Camouflage Critters
Some can hide, others can run or fly. All animals have adaptations that enable them to survive in the wild and reproduce. In this program, students learn about a variety of animal adaptations through activities and a discovery hike.

Get Growing
Plant some seeds and watch them grow! Transplant flowers to take home! Caring for plants can be a valuable learning experience for any child. We'll highlight the importance of plants and trees to wildlife and people, discuss the basics of seed germination and growth, and get our hands messy as we do some gardening.

Goin’ Batty
Bats have been the source of superstition and myths since the beginning of time. However, these fascinating creatures, our only true flying mammals, have been maligned and we need to set the record straight. Students will learn about these amazing animals through discussion and hands-on activities. Older children will compare themselves to bats by “goin’ batty” at different stations. This is a great program for the classroom.

Habitats-R-Home
What animals call "home" is as varied as the number of hiding places there are in the forest. Students will learn about a variety of habitats and the animals that use them. We will also examine the four essentials of life (food, water, shelter and space) and their importance to wildlife through a habitat hike.

Incredible Insects
There is a small little world out there that we always forget. Their numbers far exceed all other species and their diversity is astounding. During this program students will learn about these fascinating 6-legged creatures and search for them along the trails of the preserve.

Making Sense
Animals rely on their senses for survival. People have five senses. Do you think our senses are the same as the animals? We find out in this interactive program that entails numerous hands-on learning activities and a hike through the forest.

Our Rotting World
Through a hike, discussion and a visit to our recycling center, students will learn the importance of recycling. Students will also discover nature's own recycling systems while exploring roten logs.

Raptors Rule!
Find out more about Indiana’s raptors and their habits. In this program you will encounter live birds of prey, learn about their excellent hearing, and get the answer to the question: “Can owls really turn their heads all the way around?”

Tracks & Trails
Many creatures exist in the wild, though we may not always see them. They may be active only at night, or may quickly take cover when humans come near. By looking carefully though, you may find signs that these animals have been around. A sign might be a track left by feet, paws, or tail, a burrow, tuft of hair, a nibbled branch, or scat. Learn to observe and identify signs of wildlife while hiking the Wesselman Woods trails with a naturalist. Each participant will also make a Plaster of Paris track to take home.

Tremendous Trees

Trees are the largest growing and longest living members of the plant kingdom. What better place to learn about trees than in an old growth forest? Come discover these plants - from bark to heartwood, from roots to crowns and every in between. We'll learn about trees through many close up examples, hand-on activities and a hike through the woods.

Wild About Animals
Everyday we see or hear members of the wild kingdom in our very own neighborhoods. Learn more about Southern Indiana’s most abundant animals, and discover what it means to be "wild". Can you move like an animal? Sound like an animal? We find out in this fun program . We'll also take a hike to search for creatures living here at Wesselman Woods.

Campfire Rental
There is no better way to end the day than toasting marshmallows and hot dogs next to a fire. You can add this to one of our other programs for an excellent day in the woods. We provide the fire and roasting sticks, and you provide all the fixin’s.

Kid’s Pioneer Days (Last week of April)
This hands-on event is an exciting opportunity for children & adults to learn about pioneer life. Travel back in time as you visit the various stations around the Preserve: try your hand at candle-dipping, archery, pottery, butter-churning, broom-making, pioneer toys, games, and more. Some period demonstrations of spinning, lace tatting, live animals, etc., may be included.Students will make items to take home with them.

LINK to PDF Kid’s Pioneer Days Brochure (doesn't work)

Off-Site Programs

Unable to visit us in person? Plan for a naturalist to visit you! We can bring a bit of nature to your classroom, day-care, church, or club to teach a program of your choice. Our naturalists utilize live animals, hands-on activities and other exciting visuals to convey program concepts. Special pricing applies:

Within Vanderburgh County….Normal program fee per student (minimum $50)

Outside Vanderburgh County… Normal program fee per student…plus $50 travel fee

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