Exploring the trails in the evening, under a sky full of stars, can seem like a great adventure. Audubon is leading one such adventure this Thursday, Aug. 10, at the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge in Tiverton. You are transported to another world where there are mysterious noises in the fields, loud choruses in the ponds, and fleeting movements in the forest. So many amazing things happen in nature at night.

Many animals, such as raccoons, bats and beavers are nocturnal, or night-active, creatures. Beautiful, angular insects and stunning, patterned moths can be attracted to a light for viewing. Many Audubon naturalists consider the evening hours to be one of the very best times to experience the natural world. Especially during the warm summer months, when temperatures cool off for these evening excursions. 

 “Nighttime programs are by far my favorite, said Audubon Naturalist and Properties Director Laura Carberry. “Being in the darkness opens up your senses as you explore. You smell water as you get close to the pond, you hear the trill of toads, or listen to a distant hoot of an owl. And imagine just standing quietly, watching hundreds of fireflies blinking and making their way through the fields. It’s magical, and it brings me great joy to see smiles on everyone's faces after an evening of exploring nature.” 

 The Thursday evening walk begins at 7 p.m.

Visit the Audubon Society of Rhode Island events calendar for details and to register: www.asri.org/calendar