Wildlife Explorers Club
A nature discovery program for young adventurers!
Join local wildlife expert and Riverside Reptiles Education Center owner, Brian Kleinman, for an exciting journey into the wilds of East Granby! This hands-on adventure will take young nature enthusiasts deep into local habitats, where they'll uncover the secrets of the creatures that call them home.
We’ll spend most of our time exploring the diverse landscapes of East Granby Farms, with special excursions to Great Marsh & Beaver Dam Marsh and Granbrook Park.
Along the way, participants will learn the techniques field biologists use to find and observe wildlife responsibly, minimizing disturbance while collecting valuable data on the species we encounter.
This immersion program is perfect for kids who love nature, want to sharpen their observation skills, and are eager to explore the great outdoors. Get ready to track footprints, listen for bird calls, and discover the hidden world of local wildlife!
Ages: 8-12
Time/Dates: Fridays: April 25, May 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30th from 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Location: East Granby Farms, Great Marsh & Beaver Dam Marsh (May 9), Granbrook Park (May 23)
Cost: $185
Enrollment is limited so register soon!
4/25 – East Granby Farms
***Introduction to Wildlife Watching
- Explore the diverse ecosystems of East Granby Farms.
- Learn how to find, identify, and observe wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior.
- Discover how to use field guides and record observations in nature journals.
5/2 – East Granby Farms
***Bird watching for Beginners
- Focus on the fascinating world of birds (but don’t worry we won’t overlook other cool creatures!).
- Learn how to properly use binoculars.
- Understand key techniques for bird identification and observation.
5/9 – Great Marsh & Beaver Dam Marsh (Meet at the bike path parking area off Copper Hill)
***Swamp People
- Discover the difference between a wooded swamp (Great Marsh) and an open cattail marsh (Beaver Dam Marsh).
- Search for species that thrive under dense swamp canopies vs. open wetland areas.
- Explore hidden vernal pools and apply our wildlife tracking skills to record as many species as possible!
5/16 – East Granby Farms
***Bug Safari
- Get up close and personal with the world of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates.
- Learn how to safely capture and observe tiny creatures.
- Try out macro photography to see these fascinating animals in incredible detail!
5/23 – Granbrook Park (Meet at Granbrook Park)
***Stream Study
- Dive into one of Connecticut’s highest-rated water quality streams.
- Investigate the rich aquatic life that calls Salmon Brook home.
- Be prepared to get wet on this exciting water-based exploration!
5/30 – East Granby Farms
***Wildlife Biologists in Action
- Put your new skills to the test with a final wildlife survey across East Granby Farms.
- Compare how ecosystems and animal activity have changed over the past 28 days.
- Enjoy a special visit from residents of Riverside Reptiles Education Center, where we’ll meet and learn about local snakes up close!
Requirements:
- Ability to walk at least one mile through various terrain (sometimes a little more, sometimes a little less) each session.
Materials Needed:
- Nature Journal (will be provided)
- Binoculars (if you have a pair)
- Appropriate clothing and footwear for exploring and getting dirty. No sandals or open-toed shoes, comfortable boots or old sneakers are fine. Water shoes, boots, crocs, or old sneakers for Granbrook Park Stream Study (no bare feet).
- Water Bottle and snack if needed.