Animal Adaptations

How do animals survive in the wild? They have special adaptations! Meet and interact with a variety of animals in this exciting, hands-on program. We’ll contrast and compare the physical and behavioral adaptations of the live animals we meet. (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS1.A, LS3.B, LS2.C, LS4.C, LS4.D)

Owls

Wow your students with live owls in the classroom!  Owls have unique adaptations that make them efficient predators. This program also includes dissection of an owl pellet! (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS1.A, LS3.B, LS2.C, LS4.C, LS4.D)

On the Wing

How does a bird fly? What does a bird eat? What makes birds of prey different from other birds? Students will meet feathered friends up close! (They may pet a domestic or nonnative bird in this program, but will not be able to touch the birds of prey.) (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS1.A, LS3.B, LS2.C, LS4.C, LS4.D)

Pond Study

Only available onsite at Earthplace. 

Frog Hollow Pond awaits you! This outdoor program gives kids a chance to explore life in the pond, learn about the importance of bioindicators, and how this pond connects to larger ecosystem health. We might find tadpoles, dragonfly nymphs, and even leeches! It’s a wild world under the water’s surface, and this is a fantastic way to safely learn all about it.  (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS1.A, LS3.B, LS2.C, LS4.C, LS4.D)

Forest Ecology

Only available onsite at Earthplace. 

Discover the forest of the Connecticut outdoors! This program starts with meeting some of our animal ambassadors and ends on a trail walk to examine the forest communities. Learn how forests evolve over time, what happens when there’s a break in the canopy, and how forest layers are so significant for the organisms living within them. (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS4.C, LS4.D, LS1.A, LS1.C)

Water Cycles and Watersheds

Only available onsite at Earthplace. 

Everyone lives in a watershed, and everyone is a part of the water cycle! In this hands-on program, students will learn about the long history of water and how they play a role in a water droplet’s journey. Students can also explore valuable wetlands on the Earthplace property. (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS4.C, LS4.D, LS1.A, LS1.C)

Soils and You

Rocks and soils are the foundation of every ecosystem. Learn how soil is made, and how it plays a significant role in our surroundings, supporting all life itself. (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS2.A, LS2.B)

Intertidal Ecology

This super fun program takes place at Compo Beach, where students can explore the harsh environment of a strip marsh. Students will collect plants and animals and discuss the adaptations that allow them to withstand the extremes of their habitat. Turn a beach visit into a learning opportunity! (Meets Next Generation Science Standards: LS4.D, LS1.A, LS1. C, LS2.A, LS2.B, LS2.C)