Animals and the living earth from mushrooms to maples “speak” in a rich palette of languages but many humans do not hear even a whisper of the non-verbal communication going on. A barking dog may signal an intruder – or be an animal that is stressed, needs exercise and/or training. Tomato plants failing to thrive located under the drip line of a black walnut tree are telling a story of the silent chemical warfare going on between tree and tomato.

Meet “Cochise” an ambassador wolf on Thursday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m. outdoors at a free program held at the Portland Riverfront Park, co-sponsored by Mattabeseck Audubon Society, Middlesex Land Trust, Meshomasic Hiking Club, Portland Historical Society, and the Brownstone Quorum. As part of the celebration of 40 years of the Endangered Species Act, Michael and Amy LeBlanc will present a wealth of information about these wild canines. According to their web site, “any wolves brought to a program site have been raised by us personally and we are state and federally licensed for education.” Based in Massachusetts, Wolf Talk's mission is to change misconceptions about wolves and reveal their vital role in a big-picture ecosystem. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and insect repellent.
Solve an unearthed mystery showcased at the Beman Triangle exhibit inside at the Russell Library mail lobby through until the end of August. The exhibit includes bits of clay pipes, old bottles, and other unearthed finds. Can you help identify the perforated circular (pictured here) white object found during a dig? If so, submit that information – or learn more about this interesting journey into the everyday lives and architecture in a river town at beman-triangle.research.wesleyan.edu.

Archaeological excavations continue in backyards of homes located at Vine Street, Cross Street, and Knowles Avenue in Middletown, Conn., dubbed the Beman Triangle. Wesleyan University's Sarah Croucher, assistant professor of anthropology and assistant professor of archeology, leads the work done with her students on site. (The accumulated recorded history and stories about the community – pretty fascinating.)

Or choose to stretch your legs under the light of a “Full Dog Moon” walk that will take place at Westerly Land Trust Avondale Preserve in Westerly, Rhode Island on Wednesday, Aug. 21. Stepping off at 7:30 p.m. this is part of a Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center series of (free) full moon walks. For details call (860) 536-1216. Walks take place even on overcast nights, and are suitable for adults and older, interested children. Steady rain cancels.

In related news, here's an update on the Campaign for Coogan Farm (Mystic): Almost $3 million has been raised for the $3.5 million goal to preserve the lands and historic features of the former farm which will serve as greenspace and an outdoor environment platform for programs by the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center (DPNC) and the region. The Coogan Farm will form another link in a corridor of preserved land. For information, other events and to see the interconnected landscape, visit www.dpnc.org.

Check out DPNC summer paddle trips (fee involved) to see features such as an old mill site (a portage involved), plus lesser-known waterfalls, even a new fish ladder at a dam. The description for the Saturday, Aug. 24 Potter Hill to Westerly on the Pawcatuck outing led by Al Brown is tempting: “float past farm fields, wooded wetlands and the historic parts of Westerly like you may have never seen.” Cost is $25.

Wadsworth Mansion Open Air Market and Festival on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2013, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with live music that includes the Middletown Symphonic Band. Free carriage rides. Docent-led tours by the Friends of Long Hill Estate throughout the day. A shuttle is offered from parking at Snow School to the festival at 421 Wadsworth St., Middletown.