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Earth Day at Thorn Creek Nature Center: Frogs and Toads and Salamanders


Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—April 18, 2012. Come see blue-spotted, spotted and tiger salamanders – local denizens of Thorn Creek Woods during our celebration of amphibians on Earth Day at Thorn Creek Woods April 22, Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. 

What kinds of frogs and toads and salamanders live in Thorn Creek Woods?  How can you tell the differences?  Where can you find them? And what sounds do they make? Come find out, get your Calling Frog and Toad Calendar, and make a toad house to take home too. The program is free and open to all ages.  Registration is not required

At 1 p.m. join us for a slide presentation – “Our Local Amphibians” exploring the frogs and toads and salamanders of Thorn Creek Woods.  David Mauger, retired Forest Preserve District of Will County Land Management Coordinator, specialized in amphibian and reptile research and conservation and will share his insights.

Dr. Bob Brodman will show us live salamander specimens – blue-spotted, spotted and tiger, plus unisexual species Jefferson’s and small-mouth salamanders.  Dr. Brodman is an Associate Professor of Biology and Environmental Science at St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer Indiana. His field research focuses on the ecology and conservation of amphibians in the Midwest.  He and his students monitor amphibian populations, study the relationship between habitat quality and amphibian populations, and behavioral ecology of the species.

At 2 p.m. join Dave Mauger, Dr. Brodman and Jon Mendelson for a hike.  Whether frogs and toads are calling or not, this is sure to be a fun spring walk in Thorn Creek Woods.

Lots of fun for everyone including a raffle, amphibian sounds and displays.  Make a toad house for your backyard.  Crafts and activities will be available throughout the day for all ages.

There will be a bake sale with plenty of things to satisfy your sweet tooth.   Bring your own reusable cup and receive free coffee, tea or juice throughout the day.   Ride your bike and leave your gas guzzling car at home and receive a coupon to attend a nature center program for free.  

Mark your calendars and celebrate Earth Day at Thorn Creek Nature Center on Sunday, April 22 from noon to 4 p.m.   Free fun for all ages!   Please watch for parking signs.    For more information, contact Thorn Creek Nature Center, 247 Monee Road, Park Forest, at 708-747-6320 or //us.mc1801.mail.yahoo.com/mc/[email protected]” target=”_blank”>[email protected]. The nature center is open Friday-Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. and trails are open daily, dawn to dusk.  


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