Viles Arboretum has begun the process of creating a quarter-acre wildflower meadow to support monarch butterflies and other native pollinator species. This project is located between the Visitor Center and the Heritage Apple Collection, in the former site of the Community Garden. We'll be planting Eastern columbine, golden alexanders, black-eyed Susan, turtlehead, perennial gaillardia, great blue lobelia, wild bergamot, Culver’s root, spotted Joe-Pye weed, boneset, Maximilian’s sunflower, narrow-leaved mountain mint, and New England aster.
Spanning 224 acres, Viles Arboretum offers a rich habitat for diverse wildlife, making it likely you'll encounter some of these creatures during your visit. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the animals, here are some guidelines on what to do when you come across wildlife.
Viles Arboretum is excited to be partnering with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife on a Purple Martin conservation project. Starting May 25th, MDIFW will begin the installation of a nesting structure for Purple Martins in one of the fields on the back of the Arboretum property. This will be an important step for Purple Martin conservation efforts in the State of Maine.
Cecropia moth's (Hyalophora cecropia) is the largest native moth in North America, with a wingspan of five to seven inches. These beautiful silk moths have reddish bodies with black/brown wings that are adorned with bands of white, red, and tan.
The Red-backed salamander can be found in forest habitats throughout Maine. Ranging from 2.5 to 5 inches in length, they are commonly found under leaf litter, rocks, and decaying logs. These amphibians are an indicator species, a living organism that can offer insight into an ecosystems overall health. Their presence, absence, or rapid decline provide important information about the quality of an environment.
As spring's gentle embrace breathes new life into the world, what better way to celebrate the season of renewal than by immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of nature and art? Nestled in the heart of Augusta, Maine, Viles Arboretum invites you to its annual Spring Market, a delightful convergence of local vendors, artisans, and botanical wonders.
As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's essential to recognize and honor the remarkable contributions of women in various fields. One such area where women have made profound and lasting impacts is conservation. From pioneering research to grassroots activism, women have been at the forefront of efforts to protect our planet's precious ecosystems and wildlife.
We're thrilled to announce that once again, in 2024, we'll be offering American Chestnut seedlings. Teaming up with the Maine Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation, we're delighted to provide access to these remarkable trees.
February 2, 2024 - Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry: Browntail Moth (BTM) caterpillars have been an ongoing nuisance in Maine; causing tree defoliation and rashes in humans. Reduce your chances of encountering this pest on your property by learning how to recognize and remove their winter webs from your trees during February, Browntail Moth Awareness month.
From the Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation & Forestry, Maine Forest Service: Young browntail caterpillars create their winter webs in the summer and early fall by combining leaves together with white silk. During the winter, browntail caterpillars are dormant and rest inside their webs where they are protected from the harsh weather. These webs are usually at the tips of branches of their favorite host trees: oak, fruit trees (including ornamental varieties), black cherry, elm, birch, shadbush, roses, and others.
