06/20/2019
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge is excited to announce a new Nature Explorers program series, Thursdays, June 27, July 25, and August 22, 6 to 7:30 PM, at the Refuge Visitor Center (3395 U.S. Route 20 East Seneca Falls, NY 13148). Led by Librarian and The Lodge Nature Store Manager, Gayle James, and retired Science Teacher and Volunteer, Mary Jo Doyle, Nature Explorers is for children and families of various ages. Earn a nature badge when you participate in each program. Attend all three and become eligible for a prize!
June 27: Toads, Frogs & Pollywogs – Join our guides on a frog and toad watch as you explore habitats around our Visitor Center and Seneca Trail. Learn the differences between frogs and toads, about their life cycles, and where they live. Craft: Make a toad house!
July 25: Insects and Other Crawly Friends – Follow our guides along the Seneca Trail on a BUG HUNT! Look high and low – even under logs – for insects and other crawling creatures. Learn about insect camouflage! Use an insect net to catch one from the fields. Take a closer look at your discovery in our magnifying bug boxes. Craft: Make a stick bug!
August 22: Are you a Butterfly? – Take a walk with our guides to the refuge’s Monarch Waystation – a special habitat created with butterflies in mind! Learn the difference between butterflies and moths. Help our guides catch a butterfly or moth for closer observation in our magnifying bug box. Craft: Create a butterfly life cycle!
In addition to Nature Explorers, the refuge will host a weekly Nature Storytime, beginning July 12, 10:00 – 11:30 am. Each Friday from July 12 – August 30, children will meet with Miss Gayle at the Refuge Visitor Center on her eagle nest storytime mat, where she will read a nature-themed children’s story. The group will do a related craft and then head outside (weather-permitting) to explore nature first-hand. Topics will include things like birds (nesting, waterfowl, birds of prey), wildflowers and pollinators (bees, butterflies, bats), dragonflies, turtles, fox and other mammals. Nature Storytime is designed for ages pre-K – 3rd grade.
Parents are required to stay with their children during these programs. Please come prepared with sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy shoes. There is no fee for either program.
To pre-register, please call (315) 568-5987. For more information, email andrea_vanbeusichem@fws.gov
Learn more about the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge by clicking here.
