2023 "Big Tent" Programs
Friday Evening
Feathers & Scales
at 6:00pm with Audubon Community Nature Center's Animal Ambassadors
Meet some of ACNC's animal ambassadors that represent the feathered and scaled residents who live here with us. ACNC is home to many live animals including several species of turtles, snakes, and frogs, along with two birds of prey. These animals are a critical part of the education team as they teach the community about wildlife in the region and how they move, grow, and survive. Emma Roth and Kim Turner will talk about the adaptations these animals represent, as well as the animals’ stories. Learn how these animals came to live at Audubon and what goes into creating and maintaining a successful animal ambassador program.
at 6:00pm with Audubon Community Nature Center's Animal Ambassadors
Meet some of ACNC's animal ambassadors that represent the feathered and scaled residents who live here with us. ACNC is home to many live animals including several species of turtles, snakes, and frogs, along with two birds of prey. These animals are a critical part of the education team as they teach the community about wildlife in the region and how they move, grow, and survive. Emma Roth and Kim Turner will talk about the adaptations these animals represent, as well as the animals’ stories. Learn how these animals came to live at Audubon and what goes into creating and maintaining a successful animal ambassador program.
Fossils: Storybooks in Stone
at 8:00pm with Dr. Phil Stokes, Executive Director of Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve
Join us for a journey through the eons at Allegany State Park. Long before white-tailed deer munched on plentiful clover, before our continent's first peoples hunted mastodons in conifer forests, and even before dinosaurs ruled, our region was covered by a shallow ocean teeming with life. Hungry predators such as trilobites crawled on the seafloor, while giant cephalopods and armored fish patrolled open water. This ancient ecosystem was never observed by any living human, but we know a lot about it from the rocks and fossils that were left behind. During the talk, real fossil specimens will be provided to touch and hold. What will you discover?
at 8:00pm with Dr. Phil Stokes, Executive Director of Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve
Join us for a journey through the eons at Allegany State Park. Long before white-tailed deer munched on plentiful clover, before our continent's first peoples hunted mastodons in conifer forests, and even before dinosaurs ruled, our region was covered by a shallow ocean teeming with life. Hungry predators such as trilobites crawled on the seafloor, while giant cephalopods and armored fish patrolled open water. This ancient ecosystem was never observed by any living human, but we know a lot about it from the rocks and fossils that were left behind. During the talk, real fossil specimens will be provided to touch and hold. What will you discover?
Saturday Evening
The Mysterious and Majestic Seneca White Deer
at 8:00pm with Dee Calvasina
The mysterious and majestic Seneca white, whitetail deer have fascinated mankind from around the globe for generations. Now recognized as the largest known herd of white whitetail in the world, their once clandestine existence was only hinted upon via Iroquois legend. Such sightings were rare at best, but legend proved of their existence centuries ago. Fast forward to 1941. The government seized over 10,000 acres of privately owned property nestled between Seneca and Cayuga lakes to create the Seneca Ordinance Depot. This pristine landscape was previously settled by the mighty Six Nations of the Iroquois. Not surprisingly, the existence of any white whitetail deer remained elusive however...until 1949. Amazingly, cutting-edge technologies may have been embarked upon to develop and secure the first Northeastern Armed Forces munitions facility in the nick of time prior to the United States becoming involved in WWII, but as advanced as such intelligence was, no insight could have possibly predicted what nature had in store for its own incomparable white deer herd development. Nor could mankind foreshadow what would evolve, over 70 years later, into a conservation and ecotourism site dubbed Deer Haven Park, LLC. We will peek into this fascinating saga and be introduced to some of the amazing wildlife who call this park home, most especially the majestic Seneca white deer.
at 8:00pm with Dee Calvasina
The mysterious and majestic Seneca white, whitetail deer have fascinated mankind from around the globe for generations. Now recognized as the largest known herd of white whitetail in the world, their once clandestine existence was only hinted upon via Iroquois legend. Such sightings were rare at best, but legend proved of their existence centuries ago. Fast forward to 1941. The government seized over 10,000 acres of privately owned property nestled between Seneca and Cayuga lakes to create the Seneca Ordinance Depot. This pristine landscape was previously settled by the mighty Six Nations of the Iroquois. Not surprisingly, the existence of any white whitetail deer remained elusive however...until 1949. Amazingly, cutting-edge technologies may have been embarked upon to develop and secure the first Northeastern Armed Forces munitions facility in the nick of time prior to the United States becoming involved in WWII, but as advanced as such intelligence was, no insight could have possibly predicted what nature had in store for its own incomparable white deer herd development. Nor could mankind foreshadow what would evolve, over 70 years later, into a conservation and ecotourism site dubbed Deer Haven Park, LLC. We will peek into this fascinating saga and be introduced to some of the amazing wildlife who call this park home, most especially the majestic Seneca white deer.
Classes, Walks, and Fieldtrips
Now accepting Program Proposals for the 65th Pilgrimage
Program proposals will be accepted until April 18th
The following programs are confirmed for 2023 (subject to change)
Additional programs will be added as they are confirmed
Program proposals will be accepted until April 18th
The following programs are confirmed for 2023 (subject to change)
Additional programs will be added as they are confirmed
A Pebble's Journey: Geologic History of the area from a pebbles perspective; a look back in time from the present to the Paleozoic past. Easy, walking/standing. 4th grade and up. Phil Stokes
A Walk in the Woods: We will present the children's story "A Walk in the Woods," then go for a walk on an accessible trail--hunting for a variety of items that can easily be found. Lisa Musall
All-Day Birding: We will drive to different habitats within Allegany State Park to look for birds. We will try to carpool as much as possible. Bring a lunch, as this program will last about five hours. Timothy Baird
Allenberg Bog Slog: Experience the unique flora and fauna of a spectacular northern peat bog that features a quaking mat surrounding a bog pool. Many plants that are uncommon or rare in this part of New York can be found here. We’ll also pay special attention to dragonflies and damselflies, as some unusual ones often are flying here at this time. Participants should be in good health and have good mobility for walking on unstable substrates. Expect wet and mucky conditions and bring bug repellent as some years (not all) mosquitoes can be annoying. Recommended attire: long pants, long sleeves, hat, closed-toe footwear that can get wet such as old sneakers. Bring lunch & water. This program extends from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, including 45-minute drive outside the park. Departs from Camp Allegany. Driving instructions will be provided. Steven Daniel & Wayne Gall
Adult-Themed Nature Talk: We will have a discussion on the culture and mythology of the plants and animals of the park. Part of our discussion will focus on the mating rituals of the animals of the park. This conversation will be a bawdy discussion of nature within the park. Indoor PowerPoint presentation for adults only. Lon Myers
Beginner to Intermediate Birding: This walk is intended for beginner to intermediate birders. We will be walking on road or paved sidewalks for 1 1/4 hours. The pace is leisurely with time for observation and education in varied habitat. Bring binoculars and bird books if you have them. This early evening bird walk will meet at the Osgood trailhead at the beginning of the McIntosh Cabin Trail. Jay Wopperer
Beginning Birding: An introductory look at bird watching. We will concentrate on birdwatching basics like guide books, binoculars and easy bird identification. Easy walk. Suitable for all ages. Kids welcome if accompanied by an adult. PLEASE bring binoculars. Garner Light
Bird Banding: Get a close view of warblers and other birds as our bird banders catch birds in nets and demonstrate how to band them. Thomas LeBlanc
Birding in Aretas Saunders' Footsteps: In the summer of 1921, the Roosevelt Wild Life Station dispatched Aretas Saunders to survey the bird life of the newly-opened Allegany State Park. He found 105 species. Much has changed since. Join us for a casual walk retracing Saunders’ footsteps as we compare and contrast his century-old checklist with our own findings and the Pilgrimage’s own composite list. Meet at the Science Lake parking lot, Site 40, at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4. Craig Thompson
Blacksnake Mountain Trail Hike: A moderate hike, but we'll take 3-4 hours to cover the 3 mile distance! This trail includes some exceptional areas for some special Allegany plants--including forested seeps that are incredibly lush with wildflowers, ferns and overall great plant diversity. Although the focus will be on the plants, we won't overlook whatever else happens to come our way--birds, butterflies, dragonflies, fungi. Bring water, binoculars and camera. A hiking stick could be helpful. Steven Daniel
Bones--What We Can Learn From Them: Ever find a bone on one of your forays into nature and wondered what kind of animal left it? Ever wonder why we don't tend to find more bones and antlers? Ever wonder how old you actually are (and what that has to do with a talk on bones)? Those topics and much more will be covered in this presentation. Glenn Wahl
Bova Area Birding: Walk up the Bova Road from Camp Allegany and observe birds in the various habitats along the way. Frank Gardner
Bugs by Nightlight: Participants will observe night-flying insects attracted to a mercury vapor light and white sheet after dark. A diversity of moths, caddisflies, mayflies, stoneflies, and beetles are just some of the insect taxa likely to be encountered. Discussion will focus on identifying characteristics and the natural history of the attracted insects. Wayne Gall & Steven Daniel
Busy Beavers: Learn all about the official mammal of New York State while visiting an active beaver colony. Meet at tent, short drive to location. Kristen Rosenburg
Butterflies, Bees and More!: Join Tamara and Shannon in the Butterfly meadow to learn about our important pollinators. We will have a presentation followed by a walk through the meadow to find native host plants, and if we are lucky, monarch eggs. We will have informational folders with resources to take home on native plants and local pollinators. Tamara Bacho & Shannon Rinow
Common Bird Identification: This talk will provide basic information about some bird species commonly seen and/or heard in the woodlands and backyards of Western New York. The information presented is geared toward non-birders who want to learn something about the birds with whom they share the earth. Peter Corrigan
Edible Wild Plants: Hmmm... I wonder what I can eat out here in the woods? There are many edible plants in our forests and meadows. Learn several of the most common plants to eat and a few medicinal ones too. Adele Wellman
Essential Backpacking Skills: Getting ready to spend the night out in a tent? This course will teach you the skills to be successful and comfortable spending a night in the wilderness. We will go over the fundamentals of backpacking by packing our pack, setting up a mock camp, learning how to use our stoves, making a fire, storing our food, and cleaning up. And, of course, you will learn the proper way to poop in the woods. All of this while following the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. You'll learn practical camping skills for use in every situation, from car camping to long-distance backpacking. Topics include: Gear basics - "10 Essentials"; "The Big Three" - tent, sleeping bag, and tent; Backpack - proper fit and how to pack; Cook systems; Choosing a campsite; Basic fire starting techniques; Food planning and storage; Hygiene Demo. Gear will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Mike Radomski
Fern Foray: Come befriend the fabulous ferns that fill the forest floor with feathery fronds! We will hike the Red Jacket Trail (#8, 1 mile loop) and explore the basics of fern identification while getting to know Allegany’s most common species. Marcus Rosten
5-Mile Nature Hike: We will enjoy the quiet beauty of Allegany's Eastwood Meadows trail on this moderate hike. The pace will be leisurely as we observe and enjoy the wildflowers, birds and mammals found in this lush, quiet location of the Park. Bring water and maybe a light snack. Teresa & Peter Corrigan
FLASH! contemplative cellphone photography: Contemplative practices have emerged from diverse traditions and involve practical methods of bringing about a state of mind/body well-being through movement, self-awareness and focused attention. In this introduction to a perception-based approach to photography, we'll learn a few simple skills for quieting the mind to help us engage directly with the natural world through looking and seeing. Then we'll use our cellphones to make beautiful images of the "ordinary magic" that has - FLASH! - caught our eye. Jennifer Fendya
Forest Bathing--it's not what you think!: Forest bathing as taught by the U.S.-based Association for Nature and Forest Therapy has its roots in Shinrin-Yoku, a well-researched Japanese practice of nature immersion that supports physiological health and psychological well-being. It is equally informed by embodiment practices, indigenous interrelational principles, mindfulness, and deep ecology. On our relaxed, pleasure-oriented walk, participants are offered a sequence of invitations to explore sensory-based experiences, engage in reciprocity with the "more-than-human" world, and gather along the way to share what they're noticing as we "bathe" in the forest atmosphere. Jennifer Fendya
General Nature Hike: Easy walk near the camp. Will look at the features of the area and how they relate. May walk to the Osgood Trail or have a pop quiz. Laura Dustin
General Nature Hike/Summer Scavenger Hunt: Come join us for a fun summer-themed scavenger hunt! We will go off-trail around Camp Allegany looking for hidden treasures while trying to check off as many items on our list as we can. Bring a flashlight just in case it gets dark out. A fun activity for the whole family! Julianna Speers
Grasses, Sedges, and Rushes...Oh My!: An introduction to these fascinating, yet maligned, groups of plants, that have an undeserved reputation for being difficult, if not impossible to learn. So we will "Learn 10" graminoids. and it shouldn't be too painful! "Learn 10" is a program begun by the New York Flora Association to help make various groups of plants accessible to non-botanists. Bring a hand lens or magnifying glass if you have one. Steven Daniel
Headwaters Hike: Have you ever wondered where our streams, creeks and rivers begin? The "headwaters" are the source of a waterway. We'll explore a headwater forest in Allegany State Park, where the water we see will eventually travel all of the way to the Gulf of Mexico. We'll discuss why healthy headwaters are important for our watershed and enjoy some natural discoveries along the way! Claudia Rosen
Hike and Find The Secret Bear Caves: The bears are long gone, but the caves are not! Most hikers on the Mt. Seneca and Bear Cave trail at ANP marvel at the giant rock city boulders, but few know about the upper level and entrances to the hidden Pappa, Momma, and Baby Bear caves. Join us as we take a slow hike to discover the giant rock formation and hidden caves. Caves entrances are narrow and suitable for those that are comfortable with 2-to-3-foot entrances and muddy and wet conditions. Bring a headlamp and boots! Jennifer Hillman
Identifying Wild Mushrooms--Edible, Poisonous and Beautiful: This program is a photo show with explanation. Dr. Victor will show you, with photos, how to identify the most tasty edible mushrooms and explain how not to confuse them with dangerous varieties. He will explain the conditions when and where to find wild mushrooms; dates, weather and locations. He will also explain the French way to cook chanterelle mushrooms. Jeffrey Victor
iPhone Nature Photography: Two intertwining focus’: How to use iPhone photo options and tips to take photos of and in nature. I am not familiar with using Androids but some tips will transfer so Androids are welcome too. Ellen Prill
Kids Mini Rebel Nature Journal: Using activities from ACNC's Rebel Nature Journal, kids will smear mud, capture sounds, smash berries and more as a fun way to explore and capture the nature around them. All supplies provided. Participants bring a sense of exploration and creativity. Katie Finch
Life Under a Lens: Enter the world of all that is small as we explore species seldom seen. We will investigate tree bark, stumps, logs, rocks and everything in between! Bring a hand lens if you have one. Focus will be on mosses, liverworts and overlooked species in the woods. Matthew Nusstein
Little People, Big Adventures: Adventure into the woods and fields on this family-friendly hike, especially for young children. We will use adventure tools (such as magnifying glasses and collecting jars) to help us make discoveries. Games and guided activities will help us explore and have fun. Katie Finch
Lost in the Wild: What to do and not do from the moment you realize you are lost. In this presentation and interactive discussion, Meghan will be providing important information on how to get found as quickly as possible when you are lost in the wilderness. She will also go into detail regarding survival skills if your trip into the wild lasts longer than you have prepared for - even if you only have the clothes on your back during all four seasons. We will wrap up with how to pack your own long-term survival bag and what to put in it. Bring a notepad for this classroom discussion. Don't miss this program that could literally save your life. Meghan Gardner
Mt Tuscarora Hike: Get your blood pumping on climb to the summit and fire tower on top of Mt. Tuscarora. This is a strenuous, 5 mile hike that will take 3-4 hours, cover 5 miles, 1100'+ of elevation. Hikers will be rewarded with views of Quaker Lake and the Kinzua Reservoir. We will catch our breath along the way to identify trees and understory plants. Mike Radomski
Naturalist Saunter: Bring your curiosity and sense of wonder as we go on a "naturalist's saunter." We will enjoy all we see, making observations, following our curiosity, and learning from each other. Whether you are an experienced naturalist or just starting out, this walk is for you. Everyone has something to learn and knowledge to share. Bring your favorite naturalist tools: binoculars, magnifying glasses, field guides, journals, etc. Matthew Nusstein
Nature Story Hour: Join us for an outdoor, nature-themed storytime adventure! Listen to stories, sing songs, and make a craft! Ashley Nelson
Nature Tangles: Join us to create a 5x7 black and white abstract art work based on your ANP experience. We will take a short walk to notice and gather natural patterns and images by using your camera on your phone or making a quick sketch. Then we will each create personal abstract designs or tangles of these images and patterns. No drawing experience necessary. Supplies provided. Children under 10 need adult supervision. Judy Light
Nature-Themed Yoga: Start or end the day's activities with outdoor nature themed meditation and yoga. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a mat or towel. No experience needed. Teresa Corrigan
Not Just A Pretty Face: Medicinal value of Native Plants: Native plants, trees and bushes are critical to ecological resiliency and biodiversity. Native plants have an additional value as they have been used medicinally by indigenous populations for centuries. This presentation will discuss medicinal natives and their many uses while also touching upon some important herbs that can be grown in container gardens or sunny borders. Many of these medicinal plants are important food sources for pollinators and critical to the environment. Kathleen Contrino
Night Walk: Explore nature from dusk to darkness. We will do a bit of everything--stars, planets, owls, frogs, and fluorescent minerals. Again this year we have an 8 -inch SC telescope dedicated to this walk. Lon Myers
Owl Prowl: Your leader will imitate owl calls in an effort to lure in these secretive nocturnal raptors. Meet at the Big Tent for a brief introduction to owl calling; participants will then drive to the owl prowl location(s). Feel free to bring a small flashlight and/or binoculars (but neither is necessary). Chuck Rosenburg
Red House Sawmill Tour: This program will take you through a brief history of logging in the park. At the tour of the mill you will be guided from the cutting and selection of the trees to the finished product the park produced. This tour will be outside and inside so please dress appropriately for the weather. Paul Crawford
Salamanca Little Rock City: The Little Rock City in the Township of Little Valley, NY north of the City of Salamanca is a 'rock city' of Salamanca Conglomerate rock exposed at an elevation of approximately 2200 feet. At this location, large blocks of the conglomerate rock are separating from their parent layer and gravity is moving them downhill. In addition to being of local geological interest, the location lies within the Rock City State Forest. The surrounding forest is a habitat of mature trees and hosts many interesting plants and animals, including several species of birds. Timothy Baird
Splash Hike!: Needing to escape the summer heat? Come with us and cool off in the woods as we make our way up a streambed identifying fish, crayfish, salamanders and more! Bring water shoes. A fun activity for the whole family! Julianna Speers
Sunday Morning Book Chat: Because I love to read and share books, I thought it would be fun to host a book chat where people can bring a favorite nature related book, fiction or non-fiction and share what was so valuable about these books. Participants will need to keep their descriptions brief depending on the number of attending. Bring your own coffee and I'll bring the healthy cookies. Linda Smolarek
The Skeptical Naturalist: Have you heard that some people are immune to poison ivy or that you can remove a tick with a match? Are Monarch caterpillars really poisonous? Are Snipes really a thing? We all have bits of nature lore that we love sharing, but how many of these claims hold up to scrutiny? Join Bill and Steve, co-hosts of The Field Guides podcast, for a lighthearted hike looking at some seriously interesting claims about the natural world and whatever else they find along the trail. Bill Michalek & Steve Fleck
Tips to Observe Nature from a Kayak: Sign-up will be in the Registration Room. There is a cost for the kayak rental that is yet to be determined. Please bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. We will meet at the boat house where there will be forms to fill out and sign. Safety talk. Life jackets on and zipped. Basic paddling strokes. We will be launched by the Boat House staff. We will paddle slowly and deliberately identifying plants and birds as we go. I have an seen osprey dive and catch a fish. Marveled at the yellow Flag Iris. Caught glimpses of cardinal flowers. Ellen Prill
Underwater Monsters of Science Lake: Participants will collect aquatic creatures from the shoreline of Science Lake with D-framed aquatic nets, then return them back to the water. Discussion will focus on the identifying characteristics and natural history of the aquatic organisms that are collected and observed alive. Wayne Gall
Wetland Birding: Let's see how many different birds we can find in the wetland interpretative area on the Maintenance Road. The boardwalks and observation platforms there make for easy access and great birding. Frank Gardner
Wildflowers Walk: Explore the area around the camp looking for wildflowers and determining how the features of those flowers can be used to produce a simple key. Laura Dustin
WNY Fossil Dig for Kids: Drop in and dig for Western New York Fossils. During the Devonian, 380 million years ago, this entire area was a tropical marine environment located 15 degrees south of the equator. We've come a long way since then - use our fossil clues to construct what the past may have looked like. Kids will receive a children's admission coupon to Penn Dixie and a labeled specimen to take home. Phil Stokes
Wonderful Wildflowers & Weeds: What is your definition of a wildflower? A weed? Are they the same things? That really is up to you to decide. We will take a closer look at some of the local flora's beauty. Bring your camera or phone. They are prettier close-up. Adele Wellman
You Can Help Our Bluebird: Eastern Bluebird: Learn how to build a nestbox, proper placement, protect against predators, how to monitor/check, recognize other birds using your box, help in case of trouble. See real nests, eggs, feathers of native cavity nesters. Elaine Crossley