Fauna in the Flora – Native Animal Management at Longwood Gardens

Most visitors to Longwood Gardens come to admire its flowers. But today we’ll explore the wildlife that frequent the garden without regard for the delicacy of the blossoms they snack on. Over Longwood’s 1,100 acres, 15 species of amphibians and reptiles, 200 species of birds, and 10 types of mammals call the gardens home. On any day, one may come across a snapping turtle sauntering across a lawn, a rabbit munching blossoms, or a fox hunting in the meadow.

Let’s meet up with Ryan Pardue, Longwood’s Wildlife Specialist, to discuss how wildlife is managed on site, whether that’s responding to nuisance incidents, providing nesting sites and monitoring various bird species, or managing their abundant deer herd. We will also meet Dr. Paul Reed, Director of Land Stewardship and Ecology, who will discuss the other stewardship and science aspects of their work, including plant community mapping and long-term ecological monitoring plots. We will walk through the Meadow and Forest District, tour the Meadow Garden, and stop at a few other ‘natural’ areas, where we’ll discuss various aspects of their Land Stewardship & Ecology program.

Your registration fee includes garden admission. You are welcome to walk the gardens on your own when our tour ends. Lunch is available in their cafe, or you may bring your own picnic. If you are a Longwood member, see your discounted fee and remember to bring your Longwood membership card for garden admittance.

• Our meeting location will be included in your registration confirmation email once payment is completed.
• Watch for additional details in a welcome email sent a few days before the date.
• All participants must be pre-registered. If you are on the waitlist and show up to the event uninvited, you will not be allowed to participate.
• High school-aged children are welcome to attend and must be registered as a guest of their adult.
• No more than two children per adult.
• Dress according to the weather. Layers of clothing work best. Include a hat for sun protection or warmth, depending on the season.
• Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
• Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and bug spray, depending on the season.
• Bring binoculars and a hand lens or loupe for birding or looking at details, if you have them.
• Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
• No pets, please.

All events are held rain or shine. If any event is canceled due to severe weather, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.

Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Cancellations made 14 or more days in advance of the event will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations made within 14 days of the event will not receive a refund. Events and field trips with fees of $25 or less are non-refundable at any time unless canceled by NHSM. NHSM retains the right to update or change these requirements at any time.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.