Join Darke County Parks for a hiking series exploring the sensations of spring. On March 9th at 6:30 at Shawnee Prairie Preserve on St. Rt. 502 just west of Greenville we’ll begin searching for spring as we watch the skies for the American Woodcock performing its mating flight and dance. Remember to dress for the weather. In the event of severe weather, call the Nature Center to find out about possible cancellation. For more information about this or any other park district programs, please call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165 or check out their Facebook page. More hikes will be forthcoming throughout the season.

Did you know? The the male woodcock, or timberdoodle, has a unique and beautiful courtship flight, and because of this, the bird is welcomed as a harbinger of spring

The Darke County Park District invites the public to join them every Tuesday morning at 8am at Shawnee Prairie Preserve at 4267 St. Rt. 502 west of Greenville for their Early Morning Discovery Hikes. These hikes allow adults a chance to watch the seasons change and to discover the many life forms in their own backyard. The slowly warming tempertures make this a great time to enjoy and learn about nature. These walks focus on bird watching, trees, fungi identification, and much more. Attendees are asked to bring a pair of binoculars if possible; otherwise some are available for loan. Hikes will be held rain or shine. If you have any questions about the Early Morning Discovery Hikes or any other program offered by the park district, please call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165 or visit the website at www.darkecountyparks.org.

Did you know? A break in the surface of the spring wildflower, bloodroot, especially the roots, reveals a reddish sap which can be used as a dye.