Bernheim is celebrating National Bird Feeding Month with exciting activities and programs celebrating our feathered friends.
In recognition of National Bird Feeding Month, the smallest nature-lovers can participate in On the Wing at the Pollywog Play Party on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon at the Education Center. Early learners (infants to five-year-olds) will partake in bird watching, build nature bird feeders, try on a beak or two, get to know and love some local favorites and much more. Pollywog Play Parties combine music, art, language and outside play to encourage infants and children through the age of five to learn about nature.
Registration is required by 4 p.m. on the day prior to the program by calling (502) 955-8512 or by visiting Bernheim.org. The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. There is no fee for adults but they must accompany children.
The first ECO Kids Discovery Days in February will also feature our high-flying friends with the Bird is the Word on Saturday, Feb. 1.
While many birds migrate, some call Kentucky home year-round. Kids and their families will have fun identifying these feathered residents in the day’s On Your Own Challenge. During the afternoon, children will enjoy exploring Discovery Stations and the Hike of the Day.
The fun continues on Saturday, Feb. 15, when families are invited back to Bernheim for Seeing Green. Children will investigate mosses, ferns and lichens thriving in the winter landscape in the day’s On Your Own Challenge.
The E-C-O stands for Every Child Outside, and that’s exactly where kids can be found during each of the ECO Kids Discovery Days. Discovery Days take place the first and third Saturday of each month at Bernheim’s Visitor Center and include:
On Your Own Challenge from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Discovery Stations from 1 to 4 p.m.
Hike of the Day led by a Bernheim guide, starts at the Visitor Center at 2 p.m. and runs 45-to-60 minutes.
For details on ECO Kids Discovery Days, call (502) 955-8512 or visit bernheim.org.
February is full of other events and activities for all ages. See below for details.
First Sunday Nature Hike
Join a Volunteer Naturalist at the Visitor Center on Sunday, Feb. 2, from 2 to 3 p.m. for an engaging 45-to-60 minute nature walk. Registration is not required for this free event, and all ages are welcome. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Forest Homeschool Hike: Birds
On Wednesday, Feb. 19, from 1 to 2 p.m., Bernheim is taking school to the forest. Bernheim is offering opportunities for families and co-ops to join educators for an afternoon of learning, exercising and adventure. Appropriate for grades K-5, each Forest Homeschool Hike will include a short lesson followed by a hike that will bring the lesson to life. This month, the theme is centered around birds to commemorate National Bird Feeding Month.
Registration and payment are required by 4 p.m. on the day prior to the program. Call (502) 955-8512 or visit Bernheim.org to reserve a spot.
The cost for Bernheim members is $5 a student and $7 a student for non-members. There is no fee for adults and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Bernheim Backroads
Late winter is one of the best times to explore Bernheim’s backcountry, and that’s just what visitors can do in this five-hour driving tour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23. A team of volunteer naturalists will lead the program and will allow for frequent stops and short walks to investigate sights and sounds along the way. Participants should meet at the Visitor Center and bring a sack lunch and a water bottle.
Those interested in attending must register by 4 p.m. the day prior to the program by calling (502) 955-8512 or by visiting Bernheim.org. The cost is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. The program is for adults and children ages 8 and up. No pets are allowed, and please dress appropriately for the weather.
