We are kicking off the fall season on September 25 with a real treat — this time with critters that slither and hop! Did you know that Michigan has 18 species of snakes, 10 turtles, 13 frogs and toads, 10 salamanders, and 2 lizards? The folks from Nature Discovery will be giving a presentation on Michigan reptiles and amphibians, complete with live specimens! They will share information about the biology and ecology of local reptiles and amphibians, individual species’ habitats and characteristics, and factors that may contribute to population declines and what we can do to help their survival. Nature’s Discovery has produced a CD on Frogs of the Great Lakes Region which is helpful in the spring to refresh my old memory on the various sounds of different frog species (just like getting the ears tuned up for warbler season)! Participants will have an opportunity to handle some of the animals. Jim McGrath, the founder of Nature Discovery, has a degree in Wildlife Biology and has over 34 years of experience as an interpretive naturalist. He works with his wife, Carol, who also has degrees in biology and chemistry and has worked for 24 years in wildlife education. They bring a wealth of knowledge and a love of sharing it with others.

We hope you'll join us on Monday, September 25, at People's Church, 1758 North 10th Street, Kalamazoo. This program is geared to all audiences and we enthusiastically invite families and nature lovers of any age to join us! For this special program, we will start earlier than usual. Come at 6:00 PM for some refreshments and socializing. Snacks and beverages will be provided. The one-hour program will start at 6:30. Masks are recommended but not required in the church. Handicap parking and access is at either the front or the rear entrance of the building.