Nocturnal Neighbors Event at Vlei

WHEN: Thursday, August 14 from 9:30-10:30pm

WHERE: Vlei Marsh Preserve, 186 Vlei Road, Rhinebeck

REGISTRATION ENCOURAGED. Capacity is limited. Suggested donation $10 per person, $25 per family. Rain will cancel this event.

REGISTER

Join us for an enchanting evening as we explore the preserve after dark! Led and organized by Winnakee’s summer interns, we invite you to discover the world of nocturnal wildlife at Vlei, including a mothing observation station and a guided walk along a trail lit with fairy lights (who knows if the fairies will come out of their houses).   As we stroll through the trails, we’ll listen for the croaks of frogs, the buzz of insects, the sounds of owls and splashes of beavers.

Our walk will highlight the incredible adaptations that help these animals thrive in the darkness. Along the way, we’ll touch on topics like nighttime behavior, the importance of darkness in ecosystems, and the natural soundscapes that fill the night air.

This immersive and educational experience is open to all ages.  Bring your flashlight, sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure. 

This event is a wonderful opportunity for families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in the natural world to connect with the preserve in a whole new way. It’s also a great chance to learn more about Winnakee’s broader mission to protect and preserve these vital landscapes and the wildlife within them.

We will share photos of moths we identify on Winnakee’s Vlei Marsh iNaturalist project.  We will also teach you skills to become a “mothing “ citizen scientist in your own backyard.  These contributions help researchers study moth diversity, distribution, and ecology worldwide!

Additional Details

• This event is family-friendly – kids are welcome!
• Consider bringing bug spray and a flashlight.
• There is a portable restroom available 
• Tag #winnakeelandtrust #vleimarsh and follow us on social media—we’ll feature your posts in our stories
• We will share photos of moths we identify on Winnakee’s Vlei Marsh iNaturalist project.  

For more information please contact jen@winnakee.org

Parking at Vlei Marsh Preserve is limited: Carpooling is encouraged and appreciated. If the lot is full you may park on Vlei Road on the preserve side of the street.

Getting there