Spring is gradually arriving at Crossroads at Big Creek, bringing a subtle burst of color and the return of migrating birds. The community is invited to celebrate the season through a series of “high-performance” educational programs for all ages.
During the Winter Olympics, we were dazzled by the strength, coordination and stamina of elite athletes, yet their remarkable achievements are often surpassed by those of migrating birds.
On April 11 at 10 a.m., the theme of Science Saturday will be “Bird Olympics.” This program explores the champions of the avian world, from the Arctic tern — which travels a staggering 25,000 to 59,000 miles annually — to the tiny ruby-throated hummingbird, which completes a 500-mile nonstop flight across the Gulf of Mexico.
During the Bird Olympics, participants will take on interactive challenges to compare their own abilities to those of birds. Challenges include testing arm-flap speed against avian motion, balancing on one leg, and comparing human olfactory senses to those of a turkey vulture. In these competitions, we don’t expect any kid to win a gold medal!
In addition to the “podium,” the week’s schedule offers a diverse range of nature-based learning. On Thursday, April 9 at 3:30 p.m., Nature Investigators: Beyond ROY G BIV invites school-aged children and their families to explore the mysteries of the visible light spectrum and discover how color influences everything from photosynthesis to how insects find flowers.
The week also includes gardening tips during a Master Gardener webinar on Monday, guided hikes, and preschool exploration on Wednesday.
With muted colors emerging, birds returning, and opportunities to connect with nature, spring is coming alive at Crossroads at Big Creek. Join us as we welcome the sights, sounds and energy of the season — there’s no better time to reconnect with the natural world.
Thursday, April 9
3:30 p.m. — Nature Investigators: Beyond ROY G BIV
Geared for school-aged participants but open to all, this program explores the science of the visible light spectrum and its role in nature. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
Saturday, April 11
10 a.m. — Science Saturday: Bird Olympics
A fun, science-based program filled with interactive challenges comparing human abilities to those of birds. Geared for school-aged students, but all are welcome. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
Monday, April 13
1:30 p.m. — Master Gardener Learning Together: Container Gardening
Discover how to grow plants in containers — an accessible way to raise flowers, herbs or food. This recorded webinar from the Garden Expo will be followed by refreshments and socializing. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
Wednesday, April 15
10 a.m. — Junior Nature Club: Shapes in Nature
A free six-week series designed to help preschoolers connect with nature. Caregivers attend with children; siblings are welcome. No registration required. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
1:30 p.m. — Wandering Wednesday Hike
Enjoy a gentle, one-hour naturalist-led hike to experience early spring on the trails. Dress for the weather. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.
