WWiW - GPRC: Lepidoptera & Odonata

Gresham Park Recreation Center (GPRC)
Wednesday, July 29, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM

By July, the story along this stretch of the South River Trail takes on a different rhythm.

Extending from the same corridor that follows Sugar Creek Golf Course, this section near Gresham Park Recreation Center showcases the vibrant world of butterflies, moths, dragonflies, and damselflies where recreation, neighborhood greenspace, and wildlife converge.

Here, winged wonders meet community.

Open meadows, sunny trail edges, flowering plants, and nearby wetlands create ideal habitat for many of summer's most captivating insects. Dragonflies patrol overhead with remarkable speed and precision, damselflies linger among grasses and waterside vegetation, while butterflies drift between nectar sources, transforming an everyday walk into a living display of color and movement.

During this experience, we'll explore how this community-connected landscape provides essential habitat for these remarkable species and the many birds, amphibians, and other wildlife that depend on healthy, interconnected ecosystems.

This walk invites participants to notice and wonder within a shared space.

We will pay attention to:

• Butterflies and moths visiting native flowers and other nectar sources
• Dragonflies and damselflies hunting, perching, and defending territories near water and open spaces
• The importance of sunny meadows, woodland edges, and aquatic habitats in supporting complete insect life cycles
• How parks and greenways create connected habitat that allows wildlife to thrive alongside vibrant community spaces

Rather than focusing solely on identification, we'll discover how these insects reveal the health, diversity, and resilience of the landscapes we share. Their presence tells an important ecological story—one of clean water, connected habitats, abundant plant life, and the intricate relationships that sustain summer ecosystems.

Whether you're new to observing insects or looking to sharpen your naturalist skills, this experience meets you where you are. Beginners will gain confidence noticing butterflies, dragonflies, and other summer wildlife in familiar community spaces, while experienced observers can deepen their appreciation for the behaviors, habitats, and ecological roles of these fascinating aerial specialists.

Tasha L. J. Messer
Park Naturalist, DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA)

5th Wednesdays at Gresham Park Recreation Center (GPRC)
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (times adjusted seasonally)
Ongoing through December

Gresham Park Recreation Center (GPRC)
3113 Gresham Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30316

Programs proceed rain or shine and are adjusted only when conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA).

Restroom facilities are not available at this location. We encourage participants to plan ahead to ensure a comfortable experience.

• Dress for the day’s weather and time outdoors
• Supportive walking shoes with good tread
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Binoculars (optional; to enhance your bird and wildlife observation experience)

All ages are welcome. Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Approximately 2–2.5 hours at a relaxed, observant pace with frequent stops. This walk takes place along a paved multi-use path with mostly level terrain, gentle elevation changes, and long, open stretches that support an easy, continuous flow.

DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs is committed to welcoming participants of all abilities. This portion of the South River Trail near Gresham Park Recreation Center follows a paved, multi-use path that provides a generally accessible route for walkers, wheelchairs, and mobility aids. The terrain is mostly level, with gentle elevation changes and long, continuous stretches.

Trail edges, subtle grade transitions, and occasional natural debris may be present, particularly after wet weather.

Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To discuss access needs or alternate route options, please contact the program leader at least 48 hours in advance.

Programs proceed rain or shine and are adjusted only when conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA). Participants should dress appropriately for the day’s conditions and bring any personal assistive devices or supports needed.

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, and physical exertion. Participation is voluntary, and attendees assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

Participants agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless DeKalb County Government, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA), its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliated partners from any claims, injuries, losses, or liabilities arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

By attending, participants grant permission for DeKalb County RPCA and Park Naturalist–led programs to photograph or record them for educational, promotional, reporting, and documentation purposes across print and digital platforms. Individual image requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration and attendance indicate agreement with the Park Naturalist Program Volunteer Waiver, Food & Beverage Disclaimer, and Media Release on file with DeKalb County RPCA.

~ Naturalist Tasha L. J. Messer
Park Naturalist | DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs
[email protected]
404-927-4227 (Work Cell)