The Quittapahilla Audubon Society (QAS) is kicking off its 2023-24 year with a roster of enlightening programs and field trips designed for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
On Sept. 27, the society presents the Dare 2B Aware Tick program, an initiative aimed at reducing tick bites, promoting prevention strategies, and improving early diagnosis of Lyme disease. Leveraging the latest research, the program delves into tick habitats, removal, and prevention methods.
The initiative is backed by the PA Lyme Resource Network and was developed in conjunction with a CDC Preventative Health Block Grant via the state Department of Health.
Anne Desjardins, an advocate for Lyme disease awareness, will be the presenter. Having launched the Berks County Lyme Support Group in 2018, Desjardins has been active in educating the public through “Quick Tick Tips” videos, which highlight the risks ticks present to both humans and animals.
This educational session will commence at 7 p.m. at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, at 723 Lehman St. near Monument Park in Lebanon. Attendees can access well-lit parking at the rear of the church from Spruce Street.
On Sept. 30, families are invited to an interactive presentation by the Red Creek Wildlife Center on modern-day raptors — not the dinosaurs, but today’s majestic birds of prey. Tailored to all age groups, the event will feature live birds, including a hawk, owl, and vulture.
It will take place at 2 p.m. at the Lebanon Salvation Corps building, 1031 Guilford St. An ice cream social will follow the presentation.
Birdwatchers can mark their calendars for Sept. 23, when the society will venture to Cornwall Manor’s “Wildflower Lane” at 8 a.m. for bird observation. Participants should gather at the Gateway Apartment Building’s rear parking on the Cornwall Manor Campus.
Another excursion is slated for Oct. 1 at Swatara State Park to observe local flora and fauna. Interested individuals should meet at 2:30 p.m. at the Trout Run Trailhead parking lot along PA 72, north of Jonestown.
All events and trips are open to the public and free of charge. No prior registration is required. For more information about the Quittapahilla Audubon Society, visit the organization’s website.
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