"every wild and open space features an abundance of wonder, blending the mysterious with the secretive, the curious with the delightful. "spring processional" invites you to join naturalist craig newberger as he explores our woods, fields, and wetlands. spring begins as a season of awakening. as early as mid february, songbirds call out springtime melodies while woodpeckers tap out a percussive counterpart. by the first week of march, early wildflowers, skunk cabbage, and pussy willow add color to wetlands and forests. small depressions fill with water alive with amphibian larvae and translucent fairy shrimp. flocks of blackbirds return to our yards. in early april, before the canopy trees get their leaves, the forest floor shimmers with light, quickening the growth of woodland ephemerals. hepatica blooms in a variety of colors, including white, pink, lavender, and purple. spring beauties dot the ground displaying tiny white petals each with pink stripes. insect pollinators feast on the nectar of bloodroot, columbine, and virginia bluebells. migrating songbirds fill the forest with song and the flutter of wings in late april and early may. during the final weeks of spring, the forest floor, now shadowed by canopy trees, is home to shade tolerant wildflowers including canada mayflower, sweet cicely, and dame's rocket. fields and meadows hum as insects pollinate wildflowers. ponds and wetlands resound with the songs of frogs. adventure awaits you in a park, nature preserve, or even your own backyard"--