July is one of the liveliest months at the preserve, as native plants flourish and young wildlife begins to explore the landscape. Prairie plants, including Showy Daisy, Common Yarrow, and Harvest Brodiaea, can be spotted throughout the preserve.
Native berries such as huckleberry and trailing blackberry are beginning to appear, while brilliant pink rose spirea is blooming in the marsh. The first Tree Swallows and Violet-green Swallow nestlings have fledged, and the Roosevelt elk herd have been spotted in the wet forest with at least one calf.
Black-tailed deer have also been seen throughout the preserve, including several accompanied by frolicking fawns. Every
where you look, the season’s growth and new life are on full display.
Trail Improvements
Thanks to the continued dedication of volunteer Gary Geddes, with help from volunteers Tim and Alex, trail puncheons are being expertly repaired and replaced on the wet forest trail. Despite persistent standing water, they restored and stabilized one of the preserve’s oldest 100-foot puncheon sections, extending its life and improving safety for visitors.
Forterra Nature Discovery Event: Birding for All
Sign up for a bird walk on August 15th, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm with skilled naturalist Eileen Lambert.
2026 Morse Wildlife Preserve Open Dates
As a reminder, below are our remaining Second Sunday open days. We’re open to the public 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
We hope to see you there!
- August 9th, September 13th, October 11th