ZOOM on Nature Series 

In late winter, OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett took a stroll down West Beach to look at Wash Pond, Middle Pond and Sachem Pond -- all separated from the ocean by a narrow (and shrinking) barrier of land. Along the way, Kim points out a variety of gulls and ducks, including common mergansers and American coots.

Even winter, Sandy Point is a magical, dynamic landscape of rich textures and incredible views. OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett takes us along the beach and dune paths and points out signs of wildlife along the way -- including those irresistible seals.

OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett's "Zoom on Nature" series returns with an easy stroll through the Block Island Conservancy's Win Dodge Preserve. Kim also provides an introduction to common raptors that can be seen in this area, from hawks to falcons to owls and more.

Why is there a lumber yard directly on this beautiful Block Island beach? And how do you get there? OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett leads us down a hard-won public right-of-way to the beach and introduces us to the many treasures she found. As Kim said, "if you can't walk far, look close."

OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett kicks off a new walk series, introducing us to Block Island's Greenway Trail. In premiere, Kim starts from the Great Salt Pond and goes through Ball O'Brien Park and the Island Cemetery, on her way to a historic farmscape. It's a secluded ramble that will transport you to another time and place, illustrating many human connections to the land along the way.

In the second leg of the Greenway Trail series, OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett starts down an old cart path, now being reclaimed by nature. This route passes near Nathan Mott Park and the Turnip Farm. There is unbelievable beauty to be found by looking closely at smaller subjects, like mourning cloak butterflies and haircap moss.

Covered with snow and ice, Block Island's ponds accentuate the beautiful colors and rich textures of winter. OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett provides an overview of the island's many freshwater ponds, describing their importance to people and wildlife.

If you go for a walk around the Turnip Farm, go with a sense of adventure! OVF Naturalist Kim Gaffett takes us through all the twists and turns of this great conserved land, plus the Loffredo Loop and the Carey Lot. You'll come away with a new appreciation for the subtle colors and textures of Block Island in winter.

You may know a Cardinal from a Blue Jay, but what are all those little brown and gray birds hopping around on the ground beneath the feeder? OVF Naturalist offers an appreciation for the diversity of Block Island's winter resident birds, along with a look at the different types of birdfeeders that will attract them to your yard.