Junior Naturalist Class

The first class was held on T. 9/15.

The topic was "What's Happening in Santa Clara County Parks," and the focus was on beavers.

After a 150 year absence, beavers have returned to Santa Clara County. They were spotted in both the Guadalupe River, near Los Gatos Creek.

With instructor, Melissa Poly, students located these areas on a local map, as well as our local Bay Area on a California map.

They learned about habitats, and discussed native species, and also invasive species. (underlined words are vocabulary words used during this lesson.)

Then the Jr. Naturalists read about about the life cycle and habits of the beaver, including building dams, and lodges.

Using gathered materials such as rocks, twigs, and bark, and paint, glue, and brown paper bag, they constructed their own beaver "lodge" and mounted it in a pond.

( a board or paper they painted blue to replicate a wetland setting)

Using additional rocks, twigs, and greenery, they added dams and other features to add realism to their habitat.

(Photos attached- use 1 or how many you think is best.) Fiona's is #327

Upcoming classes in this series will include:

Bats and other nocturnal animals

Watercycle, watersheds, and drought conditions

Pumpkins, gourds, and other seasonal plants.

And more local animals and plant life..

Join us anytime. There are 11 more classes in this series, running from 9/15-12/15/15.

Contact Chrysallis today.