Want to have some fun, learn about animals, and enjoy a fall
evening? That’s exactly what many guests
experienced at Pioneer Ridge’s Annual Halloween Night Hike. Our county’s Conservation Commission teamed
up with a crew of volunteers to offer two evenings of "edutainment" about animals
that migrate, as the theme for this year’s hike was Magnificent Migrators.
Guests began at the Nature Center
at Pioneer Ridge and were formed into groups of 15-25. Groups left with the Natural Center
every 10 minutes with a guide to make their way around the 1.5 mile paved path
to visit the various stations where migrating animals were being portrayed.
First up were the pelicans—a mama and “teenage” pelican.
The path continued to the hummingbirds—a mama and child
hummingbird were being portrayed.
The dragonflies were up next.
Silver haired bats were next on the trail and were the only
migrating mammal in the bunch.
The endangered Sooty Shearwater birds were next to share
information with guests.
A Monarch Butterfly shared its needed migrating conditions with guests.
A family of Canadian Geese greeted guests at the next to
last stop on the trail.
Lastly, a pair of salmon informed guests in between their
bickering.
When guests completed the “hike” portion of the evening,
there was even more fun. . . and goodies, waiting for them in the lower level
of the Nature Center .
Volunteers provided cookies and other sweet treats along
with coffee and hot chocolate.
Balloon figures were available for the kiddos.
Cotton Candy was a hit.
And face painting was available. All done by volunteers!
Guests are welcome to done their Halloween gear when joining
in the hike. Just dress for the
weather! It can be chilly to down right
cold during the evening. This year, we
had beautifully weather. . . windy and a
bit chilly on Friday night and just a bit brisk on Saturday night. Mother Nature even graced us with an almost
full moon and clear skies for star gazing.
This creative, safe, educational endeavor is a favorite fall
experience for guests and volunteers alike.
This marks the 9th year of our family’s participation in the
Halloween Night Hike and the 2nd year of the husband and the boy
portraying animals. (Click here to read about last year’s Hike.)
Mark your calendars for next year. We’ll see you there!
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