NEW EQUIPMENT
AIDS AVIAN RESEARCH

Powdermill Avian Research Center's bioacoustics lab is experimenting with a new listening device that will aid in recording night-time calls of migratory birds. Though nocturnal recording of calls has been occurring on the nature reserve for three years, collecting data for Powdermill scientists' research, this new, self-contained recording unit offers greater flexibility in its placement in the field. The data collected by this technology is important because it provides information on long-term trends of migratory birds, which can then inform conservation decisions.

POWDERMILL HOSTS WILDLIFE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY--Apply now!
Powdermill Nature Reserve has been selected as a location for the Wildlife Leadership Academyís (WLA) field school, June 22ñ26, 2010. Focusing on the ruffed grouse, this program is called ìPennsylvania Drummers,î recalling the drumming sound produced by these birds. The field school is designed to provide high-achieving high school students ages 14ñ17 with hands-on learning in wildlife biology as well as leadership skills development. Following the five-day residential program at Powdermill, the program continues throughout the year with students participating in education and service work on conservation issues in their own communities.

Space is still available! Apply for the program by April 1 by visiting www.PICEweb.org and following the youth programs link. For more information, contact Program Coordinator Michele Kittell by calling 570.245.8518 or emailing mkittell@piceweb.org.

WEEKENDS AT POWDERMILL!
Winter nature hikes and the Powdermill scientific lecture series continue in February.

Each Saturday, join Powdermill naturalists at 1 p.m. for a guided hike of the trails. These family-friendly hikes take place in all weather, so please dress appropriately!

On Sundays, stop by the Parker Room in the Nature Center at 1 p.m. for a fun and engaging lecture given by Powdermill and Carnegie Museum of Natural History naturalists and scientists. Each lecture runs between 30 and 60 minutes and is geared toward adults.

Topics for February are:

February 7
Birds of New Guinea
Andrew Mack, Ph.D. William and Ingrid Rea Conservation Biologist, Senior Scientist

February 14
The Marsh Machine at Powdermill
Joe Stavish, Senior Environmental Educator

February 21
Pennsylvania Squirrels
Joe Stavish, Senior Environmental Educator

February 28
Animal Skulls: Identification and cleaning for beginners
Joe Stavish, Senior Environmental Educator

Need a space for your next event? Members receive 10% off space rentals at Powdermill Nature Reserve. Call 724.593.4070 or visit the Web site for more information.

As Members, you receive a 10% discount at Powdermillís gift shop, located inside the Nature Center.

SHAGBARK HICKORY Carya ovata
The shagbark hickory tree, common to Powdermill Nature Reserve, is known for its very distinct “shaggy” bark. This tree was an important resource to early pioneers and American Indians. Pioneers would create yellow dye from the inner bark for their clothing. American Indians used the wood to craft bows and to smoke meat. The shagbark hickory nut is not only edible, but tasty: the nut is sweet and may be substituted for pecans. A great source of firewood, a cord of split shagbark wood produces heat equivalent to 175 gallons of fuel oil!

Inspiring curiosity, Jabebo earrings are bright, colorful, and made of recycled cereal boxes! The collection is inspired by nature and includes many animals that call Powdermill Nature Reserve home. Each pair is $10; Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh members receive a 10% discount.

The gift shop is open during Nature Center hours.

April 1-November 15
Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.
Monday, closed

November 16-March 31
Wednesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.
Monday and Tuesday, closed