Presented by: Samantha Volz

Join us for our first monthly program of 2024, where we'll host Samantha Volz, an interpretive naturalist at the Lake St. Clair Metropark Nature Center. Samantha will talk about the raptors (aka birds of prey) at LSCMP, with emphasis on the beloved Great Horned Owls, who have visited and nested in the park fo years. If you know someone who loves owls or wants to learn more about birds of LSCMP, bring them along for this meeting!

Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m., presentation at 7:00 p.m.

Meet at the Sterling Heights Nature Center for social hour at 6:30 p.m. and the presentation at 7:00 p.m.

Building on the birds of prey theme from the January 2024 program, our February meeting topic is the Bald Eagles of Stony Creek Metropark, featuring guest speaker Joan Bonin, local birder, wildlife photographer, and author of the book, "The Bald Eagles in Winter". Joan's years of experience monitoring the Bald Eagles' nest at Stoney Creek Metropark built an extensive knowledge base and a unique perspective on these iconic and majestic birds of prey. We're excited to welcome her and to hear what she has to say.

Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m., presentation at 7:00 p.m.

At our March meeting, Ryan Vance from the Belle Isle Nature Center will give a presentation on birding Belle Isle. If you've never been, this Detroit area birding hotspot offers a great mix of bird watching opportunities, hosting everything from songbirds to water-loving species like grebes, geese, and herons, to birds of prey such as Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and owls. There are a few trails, places to drive and stop, and, of course, the nature center itself. Find out more from Ryan himself, who will also talk about upcoming programs and events at the park.

Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Sterling Heights Nature Center with the presentation starting at 7:00 p.m.

Do you love taking photos of birds and other wildlife? Are you looking for ways to improve your photography skill? If you answered yes or are considering getting into the hobby, come to our April program, featuring Todd Sam, a member of the Troy photo club. Todd's photography passion has taken him across the globe, including to South Africa. Todd will share some of his photos and nature photography tips with us. Come check it out, and, as always, feel free to bring a friend!

Social hour begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Sterling Heights Nature Center with the presentation starting at 7:00 p.m.

Isle Royale is Michigan's only national park, and actually includes a string of islands situated off Michigan's Lake Superior. With no cars and widespread remote wilderness, it's a rare gem of relatively untouched natural land. Some of the mammal species there include wolves, snowshoe hare, and moose. Of course, many bird species also inhabit or visit the islands. Our very own Erin Parker, local interpretive Services Supervisor with the metroparks, has been going to Isle Royale for over two decades and knows her stuff about it! Come watch her presentation and get inspired by Michigan's natural wonders.

June’s meeting will include a short walk along the path at the Sterling Heights Nature Center, watching for birds, interesting plant life, and whatever else catches our sights! Then we’ll enjoy ice cream, courtesy of Macomb Audubon Society (no need to bring any utensils). Meet anywhere between 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to join.

If you’ve spent time birding around Macomb County, you’ve likely encountered an injured duck, goose, or swan along the way. Unfortunately, finding the proper help for these animals can be difficult. Fortunately, though, certified rehabbers like Matt Lyson, owner of Michigan Duck Rescue and Sanctuary in Salem Township, provide shelter, food, and love for these birds who need it most. Join us at Sterling Heights Nature Center in October for a free presentation by Matt. He’ll walk us through the basics of waterfowl rehabilitation, which, for Matt, is truly a labor of love.

The feathered residents at Matt’s sanctuary include both wild and domestic waterfowl. Come learn something you didn’t know before. We hope you’ll leave with new information regarding waterfowl rehabbing and conservation practices. Who knows, you might even come away with a new calling!