From the tiny brown snake to the Great Horned Owl, Darke County Parks have many species waiting to meet you! Join a naturalist on Saturday, February 11th at 2pm to visit with the animals. Learn why these animals live at the Nature Center and what it takes to care for them on a daily basis. Find out why each is an important part of the ecosystem and how you can help keep them safe. Bring a friend and prepare to have an up-close encounter as you see (and possibly touch!) some of the most amazing native animals that call Darke County home. Remember to call the Nature Center for more information or to register for this free program at (937) 548-0165.

Did you know? Box Turtles get their name from their shell which has a hinge, enabling it to close completely, protecting the turtle from predators. 

Winter’s chilly weather brings with it unique hiking opportunities, and Darke County Parks is going to grab them. On February 9th at 6:30pm join a naturalist at Eidson Woods Preserve on the corner of St. Rt. 502 West and Palestine-Union City Rd. to enjoy the full snow moon. Remember to dress for the cold evening temperatures and to bring a flashlight if you choose. In the event of cloudy skies, call the Nature Center to find out about possible cancellation. For more information about this or any of the other exciting hikes in this season’s series or other park district programs, please call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165.

Did you know? This month’s full moon is called the Snow Moon because the heaviest snows fall in February. Hunting is very difficult, and so some Native American tribes called this the Hunger Moon.