WHITE MEMORIAL CONSERVATION CENTER
Connecticut has 8 different kinds of freshwater turtles, and each species has its own fascinating qualities. Along with a digital presentation that covers the natural and cultural significance of turtles, you’ll get to meet a couple live turtles up close. Learn why these animals capture our interest and our hearts, and how we can protect them!
Travel to the far reaches of Europe in this digital presentation by Director of Administration, Gerri Griswold. Gerri and her “traveling triumvirate” were drawn here to experience the annual Surva International Festival of Masquerade Games in Pernik, where, since pagan times, men and now women dress in elaborate costumes representing spirits who chase away evil winter and welcome the upcoming spring. Learn about this ancient nation’s rich history, both past and present. From Roman ruins to Byzantium to decrepit reminders of Communism, from the Black Sea to the breathtaking Rila Monastery set high in the mountains, you’ll fall in love with Bulgaria.
Can you imagine what kind of adventures animals have to go on in their lifetimes? Using live animals and fun props, we’ll highlight some harrowing journeys of our local animals, such as turtles crossing dangerous roads and young birds taking their first flights. This program includes a short “storytime” for our younger audiences.
NGSS: (K)-ESS3.C; (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS2.C, LS4.C,D; CC: Structure & Function; Stabilty & Change
During this program about bats for kids, students, and families, let us take you from fearing this often-maligned animal to loving their uniqueness and appreciating how beneficial they are to the planet. While there are no live bats in this program, we will use a fun photo/video presentation and interactive activities to count down all the reasons why bats are simply the coolest, and why they need to be saved.
NGSS: (4)-LS1.1.4; (4)-LS1.2; (MS)-LS2.4; (MS)-LS2.5; (MS)-ESS3.3; (HS)-LS4.4; CC: Cause & Effect; Stability & Change; Structure & Function
We are so lucky to be graced with the presence of ruby-throated hummingbirds during the spring and summer. While they are undeniably beautiful, there is even more to these birds than meets the eye! We’ll cover a range of fascinating facts about the ruby-throated hummingbird during this photo and video presentation, from their unique adaptations to their amazing migration ability. Several biological props, such as a hummingbird nest and egg, will be shown as well.
Rat-a-tat-tat…who is that? Using slides, videos, taxidermy mounts, and audio calls, we will cover the features, behaviors, and fun facts of all the woodpecker species that call CT home.
Sneaky, sneaky! Over time, certain animals have evolved unique adaptations to trick their foes. Through the use of camouflage, warning colors, and downright cunning behaviors, these animals have found ways to survive in a competitive world. We’ll cover these various methods of trickery using native CT animals as examples. You’ll even get to meet a couple live ambassadors! NOTE: There are two different versions of this program for an outreach: the “tech” version and the “non-tech” version. If your facility has access to a screen/projector or Smartboard, we’ll present the “tech” version that includes a slide/video presentation. Otherwise, the “non-tech” version uses natural props and printed pictures. Both versions include live animals.
NGSS: (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS3.B; (3)-LS4.C; (4)-LS1.A; (MS)-LS1.B; (MS)-LS4.B,C; (HS)-LS4.C; CC: Structure & Function
Monarch butterflies are known for their beauty, but they also perform amazing feats like complete metamorphosis and cross-country migration! Learn about one of the most awe-inspiring insects on the planet during this photo and video presentation. The monarch has also become a species in peril, so we will discuss ways to contribute to their conservation.
Freshwater wetland ecosystems dot the landscape at White Memorial and throughout CT. They host a unique array of wildlife species. We’ll cover the characteristics of several types of wetlands and highlight which animals and plants you may be lucky to see there. This program is primarily a slide show, but two live animals are featured!
NGSS: (HS)-LS2.C; (HS)-LS4.C and D
As we hike around nearby Ongley Pond, we’ll focus our attention on aspects of nature you might not see in warmer months, such as birds bouncing around in bare branches and bright natural colors that pop against a snowy, white background. We’ll also discuss how animals that remain active in winter cope with harsher conditions. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear! While the trail may be slightly packed down by past hikers, it is not plowed. This program is good for small groups or large groups that need rotation options. Onsite only.
NGSS: (K)-LS1.C; (1)-LS1.A; (2)-LS4.D; (3)-LS4.C; (4)-LS1.A; (5)-LS2.A; (MS)-LS2.A,B,C; SEP: Carrying Out Investigations; CC: Systems, Structure & Function; Stability & Change
