Colorful graphic with icons of birds and mammals, a bigger graphic of a wood thrush and words that say Let your adventures begin...Become a Mass Audubon member. Join today.
Colorful graphic with icons of birds and mammals, a bigger graphic of a wood thrush and words that say Let your adventures begin...Become a Mass Audubon member. Join today.
Wednesday, December 16

Wildlife Tracking for Beginners

Description

Winter leaves animal activity in plain sight: every trail through fresh snow or frozen mud is a record of who has been there and when.

The grounds and trails of Edith Wharton's historic estate offer meadows and wooded edges that attract a surprising variety of wildlife, with a beautiful backdrop for a winter morning.

On this beginner-friendly walk, a naturalist will guide you through reading the tracks, scat, and movement patterns of coyotes, foxes, deer, rabbits, and other animals sharing the landscape around you. Gain practical tracking skills and a new appreciation for the rich animal activity happening around you even when wildlife stays out of sight.

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When
  • Wed, Dec 16, 2026 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Who

Adults

Cost
  • Adult Members $15
  • Adult Nonmembers $20

Instructors

  • Nicaela Haig

Instructions

Meet in front of the ticketing booth at The Mount. For directions, visit edithwharton.org. Public restrooms are not available at this time of year, so plan accordingly. Your guide will arrive at the meeting area 15 minutes before the program starts.

Dress for the weather and bring layers for a morning of winter tracking. This program covers up to a mile of trail; terrain is level or gradually sloping but may be uneven or slippery due to snow, mud, or ice. Traction spikes or snowshoes may be available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. Trekking poles are recommended if you typically use them on uneven ground. If inclement weather could affect your program, you will be notified by email.