Visit Tatum Park With Monmouth Audubon Sept. 15

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Join the Monmouth County Audubon Society for a late summer butterfly and bird walk at Tatum Park in Middletown. The event will take place on Saturday, September 15, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Tatum Park has 366 acres of rolling hills, open fields and bird-filled woods, as well as two Activity Centers, a playground and miles of scenic trails, for area residents to enjoy. The park is named for the Tatum family, who donated 73 acres of property to the county in 1973. Walkers, runners, bicyclists and equestrians can watch the colors change each season on winding paths through stands of tulip trees, and red and chestnut oaks. Or, enjoy the quiet landscape on trails through beautiful fields and meadows.

Our group will concentrate on the meadows, where we hope to see migrating Monarch butterflies along with many other butterfly species. Bird migration will be well underway at this time, also, and birds that may be seen include sparrows, warblers, songbirds and raptors. Anyone interested in participating in the event can meet at 10:00 a.m. in the main parking area off Holland Road.

The trip is open to both members and non-members of the Monmouth County Audubon Society, and participation is free. Advance registration is not required. Participants should bring binoculars and field guides and should dress appropriately for the weather, including clothing suitable for rain if the forecast is questionable. The walk will take place light rain or shine. Pets are not permitted.

The Monmouth County Audubon Society, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, is dedicated to the enjoyment and study of nature, wildlife conservation, habitat protection and education. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month September through May at the Tower Hill Chuch, 255 Harding Road, Red Bank; guest speakers address a wide variety of nature-related topics, and refreshments are provided. In addition, the group sponsors at least one field trip per month, and members receive The Osprey, the club's newsletter. Further information can be obtained by visiting the organization's website at http://www.monmouthaudubon.org, or via e-mail at info@monmouthaudubon.org.

Photo of Tatum Park via Monmouth County Park System.