking-tour of the refuge. The birding tour will take place around the Visitor Center and Observation Building where you might see a variety of ducks, geese, cranes, and other waterfowl. The tour will last approximately 1-2 hours.
No reservations are required.
Meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 AM
Please bring binoculars and dress for any potential weather.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
Waterfowl Wednesdays
Join us for a guided walking-tour of the refuge. The birding tour will take place around the Visitor Center and Observation Building where you might see a variety of ducks, geese, cranes, and other waterfowl. The tour will last approximately 1-2 hours.
No reservations are required.
Meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 AM
Please bring binoculars and dress for any potential weather.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
Whooping Crane Walks
Join us for a morning bird walk at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge!
We will meet at the outdoor classroom in the Visitor Center parking lot at 11 a.m. to walk around the property and enjoy spotting some of the resident winter birds, including Sandhill Cranes and, if we are lucky, Endangered Whooping Cranes. Anyone is welcome to join this free hour-long event – registration is not required. Please dress appropriately for the weather!
This program is provided by the International Crane Foundation in partnership with the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Association.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
Waterfowl Wednesdays
Join us for a guided walking-tour of the refuge. The birding tour will take place around the Visitor Center and Observation Building where you might see a variety of ducks, geese, cranes, and other waterfowl. The tour will last approximately 1-2 hours.
No reservations are required.
Meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 AM
Please bring binoculars and dress for any potential weather.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
StoryWalk® at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Walk the Atkeson Cypress Trail (located behind the Visitor Center at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge) and read Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder.
The StoryWalk® will be available during Refuge open hours: Seven days a week, 9:00am – 5:00pm.
CLOSED: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day.
Hello, I’m Here! by Helen Frost & Rick Lieder
A poetic text and wonderfully intimate photographs follow a newborn sandhill crane as it takes its first steps into the world.
Will my legs hold me?
What if I fall?
Peek in as a sandhill crane hatchling makes its first wobbly stand and takes its first steps alongside its brother. With their parents close by, they flap their wings and dance before enjoying a buggy treat. Someday they will fly with the majestic cranes overhead, but for now, Mama’s soft feathers beckon. With a lyrical narrative and lovely photo illustrations, this latest venture from an acclaimed creative team makes a perfect new baby gift — and will appeal to bird lovers, too. (from the publisher)
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
Vicky Smith - The Bat Lady!
Alabama Center for the Arts - Performing Arts Building - Recital Hall
BATTY ABOUT BATS presented by Vicky Beckham Smith of A-Z ANIMALS consists of a power point presentation that covers myths about bats, their adaptations, their feeding strategies along with the eco-services they provide to us, the various food they eat, prey and predator relationships, and various places they live and roost. It also covers the difference between micro and mega bats. There are various mounted bats, life size silhouettes as well as live bats that will be used during the presentation. Vicky holds USDA, USFWS and state permits that allow her to house and use the bats for educational purposes.
Dr. Matthew Niemiller - Cave Life
Alabama Center for the Arts - Performing Arts Building - Recital Hall
Cave Life of Wheeler NWR: An Underappreciated and Unique Biodiversity
Dr. Niemiller is the head of the Cave Bio Lab at UAH, which employs field, laboratory, and computational approaches to study the ecology, evolution, and conservation of life in caves and other subterranean habitats. Current research includes population surveys and status assessments of state and federally-listed cave and groundwater species throughout the United States and Alaska, developing environmental DNA approaches for population monitoring and community studies of groundwater life, and genetic and genomic studies of cave and groundwater fauna, among others.
Hillary Hankey - Avian Behavior International
Alabama Center for the Arts - Visual Arts Building - Room 118
"Enhancing Reintroduction Efforts in Southern Ground Hornbills Through Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge”
Dr. James McClintock - Diving Under Antarctic Ice
Alabama Center for the Arts - Performing Arts Building - Recital Hall
DIVING UNDER ANTARCTIC ICE
Through his spectacular images, Dr. McClintock takes you SCUBA diving in sub-freezing waters and introduces you to the bountiful sea life in the most fascinating and challenging seas in the world.