Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE – Native animal enthusiasts are invited to explore Wildwood Nature Preserve at dusk on March 14 in search of amphibians and reptiles.
The event is free, but an RSVP is required.
Register today online at lakes.grace.edu/events/expedition-herpetology-hike-2/.
With their smug, little grins, bright coloration and long tails, salamanders look like mythical creatures straight from a children's book. But these cute animals are most certainly real, and you can expect to find them and other amphibian and reptile species on this Expedition, according to a news release from The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams.
Join the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams and ACRES Wildwood Regional Manager Gavin King as he leads a group through the Wildwood Nature Preserve, searching for herps of all shapes and sizes. The hike will include open conversation covering topics such as:
• Salamander habitat and life cycle
• Importance of wetlands
• Role of different herps in our ecosystem
The hike will take place around dusk when the herps are most active and likeliest to be found. Red lights will be provided, and while participants are welcome to bring their own flashlights, the Lilly Center kindly request that they also bring red lights.
Red cellophane will be supplied for those who do not have a red light setting. Red light helps preserve night vision and makes it easier to spot herps in the dark while respecting their surroundings. The hike will likely be muddy, so wear shoes that can get dirty and wet. Bundle up as the temperatures will drop as the sun goes down.
If you have a love for all things herp or are simply seeking an adventure close to home, this is an event you won't want to miss.
This expedition is created in partnership with ACRES Land Trust. It is underwritten by DePuy Synthes, the Zimmer Biomet Foundation and City of Warsaw Stormwater Utility.
