WHAT'S HAPPENING

News • Sightings • Information

ENJOY THIS GORGEOUS JULY WEATHER!
July 4, 2025
Check in with nature right here in pristine Sandwich, New Hampshire.There is always something beautiful at the sanctuary.
Dragonflies? Teacup Lake is fully alive with them! Right now they are busy chasing each other around. Soon they will be gobbling up tiny pests after expending so much energy procreating.
Thank you Dragonflies.

Flowers are blooming all over as birds and insects become busy pollinators while gathering their food. Roses and Fox Glove are richly colored at the Chapman House, and the meadow beyond Teacup Lake is full of Wood Lillies right now.

Put a trip to CSVW in your Independence Day weekend plans and JOIN US OUTSIDE!

GET OUTSIDE QUICK!
June 8, 2025

Get on over to the sanctuary in-between raindrops! Lovely things are growing and thriving along the trails including Jack-in-the-pulpit!

JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT (Arisaema triphyllum) grows in moist, shady areas with rich soil. Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods trails are an ideal environment for these flowering, woodland plants.

HIT THE CSVW TRAILS TODAY and see if you can spot these elusive plants on the forest floor. Let us know in the comments when you sign in and out at the Visitor’s kiosk.

HAVE A GREAT DAY OUTSIDE IN NATURE!

WE INVITE YOU TO COME TO
THE FOREST
Memorial Day Weekend is the “official” start of summer. It means much more.

Visit Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods this weekend. Walk the trails. Breathe the earth. Absorb nature. Some of the CSVW trails have been travelled by Sandwich townspeople and visitors from “away” for a hundred or more years. The woods, the meadow, Teacup Lake and the Cold River are an idyllic landscape of natural beauty and tranquility still today.

If you need a quiet place to slow down and hear yourself think this weekend…
we invite you to come to the forest.

NEWS!
UNITED WAY DAY OF CARING • CSVW SPRING WORKDAY

DATE: May 16, 2025
TIME: 9:00am - 3:00pm • Come any time and stay all day or for an hour or two.
LOCATION:
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
740 Mt Israel Road
Sandwich, New Hampshire

Granite United Way is sending volunteers to the CSVW and we are so grateful!

LEND A HELPING HAND TO THE SANCTUARY
CHECK THE EVENTS or VOLUNTEER page for more information.

RAIN DELAY
CSVW 2025 ANNUAL BIRD WALK

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods will postpone the 2025 ANNUAL BIRD WALK due to rain.

Thank you all for your flexibility - especially our birding leader, Chris Costello.
We hope you will join us next weekend.

NEW DATE • SAME PLACE • SAME FANTASTIC EVENT

DATE: SUNDAY • MAY 18, 2025
TIME: 7:30am
LOCATION: Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods • 740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH

MORE INFORMATION ON THE EVENTS page.

NO SUN? NO PROBLEM!
May 2, 2025

This weekend’s forecast is what rain gear was made for.
Hit the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods and you will be in good company with all the critters who come out when it rains. We are located in beautiful Sandwich, New Hampshire at 740 Mt Israel Road.

Who doesn’t love the earthy fragrance of a damp spring forest?
Add some reptiles, amphibians, bugs and birds and you have a perfect day outside in nature learning about creatures that thrive in or near water.

Peepers and other frogs are out and calling to each other in the woods and around Teacup Lake.
Salamanders, Newts, Efts and Earthworms are on the grounds and you can see them if you watch your steps.

Of course all the things that eat the things that springtime brings are active during
the damp days too.

Herons, ducks, Kingfishers, muskrats, otters and many other animals are happy to make a meal for themselves during rain shower at the sanctuary.

Get ready for some beautiful photo opportunities if the sun peaks out.

The grasses and trees are greening and flowers are blooming all over the sanctuary acreage.
Lovely things are pushing their way up out of the soil.
You might catch a rainbow.
Vapor rising up off Teacup Lake as it warms to a sunny break in the clouds is a pretty sight to see.

There is ALWAYS something wonderful happening in nature at CSVW and we hope to see you here this weekend. Please sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk. This is important for us to know that you are on the trails and for our record-keeping. PLUS there are Trail Maps and other information available for you … thank you!

REMINDER!
THE CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK IS NEXT WEEKEND MAY 10th.
CHECK THE WEBSITE'S EVENTS PAGE SO YOU DON’T MISS THIS FREE FUN OFFERING FROM CSVW!

REMINDER!
THE CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK IS SATURDAY • MAY 10th.
CHECK THE WEBSITE'S EVENTS PAGE SO YOU DON’T MISS THIS FREE FUN OFFERING FROM CSVW!

HAPPY EARTH MONTH!
April 2025
Here at CSVW we celebrate our planet every day by doing our own small part to manage, create and improve a variety of natural habitats for
local wildlife including birds, bears, deer,
butterflies, insects, bees, reptiles, amphibians and countless other species.

CSVW Members and Visitors benefit too with daily, year-round recreational opportunities in beautiful natural surroundings. We are proud to offer bird and nature education to groups of all ages.

Let CSVW make it easy to do some good during the Earth Month!
Follow the links below for some ways you can help CSVW & nature …
JOIN US
Head over to the Membership page and create or renew your Membership today.

DONATE
Make a charitable contribution in an amount of your choice and donate to the fund of your choice.
Your generous donations help us to provide the critical resources we need to accomplish our mission.

SPONSOR A BIRDHOUSE
Your 2025 Birdhouse Sponsorship will help fund the cost of seed, fresh nesting material, natural habitat maintenance for the beautiful wild birds that make Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods their home. More information on this popular program is available on the Sponsor a Birdhouse page of the website.
VOLUNTEER
CSVW is always in need of a helping hand in the gardens or other special projects throughout the year.
Send us an email and let know your availability.
LEND A HELPING HAND on Friday • May 16 for a CSVW Work Day on the trails.
See the Volunteer page for details!

THANK YOU!
Whichever way you choose to help CSVW today, we can’t thank you enough for your support in caring for the beautiful Earth that we all share.

NEWS!
March 20, 2025

Birdhouse #'s have been assigned for 2025! Sponsors will be receiving emails/post mail soon with the Birdhouse #s they have sponsored, along with a general map of where to locate that house.

As always we thank you so much for your support! Your contributions really do make a huge difference for the wild birds and to our conservation efforts on their behalf.

YOU CAN STILL HELP
There are plenty of Birdhouse available for sponsorship and yours is just a click away right here:
SPONSOR A BIRDHOUSE - Thank you!

A VALENTINE FOR YOUR TWEETY!
February 14, 2025

Here is a unique way to show your tweet-heart that you care.
This Valentine's Day a 2025 Birdhouse Gift Sponsorship at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods will show your love of nature too.

Your support not only provides a cozy love nest for our feathered friends, but also contributes to vital conservation efforts and educational programs.

Each birdhouse sponsor will be featured on our Birdhouse webpage, Visitor Sign-in Kiosk, Education Center, and eNewsletter, celebrating your commitment to the love of wildlife. Plus, we will share a map to your birdhouse, so you can follow our avian love-matches and their offspring firsthand!

This makes a perfect Valentine's Day gift for your loved ones who may be birders or who appreciate the beauty of nature. Your gift will make a lasting impact on the birds and wildlife as you join us in creating a vibrant and thriving natural haven for generations to come.

Go to the SPONSOR A BIRDHOUSE page of this website to dedicate a CSVW BIRDHOUSE
to your favorite bird or nature lover!

GET OUTSIDE ON OUR BEAUTIFUL WINTER TRAILS
January 2025

Grab your XC Skis or snowshoes and join us outside for a refreshing day in nature.
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is open to adventurous cross country skiers and snowshoers from dawn until dusk every day.

Come break trail as you make your way through the sparkling sanctuary forest.
Glide out into the bright sunshine of the fields that overlook Teacup Lake and take in the view.

Check the CSVW WEBSITE TRAILS page for trail conditions, what to bring and winter trail etiquette.
Parking area is plowed with plenty of space.
Open FREE to the public every day.
River Trail is snow-shoe only.
Please sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk.

GREAT NEWS!
THE 2025 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK IS HAPPENING!
Led by Biologist, Christine Costello
DATE:  SATURDAY • MAY 10, 2025
TIME:  7:30am
LOCATION:  Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods • 740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH

WATCH THE EVENTS PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION!

ANNOUNCEMENT
December 1, 2024

The Rowan Family would like to invite you to a memorial gathering to celebrate the lives of Sue and Bob Rowan Dec. 14 from 1:00 to 3:00 at the Doris Benz Center, 18 Heard Road, Sandwich.

Robert Joseph Rowan passed away on Nov. 10, at his home in Center Sandwich, with family by his side. He was 86 years old.
Robert was born in White Plains, New York, the third child of Vincent and Helen (née Messina) Rowan. He married his high school sweetheart, Suzanne, in 1956, and together they set out to create a life together, and began their family, of which they were so very proud.

Robert began his career as an electrician in 1958 as a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (Local 501). He was an avid hunter and outdoorsman from an early age, and it was during hunting trips to New Hampshire that he found the property in Sandwich that became his future home. The house was originally purchased as a summer home — where the family, extended family and circle of friends made many memories together. In 1974, Bob and Sue packed up the family and moved to Sandwich permanently, where he started his own electrical business.

Robert became involved early on in town efforts — Town Hall renovations, as a Little League coach, and volunteered his time and efforts to establish the first town skating rink in North Sandwich. He was dedicated to the town, and over a span of 40 years he served in many different capacities of local government, as selectman, sewer commissioner, town moderator and school district moderator. He also spent many years teaching electrical apprentice and journeyman classes at the Laconia Vocational Technical School. One of Robert’s most prestigious and proud appointments was to NH Fish and Game as the Carroll County commissioner. Robert was most recently president of the Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. He and Sue were both dedicated to the bird sanctuary for many years, devoting countless hours to clearing and maintaining the trails for the public to enjoy.

Robert was predeceased by his mother, Helen Rowan, and his wife, Suzanne.
He is survived by his children, Elizabeth (Steve) Smart, Lynda (Earl) Blackey, John (Jennifer) Rowan, Daniel (Dawn) Rowan, David (Brenda) Rowan and Jeanne (Dan) Duquette; his grandchildren, Leah Blackey, Clayton Blackey (Maranda) and Sarah Amato (Michael); his great-grandchildren, Makenna Hardacker, Salvatore Amato, Aiden, Connor and Ava Blackey; his sister Loretta Rowan; brother and sister-in-law Vincent and Margaret Rowan, and their children Chris and Beth.

Robert was a man of great presence, honor and dignity to his family and friends. He will be missed dearly.
A memorial of life celebration will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Doris Benz Community Center in Sandwich to honor both Robert and Suzanne, and their dedication to the family and friends of Sandwich.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, P.O. Box 96, Center Sandwich, NH 03227.

DONATIONS

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
All of us at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods wish all of you a beautiful holiday.

We are grateful for each and every one of you!

THE 2024 SANDWICH FAIR IS HERE!
October 12, 2024

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods would like to wish you all a wonderful Sandwich Fair weekend here in beautiful Sandwich, New Hampshire! The food, the foliage, the fun, the farm animals, the festivities …. we hope you experience it all and
have a great time.

Be sure to add a trip to Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods to your lovely fall memories

Pretty autumn scenery and the peaceful sounds of leaves in the breeze will greet you on the trails.
Slow down and take in this glorious season in nature. The sanctuary is a short ride up the hill from the fair with plenty of parking for our guests.

We invite you to enjoy the quiet beauty of a pristine New Hampshire woodland and sparkling Teacup Lake.
Make your way up to the sanctuary and wander in the fragrant forest.
Or sit a while in the warm sunlight. Whatever suits your soul.

CSVW trails are open FREE to the public every day from dawn until dusk. Please sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk where trail maps are available. Come on inside the Education Center and have a look around; there is lots more information for you there.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE FAIR AND ON THE CSVW TRAILS THIS WEEKEND!

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN SO MANY CHESTNUTS?
September 21. 2024

There is a wonderfully impressive amount of chestnuts on the trees at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods right now!
Sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk, then hit the trails and see them for yourself TODAY!

Part of CSVW’s mission is to help maintain all the trees and other plant life that thrive on the sanctuary acreage.

Some of the sanctuary’s Chestnut trees have been well-established for many years. Look for these mature trees along the edge of the field that leads to trails. Right now they are absolutely loaded with nuts! This is very exciting to us and so important for the animals that make CSVW their year-round home. The wildlife will benefit greatly from the nutrition that chestnuts provide.

CSVW Trustees planted American Chestnut saplings a few years ago along the perimeter of the field. Several of them are doing quite well; reaching good heights with decent hope for their survival.

COME SEE THE BEAUTIFUL CHESTNUTS TODAY!
Soon they will be on the ground and eaten or literally squirreled away.

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR …
and everywhere!

Being not quite summer and not quite autumn, almost everything in nature is about to change. It always is. This is a beautiful time to hit the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny woods and explore.

Vegetation is losing the bright vibrant green of springtime and becoming a little darker and a little heavier. As some trees are losing their luster, others are bearing their fruits.

Plants and flowers are starting the process of defoliating and laying themselves down until next spring.
In places where plants are becoming dormant, the mushrooms and fungi are appearing. As beautiful as any flower, they thrive all over the CSVW trails.

Some hardy native perennials such as Goldenrod, Asters and Joe-Pye are just now having their heyday providing for pollinators. Still others are having their “hay day” as grasses in the meadow have grown tall and stand in waves alongside the late-blooming wildflowers.

Many birds have already begun preparing for their migration and some have already flown. Other species are busy taking advantage of the available seeds and nuts and berries that are abundant on the sanctuary acreage. Leftover caterpillar nests and the remaining moths and insects in the area are a great source of nutrition for birds and animals.

Change is in the air but a visit to CSVW is always a great way to enjoy the late summer & early autumn months. The trails are cool and quiet place for hikers, birdwatchers and other nature enthusiast.

Give yourself a lovely day to observe the remarkable changes in nature. Put a trip to Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods in your plans this Labor Day Weekend.

CSVW IS EXCITED TO OFFER SOME GREAT RAFFLES AT
EYES ON OWLS LIVE OWL PROGRAM
SATURDAY • AUGUST 17, 2024 • 11:00 am
Arts & Crafts Building • Sandwich Fair Grounds
Center Sandwich, NH 03227
Hosted by Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
Sponsored by Sandwich Animal Hospital
Raffle Donations from Chick-A-Dee Station

This wonderful educational program does double duty as a fun way for CSVW to raise some needed funds. Your generous donations help us to provide the critical resources we need to accomplish our mission as a nonprofit organization. We depend heavily on your contributions. If you have already made your reservations, we cannot THANK YOU enough and we look forward to seeing you at the show.

WE HOPE YOU WILL TAKE A CHANCE ON THESE TERRIFIC ITEMS!

Autographed copy of Mark Wilson’s award winning book: "Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night”
Autographed copy of Mark Wilson’s award-winning book: “The Snowy Owl Scientist”
FANTASTIC items from Chick-A-Dee Station
CSVW 1-YEAR FAMILY MEMBERSHIP with drawstring trail bag
PLUS MORE TO COME!

RAFFLES $1.00 EACH or 6 FOR $5.00
Raffles will be drawn after the program. You must be present to win.

JOIN US FOR THE FUN!
MAKE YOUR EYES ON OWLS RESERVATIONS TODAY on the EVENTS PAGE.

OLD HOME WEEK
Sandwich, New Hampshire • August 3 - 11, 2024
While you are home visiting your families, friends and memories we hope you will spend some time in nature with your neighbors up on Mt Israel Road.

Enjoy a peaceful hike on the Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods trails.
Slow down and take in all the quiet natural beauty that has been maintained and preserved by CSVW for over 50 years. The sanctuary is proud to be a part of Sandwich, New Hampshire history.
Be sure to have a look inside our new
Visitor’s Center.

Looking for a fun guided group trail walk?
Check out the "Old Plants for Modern Humans” educational trail walk being offered by The Sandwich Historical Society and held on Chapman Sanctuary trails. Follow the link to: www.sandwichhistorical.org
for more information and to register for this great program.

Visit the Discover Sandwich website: www.discoversandwich.com for more OLD HOME WEEK
events and information.

EVENT
EYES ON OWLS program is coming to Sandwich, NH!
August 17, 2024 • 11:00 am
Mark your calendars and DON'T miss this fun & educational program!

DETAILS & RESERVATIONS ARE ON THE EVENTS PAGE.

NEWS!
DOGS WELCOME AT CSVW

YOU ASKED • WE LISTENED
At our last CSVW Board of Trustees meeting, it was voted to allow dogs on CSVW Trails year-round.
We know how much folks love their canine companions and we do too. We hope this change will allow even more of you, our valued members, visitors, friends & neighbors to enjoy the beautiful sanctuary acreage.

This change is being made on a trial basis. Please help us make it work.
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny woods strives to maintain a pristine trail & forest experience.
We would love for all of our guests to continue to enjoy all of the beauty that CSVW has to offer.
The safety and comfort of the CSVW Birds & Wildlife in their own natural environment is always of the utmost importance to us. We are all visitors in their world.

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN HELP:

STAY ON THE TRAILS. Many birds & mammals are ground-nesting.
MOVE DOG WASTE OFF THE TRAILS and into the woods.
DO NOT LEAVE ANY BAGS OF DOG WASTE anywhere on the gorgeous CSVW acreage. Take your bags home with you and your pup.

Let's all get outside and explore the wonderful trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.
THANK YOU!

NEWS!
CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
DATE: Saturday • May 25, 2024
TIME: 7:30 am
LOCATION: Chapman Sanctuary • 740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227
Wildlife Biologist, Christine Costello will lead the way during this annual favorite event.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS GREAT DAY OF BIRDING ON THE EVENTS PAGE!

EVENT
CSVW SPRING WORKDAY
LEND A HELPING HAND TO THE SANCTUARY
SATURDAY • MAY 11, 2024 • 7:30am
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
740 Mt Israel Road
Sandwich, New Hampshire

DETAILS ON THE EVENTS PAGE.

ENJOY THE SPRING!
April 12, 2024

It actually IS spring after all, and the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods are always open from dawn until dusk.

The snow has melted away in most areas; and a soggy & cloudy day makes for a fine and fragrant walk outside in nature.
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and explore the trails and the field at the sanctuary.
Head to Teacup Lake where a few pairs of Hooded Merganser and Mallard ducks have been paddling around.
A terrific number of Red-winged Blackbirds have been in the area. Their schreechy, chirpy chatter sounds so cheerful as they flock to the still-bare treetops.
Daffodils, Crocuses and other early bloomers are making their appearances all over the sanctuary.
Carefully make your way down to the Cold River. Observe the power of mother nature as the water rushes and crashes over glacial boulders. (NEVER attempt to enter a raging river.)

This is a great season to get outside.
Take time this weekend to observe our natural surroundings just as we are about to turn a meteorological corner into much warmer (and buggier) days. Please sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk.

DON’T FEEL LIKE WALKING IN RAIN GEAR?
There are lots of ways you can connect with us at the sanctuary:

JOIN US as a new member or renew your membership today.
VOLUNTEER we have plenty of opportunities to lend a helping hand.
REACH OUT and share us your nature or birding photos & stories.
MAKE A CONTRIBUTION if you are able, we would be so grateful.
EVENTS We already have 2 fantastic annual favorites scheduled this year and we hope you will attend.

CSVW MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT
April 2024

A Quarterly Meeting of The Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
Board of Trustees will be held:

DATE: April 13, 2024
TIME: 9:00 am
LOCATION: BENZ CENTER • Heard Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

CSVW Members and public are welcome to attend.

GET OUTSIDE!
March 2024

We have had almost every weather condition possible here in Sandwich, New Hampshire:
Rain, wind, cold, warm and a BIG pile of snow!

Pick your favorite kind of day to be outside and join us on the lovely sanctuary trails. Cross country skiers and snowshoers will love the tons of recent snow. It is also very easy to enjoy a quiet walk in the rain if dressed for the weather.

No matter the weather, we are open every day from dawn until dusk FREE of charge with plenty of
FREE parking. Please sign in at the Visitor's Kiosk.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE TRAILS!

EVENT
PROJECT FEEDERWATCH WORKSHOP
February 17, 2024
CSVW Trustee, and enthusiastic FeederWatch observer, Shaw Smith presented.

The Project Feederwatch Workshop was a well-attended, well-received and wonderfully informative event!
About a dozen folks from the community came to learn about PFW and how they could participate as
"citizen scientists" by observing and collecting data right in their own backyard or other favorite
birdwatching location.

For more details, including some very useful links regarding this fantastic event check the EVENTS page.

CSVW TRAILS ARE ALIVE AND BEAUTIFUL!
February 23, 2024

If you love cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in a pristine winter forest then
CSVW is perfect for you.
Hit the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods this weekend.
Or spend a vacation day with us!

Check out all the animal tracks as you make your way along our beautiful woodland trails … see how many you can identify. We have seen lots!

Pay attention to the birds you see and hear. Many species are beginning to sing out loudly for mates and look for nesting sites on the sanctuary acreage.
Thanks to contributions for our members, donors, and Birdhouse Sponsors our bird feeders provide some extra help nutritionally for the wild birds in the area. There is almost always several beautiful species to observe behind the Chapman House.

WHAT DID YOU DISCOVER AT THE SANCTUARY?
There is so much to see and explore outside in nature.

What animal tracks did you come across on the trails?
Did you observe any wildlife at the sanctuary?
Was there a particular bird or birdsong you were able to identify?

EMAIL US: [email protected] … we would love to hear from you!
Share your observations and photos with us. Your participation in this way helps us keep track of all the wildlife happenings at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

Spend the whole day or just a couple of hours at CSVW. Trails are open every day from dawn until dusk FREE of charge with plenty of parking. Please sign in at the VISITOR’S KIOSK where you will find trail maps and other information. Enjoy!

Lovebirds of Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods! 💚
February 14, 2024

As we eagerly await the arrival of spring, let's spread the love to our feathered friends. This Valentine's Day, seize the opportunity to be a guardian of romance in nature by sponsoring a birdhouse for just $100!
Your support not only provides a cozy love nest for our avian couples but also contributes to vital conservation efforts and educational programs.

Each birdhouse sponsor will be featured on our Birdhouse webpage, Visitor Sign-in Kiosk, Education Center, and eNewsletter, celebrating your commitment to the love of wildlife. Plus, we'll share a map to your birdhouse, so you can witness the love story unfold firsthand!

This makes a perfect Valentine's Day gift for your loved ones who appreciate the beauty of nature and want to make a lasting impact. Join us in creating a vibrant and thriving natural haven for generations to come. This Valentine's Day, become a love ambassador for the birds at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods!

💚 CLICK HERE 💚 to dedicate a CSVW BIRDHOUSE to your bird or nature lover!

EVENT
PROJECT FEEDERWATCH WORKSHOP
DATE:  Saturday • February 17, 2024
TIME:   9:30 - 11:00am
LOCATION:   Benz Center • Heard Road • Center Sandwich, NH
CSVW Trustee, and enthusiastic FeederWatch observer, Shaw Smith will be the presenter.

Do you have a bird feeder and enjoy watching the feathered neighbors in your yard? Are you starting to get to know the kinds of birds you are seeing? Would you like to share your observations with scientists to help their research? If you enjoy feeding and watching birds, come to a presentation on an excellent citizen science program that you can join, called Project Feederwatch.

MORE INFORMATION ON THE EVENTS PAGE!

BUNDLE UP AND GET OUTSIDE
January 19, 2024

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is snow-covered and waiting for adventurous cross country skiers and snowshoers to come and blaze a trail! River Trail is snow-shoe only. Parking area is plowed with plenty of space. Sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk and enjoy the pristine, wintry forest conditions.

SEE YOU ON THE TRAILS!

WISHING YOU ALL A BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL NEW YEAR

Goodbye 2023

As we say goodbye to 2023 here at
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods;
we say goodbye to a lot:

a lot of good
a lot of efforts on the acreage and at the Chapman House
a lot of projects completed
a lot of fun programs & events
a lot of changes

Welcome 2024

In 2024 we very much look forward to:

new and exciting birding events & educational nature programs
new opportunities to improve & maintain the habitats and native vegetation that CSVW provides for local birds and wildlife
new projects and continued care of Chappie’s House
new members, new collaborations and new ideas

Most of all in 2024 we look forward to seeing all of you out on the beautiful sanctuary trails and enjoying CSVW events. THANK YOU for being part of the Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods community this year.
We hope you will come and experience all the wonderful ways to get out side and enjoy nature here at CSVW all through 2024.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
From your friends and neighbors at
CHAPMAN SANCTUARY AND VISNY WOODS

CSVW HAS A GREAT GIFT IDEA
for the Bird & Nature enthusiast on your list!
December 2023

Community support is meaningful and helps to provide the critical resources we need to accomplish our mission.

This annual celebration of generosity will happen on November 28, 2023.
GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good.
People can show their generosity in a variety of ways during GivingTuesday. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, advocating for an issue, or giving to causes … every act of generosity counts.
Generosity gives everyone the power to make a positive change somewhere in their community.

We ask that you please consider making a donation to
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
this Giving Tuesday on November 28, 2023.

As a nonprofit organization, we depend heavily on your support to:

maintain approximately 200 acres of wildlife habitats and 10+ miles of woodland trails for daily, year-round recreation
provide bird and nature educational opportunities to adults, children and families
maintain and preserve the historic Chapman House, and its grounds & gardens
manage, create or improve a variety of wildlife habitats for our feathered, furry and winged friends

WAYS TO HELP

With several giving options available, it’s easy to find a donation level that suits your budget.
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is a public 501(c)(3) nonprofit. To maintain this classification, we depend heavily on foundation grants and individual donations. Please join hundreds of our loyal supporters who value all that CSVW has to offer nature, bird, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Click the links below:

JOIN US Become a new Member, renew your CSVW Membership or give a Gift Membership
CONTRIBUTE Make a charitable contribution in an amount of your choice
SPONSOR A BIRDHOUSE Sponsor a CSVW Birdhouse or make it a Gift for 2024

THANK YOU! WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR MISSION.
Your support is tax deductible to the extent allowable by law:
Federal Tax ID EIN #04-2210786

NEWS!
THE 2023 CSVW ANNUAL TRUSTEES MEETING
SATURDAY • NOVEMBER 18, 2023 • 9:00am
BENZ CENTER • HEARD ROAD • CENTER SANDWICH, NH 03227

More information on the EVENTS page.

BEAUTIFUL NOVEMBER
November 11, 2023

November is an exceptional time to get outside and enjoy being “in-between" seasons at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

Orange and pink November skies at dawn or dusk can be beautifully dramatic behind the silhouette of bare trees. Most remaining foliage has gone to lovely golds and rusts and browns. There is a quiet mood in the forest that is perfect for wandering along the sanctuary trails.

There is so much to be discovered in the woods now. With the sparseness of the underbrush and other vegetation, the abandoned nests and homes of our summer visitors become visible. It can be interesting to try to identify the former or current residents. Evidence of foraging critters is all around. Pinecone scales piled at the base of tree, nibbled mushrooms, chestnut hulls and acorn caps litter the forest floor and the field. Life happens all year long at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. We hope you will come and experience the niceness of November in the forest.

HIT THE CSVW TRAILS THIS WEEKEND!
Please sign in at the Visitor's Kiosk where trail maps and other information is available for you.

GOOD NEWS!
October 28, 2023
There are some really beautiful birdwatching and hiking opportunities at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods for you.

What a wonderful weekend to GET OUTSIDE and hit the trails with your binoculars, camera, or birding journal. Plenty of busy birds in the area are gathering up fruits, nuts and seeds available throughout the protected sanctuary acreage. Hooded Mergansers and other waterfowl have been stopping by Teacup Lake on their way to their winter territories. Don’t miss out on seeing these beauties!

Treat yourself to an autumn day in nature right up the road at CSVW.

The trees and grounds are lovely this time of year and the weather is forecasted to be gorgeous! Hiking along the Chapman trails is just so pleasant with lots to see and explore. Autumn foliage and fungus make the forest a magical wonderland of nature during one of its grandest transitions.
Spend a day or just an hour and you will glad you did!

Please park in the upper lot and sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk where you will find trail maps and other useful information. CSVW trails are open from dawn to dusk free of charge to one and all. We are located at 740 Mt Israel Road in Center Sandwich, New Hampshire.
Always check the CSVW website for news, events and Membership information.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE TRAILS!

THE SANDWICH FAIR IS HERE!
October 6, 2023

All of us at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods want to wish all of you the very best
Sandwich Fair Weekend.

THANK YOU! To all who have worked so hard to make the Sandwich Fair possible. It takes a tremendous effort to make this historic annual event happen and make it PURE FUN FOR ALL!

Have a great time at the fair!
If you feel the need to wind down for a little while, come on up the road to CSVW. Come enjoy the tranquility of our beautiful forest trails. We are located at 740 Mt. Israel Road in pristine Sandwich, NH with plenty of free parking. Open every day from dawn to dusk.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE SANDWICH FAIR!

ENJOY THIS BEAUTIFUL SEASON OUTSIDE IN NATURE
September 25, 2023

There isn’t a more perfect time to be out on the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.
The leaves have started to change color and will soon be shed for winter.
The fragrant foliage and grasses are just heavenly.

Birdwatchers will enjoy the many warblers and other migratory birds who are still at the sanctuary as well as year-round species. Both are taking advantage of the fruiting plants and vegetation producing lots of seeds at this time. You may observe that animals are busy scampering all over the forest. The cooler temperatures and diminishing sunlight signal that it is time to get ready for winter.

Right now it is simply gorgeous to be outside and in the woods.

CSVW offers miles of peaceful trails for you to explore every day from dawn until dusk. We are located at 740 Mt Israel Road in lovely Sandwich, New Hampshire with plenty of parking. Always free to our guests.

Stay a while and give yourself a chance to rejuvenate in a beautiful autumn forest at CSVW.

NEWS!
UNITED WAY DAY OF CARING
9:00am Friday, September 22, 2023
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

The United Way is sending a team of volunteers to CSVW as part of the United Way's
Day of Caring annual event.

CAN YOU HELP? More information on the EVENTS PAGE.

CSVW IS EXCITED TO OFFER SOME GREAT RAFFLES AT EYES ON OWLS
“OWLS UP CLOSE” PROGRAM
SATURDAY • SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 • 11:00 am
Arts & Crafts Building • Sandwich Fair Grounds
Center Sandwich, NH 03227
Hosted by Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
Sponsored by Sandwich Animal Hospital

This wonderful educational program does double duty as a fun way for CSVW to raise some needed funds. Your generous donations help us to provide the critical resources we need to accomplish our mission as a nonprofit organization. We depend heavily on your contributions. If you have already made your reservations, we cannot THANK YOU enough and we look forward to seeing you at the show.

WE HOPE YOU WILL TAKE A CHANCE ON THESE TERRIFIC ITEMS!

Autographed copy of Mark Wilson’s award-winning book: "Owling: Enter the World of the Mysterious Birds of the Night”
Autographed copy of Mark Wilson’s award-winning book: “The Snowy Owl Scientist”
$50 CHICKADEE STATION Gift Certificate
CSVW 1-YEAR FAMILY MEMBERSHIP with 2 drawstring trail bags
Deluxe “In-House” window bird feeder by The Birding Company
Hanging bird feeder

RAFFLES $1.00 EACH or 6 FOR $5.00
Raffles will be drawn afteR the program. You must be present to win.

JOIN US FOR THE FUN!
MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS FOR “OWLS UP CLOSE” TODAY on the EVENTS PAGE.

NOTICE OF CSVW BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
A Quarterly Meeting of The Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
Board of Trustees will be held:

DATE: September 23, 2023
TIME: 9:00 am
LOCATION: BENZ CENTER • Heard Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

CSVW Members and the public are welcome to attend.

SUMMER IS MOVING ALONG
and things tend a little quieter at
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.
August 26, 2023

By nature, spring bursts into action with a sense of urgency for animals to breed and to nest and establish territories. Humans get busy with planting and growing or taking care of our own “nests”. With summer comes a bit of a frenzied feeling to always be “doing” something fun or fruitful. Autumn is full of fall festivities that have us chasing the last days of warm weather while the birds and other wildlife work to prepare for the coming winter.

But right now…things get a little bit quieter, maybe a little bit easier, and a tiny bit slower.
This time of year may be the perfect time to let yourself wander outside for as long as you like. The trails of Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods just might be the perfect place. Beautiful doable day-hikes in a healthy New Hampshire forest that will lead you down to a wildflower meadow, further on to sparkling little Teacup Lake, and then down to the pristine Cold River.

Nothing to do but walk and enjoy the lovely tranquility of a natural forest.

Come visit the sanctuary any day from dawn until dusk at 740 Mt Israel Road in beautiful Sandwich, New Hampshire. Sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk when you pick up a trail map.

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL DAY ON THE TRAILS!

CSVW is so excited that
EYES ON OWLS is BACK IN 2023!

If you attended this terrific event last year, we hope you will join us again and bring your friends.
If you missed this amazing experience, this is your chance to attend.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY!
Head over to the EVENTS PAGE to learn more about this fantastic program and reserve your admission.

HAPPY SUMMER SOLSTICE AND NATIONAL POLLINATORS WEEK!
June 21, 2023

The summer solstice is the perfect time for National Pollinator Week - June 19-25, 2023!
Here at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods we think pollinators should always be nurtured and celebrated as some of the most important creatures on this good Earth.

At least 95% of ALL flowering plants depend on pollinators to reproduce and survive. Bees, butterflies and insects are probably the first to come to mind when considering pollinators. But Birds, bats, moths, beetles and small mammals also have a role in pollination and we need to protect them as much as possible. Pollinators are critical to the vegetation on this planet in so many ways; and we can and should
help them to survive.

A few ways we can help:

Plant a variety things in your garden that will attract pollinators throughout the spring, summer and autumn such as Forsythia, Hummingbird Bush, Lillies, Sunflowers, Coneflowers, Daisies … there are too many to list so just plant something!
Grow Milk Weed in a patch of garden that Monarchs depend on for their life cycle and that will attract other pollinators too.
Keep or plant apple trees or other fruit bearing trees and bushes. Bees will make good use of the early blooms while birds and other animals will benefit from the fruit later.
Not much of a green-thumb? You can still help! The next time you mow your lawn, just leave a small patch of clover, dandelions or other wild flowers for the pollinators in your part of this world.
Put a potted or hanging flower out side.
Of course, insects provide food for the birds and other insect-eaters. Just imagine the long chain of other species that will also benefit from providing a healthy environment for pollinators….including humans!

Visit Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods to observe pollinators in action!

The beautiful CSVW gardens located at The Chapman House, the field above Teacup Lake and the Perennial Garden beside Teacup Lake have been nurtured to offer blooms and/or berries year-round. Spend a morning or afternoon observing the almost infinite varieties of pollinators going about their business throughout the sanctuary acreage. You won’t believe your eyes!

If you would like to help the pollinators in our area, but just don’t have any green space, please consider making a donation to the CSVW Garden Fund. Your donation directly and positively impacts our efforts to help create and maintain an environment for these critical pollinators and many other species.

THANK YOU!

WE WANT YOU TO HAVE A MEMORABLE WEEKEND
May 26, 2023

The weather is forecasted to be splendid this holiday weekend and we hope you will spend some time outside in nature.

Come to the forests and fields and Teacup Lake at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.
There is a place here for you to reflect on this wondrous piece of Earth we all share.

SIGHTING!
AMERICAN WOODCOCK
Scolopax minor
ORDER: Charadriiformes
FAMILY: Scolopacidae

A shorebird in the forest? YES!
More information about theM is little bird on the WILDLIFE HABITAT PAGE.

NEWS!
Quarterly Meeting of The Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
Board of Trustees will be held:

DATE: June 03, 2023
TIME: 9:00 am
LOCATION: BENZ CENTER • Heard Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

CSVW Members and public are welcome to attend.

THREE IS A CROWD
April 2023

A couple of Hooded Mergansers seem to have had their hearts set on moving in to the duck box located at Teacup Lake; and didn’t want any other ducks to have a chance at it.

The male Merganser of what seems to be a mated pair relentlessly chased away a “rival” female until she flew off. Time will tell if any of these Hooded Mergansers decided to make the Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods duck box their nest site.

Spend a day on the CSVW Trails
and Teacup Lake soon! Spring is a very active time in nature - don't miss a minute of it!

Be sure to check the CSVW Website often for wildlife sightings,
events and other news!

IT'S ON!

THE 2023 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Led by Christine Costello of U.S. Forest Service
SATURDAY • MAY 20, 2023 • 7:30am

Check the EVENTS PAGE for details!

SPRING THINGS ARE HAPPENING
April 14, 2023

Snow is melting, sun is shining and spring beautiful things are popping up through the soil all around at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

Trees and bushes are beginning to bud and soon the Sandwich, New Hampshire area will be in full bloom. Join us outside on the sanctuary trails and enjoy this sometimes too-short season. Sign in/out at the Visitor’s Kiosk and let us know what you have found starting to grow.

Visit other pages on this CSVW Website for news and events and ways that you can be part of the CSVW experience out here in nature!

VERNAL EQUINOX

March 20, 2023
Welcome Springtime!

Here at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
we are looking forward to all the things that spring will bring!

The sun is already a little bit warmer as the direction of its rays begins to cross Earth's equator and into the Northern Hemisphere. The snow will melt as it always does; and then the forests and fields will burst into life.

Soon there will be lots of things growing and blooming as the colors of spring push their way out of the soil or the tips of branches. Animals are already becoming more active and birds are singing their little hearts out to attract partners or claim nesting sites.

This season can be short and sweet in our area and we hope you will enjoy all the beauty of nature as it begins to bloom and grow.

Add a trip to CSVW to your outdoor adventures soon!

UPDATE!
CSVW TRUSTEE’S MEETING HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR:
SUNDAY • MARCH 5, 2023 • 1:00 PM
Benz Center • Heard Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

CSVW Members and public are welcome to attend. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE.

NEWS!
CSVW TRUSTEE’S MEETING IS POSTPONED

Due to the snow and road conditions, the CSVW Trustee’s Meeting that was scheduled for today (03/04/2023) at 9:00 am at the Benz Center in Center Sandwich, NH has been postponed.
We are working on rescheduling and will have an update as soon as we know the new date and time of the meeting. We hope you can join us.

Thank you - stay safe and warm!

NEWS!
DID YOU COUNT BIRDS THIS
PAST WEEKEND?
February 2023
We would love to know!

CSVW took part in the 2023 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) on February18 at approximately 11:00am. Below are the counts after just 15 minutes of birdwatching:

DOWNY WOODPECKER ... 1
AMERICAN CROW ... 1
BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE ... 45
RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH ... 1
WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH ... 5
COMMON/HOARY REDPOLL ... 1
AMERICAN GOLDFINCH ... 38

The usual cast of characters flew to the CSVW feeders to feast and be counted along with one notable Redpoll that is either a Common or Hoary variety. Watch the slide show and see if you can help identify the white/red/black bird on the right side of the feeder opposite a Goldfinch. Any birders out there that can help us to confirm either way?

Another fun birdwatching moment was seeing the always entertaining Black-capped Chickadees!
These clever little birds took turns having tiny sips of water from the snow melting off the garage roof and from droplets dripping down the grapevine stems and icicles.

How was your 2023 Great Backyard Bird Count experience?

What birds did you see and count in your area?
Any species that stood out in some way?
Any species noticeably absent?
Was there a bird(s) that is unusual to your location?
Do you have a birdwatching story to share?

LET US KNOW AT [email protected] !

WILL YOU BE PART OF THE 2023 GREAT BACK YARD BIRD COUNT?
The 2023 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is scheduled for
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17 - MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20!

This birdwatching and counting event is free and fun for all ages and is so important to the study of the health and trends of the world’s bird population. Beginner and expert birdwatchers can enjoy helping researchers at the National Audubon Society, Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Birds Canada (to name a few) learn more about how birds are doing. The GBBC aids researchers in understanding ways to protect birds and the environment that we all share.

Please visit the official website at birdcount.org for more information and how you can help birds all over the globe.

Just 15 minutes will greatly help the GBBC!
Head to your favorite birdwatching spot and get ready to count and identify! We are fortunate to be in an area where so much natural habitat remains and is protected for birds and wildlife. Here are a few suggestions for your counts:

Your own back yard
Your favorite trail
Look for open water … waterfowl counts too
Head to a field or meadow where you have enjoyed seeing birds
Sit beside a river or stream… running water attracts all forms of wildlife
Spend 15 minutes in the CSVW field, trails or at Teacup Lake

There a lots of helpful books, apps and websites that can help you with your bird identification skills for the 2023 GBBC :

BIRDCOUNT • MERLIN BIRD ID • AUDUBON SOCIETY

We hope you will join in this fun and important event that will benefit bird populations all over the world! THANK YOU!

COME ON OUT TO CSVW!
NEW snow! NEW adventures!
January 20, 2023

Grab your XC skis and snowshoes and
get yourself outside in our gorgeous,
snow-covered forest.

With several inches of fresh snow in Sandwich, New Hampshire the conditions are excellent on the beautiful trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. Trails have been freshly groomed with our new grooming machine and are just waiting for you to come explore and enjoy wintertime in the woods.

Sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk and have a fantastic experience in a frozen wonderland! Check the CSVW Website’s Trail Page for conditions, what to bring and downloadable trail maps. The River Trail is snowshoe only … the rest is FREE FUN FOR ALL from dawn to dusk every day.

WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU ON THE TRAILS!

BELTED KINGFISHER
Did you know that the American Birding Association has named the Belted Kingfisher
the “2023 Bird of the Year”?

This stalky, large-beaked bird is colored a blue-gray and has a large crested head and short legs. Belted King Fishers are one of the few species that see the females more decorated than their male counterparts. Males have a blue band across a white breast, while females have an additional rusty/chestnut band.

CSVW’s Teacup Lake has been visited frequently by Belted Kingfishers and they are a fun bird to observe. Surviving mostly on fish, the Belted Kingfisher will also eat crayfish, amphibians, reptiles and even insects & berries.

Waiting in tree branches or another look-out perch for the opportunity to strike, Kingfishers are capable flyers who dive down with a big splash to the water to make their catch.
Belted Kingfishers breed and build their nests close to water and their food source. They will excavate boroughs in nearby banks or roadsides and will have a clutch of approximately 6 eggs.
Teacup Lake offers a great habitat for this species with many food and nesting options available.
CSVW is proud to maintain this important food and water resource as part of our conservation and wildlife preservation efforts.

Here at the sanctuary we usually observe these beautiful, interesting birds in the early spring and late in to the summer months. Have you ever seen any in your area?

We look forward to sharing another year of birdwatching and adventures in nature with you starting today. There are lots of birds in the area right now making excellent use of the sanctuary’s environment throughout the winter.

GRAB YOUR BINOCULARS AND GET OUTSIDE AT CSVW!

SIGHTINGS!
EVENING GROSBEAKS

Have you seen the Evening Grosbeaks that have been in the Sandwich, NH area?

A beautiful bird with coloring that is both black as night and as yellow as the setting sun! Females are more grey with black and white wings. Males have a large patch of white on the wings and a prominent yellow brow. Evening Grosbeaks are a heavy-bodied finch similar in size to a robin.

These birds sometimes come to New England in the winter and feed on seeds and berries. Having winter-fruiting bushes is a huge benefit to these birds and many non-migratory species. In their summer territory, Evening Grosbeaks add invertebrates (insects, larvae, etc.) to their diet.

Evening Grosbeaks will flock to bird feeders especially in the winter. They descend from the trees together and will scatter together if disturbed. With their bulky bodies they have an easier time on a platform or on the ground, but will perch on a feeder if it’s manageable.

Evening Grosbeaks are social birds that travel in large flocks in the winter and smaller groupings or pairs in the summer. Although they sometimes seem to do more fussing than feeding, these birds aren’t necessarily aggressive or territorial.

The arrival of Evening Grosbeaks to this area is inconsistent and unpredictable. CSVW was fortunate to have seen a flock of these beauties! Watch your treetops, feeders and berry bushes for them…in the daylight.

What birds have you been seeing in this early part of winter? Let us know in an email or on social media. We are always interested in your nature experiences.

Visit CSVW soon and enjoy the cold, quiet trails before the snow flies!

GIVE THE GIFT OF NATURE!
GIFT A BIRDHOUSE SPONSORSHIP FOR 2023
Give this unique and meaningful gift to the bird/nature/wildlife enthusiast in your life!

Your charitable donation will help fund the costs of seed, fresh nesting material, natural habitat maintenance and so much more for the wonderful wild birds that make the sanctuary their home.

Located along CSVW's scenic trails,
each sponsored birdhouse is well-maintained and will display a sponsor or gift recipient recognition tag for all of 2023.

Visit the SPONSOR A BIRDHOUSE page for more information and to give the gift of a
Birdhouse Sponsorship for 2023!
Use quick & easy PayPal option or the downloadable mail-in form.

THANK YOU!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM CHAPMAN SANCTUARY AND VISNY WOODS!

THANK YOU

CSVW MEMBERS • DONORS • BIRDHOUSE SPONSORS
VOLUNTEERS • PROGRAM LEADERS • VISITORS • FRIENDS and NEIGHBORS

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods would like to take this time to say
THANK YOU ...

To all of you who have hiked or skied our trails and enjoyed their natural beauty
To the talented biologists, naturalists and conservationists who have run excellent, educational programs every year such as our Annual Bird Walk and the Eyes on Owls Program
To those who have led walks and talks and demonstrations
To our CSVW Caretaker
To our many TREMENDOUS, dedicated volunteers who have lent a hand and shared their skills, crafts and talents. We so value and appreciate their knowledge of gardening, trail maintenance, wildlife preservation, carpentry, the history of CSVW and its surroundings and so much more!
To our wonderful Sandwich, New Hampshire friends and neighbors
TO OUR GENEROUS MEMBERS, DONORS AND BIRDHOUSE SPONSORS

As a nonprofit organization, we depend heavily on your contributions to help us maintain more than 250 acres and over 10 miles of woodland trails for daily, year-round, low-impact recreation.
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is proud to be able to provide bird, wildlife and nature education to adults, children, and small groups/clubs. Part of our mission is to maintain and preserve the historic Chapman House, and the perennial and wildflower gardens. We strive to manage, create and improve a variety of habitats for the native wildlife; including waterfowl, bear, deer, moose, butterflies, bats, insects, reptiles, amphibians, bees and countless species of beautiful birds.

It is your memberships, generous donations and your action that helps us to accomplish our mission and WE THANK YOU for your support.

NEWS!

2022 CSVW ANNUAL TRUSTEES MEETING
Saturday • November 12, 2022 • 9:00am
Benz Center • Heard Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

DETAILS ON THE EVENTS PAGE.

NEWS!

AUTUMN GUIDED TRAIL WALK
Led by Shaw Smith
of Center Sandwich, New Hampshire
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2022 at 9:00am
Rain Date: Sunday, October 16, 2022 at 9:00am

We are excited to offer this Guided Trail Walk free of charge to the public and our CSVW Members! Come along and enjoy the natural beauty at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods on land that has been conserved and protected for over 50 years.
DETAILS ON THE EVENTS PAGE!

This trail walk is a fun way to experience our beautiful acreage and get to know the
CSVW Trails with friends and neighbors!

THE FIRST WEEKEND OF AUTUMN
is a welcome event!
September, 2022

After a very hot and busy summer, we are happy to welcome the next season here at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

Green foliage is quickly changing to the glorious colors of autumn, and the air is suddenly cool and dry and blustery. What a perfect time to hit the trails at CSVW.

NEW BENCHES FOR YOU!

TAKE AN EXTRA LONG MOMENT to breathe deep the fresh air and take in the sights and scents of
fall in New Hampshire. CSVW has installed 2 lovely benches for its members and visitors to sit and
enjoy the views. Located on either side of the entrance to Trail 13, the benches at the top of the field look down over the pollinator garden, birdhouses and all the way to sparkling Teacup Lake.

Give yourself a refreshing treat during this extra-gorgeous time of year.
Get outside in nature at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

NEWS!

UNITED WAY DAY OF CARING

9:00am Monday, September 12, 2022
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

The United Way is sending a team of volunteers to CSVW as part of the United Way's Day of Caring annual event.

Details on the EVENTS PAGE.

LABOR DAY WEEKEND IS HERE!
September, 2022

What a fine summer we have had for all the favorite outdoor activities in New England. Now summer is drawing to a close. While some of us may be planning to slow down and go at a more leisurely pace, the inhabitants of the forests, lakes and gardens are just getting warmed up!

Animals and birds, bees and bugs, reptiles and rodents are all instinctively aware that the seasons are (always) changing; and they are naturally proactive. We can already observe behaviors of gathering and storage of the nuts and fruits that are ripening and ready.

We see some migratory birds begin to flock and “practice” for their journey to wintering locations. Hummingbirds are just about frenzied in their last-ditch efforts to load up on nutrition for their own remarkable migration.

Trees are dropping their nuts and beginning to shed a few leaves; of course the wild and wonderful autumn will soon be here. Fruits and berries are plentiful at this time. Bears, deer and larger animals take advantage of the food available on CSVW acreage and they forage almost unceasingly to pack on
some much needed bulk.

Underbrush is starting to droop and wildflowers are becoming a bit exhausted. Here at the sanctuary, the Perennial Garden at Teacup Lake is blooming like crazy! We are happy to be able to offer this little patch of perfection to the birds, bees and other pollinators who might need a little extra support late in the summer.

CSVW takes pride in helping to provide a conserved and protected natural habitat for countless species of wildlife. We would love for you to visit the Sanctuary this Labor Day Weekend and enjoy noticing the big and little changes happen in the forest and fields. Let us know at the Visitor’s Kiosk which species or other wonderful things you encountered during your time on the trails.

SPEND SOME TIME OUTSIDE IN NATURE AT CSVW THIS WEEKEND!

NEWS!

OWLS UP CLOSE program was a terrific success!

Details on the Events Page.

THE COUNT DOWN IS ON!

OWLS UP CLOSE
One of a kind LIVE OWL program is next weekend!
SATURDAY • AUGUST 20, 2022 • 11:00 am
Burrows Building • Sandwich Fair Grounds
Center Sandwich, NH 03227
Hosted by Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods

DETAILS ON THE EVENTS PAGE!

OLD HOME WEEK
IN SANDWICH, NEW HAMPSHIRE
August 7-14, 2022

This a special time that we look forward to every summer! There is so much to see and do in the coming days in Sandwich, and we hope you will add Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods to your summer memories.

The historic Chapman House is situated on over 250 scenic acres with 10+ miles of trails that have been conserved and protected for all the birds and wildlife in the area … and for you!

Native flora, fungus & vegetation is thriving all over the sanctuary from the shaded trails to the wildflower meadow blooming with goldenrod and purple bergamot.

You wont want to miss the lush and lively Teacup Lake where Monarchs and other pollinators dance along the tops of Joe Pye and Milkweed. Teacup is home to a variety of wildlife that live among the lily pads and cattails either under the water or along the edges. You might even spot the Great Blue Heron on its daily visit for nourishment!

Make your way down to the pristine Cold River and treat yourself to solitude on a forest trail filled with the tranquil sound of water tumbling over ancient boulders.

Do you enjoy a guided group experience on the trails?
Check out the "Old Plants for Modern Humans” educational trail walk(s) being offered by The Sandwich Historical Society and held on CSVW trails.
Follow the link to the SHS WEBSITE to register for this wonderful program.

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods wishes one and all a terrific
Old Home Week in beautiful Sandwich, New Hampshire!

NEWS!

THE OWLS ARE COMING BACK!

“OWLS UP CLOSE” LIVE PROGRAM
Hosted by Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
SATURDAY • AUGUST 20, 2022 • 11:00 am
Burrows Building • Sandwich Fair Grounds
7 Wentworth Hill Road (Rte 109)
Center Sandwich, NH 03227

Head over to the Events Page
for more information and to make your reservations today!

“OWLS UP CLOSE” is a such wonderful, educational event that CSVW will be hosting it again this year … and we can hardly wait!

SIGHTINGS
June 2022

Dragonflies have been busy flying all over the sanctuary in tremendous numbers!

Dragonflies are a beautiful member of the Insect Order Odonata. Their slender bodies and large filigree wings are held together by an exoskeleton with flexible membranes allowing for movement and specialized flying.

Flying is of utmost importance to the Dragonfly.
With excellent vision, they are quick and agile when hunting for smaller insects to eat. The same skills are needed to escape their own predation.
Aerobatics encompass all phases of a Dragonfly’s mating rituals from attracting a mate, to depositing eggs on the surface of water, and everything in between. It is a frenzy of activity. A prehistoric dance that has been choreographed over millions of years.

Hike our lovely trails and spend some quiet time at CSVW’s Teacup Lake watching the mesmerizing magic of Dragonflies.

MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND IS HERE
May 2022

Have you made your plans, packed your bags, booked your reservations and checked off all of your to do list? No?

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
is here for you.
Located at 740 Mt Israel Road in the picturesque town of Center Sandwich, New Hampshire, our trails are open to the public FREE of charge every day from dawn to dusk. All you need to do is get here and let nature do the rest.

Here is what CSVW acreage has to offer you ...

Walking/Hiking Trails
Peaceful Forest
Birds & Wildlife
Teacup Lake
Bird Feeders

Nesting Boxes
Perennial Gardens
The wide open Meadow
The pristine Cold River

All of this wondrous, natural beauty has been conserved, preserved, protected, and taken care of.

Here is what is required from you … have a memorable day.

NEWS!

2022 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Held on May 14, 2022 was a great success • Details on the EVENTS PAGE

THE 2022 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Led by Christine Costello, USFS

We are pleased to announce that the 2022 CSVW Annual Bird Walk will be held:
Saturday • May 14, 2022 • 7:30am and we can hardly wait!

There is something for everyone at this annual event and we hope you will join us …

If you are already familiar with our terrific walking/hiking trails, you may also like the added experience of actively watching & listening for birds on a guided nature outing.
Enjoy group activities? Each year our group of early morning “bird walkers” has grown in numbers with 2021 being our largest group ever!
Already a birdwatching enthusiast? Please! Come and share your knowledge with us and perhaps learn a few new tips from our walk leader, Christine Costello of USFS and from others in the group.
Do you like surprises? There is (almost) always a surprise “guest star” that we identify using clues from their songs, location, and of course through binoculars. In years past, we have been thrilled to have seen Scarlet Tanagers, Spotted Sandpipers, a Solitary Sandpiper, large numbers of Eastern Bluebirds, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, … and the always beautiful but often elusive warblers!
Let’s talk! This year following the program, CSVW will offer light refreshments on the back porch of The Chapman House where we can compare notes and talk about the species we just encountered on the beautiful sanctuary acreage.

The CSVW Annual Bird Walk is one of our FAVORITE events at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods and we are proud to be able to offer this educational, outdoor experience for FREE to both CSVW Members and the public. We are so fortunate to have Christine Costello of the U.S. Forest Service share her knowledge of the many birds in our area again this year and we look forward to the day. Thank you, Christine!

Additional information and what to bring:

Bring binoculars if you have them
Birding notebook or journal
Bug repellent & sunscreen
Water
Meet in the upper parking area 740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH
Event is FREE! and open to the public

MARK YOUR CALENDARS • WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT THE CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK!

SPRING TIME CAN BE
A CHALLENGE
April 2022

Even just a little spring melting on Teacup Lake has uncovered both food and territory to which many forest animals would like to lay claim. A fine-looking River Otter has been all over Teacup Lake: in the open water, along the grassy edges, both under and on top of the ice taking full advantage of whatever food and shelter it could find. Meanwhile, CSVW’s resident Beaver(s) are also out and about foraging along the shoreline, and not necessarily happy with the Otter’s presence.

There was an “exchange of words” this weekend, but that was as far as any confrontation went. Wonder which critter would ultimately win out? In a battle of wits, perhaps the River Otter’s cunning would prevail. In a battle of will, there are few creatures more obstinate than a Beaver.

We are happy to report that both animals went about their business and gave each other space.
Since they are not competitors on the food chain (Beavers are herbivores; while River Otters eat mainly fish and other small aquatics), maybe they will both take advantage of the bountiful environment at
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

Visit CSVW soon and see all the wondrous things that nature has to offer!

NEWS!

2022 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Saturday • May 14, 2022 • 7:30am

MEET in the upper parking lot.
740 Mt Israel Road • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

DETAILS on the Events Page!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS • WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT THE ANNUAL BIRD WALK!

HAVE YOU HEARD?
Spring officially arrived last weekend and we are hearing all about it!
March 2022

There may still be snow on the ground in some spots, but we can see and hear that spring is happening all around us. The birds begin to call for territory and for mates this time of year, making their intentions loud and clear.

Singing & calling is part of the breeding cycle for birds. Males establish and defend their territories with their singing. Vocalizations alert females to a male bird’s presence; females can then locate and check out a prospective mate.

You may be surprised that some of the smallest birds have the loudest calls. Northern Cardinals, Tufted Titmouse and Black-capped Chickadees are all easily heard and recognized.
Instead of singing or calling, Woodpeckers use their beaks to hammer out signals to other woodpeckers in the area both male and female.
Male Turkey’s strut with feathers puffed up and their tails fanned out while they gobble persistently to get attention.

Birdwatching is a fun and easy way to learn about the birds in our neck of the woods, and one of the best times to hear birdsong is a fine spring morning. You can visit CSVW bright and early where there is a great variety of birds along the trails, in the meadow and around Teacup Lake. Keep your ears open!
Of course here at the Sanctuary, we can’t think of a better way to explore the songs and life habits of birds than at THE CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK! Mark your calendars NOW for May 14th at 7:30am and watch the website, Sandwich Board and social media for more details soon.

Do not miss this fun and educational event at CSVW!

HEADING OUT ON THE CSVW TRAILS THIS WEEKEND?
YOU WON’T BE ALONE!
February 2022

With plenty of snow in Sandwich and milder temperatures predicted, this weekend is a great time to hit the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods. Be on the look out for signs of life … the forest and its inhabitants are alive throughout the winter months!

Pileated Woodpeckers are one of the species that remain active in their territories all year round. They can be elusive, and you may hear a Pileated long before you see one since their drilling can be heard from a long distance. A recent snowshoe trip along the River Trail East Loop revealed evidence of this big, beautiful bird with the discovery of what appears to be a newly excavated forage and/or possible nest site!

Keep those xc skis and snowshoes moving and visit CSVW this weekend...
you never know what you will find!

NEWS!
February 2022

THERE IS STILL TIME TO HELP
If you haven’t had a chance to Sponsor a Birdhouse for 2022, there is still plenty of time to help out. Your donation provides the birdhouses, maintenance, birdseed and nesting material for the birds that make Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods their home.
Visit the Sponsor a Birdhouse page for more info on how to become a 2022 Birdhouse Sponsor.

THANK YOU!

SNOW!
January 21, 2022

Lots of it here at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, with most trails groomed by our Caretaker for our visitors to enjoy. Free to the public and open dawn to dusk everyday with plenty of free parking.
XCSkiers and Snowshoers are welcome to come explore the pristine forest, field and trails.

Snowshoers might enjoy a trip down The River Trail (River Trail is snowshoe only) to the Cold River and The River Trail East Loop. XC-Skiers have miles of great trails to take them over some gorgeous CSVW acreage.

Travel at your own pace and experience the quiet beauty of a winter forest here at the sanctuary in the foothills of the White Mountains.

PLEASE sign both in and out at the Visitor’s Kiosk so we know that you are on and/or off the trails.

Welcome Winter Solstice!
December 21, 2021

Here at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods we welcome winter and look forward to beautiful, white snowflakes blanketing the trails and fields and trees.
We hope to see you outside at CSVW on your XC skis or snowshoes enjoying the stunning scenery and cold, crisp air made even more wonderful by the fragrant, wintry forest.

Open dawn to dusk every day of every season and waiting for you!

GIFT A BIRDHOUSE SPONSORSHIP FOR 2022
Give this unique and meaningful gift to the bird/nature/wildlife enthusiast in your life!

Located along CSVW's scenic trails,
each sponsored birdhouse is well-maintained and will display a sponsor or gift recipient recognition tag for all of 2022.

Check out the Birdhouse Sponsorship page for more information and to give the gift of a
Birdhouse Sponsorship for 2022!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

NEWS!
November 30, 2021

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
is a public 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
To maintain this classification, we depend heavily on foundation grants and individual donations.
Please join hundreds of our loyal supporters
who value all that CSVW has to offer nature, bird, and wildlife enthusiasts

With several giving options available,
it’s easy to find a donation level that suits your budget. Just click the links below.

JOIN US Become a new Member, renew your CSVW Membership or give a Gift Membership to the nature enthusiast in your life
CONTRIBUTE Make a charitable contribution in an amount of your choice
SPONSOR A BIRDHOUSE Sponsor a CSVW Birdhouse or Gift one for 2022

THANK YOU!

Your generous donations help us to:

maintain 250+ acres and 10 miles of wildlife habitats, and woodland trails for daily, year-round, low impact recreation
provide bird and nature education to adults, children, 4H clubs, and school groups
maintain and preserve the historic Chapman House, perennial gardens, and grounds
manage, create or improve a variety of wildlife habitats for our feathered, furry and winged friends, including Monarch butterflies, bats, insects, and bees

Your support is tax deductible to the extent allowable by law:
Federal Tax ID EIN #04-2210786

DUCKLINGS?
October 2021

Three lovely Hooded Mergansers were gliding along together as the sun was setting on Teacup Lake this weekend. Could these be our 3 little Merganser ducklings that grew up here on Teacup this past summer? Perhaps they have come home for a visit and to show us that they are well before they move on for the winter. They are gorgeous.

Take an evening stroll at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods and end your day beautifully.

NEWS!

Save The Date: CSVW Annual Meeting

Date: Saturday, November 13, 2021
Time: 10 AM - 12 PM
Location: Doris L. Benz Center
Address: 18 Heard Road • Center Sandwich, New Hampshire

Learn more about Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, meet the trustees, learn about our plans for 2022 and beyond. Share your ideas or raise your hand to volunteer on CSVW projects! CSVW members will vote on the 2022 budget and other CSVW business matters.

This is a public meeting; everyone is invited, and we'd love to have you join us!

BIRDWATCHING BONANZA
October 2021

Autumn is a wonderful time for birdwatching!

When we think of birdwatching we often think of Springtime and the return of Neo-tropicals and other migrators to New England. But this season is a great time to come to Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods for birdwatching including:

Warblers
Sparrows
Finches
Woodpeckers
Water Fowl
Many more!

Many bird species are on the move and though it may seem a quieter time in nature, lots of birds and animals are quite active. Seeds and berries are in abundance right now and trees still hold fruits & nuts both old and fresh. Caterpillar nests and other insects are exposed by leaf loss and make a great source of nutrition. Geese and other waterfowl stop over on Teacup Lake for a rest and for food as they make their way to winter homes.

Birds and other animals all over the CSVW acreage are busy right now gathering the available food and gearing up either for their migratory journey or for their wintering right here in Sandwich, New Hampshire. Teacup Lake, the Wildflower Meadow, the Perennial Gardens and all the trees are terrific spots to observe all the thriving bird species taking advantage of this bountiful, natural habitat.

Bring your binoculars this weekend and join us at CSVW for some terrific birdwatching opportunities!

LABOR DAY WEEKEND
September 2021

We are drying off and warming up for this long weekend!

Come visit us this Labor Day Weekend here on Mt Israel Road in beautiful Sandwich, NH.
The CSVW trails are great and the weather is forecasted to be lovely!

We hope to see you this weekend and that you might see some of these beautiful animals in their natural, wild habitat!

THIS IS HAPPENING !!

EYES ON OWLS Live Owl Program coming to CSVW!
SATURDAY • AUGUST 21, 2021 • 11:00 am
Arts & Crafts Building • Sandwich Fair Grounds • Center Sandwich, NH 03227

Please take note of the NEW date and location for this fantastic event!
Information & Reservations available on EVENTS PAGE

We are so excited that the EYES ON OWLS program is happening and we can't wait for you to join us on
August 21, 2021!

Previously postponed in 2020 due to Covid 19, we are thrilled to finally be able to host this wonderful educational experience.

All prior reservations will be honored.
More information on EVENTS PAGE.

SIGHTINGS!
July 2021

GREAT BLUE HERON (Ardea herodias)

A gorgeous, healthy-looking Great Blue Heron has been frequenting Teacup Lake and wading along the shoreline in search of food. There is a variety of options available here to help sustain this heron and other species who depend on smaller aquatics for their survival. Today this beautiful bird was having excellent luck catching minnows.

Visit CSVW and Teacup Lake and slow down long enough to watch this patient fishing master.

SIGHTINGS!
July 2021

WHITE-TAILED DEER (Odocoileus virginianus)

These 2 gorgeous White-tailed Deer peeked out from the ferns when the rain finally let up recently. They foraged and frolicked for a long while in a the field and then headed into the forest.

It is such a joy to see these beautiful animals thriving in the CSVW area!
Join us in the forest!

DUCKLINGS!
July 2021

The Hooded Merganser ducklings are growing up on Teacup Lake. Generally, ducklings would have moved on by now following the course of a stream or river for larger bodies of water. But the surviving 3 ducklings of this little family have stayed with their mother at Teacup Lake. Mother leads the way as they all dive for food together with good success, especially in the form of polliwogs. The mother hen will cluck softly when she calls the ducklings back to her for safety or for a rest on the warm rocks along the shoreline. Soon the ducklings will get their more mature plumage and we will be better able to distinguish males from females.

Stay tuned in to CSVW and enjoy this wonderful experience in nature!

CELEBRATE the 4th of JULY

All the colors of the CSVW gardens explode into bloom in the summer time! With the help of many generous and hard-working volunteers, this year the gardens are as pretty as ever and we would love to share them with you this weekend.

Open rain or shine
from dawn to dusk

Add a trip to Chapman Sanctuary & Visny Woods to your 4th of July plans!

SIGHTINGS!
June 2021

SNAPPING TURTLE (Chelydra serpentina)

This lovely lady is welcoming the arrival of the summer season by digging a nice warm nest for her eggs to incubate throughout the coming months. Snapping Turtles will lay as many as 20-40 eggs with about 50% survival rate if the nest is undisturbed. In the fall the eggs will hatch and the babies will instinctively head for the water, just as turtles have been for millions of years.

We are fortunate to have this species making its home at Teacup Lake and hope for a successful hatching.

MAKE YOUR WAY TO CSVW THIS WEEKEND!
Sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk and let us know what you have discovered on the trails.

DUCKLINGS!
June 2021

A family of Hooded Mergansers has been living at Teacup Lake!
A hen and 7 ducklings made their way from their nest to the water and have been surviving quite well here at the sanctuary. The ducklings appear to be healthy and are getting bigger every day.

These ducks are lot fun to watch and a great education in nature as the babies grow and learn to become independent thrivers.
We will have more information about this exciting family as we observe them.

Drop by CSVW and check out the ducklings!

SIGHTINGS!
June 2021

AMERICAN BITTERN (Botaurus lentiginosus)

A healthy appearing American Bittern has been seen along the shores of Teacup Lake!
American Bitterns are not easy to spot when they hide in the grasses and other vegetation at waters edge waiting to strike at prey. Holding completely still with their bill pointed upward and their necks stretched long, they are well camouflaged and disappear into their surroundings. Their diet consists of small aquatic life and insects making Teacup Lake a good choice for a meal.

Males are very territorial and will use loud “booming” calls to announce themselves and claim a nesting area. Meanwhile, females are the sole caregivers to the young who will leave the nest at around 2 weeks, but will stay close and continue to be fed by mother until about 4 weeks of age.

Mostly due to loss of habitat, American Bitterns are in slight decline in this area of North America, so we are especially glad to see this species here at CSVW.

Be sure to make Teacup Lake part of your day when you visit the sanctuary this season!

THE 2021 ANNUAL CSVW BIRD WALK WAS WONDERFUL!
Did you join us for our Annual Bird Walk
on May 15th?

The weather was absolutely perfect and we had a record 18 guests in attendance! Thanks so much to everyone who came out bright and early to be part of this year’s event.

The group began the journey at the beautiful Chapman House Gardens where the bird feeders were full of American Goldfinch, Mourning Doves, , Blue Jays and Nuthatches.

Along the trails there were many sightings and/or soundings of lovely Warblers back from their winter habitats. Birders encountered Magnolia, Black-throated Blue & Green, Yellow-rumped and other species of warblers. Many were identified by their calls with help from cell-phone birding Apps that some participants used and shared.
Woodpeckers were in the area and the group even came across this year’s “Bird of the Year” the Pileated Woodpecker.

There is almost always a “surprise guest” during our Bird Walk, and this year was no exception. A gorgeous pair of Wild Turkeys have taken up residence in the field near Teacup Lake and they were busy gobbling and calling to each other as they foraged for food.

Thank you Sue Rowan for the photos!

THANK YOU! to Christine Costello of USWFS for leading the program again this year. We just love having her in our neck of the woods! Christine shared her knowledge of birds and their behaviors; as well as some information on the health and maintenance of the forests we all need on this Earth.

The CSVW Annual Bird Walk is always a wonderfully fun morning with happy birds & humans.
We hope you will joint us next year!

TREE SWALLOWS ARE NESTING!
Did you Sponsor a Birdhouse with us this year?

If so then your support has helped to provide a nest box - plus its care and maintenance, bird seed and fresh nesting material and we thank you!

Tree Swallows are nesting in boxes in the Teacup Field right now! Open meadow with a tree-line and water nearby makes the Teacup Field a perfect location. Other Bird Boxes all over the sanctuary are being used by Eastern Bluebirds, Black-capped Chickadees and other cavity nesters.

If you would like to sponsor a bird box yourself or as a gift to honor a loved one / fellow nature enthusiast, visit the Sponsor a Birdhouse page on this website. This a very easy, feel-good way to help out the birds that make Chapman Sanctuary & VIsny Woods their home.

Come and see all the beautiful birds busily gathering insects to feed their babies at CSVW!

NEWS!
May 2021

WHAT’S NEW? ALMOST EVERYTHING!
Have you made a trip to the sanctuary lately?
It is a perfect time to come and walk the trails and be observant of all the new things growing and blooming or soon to be. Most migratory birds are back in the area now and are busy establishing themselves in the trees, on the ground
or in the water.

Warmer temperatures and sunshine have the reptiles and amphibians seeking heat for their bodies and you are likely to see or hear them around Teacup Lake. Are you an insect enthusiast? We have those too - plenty!

Bring your wildflower or birding/wildlife journal and jot down the many species you encounter at CSVW.
Let us know about your discoveries on any of our social media platforms or in your comments
at the Visitor’s Kiosk.

PLAN A HIKE WITH US THIS WEEKEND!

REMINDER!

CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Led by Christine Costello of USFS
Saturday • May 15, 2021 • 7:30 am

Details on EVENTS page!
Don't miss this annual favorite!

SIGHTINGS!
May 2021

This handsome male Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) has been spotted in the Chapman Sanctuary neighborhood.

A somewhat solitary bird, they are most often seen at the edges of forests and fields. Look for them on the ground near brush piles or areas of shrubby growth; or listen for the Eastern Towhee scratching around in the leaf litter as they search for food.
With this specie’s numbers still somewhat in decline in the Northeast, we feel fortunate to have this
“new world sparrow” in the CSVW area finding its basic necessities.

This is a perfect time of the season to visit the sanctuary and do some birdwatching!

BUSY WEEKEND AT THE SANCTUARY!

Wow! So much going on in the springtime!
Here at CSVW we are especially happy to see all the species that have chosen this area as their home because of the diverse habitat and the ability to fulfill their needs right here. Lots of animals & birds have been very busy building nests in anticipation of eggs and offspring, or refurbishing old ones
for their newborns. What a great time to be outside in nature and witness these life processes and celebrate the newness of things.

Get here soon and experience it for yourself! And don’t forget to put our Annual Bird Walk on your calendars for May 15 at 7:30am!

NEWS!

CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Led by Christine Costello of USFS
Saturday • May 15, 2021 • 7:30 am

Details on EVENTS page!
Don't miss this annual favorite!

Spring Time!
April 2021

We have a happy pair of Mallards on Teacup Lake as mating season has begun!
Mallards actually choose their mates in the fall & early winter and the pair will (usually) migrate to the female’s “home territory” in the spring. While other waterfowl, birds and countless species may still be busy sorting it all out, this female seems pretty pleased with her choice of mates.

This is such an exciting and active time in nature! Get outside at CSVW and don’t miss a
single beautiful thing!

SIGHTINGS!
March 2021

RED FOX (Vulpes vulpes)

A gorgeous Red Fox has been seen behind the Chapman House and in
neighboring acreage!

The largest of the "true foxes", the Red Fox is active year-round and survives well in wooded areas.
The Red Fox has a diet that mostly consists of small rodents, birds and rabbits making CSVW a great source of both food and shelter.

It is currently breeding season for Red Fox in the Northeast and we hope that we will see kits out about with their mothers in the late spring and
early summer months!

COME VISIT THE SANCTUARY SOON AND SHARE THE FOREST WITH THESE BEAUTIFUL ANIMALS!

THANK YOU ...
Ed Parsons of The Conway Daily Sun!

Ed Parsons of the The Conway Daily Sun recently spent a super day on the trails at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.
We are so glad that he enjoyed the River Trails and grateful that he shared his experience at CSVW in his column "Week Enders".

READ THE ARTICLE HERE!

Mr. Parsons, we thank you and hope you will COME BACK SOON to enjoy all of the beauty that nature has to offer throughout each season at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

Tracks in snow!

One of the joys of being on the trails in winter is discovering that life is quietly happening
all around us. You may feel like you have the peaceful forest all to yourself and then come across some tracks in the snow as a wonderful reminder that animals are carrying on with their daily lives.

Look for tracks that disappear under rocks, downed trees and into brush piles. You may spot small footprints in the snow that lead from tree to tree as squirrels and their kind search for food and return to their nest sites. Birds leave tiny footprints and even wing prints as they forage for seeds
and berries. You might find a single pine cone on the forest floor with dozens of little bird tracks around it.

Another likely place to find animal tracks is at a source of water. Teacup Lake is a moving body of fresh water and the sound & scent of that water will attract all sorts of animals. Some species like weasels & otters might come in search of a way to get under the ice in hopes of finding food. Teacup Lake is a good location to find deer tracks and other signs of critters that do not hibernate in winter. Deer maybe looking for water to drink or just taking a shortcut across the ice and into the woods. Beavers have built their lodges and have spent all year fortifying the structure and storing food in its chambers to get them through
the winter months. However, it is possible to see signs that a beaver has emerged from the lodge for a trek across the snow-covered ice to an open spot.

Bundle up and get outside on the CSVW Trails where the animals are surviving the winter in the slightly mysterious, magical ways that have been going on for ages!

Let us know what you see! Send us your photos, zip off a quick note to us by email or message us on social media. We appreciate knowing which animals you have encountered thriving in the sanctuary!

IT SNOWED!
...and then it rained...and then it snowed again!
January 2021

No matter what the weather is or what you like to do outside in winter, grab your gear and join us on the trails. Snow boots, snowshoes, or XC Skis are all appropriate for winter fun in the forest. CSVW Caretaker Paul is grooming the trails and it is always beautiful to spend a day surrounded by trees or checking out Teacup Lake.

Get outside and enjoy the day!

Holiday News!
It's not too late to give a meaningful gift to the birdwatcher or nature lover on your list!

A CSVW Birdhouse Sponsorship feels as good to give as it does to receive and it will do so much good
all year long!

Head over to the Birdhouse Sponsorship Page for more information. Thank you!

Welcome!
Resident Caretaker Paul Healy

Please join us in welcoming Paul Healy as Resident Caretaker for CSVW! Paul will reside in the historic Chapman House and is responsible for its care and maintenance as well as greeting guests and answering visitor’s questions.
Along with the multitude of tasks that come with living in a rural nature preserve, Paul will undertake the huge job of maintaining sanctuary trails, gardens and wildlife habitats.

Experienced in caring for natural areas and working with the public, Paul comes to the sanctuary with a love of the outdoors and the White Mountains. He has hiked the Whites in all 4 seasons and has already climbed Mt Israel here in Sandwich.

We look forward to CSVW members and visitors meeting our new Caretaker, so be sure to say hello the next time you hit the trails. Head to Teacup Lake and check out the new perching line that Paul helped to implement up in the field!

NEWS!
2020 CSVW ANNUAL MEETING
November 14, 2020 at 10:00am
Sandwich Town Hall - Upstairs
8 Maple Street
Center Sandwich, New Hampshire

We are glad to announce the Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, November 14th upstairs in Sandwich Town Hall.

MORE INFO ON EVENTS PAGE

LOOK!
Look up, look down, look all around … so many creatures to be found!
Not all of the wildlife at Chapman Sanctuary & Visny Woods are out in the open or easily visible.

Some of our inhabitants hide to avoid becoming food for larger animals; while some are camouflaged so that they can sneak up on their prey.
Some species may be seeking shelter from the sun and other weather elements; while others may need to be in the sun to stay warm but hope to remain unseen.
Many animals may just wish to avoid being discovered or disturbed.

Get the kids and yourself outside in nature this weekend at CSVW and be on the look out for those creatures that are a little tricker to see! Have fun later or on a rainy day looking up information as to why the critters you spotted might be in hiding.

Its always a beautiful day on the trails!

NEWS!

EYES ON OWLS
Live Owl Program coming to CSVW!
POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
We hope to offer this program in the spring of 2021
LOOK FOR UPDATES ON THIS WEBSITE AND IN OUR eNEWSLETTERS

More information and advanced registration for this fun and fantastic program can be found on the EVENTS PAGE of this website!

IN TOWN FOR OLD HOME WEEK?

Take a walk down memory lane on the Chapman Sanctuary trails that you have always loved.
Our trails are open with plenty of outdoor space to spread out, unwind and reconnect with nature in good old Sandwich, New Hampshire.

In the meantime ...
Learn a little history about the Sandwich folk who helped to create and preserve Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods by visiting our PEOPLE PROFILES page.

You yourself may have lots of memories and stories of these people and others or the sanctuary trails and we would love to hear them! Please share with us on facebook or in comments on Twitter and Instagram.

SIGHTINGS!
June 2020

RING-NECKED PHEASANT

Although some what rare in this area, lately there has been a gorgeous male pheasant strutting around CSVW and neighboring properties!
Ring-necked Pheasants prefer open fields with some brush cover and the weedy areas along roadsides, making Chapman Sanctuary a perfect habitat. What a thrill to see him and hear the very loud call of this member of the grouse family, who so far seems right at home.

Male pheasants have some beautiful coppery plumage and a white ring around the neck. A red face and long tail feathers add up to a very stunning bird. Females are brown so that they blend in with their surroundings and we hope they too are in the area, although so far we have not spotted any.

Be on the look out for this gorgeous bird when you visit the sanctuary and let us know if you see or (more likely) hear his rooster-like honk!

NEWS!
June 2020

DUCKLINGS!
We are so excited at CSVW that the female Hooded Merganser has hatched 10 ducklings!
They all paddled around on Teacup Lake for a couple of days and then mother moved her family to an unknown location. We hope the mergansers fare well wherever they are and we are so thankful to mother nature for the opportunity to share in their beginning.

Successes like these are what Chapman Sanctuary & Visny Woods is all about - come see for yourself!

SIGHTINGS!
June 2020

HOODED MERGANSER
A female Hooded Merganser has been seen going in and out of the duck box on Tea Cup Lake! There were a few pair of Hooded Mergansers on Tea Cup this spring and now there seems to be a lone female who we at the sanctuary hope is sitting on a nest in the duck box.

The female comes out to stretch her wings, groom herself in the sun and to feed on the fish, tadpoles and other small aquatic creatures that nature provides in the Teacup Lake waters. The nesting box is visible to her from all areas of the water and after a short time she heads back inside the box.

Hooded Mergansers are the smallest of the native merganser species. As cavity nesters, they tend toward woodland areas with a pond or lake nearby. In this case, a female has taken advantage of the ready duck box that CSVW carefully cleans and prepares each winter when Teacup Lake is iced-over.

If she is nesting, the female likely has anywhere from 7-12 eggs that will incubate for an average
of 30-35 days. Within 24 hours of hatching, the mother will take to the water and call her ducklings out of the nest. The ducklings will find their own food as babies, generally in the form of insects until they mature. Ducklings will be tended to by their mother for several weeks, fledging at around 60-70 days old.

We are eagerly waiting and hoping for ducklings at the sanctuary! Sign in at the kiosk and hike down to Tea Cup Lake where there just may be a new family on the water!

NEWS!

$100 Sustaining Members Receive CSVW Drawstring Backpacks
If you joined or renewed your current CSVW membership at the $100 Sustaining Membership Level, we have a special thank you gift for your support.

These red nylon drawstring backpacks are perfect for showing your CSVW pride and toting your gear when you hit the trails!

Water bottle? Check!
Binoculars? Check!
Power snacks? Check!

If you are currently a Sustaining Member and you have not received your backpack, contact
CSVW Board of Trustees President, Robert Rowan at 603-848-6807 or [email protected] and we'll get one to you right away.

NOT A CSVW MEMBER YET?
It is easy and your tax-deductible CSVW Membership donation helps to provide the critical resources we need to maintain wildlife habitats, and woodland trails; provide bird and nature education to the public; maintain and preserve the historic Chapman House, perennial gardens, and grounds.

Come see all that CSVW has to offer. We welcome you and hope you will JOIN US TODAY!

NEWS!

The 2020 CSVW Annual Bird Walk was a hit!

The day was a bit overcast and the trees were not in full foliage, but there was a great turn out with lots of new faces, including CSVW's new Caretaker, Paul Healy. (Introduction coming soon!)

The adventurous group started out at Chappie's House and set off on the trails in search of warblers and other feathered friends. The warblers were a bit of a no-show and there were some very wet trails to be avoided, but that didn't discourage the troop from scouring the woods and fields and treetops
for signs of birdlife.

2020 CSVW Bird Walk Sightings ...

Broad-winged Hawk (heard)
Spotted Sandpiper (visual)
Ruby-throated hummingbird (visual)
Yellow-bellied sapsucker (heard)
Eastern phoebe (visual)
Blue headed vireo (heard)
Blue Jay (heard)
Tree swallow (visual)
Black-capped chickadee (visual)
Tufted titmouse (heard)
Red-breasted nuthatch (heard)
White-breasted nuthatch (heard)

Brown creeper (heard)
Hermit thrush (heard-call only)
American robin (heard)
Eastern bluebird (visual)
Black-throated blue warbler (heard)
Pine warbler (heard)
Black and white warbler (heard)
Ovenbird (heard)
Song sparrow (visual)
Rose-breasted grosbeak (visual)
American goldfinch (visual)

Nature never disappoints and we did hear and see lots of birds. It was interesting finding native plants and signs of wildlife such as scat and trees drilled out by the Pileated Woodpeckers in the area. These are all good indicators of a healthy, thriving habitat.

There was a magnificent aerial display by the Tree Swallows who have returned to the CSVW bird boxes for another season. Swallows soared high, and swooped low, and sailed past just above our heads in the field as they searched for insects and it was special to be present in that moment. A big surprise was waiting down at Teacup Lake where a pair of Spotted Sandpipers were in the grasses of the shoreline. The male seemed to be courting the female with his wiggle walk and they occasionally flew across the water and then disappeared momentarily in their perfect camouflage into the surroundings. What a treat!

We were happy to receive feed back from a CSVW Bird Walk participant who described her experience ... Thank you Deb!

Good Memorial Day morning! I am writing to add my thoughts about attending the bird walk at Chapman Sanctuary/Visny Woods...
Delightful! I am so glad I attended.
I learned a lot, not only about bird calls and songs and habitat and such, but all those little tidbits that make learning so rewarding. Visually, what I will remember most is our guide showing us why an ovenbird is called an ovenbird. Who knew?!
Great place to view a variety of birds from woodlands to open fields. And a great place to simply take a walk along the well-planned trails.
Deb
P.S. Thanks for making available the Bird Song Identification Tips aka “cheat sheet!"

Click on image to enlarge & download a copy of
Chris Costello's Bird Song ID Tips
for yourself and get outside and listen!

Many thanks to Christine Costello of USFS for leading the group and sharing her vast knowledge
with us. This annual event is always a fun morning and is a little different each year.
Make sure you don't miss out on this great nature experience in May of 2021!

NEWS!

2020 ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Led by Christine Costello of USFS
Saturday, May 16, 2020 at 7:30 am

Details on EVENTS page!
Don't miss this annual favorite!

SPECIAL NOTE:
ALL participants will be expected to be able to follow the rules of social distancing.
6-foot rule required.
Face coverings & masks recommended.

Location
Location
Location!

Bird Box #7 behind the Chapman House is occupied every year - probably because of its proximity to all the CSVW bird feeders. It is most often a clever Black-capped Chickadee who moves in early and takes advantage of the freshly-filled birdseed just a short flight away.

Visit us soon and discover which other birds are living and thriving at the sanctuary!

SIGHTINGS!
April 21, 2020

Birds
Beasts
Bugs
Buds

It is springtime after all, and nature carries on with the business of life. Birds are returning from their winter homes just as the trees begin to bud and insects start to appear. More animals are out and about now that the snow has melted and exposed some browse for them. Waterfowl have landed on Teacup Lake with some "regulars" who have decided to stay, and some others who are just passing through. And oh the Peepers are peeping!

Get outside on the Chapman Sanctuary trails and breathe! Find a quiet spot to sit and observe, or keep yourself moving down one of the River Trails to the pristine waters of the Cold River.

NEWS!

EYES ON OWLS
Live Owl Program coming to CSVW!

POSTPONED UNTIL
SATURDAY • OCTOBER 4, 2020 • 1:00pm
Sandwich Central School
28 Squam Lake Road
Center Sandwich, NH 03227

More information and advanced registration for this fun and fantastic program can be found on the EVENTS PAGE of this website!

DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS UNIQUE INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE!

MAKE YOUR EYES ON OWLS RESERVATION HERE!

Membership Challenge Champ: Randy Hilman

Sincere thanks to Randy Hilman of Randy Hilman Homes at Keller Williams Lakes & Mountains Reality for his generous support of CSVW's mission and our annual fundraising effort. Randy challenged local Sandwich, NH residents to contribute $10 or more to CSVW and pledged to add $10 for every donation CSVW received by midnight on December 1st (up to $350 in total matching funds).

Thank you, Randy, for inspiring and encouraging community engagement, and for supporting CSVW with your matching contributions.

NEWS!
WINTER TRAILS ARE OPEN

The Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods Trails are groomed and ready for you to come and experience the beauty and serenity of winter in Center Sandwich, New Hampshire. Peace and quiet await you as you make your way through the woods and down to the Cold River on snowshoes. Or let your XC skis take you across the field down to Teacup Lake and through the forest trails.

Blue skies, fresh snow, signs of birds & wildlife, and YOU are all the ingredients needed for a perfect day outside in nature at CSVW.

NEWS!

Volunteer Gardeners needed at the Chapman Sanctuary
We are looking for volunteers to adopt a small garden space, for the summer, to call their own.
Please call Sue Rowan at 603-284-6807 for more information and to volunteer. THANK YOU!

If you are familiar with Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods, then you may already know about the glorious gardens that beautify and surround Chappie's House and grounds. Established over many years of dedication and long cared for by extremely knowledgeable gardners, we now are hoping to have volunteers claim a small (or large!) part of the gardens to care for and help them continue to thrive throughout the coming summer months.

We are fortunate to have some exquisite and even some uncommon botanicals in the form of flowering plants, shrubs and trees that any gardener would be proud to preserve and protect.

Whether you are already a CSVW Member, or a frequent visitor to the Sanctuary or new in town - check us out at 740 Mount Israel Road and let us know that you would like help out by tending a part of the gardens this summer! THANK YOU!

Please call Sue Rowan at 603-284-6807 for more information and to volunteer.

NEWS!

2019 ANNUAL BIRD WALK
Led by Christine Costello of USFS
Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 7:00 am

Details on EVENTS page! Don't miss this annual favorite!

A BIG WELCOME TO THE MONTH OF MARCH
This is a great time to be out on the Trails!

The sun will shine just a little brighter, the temperatures will climb just a little higher while the snow on the trails at Chapman Sanctuary is groomed and gorgeous! Spend the day or just a couple of hours exploring the forest on cross-country skis or snowshoes. Look for signs of winter life in the forest, at the Cold River and around Teacup Lake: animal tracks, piles of pine cone remnants used as food during the long winter, burrows in the snow or under logs and brush piles ... there is so much to discover! Trail reports and other important information can be found on the Trails Page of this website.

What a beautiful way to get outside in nature as another season begins to turn.

NEWS!

CSVW Visitor Education Center - Update
We're on track to open CSVW Visitor Education Center in spring 2019.

As we've mentioned over the past few months, we received funding to convert a 12' x 14' section of the existing Chapman House garage into a self-guided visitor education center. This space will house wildlife-related displays, informational handouts, and other educational resources to help visitors learn more about CSVW's history, mission, habitat management, the importance of our perennial gardens and wildflower meadows, and all manner of flora and fauna that is in abundance throughout the 225+ acres of woodlands, water habitats, and trail system.
Stay tuned for photos!

In Memoriam: Alden O. Sherman
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the recent passing of Alden Sherman. Alden served us well as a member of the CSVW Board of Trustees, and was a mentor to our board president. He was a long-time summer resident of Sandwich, living on Mt. Israel Road across from CSVW's Chapman House. Alden was a truly remarkable man, and he will be dearly missed.
If you wish to read his obituary you can find it here: Alden O. Sherman

NEWS!

CSVW Visitor Education Center
Work continues on converting a 12' x 14' section of the existing Chapman House garage into a self-guided visitor education center. This space will house wildlife-related displays, informational handouts, and other educational resources to help visitors learn more about CSVW's history, mission, habitat management, the importance of our perennial gardens and wildflower meadows, and all manner of flora and fauna that is in abundance throughout the 225+ acres of woodlands, water habitats, and trail system.

Legacy Charitable Gift from the Estate of Katherine Lynch

Katherine Lynch named Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods as one of the beneficiaries in her will. We are sincerely grateful to have recently received a check from her estate in the amount of $42,486. In addition, we will be receiving a share of the publishing royalties from her late father's book, which will likely be around $700 per year.These monies go into the CSVW endowment fund to build toward CSVW's future. As such, we are checking with our accountant to see if we can apply her any portion of her bequest and/or the forthcoming annual royalty checks toward meeting our required $14,000 annual fundraising goal.

NEWS!

Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
2018 ANNUAL MEETING
November 10, 2018 at 10:00am

See Events page for details!

THANK YOU FOR SHARING!
Suzanne Conlin of Moultonborough, NH has shared with CSVW some photos of mushrooms/fungus
growing in her yard. Suzanne describes them as “lovely uninterrupted growth” and they sure are neat. Suzanne's photos appear to show shelf or conk type fungus
common in New Hampshire.
Some of these types of fungi might include:

Chicken of the Woods
Artists Conk
Turkey Tail
Birch Polypore
Hoof Conk
Oyster Mushrooms

DID YOU KNOW?
The relationship between fungi and trees can be an indicator of the tree’s health. While some mushrooms/fungi can live on a healthy tree without causing any harm, many fungi are parasitic and can lead to the death of the tree. In some occurrences, the presence of fungi is an indicator that a tree is not healthy and may be actively dying. Other mushrooms/fungi only feed on the decay of already dead trees and they help compost the tree into the soil.

Thank you Suzanne! We love hearing from our neighbors, visitors, and our CSVW Members.
EMAIL us photos from your experience in nature and we will share them on FB, IG and on the website.

FALL MIGRATION HAS BEGUN
September 20, 2018

For many bird species in North America, the fall migration has already begun with huge numbers of birds on the move. Fall migration is often from north to south largely in response to changes in weather, fewer hours of daylight and the subsequent loss of food sources and habitat.

Right now the Broad-winged Hawk migration in the Northeast is at its peak with virtually all individuals exiting North America during September. You may have noticed large flocks of Broad-winged Hawks soaring and swirling together in the open sky. These large flocks are also called “kettles” and they can contain hundreds or even thousands
of birds. These hawks will travel to Central and South America for the duration of the colder months.

Some birds in the Northeast need only to migrate short distances to survive the winter. Red-winged Blackbirds and Robins might travel just a few states away where they will find sufficient food and shelter.
Conversely, many species of birds migrate great distances to Central & South America and the tropical Caribbean Islands with the majority of those being songbirds such as warblers, vireos, thrushes. Even the tiny Ruby-throated Hummingbird makes this astounding long-distance journey seasonally.

Fortunately for us here in New Hampshire, many species of birds will remain and we can enjoy their beauty throughout the winter. Finches, Sparrows, some Woodpeckers, Northern Cardinals, Bluejays, Tufted Titmouse, Black-capped Chickadee and many others of our feathered friends will generally stay
in the area all 4 seasons.

Check it out!
There are lots of great resources for learning about and tracking bird migration ...

National Geographic has some terrific information with gorgeous flight-path map, graphics & photos.
Audubon Society discusses new migration tool that could save birds from building collisions.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology has research on how many birds will migrate through American air space.

Don’t put those binoculars away - CSVW IS HERE YEAR-ROUND TOO!
Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods is so happy that we are able to help protect and provide an ideal natural habitat and food sources for the birds and other wildlife throughout the year.
We are open to the public FREE of charge from dawn until dusk with plenty of parking and Trail Maps available at the Visitor’s Sign-in Kiosk. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU - VISIT US SOON!

THANK YOU FOR SHARING!
FUTURE CONSERVATIONIST OR WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST?
Or maybe just having good fun! Looks like Leah Ines, with dogs Charley and Colten, had a terrific day outside in nature exploring
an old stone culvert and the many wondrous things found along the CSVW Trails. THANK YOU SUSAN INES FOR SHARING this photo with us of a great day spent in nature with your granddaughter
at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods.

EMAIL us your nature/wildlife photos, your stories, and your
CSVW selfies! We are happy to share them with our members and visitors on FB, IG and here on the website.
WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

SIGHTINGS!
September 8, 2018

Snakes
Monarch Butterflies
Frogs
Goldfinches
Moose

Watch your step! A couple of Northern Water Snakes have been seen in the grasses along the edge of Teacup Lake. They may be soaking up the warm sunshine. However, in the late summer to early fall months, Northern Water Snakes give live-birth to as many as dozens of offspring.

A big bull Moose has been seen on the CSVW trails early in the morning and its tracks have been seen in the mud around Teacup Lake.

Join us on the trails and let us know what you discovered! Send us an email and include photos you would like us to post here on the website and social media.

MUSHROOMS
September 1, 2018

Mushrooms are as varied and beautiful as flowers! Beyond being interesting to look at, mushrooms are extremely important to both wildlife and the environment.

Deer, bears, squirrels, birds, slugs, and insects to name a few, all take advantage of edible mushrooms/fungi found in the forest. While some forms of mushroom are poisonous, most are loaded with nutrition and are an important food source. At a time when summer fruits and berries are becoming a bit more scarce, mushrooms are a welcome addition to the daily sustenance of CSVW wildlife.

Mushrooms are crucial to the environment/ecosystem of a healthy forest. They are excellent decomposers and recyclers who break down the forest's natural litter of fallen leaves, logs and other organic matter including animal carcasses. They deposit nitrogen rich nutrients back into the ground to enrich and actually create soil.

Begin your own mushroom exploration & education on the CSVW trails this weekend! There are lots of varieties growing all around the forest trails. Please do not pick mushrooms, but leave them where they belong and will do the most good for the forest and wildlife. Sign in at the Visitor’s Kiosk and let us know which varieties you have found!

Have a great Labor Day Weekend outside in nature at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods!

THANK YOU FOR SHARING!
Suzanne Conlin of Moultonborough, NH has shared her wildlife sightings and photos with Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods and she writes:

"Each afternoon, we are graced with a visit from our Monarch Butterfly friend, as it passes through our yard, rhythmically, each day. What a delight!We also have a porcupine that enjoys a munch or two along the way through the grass to the woods, each evening!
So nice to be able to share the land with nature!”

We are so happy to see your beautiful wildlife photos and share them with our members & visitors on FB and here on the website. Thank you Suzanne!

EMAIL US YOUR PHOTOS and WILDLIFE STORIES. WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

NEWS!

UNITED WAY DAY OF CARING
September 12, 2018

The United Way will send volunteers to Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods for the day to provide trail maintenance and to work in the gardens as part of their Day of Caring program.

CHECK EVENT PAGE SOON FOR MORE DETAILS ON THIS TERRIFIC DAY!

MONARCH BUTTERFLY
August 18, 2018

CSVW is so pleased to have these gorgeous butterflies living and thriving in the area and to have had a
supporting role in their food and habitat requirements.

Monarch Butterflies begin their life as eggs that hatch into larvae who feed almost exclusively on the Milkweed plants to which they were attached as eggs. The larvae (caterpillars) next enter the pupa stage inside a protective chrysalis where another amazing transformation will take place.

In late summer/early fall the larvae emerge as spectacular Monarch Butterflies!
Their black/orange/white coloring is not only beautiful, but also a warning to predators that they are poisonous and not palatable. The butterflies will soon make their migration to warmer climates and return in the spring to lay their eggs and the life cycle will begin again.

It is such a special treat to see these important and iconic pollinators at CSVW ... visit the gardens and meadows soon to look for them and other wonders of nature!

SIGHTINGS!
August 11, 2018

Great Blue Herons
Turtles & Frogs & Salamanders
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

CSVW's Teacup Lake recently had 3 gorgeous Great Blue Herons land in the trees and then glide down into the water to wade in the shallows to look for food. Great Blue Herons mainly eat small fish, aquatic insects, frogs & reptiles but will also make a meal of small mammals. These beauties have become "regulars" at both Teacup Lake and Randy's Pond so grab your binoculars and hit the trails with us this weekend to catch a glimpse!

The sunshine has been cooperating lately so get outside and join us!

WELCOME DRAGONFLY
August 1, 2018
There are 1000's of species of Dragonflies and Damselflies of the insect order Odonata with 100's of varieties found right here in New Hampshire. Dragonflies are generally found near fresh water and are a sure sign that summer is at it’s peak. Many thanks to these fascinating insects who gobble up mosquitoes, flies, horseflies, gnats and other small insects who would otherwise feast on us! Right now is a great time to visit the CSVW meadow and Teacup Lake where you can observe the extraordinary aerobatics of the Dragonfly!

Please sign in at the Visitor's Kiosk near the Chapman House where there are trail maps and other information available - thank you!

A LITTLE RAIN FORECASTED DURING YOUR VACATION?
July 21, 2018

PUT ON YOUR SLICKERS AND BOOTS AND YOU CAN STILL HAVE A GREAT DAY OUTSIDE IN NATURE!
Visit Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods where there are all sorts of creatures (like KIDS!) who don’t mind the wet weather - they love it! Hit the trails or get down to Teacup Lake and investigate which animals, insects, amphibians and reptiles are out and about in the rain. There is ALWAYS something happening in nature at CSVW and admission is FREE!

Count the frogs and toads and let us know how many you find! Did you hear them croaking and calling to each other?
Salamanders and Newts might come out from their hiding places. Hint: some are very bright orange and like the wet grass!
Any worms, snails or slugs in view? Any birds keeping an eye on them for their dinner?
Herons, ducks, muskrats and other animals are perfectly happy in the rain and you just might spot them out on Teacup Lake.
Keep your camera or phone protected but handy. A break in the showers while the area is decorated with raindrops can create some fabulous photo opportunities - especially the flowers. With any luck maybe even a rainbow!
PLEASE SIGN IN AT OUR VISITOR’S KIOSK - it is important for us to know that you are on the trails and for our records. PLUS there are Trail Maps and information located there for you … THANK YOU!

When you get home all cozy and dry, let us know what rainy-day discoveries you made at CSVW.
Take a minute to email us us your photos and tell us about your visit! We would love to hear from you and share your experiences with our members and followers.

WILD FLOWER / POLLINATOR WALK
July 7, 2018

The weather was simply perfect on Saturday July 7 when
Sarah Zuccarrelli led a great group on an educational exploration of the CSVW forest trails, fields and the beautiful, thriving wildflower garden!
We were happy to welcome a couple of new faces to the sanctuary as we hit the trails for a few very pleasant hours in the sunshine!

Sarah shared her knowledge of the hundreds of species of wildflowers, trees and other life at the sanctuary including: native species; edible forest plants; wildflowers and pollinators. There were thousands of wild blueberries and huckleberries ripening that were a special treat ….
AND the mystery plant is still a mystery!
Photos from this terrific event can be found on the Events Page.

Join us next year for this annual favorite event at CSVW!

A CSVW MYSTERY
Can you identify this plant?
JULY 1, 2018

CSVW President & Trustee Bob & Sue Rowan discovered this plant growing in the field above Teacup Lake and we could use your help to
identify the species.
The flowers are pinkish and its long slender leaves are a darker green than the other vegetation
in the vicinity.

Any ideas what this plant might be? Please EMAIL CSVW if you think you know … thank you!

NEWS!
June 18 - 24, 2018

NATIONAL POLLINATORS WEEK

Wasps might not be the most beloved, but they have a small role as pollinators and should be celebrated because it is NATIONAL POLLINATORS WEEK!

June 18-24, 2018 is designated as
“National Pollinator Week” and they mean the world to all of us - literally! Did you know that as much as 95% of all flowering plants on earth need pollinators? Pollinators include the ones we all probably know: bees, butterflies, moths, insects and beetles. But Birds, bats and small mammals also play a part in pollination as they move from plant to plant carrying pollen with them.

Pollinators do such a huge service for all of us and there are ways we can help them too.
These are just a few:

Plant a variety things in your garden that will attract pollinators throughout the spring and summer such as Hummingbird Bush, Lillies, Sunflowers, Coneflowers … too many to list!
Grow Milk Weed that Monarchs and other butterflies love
Keep or plant apple trees and other fruit bearing trees and bushes. Bees will make good use of the early blooms while birds and other animals will benefit from the fruit later
Not much of a gardener or green-thumb? You can still help too: next time you mow your lawn, just leave a patch of clover, dandelions or other wild flowers for the pollinators

Visit CSVW to observe pollinators in action - they are infinitely interesting and SO IMPORTANT!
Here are some pollinators that might be a little easier on the eyes ….

SIGHTINGS!
June 9, 2018

Ruffed Grouse
Indigo Bunting
Great Blue Heron
Swallowtail Butterflies
Tree Swallows

RIGHT NOW! is a perfect time to grab your
binoculars and come to CSVW! There is so much going on with birds nesting and hatching - parent birds are busy all day long feeding their new nestlings. A Ruffed Grouse has been on the sanctuary grounds and we are hopeful there is a successful nest tucked in somewhere. A stunning Indigo Bunting has been in the field living along side a very healthy Tree Swallow population. A big, beautiful Great Blue Heron has been traveling back and forth from Teacup Lake to another location taking advantage of both food and shelter. Butterflies, Moths and Dragonflies are emerging in great numbers! Some will act as important pollinators while others are voracious eaters of horseflies and other insects.

SO MUCH LIFE IS HAPPENING HERE! PLAN YOUR VISIT TO CSVW THIS WEEKEND!
Bring your binoculars, camera, field guides and bug repellent and get in on the action!
Park in the new parking area and please sign in at the Visitor's Kiosk

SIGHTINGS!
June 1, 2018

Hummingbirds
Turtles
Belted Kingfisher
Tree Swallows
Eastern Bluebird
Butterflies & Dragonflies
Blooming plants & flowers galore!

It has been a lovely spring so far at the sanctuary and all sorts of life is going on around us in the fields & gardens, on the trails and at Teacup Lake. Birds are nesting and turtles are sunning themselves on rocks.
A stunning new flower variety blooms almost daily! Trees and other vegetation are becoming lush and green for the creatures big and small to make their homes or use as food sources.

Have yourself a terrific day exploring nature at CSVW!

2018 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
May 12, 2018
A GREAT DAY FOR BIRDING!
The weather was chilly but sunny with blue skies and the leaves on the trees were fresh and green!
Wildlife Biologist, Christine Costello of the Bartlett Experimental Forest led the way for us again this year - THANK YOU Chris!
Our assemblage of early risers hadn’t even left the Chapman House when a gorgeous Blackburnian Warbler landed in the trees and stayed long enough for everyone to get a good look. The Blackburnian was soon joined by an American Red-start and a little Black & White Warbler who seemed as interested in us as we were in it!

The group spent pleasant hours on the CSVW trails learning to identify birds by their songs/calls and then locate them in the canopy using binoculars. Our guide shared her vast knowledge of the forest, the birds encountered, their habitat requirements, migration patterns and
some interesting behaviors.

A FEW HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE DAY

A big hawk’s nest spotted high in a birch tree along the trail while a pair of Broad-wings were close by keeping watch.
A loon’s tremolo could be heard as it was flying nearby, probably heading for open water.
Tree Swallows were happily soaring and gathering insects in the field by Teacup Lake. Many of the CSVW bird boxes have been spoken for by nesting pairs. (ATTENTION BIRD HOUSE SPONSORS: your bird box just might have some residents! More info to come on this.)

The perfect end to a terrific morning, CSVW’s Resident Care Taker, Matt Harris, hosted attendees with home-made rhubarb iced-tea, lemony muffins and other treats. It was a nice way for the group to gather on the Chapman House porch and talk over the events of the day - THANK YOU Matt!

JOIN US ON OUR NEXT ADVENTURE AT CSVW!
Slide show from the 2018 CSVW Annual Bird Walk can be found on the Calendar of Events page.

2018 CSVW ANNUAL BIRD WALK
LIST OF BIRD SPECIES SIGHTINGS / IDENTIFICATIONS

Mallard
Loon
Broad Winged Hawk
Mourning Dove
Ruby-throated Humming Bird
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Northern Flicker
Least Flycatcher
Great Crested Flycatcher
Blue-headed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Tree Swallow
Black-capped Chickadee
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-breasted Nuthatch
Winter Wren
House Wren

Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Gray Catbird
Nashville Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Green Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Blackburnian Warbler
Pine Warbler
Black & White Warbler
American Redstart
Ovenbird
Scarlet Tanager
Chipping Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Brown-headed Cowbird
American Goldfinch

Steve Bartlett (kneeling), Amelia Reynolds, and Matt Harris with 4-H Clover Buds

NEWS!

4-H Clover Buds & Birdhouses
May 3, 2018

Members of the Sandwich, NH 4-H Clover Buds joined Steve Bartlett from Booty Farm, Amelia Reynolds, and CSVW caretaker Matt Harris for a birdhouse workshop. Steve and Matt cut and pre-drilled the pieces for the "Buds" to assemble with help from the adults as needed. Each member got to take their birdhouse home.

A good time was had by all, including Steve's dog, Briar!

SIGHTINGS!
April 29, 2018

Wood Ducks
Common Mergansers
Hooded Mergansers
Mallards
Canada Geese
Great Blue Heron

With spring finally behaving like spring here in Sandwich, the ice has melted out of Teacup Lake and it didn't take long for ducks and other waterfowl to take notice. Teacup Lake has had a nice variety of ducks show up on the water paddling along in search of food, mates and possible nesting sites. A gorgeous Great Blue Heron has been seen picking through the reedy edges of the water looking for a meal.

Every year CSVW members & visitors enjoy the return of birds and wildlife to the sanctuary - join us in this extremely active season in nature!

NEWS!

THE MIGRATORS ARE COMING

Have you ever wondered where birds go in winter and why? Are you curious about the impossibly long journey birds make to return to the Northeast each spring?
CSVW Lifetime Member, Sarah Zuccarelli, has passed along a beautiful video story that explains some of the mysteries of bird migration: “Gulf Crossing: Story of Spring” written and produced by Jackson Childs.
The documentary details the hows and whys of some of our tropical migrators with gorgeous videography of birds and loads of great information.
CSVW wanted to share this great video with all of you - just in time for the spring return of migrators!

We eagerly anticipate the arrival of migrating birds back to the Northeast and the Chapman Sanctuary.
You may already be seeing and hearing some of our tropical friends in your area.
LET US KNOW! Send us a quick EMAIL to tell us about which birds you are seeing in your neck of the woods. Include your bird photos and stories - we would love to post them on our facebook page and website!

SIGHTINGS!
April 6, 2018

SPRING!
Vegetation growth
White-tailed Deer

Signs of spring are popping up all over the sanctuary - literally! The CSVW Gardens have fresh, green growth pushing through the snow reaching for the sun and pussy willows around Teacup Lake have donned their furry catkins. There has been some melting of the ice on Teacup Lake and a rich, healthy mud is the general condition of most other areas. A large family of White-tailed Deer has been moving through the area in search of food.

Spring fun has only just begun - CSVW is the perfect place to watch the season unfold and come alive!

SIGHTINGS!
March 2, 2018

MOOSE

This moose was spotted in the vicinity of the River Trail East Loop nibbling branches for several minutes and then it moved off into the woods. CSVW trail explorers have identified moose tracks in the snow and mud over the winter months and this moose came out into the open for a short time.

Rain, shine, snow or mud - there is ALWAYS something happening at CSVW!

NEWS!

WINTER e-NEWSLETTER coming to your inbox soon!

You may already receive our seasonal e-newsletter. If not, let us know at [email protected]
and we will happily add you to our distribution. Keep up to date on the latest news and information about what's happening at the sanctuary.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU!

TRAILS

XC SKI & SNOWSHOE TRAILS ARE GROOMED & GREAT!

CSVW Winter Trails are ready for you with lots of fresh snow. There is plenty of parking in the upper lot with a groomed path leading directly to CSVW trails. Set out right from your car and spend the day XC skiing in a gorgeous snowy forest or snowshoe the River Trail and experience the Cold River in all it's wintry glory!

GET OUTSIDE AT CSVW THIS WINTER!

SIGHTINGS!
January 2018

Red Crossbills
Pine Siskins
American Goldfinch
Juncos, Juncos, Juncos!

What a terrific assortment of birds in the CSVW area this winter! A hefty seed & cone crop has attracted some nomadic species to Sandwich, NH and kept some others from traveling too far. Red Crossbills and Pine Siskins have been seen at CSVW taking advantage of the abundance food source this winter. American Goldfinch have stayed and even kept much of their yellow coloring. Juncos are everywhere in huge numbers it is always nice to see their fluffy little bodies in the bushes or on the ground.

Dust off your binoculars and come out to XC ski, snowshoe or trudge around CSVW and see how many of these birds you can spot on the trails, in the field or around Tea Cup Lake!

TRAILS
CSVW WINTER TRAILS ARE OPEN
Grab your XC skis or snowshoes and hit the trails!

The CSVW trails are gorgeous in winter and just about as peaceful
as it gets. Plenty of space in the new parking area with a path leading directly to the trails so you can ski or snow shoe right from your vehicle!

Have a great day for yourself at CSVW and get outside in the snow!

THANK YOU!

We’re kicking off 2018 with a sincere note of gratitude
for your help in reaching our 2017 fundraising goal!

Your CSVW membership dollars support our daily, year-round efforts to:

maintain CSVW’s 160 acres of woodland trails, meadows, streams, gardens and the historic Chapman House
provide ongoing wildlife habitat management and improvement
offer educational nature programs

Ways to Give

JOIN US! or renew your CSVW Membership
Give the Gift of Membership! Download the membership form, write the name & address of the gift recipient & we'll send them a gift announcement on your behalf.
Make a charitable contribution in any amount

Your support is tax deductible to the extent allowable by law:
Federal Tax ID EIN #04-2210786 
Please make your checks payable to: Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods
Our mailing address is: CSVW ~ PO Box 96 ~ Center Sandwich, NH 03227

SIGHTINGS!
December 26, 2017

Juncos
Gold Finch
House Finch
American Robins
Blue Jays

After a couple of quiet months, lots of birds are showing up at feeders and in the bushes and trees at CSVW and in the area. Dark-eyed Juncos are present in especially large numbers! You may have seen their tiny tracks on fresh snow or in the area of trees and bushes that offer seeds and berries in winter. Check for evidence of birds and other small animals around a fallen pine cone
which are another great food source.

Which birds you are seeing at your feeders or in your area? We would love to know!
Send us a photo via email or social media!

NEWS!

2017 CSVW ANNUAL MEETING
November 11, 2017
The CSVW Annual Meeting was held at the Benz Center in Center Sandwich, NH. Open to CSVW Members and the public, the well-attend event was a productive morning covering exciting news and important topics:

NEW! CSVW Members and guests had the pleasure of meeting our new Caretaker, Matthew Harris. Matt presented a report of his activity over the last 6 months which included many improvements to the Leonard Boyd Chapman House as well as his work on the trails, gardens, and grounds.
NEW! A CSVW Fundraising Committee was formed and the team is already busy working on some terrific ideas for the holidays and for 2018 !
NEW! River Trail East Loop is now open and has been added to an updated CSVW Trail Map available at the Visitor's Kiosk in the parking area.

MORE INFORMATION ON THE EAST LOOP TRAIL COMING SOON!

CSVW values your input and your ideas! We hope for continued member and community attendance and hope you can join us at the 2018 CSVW Annual Meeting!

NEWS!

CSVW ANNUAL MEETING IS NEXT WEEKEND!
NOVEMBER 11, 2017 at 10:00am
See Calendar Page or Home page for details!

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU!

SIGHTINGS!
October 20, 2017

MOOSE!

A cow moose and her youngster were seen wading and frolicking in Teacup Lake - what a treat! The pair spent time in the water and then went into the woods and on their way. There has also been a moose spotted along the River Trail.

No photos of the animals were obtained; but they did leave some nice, clear tracks on the road

DON'T MISS THE GRAND FINALE OF FOLIAGE
Autumn in New Hampshire!
October 19, 2017

CSVW Trails & Teacup Lake in picturesque Sandwich, NH are a perfect day trip! CSVW Trail maps are available at The Visitor's Kiosk in the parking area or can be downloaded: CSVW TRAIL MAP

GET HERE THIS WEEKEND!

NEWS!
NEW PARKING AREA AT CSVW
September 20, 2017

So many visitors have come to enjoy the natural beauty of CSVW that in response we are creating a brand new parking area for our guests! With the added parking, CSVW looks forward to hosting individuals, groups and organizations for a day outside in nature whether for recreation, education, or volunteer opportunities.

A new entrance and parking area has been cleared adjacent to the current driveway at the Chapman House. Next steps in the process include obtaining fill to level the parking area; plus the creation of a new path leading to the existing system of trails. The new path is being roughed out now and will be ready for fill at the same time as the parking area. The Visitor’s Sign-in Kiosk will be relocated to the new parking and will continue to provide CSVW Trail Maps and other helpful information. The finished project is expected to be ready for gravel by mid November. As always, Mother Nature will play a role in the estimated
progress and completion dates.

CSVW is very excited to offer this new parking area that will allow more room for guests and groups to gather in preparation for a terrific outing and regroup at day’s end to share their
experiences and discoveries ...

Hiking
Birding
XC skiing & snowshoeing
Native plant & wildflower identification
Teacup Lake & Randy’s Pond
Forest
Fields
Wildlife

There is something for everyone at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods!

SIGHTINGS!
September 4, 2017

Magnolia Warbler
Pine Warbler
American Red Start

CSVW was host to several variety of warblers over Labor Day Weekend. These smaller species of birds are often hard to spot but they were in abundance this weekend in the trees, bushes and on the ground. Some birds feasted on the plentiful caterpillars and larvae while others pilfered insects out of spider webs or caught them in flight. Many species of warblers eat the berries that can be found all over the sanctuary and they are flourishing this year!

This is a fun time to birdwatch at CSVW and spot some of the birds that can be elusive in summer!

NEWS!

FAREWELL TO MIGRATORS
August 28, 2017

When the summer days start getting just a little shorter and foliage starts to wilt and lose the vigor and vibrancy of June & July, it is already time for some of our feathered friends to turn towards the next season. Some birds have already started their migration to tropical climates in Central and South America.
Some will only travel a relatively short distance from where they are right now.

CSVW is very fortunate to have had the opportunity to not only observe but to help provide food & habitat for a great variety of beautiful migrators this year!

Visit our Wildlife Habitat Management page for more bird & wildlife sightings; and for ways to be involved in nature along with CSVW visit our Connect with CSVW page!

SIGHTINGS!
August 5, 2017

Common Yellowthroat
Juvenile Yellow-throated Warbler
American Gold Finch
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Yellow-bellied Sap Sucker
Gray Catbird

The Common Yellowthroat can be tricky to spot! A small warbler that nests and mostly stays hidden in the cattails and bushes on the water's edge, they will sometimes fly out to catch insects. Watch for a little movement in the foliage and you just might see this little bird hoping from perch to perch - unless he spots you first and disappears into the lower dense brush!

Try your luck at birdwatching and identification this weekend at CSVW and let us know which birds or other wildlife you encountered!

SIGHTINGS!
July 30, 2017

Great Blue Heron
Female Wood Duck
Juvenile Merganser
Painted Lady & Great Spangled Fritillary Butterflies
Broad-winged Hawk
Wild Cherry
Lillies, Cone Flowers, Blazing Star and Daisies

A Great Blue Heron spent a warm, sunny day camouflaged in the tall grasses and reeds along the shores of Teacup Lake. Great Blue Herons will eat fish, frogs, snakes, and even smaller mammals which makes ponds and lakes a great food source option.

Plenty of summer left! Come spend a day at CSVW on the trails, in the fields and at Teacup Lake!

SIGHTINGS!
July 23, 2017

Hummingbird Moth
Red-eyed Vireo
Song Sparrow
Common Yellowthroat
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Gray Catbird
Frogs and Toads

Lush vegetation, a fresh round of newly blooming flowers and berries in abundance are all indicators that summer is in full swing at CSVW! Berries of every size, shape and color are providing a great food source for the CSVW birds and other wildlife. Hummingbird Moths have been zipping around in the new blooms of the Perennial Gardens! A unique and interesting creature to observe - you might see one on your next trip to the sanctuary.

Get outside and enjoy a summer day at Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods!

NEWS!

HONEY BEE PRESENTATION WAS OUTSTANDING
Sunday July 16, 2017

The Benz Center was buzzing and a huge THANK YOU! goes to Athena Contus of the Wonalancet Honey Bee Co.! Athena gave an excellent presentation to a great crowd eager to learn all about one of Earth's most important pollinators.
This was a highly informative and interactive experience! Audience members learned about this essential species and their biology, which garden plants will attract them, beekeeping techniques and lots more.

CSVW was happy to have sponsored this great event and offer it FREE to the public!

SIGHTINGS!
June 17, 2017

Dragonflies
Red-winged Blackbird
Broad-winged Hawk
Song Sparrow

Hungry dragonflies are out in force in New Hampshire! These colorful creatures can be found in fields and meadows, around lakes and rivers, on the ground and in the air. Dragonflies are predators who feed mostly on other flying insects and do many of us a great service by gobbling up mosquitos and horseflies! With so many sizes, shapes and colors dragonflies are endlessly fascinating.

Be sure to notice the variety of dragonflies on your next trip to CSVW!

CSVW is home to a variety
of beautiful Woodpeckers

The Hairy Woodpecker survives by eating insects, wood-boring bugs, caterpillars, nuts, berries and fruits. Although it is more elusive than it's abundant look-a-like, the Downy, this Hairy Woodpecker is thriving and taking advantage of the food offered at CSVW feeders and the surrounding forest.

Some of the other woodpeckers you might see at CSVW include:

Downy
Yellow-bellied Sap Sucker
Red-headed
Red-bellied
Three-toed
Pileated

Bring your binoculars to CSVW and make some wild bird discoveries!

SIGHTINGS!
June 10, 2017

Tree Swallows
Eastern Phoebe Nestlings
Butterflies
Blooms

A nesting pair of Tree Swallows was very busy catching insects for their young. Although they often skim the surface of Teacup Lake for insects, there was ample supply of food buzzing all around and they never needed to fly too far from their nest box.

Baby birds at this time of year are beginning to emerge and take their first steps out of the nest!
The Phoebe babies under the Chapman House eaves were out of the nest and holding on to an old house chord for dear life. Soon they will gather up their courage and fly! The youngsters will follow their mother out into the nearby trees where they will learn to find food and fend for themselves.

More flowers blooming means more pollinators! Swallowtails and other butterflies are fluttering all around the gardens and water's edge adding beauty wherever they fly.

Come experience these magnificent spectacles of life happening all around CSVW!

NEWS!

May 27, 2017
The 2017 CSVW BIRD WALK was a terrific day in nature learning from
an expert birder!

This event, led by Christine Costello of USFS started off with a very special sighting of a Scarlet Tanager in the trees right behind the Chapman House! Through the forest & fields participants learned to identify dozens of bird species by their songs and calls. The Rose-breasted Grosbeak’s musical song was loud and clear. Other species required a more skillful ear and Christine Costello was able to identify Blackburnian Warblers from high in the tree tops and the Ovenbird from the lower to the ground. Another nice treat was to hear a Wood Thrush off in the forest.

The USFS expert was impressed with the Wildlife Habitat Improvements CSVW has made throughout it’s forest and trails commenting on the importance of this effort and it’s apparent success so far. CSVW has worked to clear some wider open spaces which allows larger species to come in to those areas as well as smaller animals who take refuge in brush piles left after clearing. A Hermit Thrush was spotted who had done just that and was happily hopping around it’s under-brush nest site. Part of CSVW's Wildlife Habitat Improvement included planting fruit-bearing trees and bushes last year and these were observed thriving after the long winter.

Other notables from the day were the beautiful wildflowers along the trails (including a Jack-in-the-Pulpit!), bright orange Efts scurrying under fallen leaves and a swallow nesting in a bird box in the field. Dozens of birds offered up their song while mostly staying out of sight in their habitat - photos from the day are on the Calendar Events page. Many thanks to Christine Costello of USFS who made the day an extraordinary experience on the CSVW Trails!

Along with CSVW “regulars” some of the many birds encountered included:

Scarlet Tanager
Wood Thrush
Hermit Thrush
Ovenbird
Brown Creeper
Alder Flycatcher
Least Flycatcher
Blue-headed Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Blackburnian Warbler
Pine Warbler
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Green Warbler
Tree Swallows
White-throated Sparrow
Rose-breasted Grosbeak

We hope you will join us next year for this CSVW birding event!

SIGHTINGS!
May 20, 2017

Solitary Sandpiper
Chestnut-sided Sparrow
Common Yellowthroat
Green Frogs
Water Snake

A Solitary Sandpiper stopped by Teacup Lake and picked around in the water near the resident muskrat's mound looking for things to eat. Most species of sandpiper migrate in flocks but this bird, if it is seen at all, is usually alone. Another distinction of the Solitary Sandpiper is that it takes advantage of unoccupied song bird's nests in trees instead of building a nest on the ground.

CSVW has enjoyed some very interesting wildlife this spring!

SIGHTINGS!
May 19, 2017

Rose-breasted Grosbeak
American Robin
Myrtle Warbler (Yellow-rumped Warbler)
Chipping Sparrow
Eastern King Bird
Painted Turtles

CSVW has been absolutely ALIVE with spring migrators as well as "old faithfuls". Whether at the feeders, on the trails or on the water there is so much happening in nature! Photos on Wild Life Habitat page do not even begin to show the variety of birds and wildlife that call CSVW home.

Grab your binoculars or camera and join us at CSVW soon!

SIGHTINGS!
May 13, 2017

Hummingbirds
Tree Swallows
Goldfinch
House Finch
Purple Finch
Turtle

HUMMINGBIRDS ARE BACK! Several Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were spotted in the gardens around the Chapman House and Teacup Lake enjoying the new blooms. Meanwhile, there was a great variety of birds at the feeders and in the grasses, trees and bushes around Teacup Lake. A pair of Tree Swallows skimmed the surface of the water snatching up bugs while a large turtle poked it's head up from underneath
to get a look too!

There is always something remarkable to see in nature! Be outside at CSVW this weekend!

SIGHTINGS!
May 5 - 7, 2017

Muskrat
Mallards
Hooded Mergansers
Eastern Phoebe

A busy muskrat spent the late day hours swimming
back and forth from it's nest to a grassy area of Teacup Lake diving for vegetation and building materials. Earlier in the day a male/female pair of Hooded Mergansers were on the water together while a pair of Mallards flew over headed for parts unknown. You have probably been hearing the Eastern Phoebe lately with it's distinctive song. There have been several spotted all around CSVW.

Don't let the rain stop you from visiting CSVW !
Some wildlife species are more active and visible on the gray days!

SIGHTINGS!
April 24 - 26, 2017

Canada Goose pair
Eastern Newts
Female Common Merganser
Spring Peepers

CSVW has sprung to life with all sorts of plants and animals! Leaves are opening on the trees, Day Lilies are in bloom and grasses are starting to green. Waterfowl have been at Teacup Lake daily and at night the Spring Peepers can be heard loud and clear! The boggy edges of the lake have been teaming with Eastern Newts beginning to mate and deposit their eggs. A pair of Canada Geese spent a day staying close to each other with the male displaying very protective behavior . A female Common Merganser had Teacup Lake all to herself on an overcast day and she paddled leisurely close to shore and then torpedoed under the water for food.

The CSVW wildlife has been very active - don't miss witnessing the most beautiful and natural earthly rituals of spring! Visit CSVW Trails and Teacup Lake soon!

SIGHTINGS!
April 22, 2017

2 pairs of Hooded Mergansers

There were 2 pairs of Hooded Mergansers on Teacup Lake for the majority of the day and evening over the weekend. Hooded Mergansers are a small species of cavity-nesting duck who form monogamous pairs. Common on ponds and streams, they dive underwater for fish and other prey.

Spring is a such an active, busy time for birds and other wildlife and CSVW is a beautiful place to explore and enjoy nature! Visit the trails and Teacup Lake this spring!

SIGHTINGS!
April 9, 2017

Yellow-bellied Sap Sucker

It just took a little warmth and sunshine to bring out the birds and there were plenty at CSVW this weekend!
This Yellow-bellied Sap Sucker has drilled neat rows of holes into a birch tree and will feed on the sap that flows out as well as any insects that become stuck in the sap. This male (red throat) also had wells
drilled into neighboring trees.

Put a trip to CSVW on your "to do" list this spring!
There is something new to see every day at this time of year!

NEWS!
Spring 2017

IT JUST GOT A LOT EASIER to JOIN US!
CSVW is happy to offer a PayPal option to it's Membership Page. Now with just a few clicks
you can enjoy a CSVW Membership at a level that works for you!
Check it out! We hope you will support the birds and wildlife at CSVW while you have fantastic experiences on the forest trails and around Teacup Lake & the Cold River.
A day at CSVW is beautiful, natural fun!

WELCOME SPRING TIME

It may be coming at a slug’s pace but SPRING IS HERE!
If you haven’t already, you will soon start to see the return of bird species who flew the coop in winter. Some of the birds you may be seeing now include the American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Phoebe and some waterfowl. Soon to follow will be warblers, other tropical migrators and hummingbirds.

Bears will be emerging from their dens - some might have new cubs! Skunks and other mammals that hunkered down for winter are beginning to stir. Wildlife will count on warmer weather to bring to life new vegetation and insects to eat. With so much melting snow this year, Teacup Lake and the Cold River should be an abundant water source for mammals, amphibians and plant life.

CSVW is looking forward to seeing ALL the birds and beasts and flora AND FOLKS this spring!
Start making your plans now to come visit Chapman Sanctuary and Visny Woods to experience the excitement of spring in the forest, gardens and Teacup Lake!

CSVW IS EVERYWHERE THAT YOU LIKE TO BE!

Now you can keep up with what is new and happening at CSVW
where ever you are !

Follow us on Twitter
Like us on Facebook
Join us on Instagram
Email us your photos & comments

JUST CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW!

THANK YOU!
A BIG THANK YOU TO CSVW TRAIL VOLUNTEERS!
February 2017

CSVW would like to extend a HUGE THANK YOU! to the many volunteers who recently answered the call for help grooming the trails! The CSVW Trails are absolutely beautiful and the perfect place to spend a day this winter!
Freshly painted trail blazes lead the way to stunning natural scenery that offers hours of fun in the great outdoors!
Visit us during School Vacation Week!
PLEASE sign in at the kiosk and leave us your comments!

NEWS!

THE GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT IS THIS WEEKEND!
February 17-20, 2017

This is a great winter activity that is fun for all ages! A terrific learning opportunity that is beneficial to the birds!

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS FROM the GBBC WEBSITE ….

"Launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, the Great Backyard Bird Count was the first online citizen-science project to collect data on wild birds and to display results in near real-time.

Now, more than 160,000 people of all ages and walks of life worldwide join the four-day count each February to create an annual snapshot of the distribution and abundance of birds.

Why count birds?
Scientists and bird enthusiasts can learn a lot by knowing where the birds are. Bird populations are dynamic; they are constantly in flux. No single scientist or team of scientists could hope to document and understand the complex distribution and movements of so many species in such a short time."

For more information about the Great Backyard Bird Count go to:
http://gbbc.birdcount.org/about/

To get started go to:
http://gbbc.birdcount.org/get-started/

NEWS!
February 4, 2017

CSVW Trails have been broken open by snowmobile and debris removed! (exception: Tappen & River Trails) Trails will be packed and groomed as soon as mother nature delivers more snow. Today there is about 1” of snow on a hard surface making skiing conditions fast but not a very soft landing if one falls . There are plenty of animal tracks to investigate and it is a beautiful day!
Great day to be outside at CSVW!

TRACKS ON THE TRAILS IN THE WINTER WONDERLAND AT CSVW

Searching for animal tracks on the CSVW Trails is a FUN way to investigate what kinds of animals are active during the winter! Look for identifying track features such as:

track patterns
track size
position of front and hind feet
distance between prints
location of tracks

Come see what animal tracks you can find! It is great exercise and an excellent opportunity to learn lessons about the wildlife activity visible in the snow!

Did you know that when deer walk they leave tracks that make them appear to be a 2-legged animal? In the deep snow this energy-conserving method of walking involves stepping the hind foot into the track already made by the front foot.
While deer are considered “Walkers", squirrels and hares are considered “Gallopers” or “Hoppers”. In this case the hind-foot prints are actually the forward and larger prints in the track with the smaller front feet slightly behind those. If you find tracks that are running from tree to tree, you can be pretty sure they are that of a red or grey squirrel.

You might also find footprints of fox, coyote and moose on the CSVW Trails. Maybe even a bobcat! All of these wildlife creatures live in the area of the Chapman Sanctuary and are active in the winter.
Come on XC-skis or snowshoes or come on foot! Be observant and you will find many kinds of animal tracks as you enjoy the CSVW Winter Trails!

Please sign in at the Kiosk!
Leave your comments and observations for us. We’d love to know what you saw on the CSVW Trails!
Visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages (links top of page).

NEWS!

The 22nd Annual Sandwich Christmas Bird Count Results are IN!
January 2, 2017

The 22-year old Sandwich, New Hampshire Annual Christmas Bird Count was started by Margaret and Jim Vernon of North Sandwich. Tony Vozzano has compiled the tallies and information for nearly 15 years now.

On January 2, 2017 the weather was ideal for the annual count with seasonable temperatures, sunshine and light wind. The total of 43 species of birds is close to Sandwich, NH's long-term average as is the 2737 number of individual birds. With hardly any open water at the time of the count, it is not surprising that waterfowl numbers were down considerably from the past couple of counts.

New count highs were established for:

Wild Turkey - 190,
Red-bellied Woodpecker - 6
Tufted Titmouse - 118,
Bohemian Waxwing - 178
Snow Bunting – 78.

Other Hightlights:
There were no shrike counted for the second straight year and only 1 Purple Finch, 2 Red Crossbills,
5 Common Redpolls, and 1 Pine Siskin were seen. The 6 Barred Owls ties the record from 11 years back.
Bald Eagle-3; Belted Kingfisher-1 (4th consecutive year); Pine Grosbeak-8

THANK YOU!! to Tony Vozzano who compiled these counts and THANK YOU!! to the
Sandwich, NH residents who participated!

These Sandwich, NH numbers will be added to Audubon's Society's Annual BIrd Count.

22nd ANNUAL SANDWICH CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT
(with 21-year average in parentheses)

House Sparrow 28 (28)
Pileated Woodpecker 13 (8)
Belted Kingfisher   1
Blue Jay   454 (222)
American Crow 50 (71)
Common Raven 13 (17)
Black-Capped Chickadee 761 (822)
Tufted Titmouse 118 (61)
Red-breasted Nuthatch 25 (56)
White-breasted Nuthatch 118 (112)
Brown Creeper   8 (12)
Golden-cr Kinglet   4 (14)
Eastern Bluebird 5 (4)
American Robin   77 (59)
European Starling   36 (95)
Cedar Waxwing   163 (47)
Bohemian Waxwing   178 (22, irruptive)
American Tree Sparrow   29 (22)
Snow Bunting 14 (7)
Dark-eyed Junco 40 (109)
Northern Cardinal   37 (14)

American Goldfinch 84 (388)
American Black Duck 4 (13)
Mallard 1 (36)
Hooded Merganser   3 (6)
Common Merganser   8 (45)
Wild Turkey      190 (64)
Ruffed Grouse      1 (6)
Bald Eagle    3 (1)
Red-tailed Hawk   1 (1)
Ring-billed Gull     2 (1)
Herring Gull 1 (1)
Rock Pigeon 25 (20)
Mourning Dove      112(150)
Barred Owl 6 (3)
Red-bellied Woodpckr   6 (1)
Downy Woodpecker 46 (48)
Hairy Woodpecker   57 (48)
Pine Grosbeak 8 (8)
Purple Finch   1 (8)
Red Crossbill 2 (2)
Common Redpoll 5 (118, irruptive)
Pine Siskin    1 (67)

Totals: 43 species (43): 2737 individuals (2893)

Count Week birds: Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Goshawk, Northern Flicker, White-throated Sparrow

SIGHTINGS!
January 4, 2017

Abandoned Nest

Who left this nest?
Looking at the materials used, it's open-cup shape and it's location in the forks of a tree branch about 6 feet off
the ground - a good guess might be that this nest was once used by one of the many warblers who came to CSVW over the summer! Did it belong to the
Black-throated Green Warbler who is now basking in the southern tropical sunshine?

CSVW WINTER TRAILS are a wonderful place to get outside, explore and make discoveries!

NEWS!
November 12, 2016

CS/VW Annual Meeting
The CSVW Annual Meeting was well attended at the Benz Center. The following agenda items were addressed:

Treasurers Report
Election of Trustees
Review of on-going projects
Approval of Actions take by Officers and Trustees
Any other business

CSVW MEMBERSHIP

​​What's Happening

News • Sightings • Information​​​

CSVW IS EVERYWHERE THAT YOU LIKE TO BE!

22nd ANNUAL SANDWICH CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT​(with 21-year average in parentheses)​

What's Happening

News • Sightings • Information

22nd ANNUAL SANDWICH CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT
(with 21-year average in parentheses)