Baby Loons, Summer Hikes, and Public Programming
We’re very happy to see some sunshine at the end of this rainy week. Saganaga Lake water levels are the highest they’ve ever been in Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center’s short history, which means a fair amount of our parking lot has disappeared under water. We may be a little soggy, but Chik-Wauk is open for business, as is the entire Gunflint Trail and Cook County. Come see us – there’s plenty going on!
Loon Family
The Chik-Wauk bay loon family had a successful hatching last week. The first chick likely popped out of its shell on Friday, June 15, with the second chick following suit on Saturday, June 16. The loon family were frequent visitors to the sheltered Chik-Wauk bay during this week’s windy, rainy weather. While it’s commonly understood that loons desert their nests as soon as all chicks hatch, this week our family hopped back on the nest several times for some rest and shelter during stormy times. Apparently the new Biohaven floating island platform that we installed last year was just too comfy to leave behind. . . .
Summer Naturalist Programs and Special Events
Chik-Wauk’s summer programming is now in full swing. Click here –> 2012 Naturalist Schedule for a printable schedule of all events. All events are free, family friendly and open to the public.
Up next, outdoor educator Kati Kristenson will present “I’m ‘Lichen’ This Hike” on Sunday, June 24 at 2 p.m. Join her for a lichen scavenger hunt on Chik-Wauk’s hiking trails and learn all about incredible, edible, invincible lichen.
Hiking Trail Update
With the unprecedented amount of rainfall we’ve had this spring, be sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet on our hiking trails. There’s a small flooded, but passable, section on Amikwiish Way, Tamarack Alley is currently underwater, and you’ll notice a small detour on Moccasin Lane marked with pink flagging. You can learn more about our hiking trails here. There is also now a printable map and guide to Blueberry Hill: Blueberry Hill Map.