Darke County Park District invites children in kindergarten through 2nd grade to join them on December 10th from 10am to 12pm to explore coyotes during Park P.A.L.S! Explore the world of Ohio’s largest wild canine! Students are encouraged to bring their sense of adventure as they learn how these predators fit in to the ecosystem and how they are adapting to urban living. They’ll study tracks, fur, and scat as they do fun activities to discover more about the cunning coyote.

Park P.A.L.S. is a series of monthly programs designed for students of this age group who are interested in nature. P.A.L.S. stands for Practicing And Learning Stewardship, and its mission is to develop future earth stewards through meaningful educational opportunities and hands-on experiences in the natural world. A fee of $3 is charged for the program, and registration is required. For any questions about the Park P.A.L.S. program or any other park district programs or to register for the December class, please call the nature center at (937) 548-0165.

Did you know? A group of coyotes is called a band.

The Darke County Park District invites the public to join them every first and third Tuesday mornings at 8am at Shawnee Prairie Preserve for their Early Morning Discovery Hikes. These hikes allow adults a chance to watch the seasons change and to discover the many life forms in their own backyard. Invigorating winter morning air makes this a great time to enjoy and learn about nature. These walks focus on bird watching, tree identification, winter animal tracks, and much more. Attendees are asked to bring a pair of binoculars if possible; otherwise some are available for loan. Hikes will be held regardless of weather, so please remember to dress to be outside. If you have any questions about the Early Morning Discovery Hikes or any other program offered by the park district, please call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165 or visit the website at www.darkecountyparks.org.