News Stay connected with nature this spring

Take a break during these unsettling times and plan an outing to reconnect with nature. Spending time outside can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Online resources can also help you (or your student!) gain a little wildlife knowledge.

• Go fishing. Fishing on your own or with a family member is a perfect way to enjoy a day outside while social distancing. Learn more about freshwater fishing and start planning a fishing trip. You can also check out this virtual Angler Academy for Kids to bring fishing indoors through crafts and other fun activities. 
• Explore a Wildlife Management Area. All MassWildlife Wildlife Management Areas remain open to the public. Please remember to stay 6 feet apart from other visitors and keep pets leashed. If crowded, choose a different location or time to visit. Find a WMA near you.
• Observe. Use this Wildlife Viewing Guide to get tips to help you view wildlife while spending time outdoors this spring.
• Teach and learn. MassWildlife's Education Coordinator suggests the following resources for kids and families to use while learning at home:
  • Project WILD offers great content and resources for parents and educators.
  • The Cornell Lab of Ornithology offers complete science and nature activities for indoor and outdoor learning.
  • Nature writer Mary Holland’s blog, Naturally Curious, contains seasonal observations and notes from the field with engaging photographs.
• Tune in. Check out MassWildlife’s YouTube channel for clips on anything and everything, from turtle crossings to restoration projects. Share your favorite videos with your friends and chat about what you're watching! Go to the channel.
• Browse the library. Learn about Massachusetts wildlife by visiting MassWildlife’s virtual library. Get the facts and learn how to coexist with animals you might encounter in your backyard.
• Watch falcons. It’s nesting season for peregrine falcons! Tune into one of Massachusetts’ peregrine falcon nest cameras and see live streaming video of the fastest birds on Earth.
• Color. Check out these wildlife coloring pages. Grab your crayons and learn about some threatened and endangered wildlife in Massachusetts.

MassWildlife has adjusted services, events, and operations in response to COVID-19; get details about MassWildlife's response to the State of Emergency.

Please click here for the latest guidance and recommendations regarding COVID-19.