Photo: Nicolas Tonelli

Everyone knows that April showers should bring May flowers (and lots of mud) to the Poconos, so join Brodhead Watershed Association in a hike to appreciate that!

Brodhead Watershed Association will host a hike geared toward families, searching Henry’s Crossing Preserve in Paradise Township for more signs of early spring. School-age children will have fun finding spring salamanders, frogs, flowers and mammals, while learning about life in the woods.

After the long winter hibernation, several species have recently emerged. Salamanders, such as the red eft, are often found along the forest floor after a rainstorm. They are reliant on water to keep their skin moist — they breathe through their skin!

Another common amphibian in the area is the spring peeper. This diminutive frog is no bigger than your thumb — but it has a big voice and it is active and vocal through much of the spring and summer. Trying to see one in the wild isn’t easy, but this hike will help.

Spring wildflowers emerge before leaves coat the trees. This is the best time for Quaker ladies, daisies and dwarf ginseng. Some of the larger flowers are the birch catkins, skunk cabbage, and the leaves of the pink lady slipper, a rare orchid.

Young explorers will also search for mammals. These elusive creatures are best found by their tracks. With a little bit of mud, young hikers can make some track casts to take home.

This event is part of the Water Wiser Kids Series sponsored by Brodhead Watershed Association, funded by a Dr. Claus Jordan Endowment Grant from Lehigh Valley Health Network Pocono Foundation.

NOTE: Suitable for elementary-age children, who must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Dress for the weather.

COST: Free, but registration is required.

INFORMATION: info@brodheadwatershed.org, 570-839-1120 or 570-629-2727.

To register, please click here!