As autumn settles across Door County, the days grow shorter, the nights get cooler, and a different cast of wildlife begins to emerge. For those who take the time to slow down and listen, fall offers an opportunity to experience one of the preserve’s most fascinating residents: the Great Horned Owl.
On crisp autumn evenings, you may hear the deep, resonant hoots of these remarkable birds echoing through the darkness. Primarily nocturnal, Great Horned Owls spend much of the night hunting and patrolling their territories.
According to Interpretive Naturalist Jess Poppie, Great Horned Owls are among nature’s most adaptable predators.
“One of the things I love most about Great Horned Owls is their ability to thrive in so many different environments,” said Poppie. “They can be found in forests, wetlands, grasslands, and even suburban neighborhoods. They’re incredibly resilient birds and perfectly suited for life in Wisconsin throughout the changing seasons.”
Chilly autumn temperatures pose little challenge for these owls. Their dense feathers provide exceptional insulation, while their powerful talons allow them to capture a wide variety of prey. They are also known for their nearly silent flight, made possible by specialized feathers that reduce noise and help them move stealthily through the night
Sometimes called the “Tiger Owl” because of its reputation as a fierce hunter, the Great Horned Owl plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Though often heard more than seen, its distinctive call adds a sense of mystery and wonder to an evening walk.
The next time you’re outside after sunset, pause and listen. You may not spot a Great Horned Owl, but if you hear that unmistakable hoot drifting through the darkness, chances are one is nearby.
Fall is also a season of imagination, exploration, and community adventure. Throughout October, Crossroads is proud to serve as a community partner in Winnie-Pooh-Looza, a month-long celebration presented by the Friends of Door County Libraries in honor of A.A. Milne’s beloved bear. The preserve will host special activities and opportunities to enjoy a little Hundred Acre Wood magic while exploring nature. Stop in the Collins Learning Center during open hours for “Tinkers, ” self-led hands-on activities for all ages featuring bears and bees.
Those interested in experiencing the changing season firsthand are invited to join Wandering Wednesday on October 14 at 1:30 p.m. This free, naturalist-led hike offers an easy walk through the preserve while highlighting seasonal changes.
Families won’t want to miss Trails & Treats on Friday, October 16, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Participants can trick-or-treat along luminary-lit trails glowing with community-carved jack-o’-lanterns, creating a magical autumn experience for all ages.
Creativity takes center stage on Monday, October 19, at 1:30 p.m. during Let’s Get Crafty: Mosaics, where participants will turn discarded glass into unique works of eco-friendly art. Registration is requested for this free program.
On Tuesday, October 20, at 5:30 p.m., the Door County Beekeepers Club will present Keeping Track of Your Honeybees, exploring how hive records and field notes can strengthen beekeeping practices and provide valuable insights throughout the season. Registration is not required.
Whether you’ve walked the Crossroads trails for years or are discovering them for the first time, autumn offers countless opportunities to connect with nature. All programs are held at the Crossroads at Big Creek Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay, unless otherwise noted. Thanks to the generosity of our community, Crossroads is able to offer free programming for all ages. If you cannot attend a program, remember that the trails are open all day, every day, free of charge. As autumn deepens and the sounds of the night become more noticeable, the season offers endless opportunities to experience the wildlife, wonder, and sense of discovery that make Crossroads such a special place to explore.
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