Calling all butterfly fans: on Saturday, July 13, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society board member Chris DeCesare will lead a field trip to view butterflies in the fields and gardens of Landis Arboretum.
Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance, is a 40 acre preserve filled with natural areas, woodlands, open fields, wetlands, and more than eight miles of trails in Esperance. At Landis, visitors can explore a variety of labeled trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials, as well sculptures, a meditation garden—and seasonal butterflies.
Port-A-John restrooms are available on site. The butterfly walk is expected to take place on a mix of gravelly ground and grassy field areas. Walkers may experience slight inclines and uneven ground. Benches and picnic tables are available for resting along the way.
Pre-registration is required at bit.ly/3R8802h The butterfly walk program is free, but there is a $5 suggested cash donation for non-members of Landis on the day of the program. Participants are encouraged to bring sunscreen, hats, bug spray, and sturdy shoes and binoculars if you have them.
Participants will meet at 11 a.m. in the main parking lot next to the visitor center.
The walk leader, Chris DeCesare, is a career environmental educator who worked with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. She has a fondness for insects and enjoys observing and learning more about them as well as sharing her knowledge with others in the outdoor settings.