Morning Wildlife Watch by Canoe

Start the day on calm water, where wildlife feels closer and the landscape feels wider. This beginner-friendly canoe trip focuses on steady paddling, frequent pauses to observe, and plenty of time for questions with an experienced Mass Audubon naturalist. You'll watch for birds and other wetland wildlife, learn how waterways support whole communities of plants and animals, and pick up practical tips for improving water quality in your own watershed. This paddle will explore a calm stretch of the Housatonic River lined with wildflowers where beavers, turtles, muskrats, and wetland-loving birds make their homes. Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, and footwear that can get wet such as water shoes; snacks and a dry bag or zip bag for valuables are optional. Mass Audubon policy requires that every participant wears a life vest during the program, and you may borrow one from us or bring your own. If the weather forecast, river flow, or other conditions could affect your program, your guide will contact you by email at least 24 hours in advance.