A special series of blog posts brought to you by Liz Brownlee
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The Burlington Naturalist Scavenger Hunt Series: Discover the area’s hidden gems. Hone your naturalist skills. Learn to see the treasures along every walking path, trail, and creek.This series of scavenger hunts is a chance to get outside, look closely at the world around you, and enjoy nature. The hunts are designed for budding naturalists of any age.
Hunt I: Williston’s Muddy Brook Wetland
Cruise east, away from the noise of Burlington. Slip south of Highway Two, curving along Hinesburg Road onto Van Slicken Road. Pass the oldest house in Williston – light grey stones, hand hewn in the 18th century. Crunch onto the gravel of the parking lot, leave your car (or bike!), and step into the wildness at Muddy Brook Wetland.
Cattails dance on the winter wind, and signs of animals layer this scrubby landscape. To the casual visitor, Williston’s Muddy Brook Wetland rejuvenates and relaxes. It is a deep breath at the end of the day.
For the budding naturalist equipped with this scavenger hunt, the wetland also offers mid-winter wonder. Look closely at the ground, the bent grasses, the flowing stream. Find and learn to identify scat, deciduous trees, nests, and other natural treasures. Enjoy!
Find the first scavenger hunt here: Scavenger Hunt- Williston’s Muddy Brook Wetland