Join renowned biologist Samuel Jaffe at Drumlin Farm a day of exploration and discovery with his “Caterpillar Lab” on Saturday, Sept. 12. Through a combination of photographs, art, scientific study and live animals, visitors will marvel at the variety, beauty and behavior of these creatures. Take a look at giant caterpillars as they inch their way along branches and even get a chance to hold them! All activities are free with admission ($8 for adults, $6 for seniors and children age 2-12, free for Mass Audubon members).
Schedule of free drop-in activities (weather permitting):
- 10 a.m. — Curious Chickens: Did you know that chickens eat insects? Learn about the ecology behind our egg-mobile and pastured chickens.
- 10:30 a.m. — Meet a Pond Turtle: Turtles love ponds because of the water and tasty insects that live in them! Join us for an up-close look at one of our native turtles.
- 11:30 a.m. — Busy Bees: Check out one of our new beehives and learn some of the science behind these fascinating pollinators.
- 12:30 p.m. — Meet a Screech Owl: You probably know that owls are nocturnal, but have you ever thought about the food that’s around at night for an owl to eat? Join us to find out!
- 2:00 p.m. — Meet a Songbird: Meet one of our resident small birds and learn why being an “insectivore” is important for the environment.
- 2:30 p.m. — Cockroaches, Meal Worms, and Crickets, Oh My! Check out the creepy critters in our insect collection and find your favorite.
- 3:30 p.m. — Exploring Compost and Worms: Do you know the difference between a worm and a caterpillar? Come find out as we explore the world beyond the dirt.
- 3:45 p.m. — Meet a Kestrel: Watch out, crickets and grasshoppers, here comes New England’s smallest raptor!
Ongoing throughout the day:
- Sam Jaffe’s Caterpillar Lab (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Caterpillar/Butterfly Crafts
- Insect Scavenger Hunt