The Friends of Wildcat Mountain State Park will offer the following events in September and October.
• “Wolves”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at the park amphitheater — There is likely no wildlife species that engenders more emotion or controversy among humans than the gray wolf. Scott Walter, former large-carnivore specialist with the Wisconsin DNR, will lead attendees through some basic wolf ecology, outline the population dynamics of wolves in Wisconsin, and engage in a discussion of the numerous issues related to wolf management in the state. Walter will suggest that the current polarization regarding wolf management is counter-productive and discuss with attendees how introspection, trust, and respect can move wolf management toward the middle and allow science to point both humans and wolves toward a future of less turbulent coexistence. A park admission sticker is required for vehicles entering the park.
• “NSA Public Telescope Viewing”: 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, amphitheater parking lot — The Northwest Suburban Astronomers are coming back to Wildcat Mountain State Park. Mark your calendars and cross your fingers for clear skies in the evening. Then come to Wildcat to look at the skies through the amazing telescopes of this group. They will share their knowledge of the objects as well, and this is a “not to be missed” event. Park near the amphitheater, bring a flashlight, and walk the last one-half mile to the group camp to preserve everyone’s night vision. A park admission sticker is required for vehicles entering the park.
• “Moonlight Hike”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, amphitheater parking lot — Enjoy Wildcat at night with a guided hike under a nearly full moon. This hike will be 45 minutes to one hour long and will be along mostly level trails with some uneven terrain. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Participants are welcome to bring flashlights or headlamps to get to the hike site; but if it is clear, they will hike without external lighting, using all of their senses and the moon to guide their way so they can fully enjoy the park at night. A park admission sticker is required for vehicles entering the park.
