Field School: Life in the Intertidal

Twice a day, the tide ebbs and flows, bringing with it many changes to the shoreline and surrounding coastal habitats. In this course, we will carefully inspect the seashore, which is covered by water at high tide, and uncovered at low tide. Here, a diverse array of flora and fauna must survive the extreme daily changes in temperature, sun exposure, predation, and more. Learn about the amazing adaptations and life histories of these organisms and what makes them fit to survive in such a dynamic environment.

This program will place special emphasis on the Atlantic horseshoe crab through hands-on surveys and tagging opportunities to learn more about the importance of this ancient creature, the threats, and pressures it faces today, and what we can do to help.

While this course will begin with a presentation detailing many of the critters we hope to discover along the intertidal, most of our time will be spent out in the field, directly observing these organisms in their natural environment. Through this focused, hands-on experience, we hope to gain a better insight into the daily lives and interactions found within the intertidal, and understanding the forces and systems that influence this extreme habitat.

This program is action packed with a number of adventures. Please come prepared to get wet and muddy, wading through salt marshes and mud flats may be necessary at times! So, bring a few pairs of shoes (see list of things to bring) that you can alternate between. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Please pack a brown bag lunch, snacks, and plenty of drinking water.

*Please note: the hours listed on the schedule may vary from the sample schedule in the field school brochure and are subject to change based on tides, staff, optimal wildlife sightings, and other variables. A detailed schedule and list of things to bring will be prepared and sent to registrants at approximately 3-4 weeks in advance.

This course is one of several Cape Cod Field Schools offered. To learn more, visit www.massaudubon.org/capecodfieldschools.