Estuary Exploration with Paul Spitzer
Rites of Spring in the Lower Connecticut River Valley
Saturdays in May, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Photo by Brock Graham
Estuary Explorations will be led by PhD ecologist Paul Spitzer, a protégé of internationally recognized naturalist and painter, Roger Tory Peterson. Each exploration will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the possibility of extending the field trip into the afternoon, depending on the participants’ interest.
Spitzer learned his natural history while growing up in the Connecticut River Valley. He is a graduate of Old Lyme High School and continued up the river to attend Wesleyan University. He later earned his PhD in ecological sciences from Cornell University.
PhD Ecologist Paul Spitzer
More recently, he has studied the now substantial Connecticut River Estuary Osprey colony as a “biomonitor” of migratory menhaden abundance, the Osprey’s preferred food source. Spitzer advocates for sustainable management practices of this keystone fish for its ecosystem, economic, and societal functions.
Our other specialist, Jim Arrigoni, grew up in Old Saybrook and earned a degree in wildlife and fisheries biology. He has conducted research in Belize and China, and is currently working on his doctorate.
Local naturalist Jim Arrigoni
Spitzer has designed the programs to follow in the footsteps of one of the 20th century’s most famous naturalists, field guide author and illustrator Roger Tory Peterson, who spent his adult life painting in his studio in Old Lyme and examining the flora and fauna of the Connecticut River Estuary and the world.
Spitzer will showcase some of Peterson’s favorite natural sites and share his extensive knowledge of the ecology of the region. Spitzer plans to lead these explorations at a “Thoreauvian saunter,” moving slowly to appreciate many of the birds, plants, and insects that Peterson once enjoyed.
After meeting at the Old Lyme I-95 Park and Ride (exit 70), participants will enjoy three hours of ecological exploration followed by a brown bag lunch and guided discussion in the field. Spitzer is also willing to offer optional afternoon sessions gauged by the stamina and interest of the participants. Register online today.
