Bug Bonanza - FREE COMMUNITY PROGRAM

Join families for an afternoon celebrating the natural world's smallest creatures at this free community program. Kids and adults will get hands-on with live insects, courtesy of visiting ambassador animals from Riverside Reptiles, and create bug-themed crafts to take home. The highlight is the Sanctuary Discovery Den experience, where visitors become pond explorers—dipping for real aquatic specimens, examining authentic pond sediment, and using digital microscopes to observe water bugs up close. You'll learn how these tiny insects have adapted to underwater life, from rowing through water to breathing through snorkel-like tubes. This program welcomes all ages and offers a wonderful way to develop curiosity about nature and appreciate the creatures we often overlook. The two-hour event is led by Ken Elkins, the Sanctuary's Director of Education. There's no charge to attend, though registration is required beforehand. Please note that pets are not permitted at the sanctuary during this event.