Virtually Wild Texas

Nocturnal Nature-The Science of Adapting to the Dark

Description: Owls, flying squirrels, bats, and opossums are pretty cool critters that have at least one thing in common – they are nocturnal. Nocturnal means they are most active at night time. How do they see in the dark? How do they catch food in the dark? How are they adapted to life in the dark of night? The Friends of Texas Wildlife, a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer organization, will shed some “light” on the science behind nocturnality and the roles these creatures play in the ecosystem. You will also learn about how you can help sick or injured wildlife. Virtually meet ambassador education animals that love the night life, and learn how to speak “owl”!

Presenter:  Amanda Medina, Education Coordinator
Location: Friends of Texas Wildlife, Magnolia, Texas
Provider: Friends of Texas Wildlife, Texas A&M Service W.G Jones State Forest, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Houston Community Partnerships and Engagement Program, Region 4 Education Service Center
Cost: Free
Audience: This program is planned at a 2nd – 5th grade level, although there will be information that is suitable for other grade levels. 

Science TEKS:

Grade 2: 1A, 1E, 4B, 5F, 13B
Grade 3: 1A, 1E, 4B, 5F, 13A
Grade 4: 1A, 1E, 4B, 5F, 13B
Grade 5: 1A, 1E, 4B, 5F, 5G, 13A

Super Cool Reptiles

Description: Join staff naturalists from Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center in Humble, Texas to learn all about snakes, turtles, tortoises and more! Learn about fascinating reptiles found in Texas and across the U.S., including how to identify them, what they eat, how they live their lives, and what to do if you encounter one in the wild. We might even get a bonus visit from “Lucky”, the 13 ft. Burmese python! Whether reptiles fascinate you or not, they play an important role in nature, and this is your opportunity to learn more and meet them up close and personal!  

Presenter: Christina Hartman, Assistant Park Manager 

Location: Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center, Humble, TX 

Provider: Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Houston Community Partnerships and Engagement Program, Texas A&M Forest Service, Region 4 Education Service Center

Cost: Free 

Audience: This program is planned at a 2nd – 5th grade level, but students of all ages will gain useful vocabulary and an understanding of reptiles.

Science TEKS: 

Grade 2: 3C, 4B, 5F, 12A, 12B, 13B

Grade 3: 3C, 4B, 5F, 12B, 13A
Grade 4: 3C, 4B, 5F, 12B
Grade 5: 3C, 4B, 5F, 12B, 13A, 13B