Early June is a great time to observe all kinds of wildlife and this hike, led by naturalist and photojournalist Bruce Fellman,  packs a lot of habitat diversity into a small and easily walkable distance.

We’ll start with a great circle trek of the rugged valleys and slopes of Babcock Ridge, where we will look for vernal pools, pileated woodpeckers, worm-eating warblers, glacier-carved boulders, and possibly tree-climbing black rat snakes. We’ll follow with a more gentle walk through the Henne Preserve, with its beaver-created wetlands, nesting osprey and great blue heron, tree swallows, ducks, turtles and possibly nesting red-headed woodpeckers.  Bruce will highlight the abundant plants and animals and help with photography. Bring binoculars, cameras, magnifying glasses, and field guides.

Meet Saturday, June 4 at 10am at the small parking area at 113 Babcock Road, North Stonington. Rain date Sunday, June 5 at 10:30am.