Have you ever explored your backyard jungle? Rolled over a log? Or turned over a rock? So many wild animals call our backyards home, or at least pass through. Come join the Outdoor Discovery Center as we go on safari and explore our wild backyards with the help of our captive animal ambassadors.

Live animals, taxidermy and artifacts will be used during the presentation. Depending on the size of the audience, animals may be shared during the presentation or at its conclusion for an open format exploration time.

The Center’s birds of prey, including hawks, owls and falcons, will be used to share their life history and habitat. Depending on the group size, birds will be walked around or brought out after the presentation for viewing. Hands-on artifacts will include skulls, feathers, pelts, and talons.

Michigan is home to a diversity of reptile species. We are fortunate to house a number of live, native reptiles that can be used in educational programs. Audiences will learn how a reptile differs from other animal groups and how to identify them. Hands-on artifacts include skins, skulls, eggs, and shells of several species native to Michigan.

A wetland is a home for a wide variety of plants and animals. Our staff will share live examples of both vertebrate and invertebrate organisms that can be found in and near wetlands in Michigan. Animals may include toads, frogs, salamanders, fish, leeches, dragonflies, damselflies and more. Our naturalist will offer insight into the organism’s life history and habitat. A number of animals will be used and available to touch during the program.

This program focuses on introducing audiences to Michigan wildlife. Live animals including reptiles, amphibians and birds will be used during the presentation. People will learn unique characteristics of animals and how they fit into our diverse ecosystems. Hands-on artifacts include skins, skulls, wings, feathers and talons of several species native to Michigan.

Owls capture the attention of almost anyone who is lucky enough to encounter them in the wild. This live bird program will highlight several common owl species and show participants how they can encourage them to live in their backyard. Hands-on artifacts include feathers, pelts, skulls, and talons.