Wildlife Education Programs

spotted turtle education program

Karen with spotted turtle Bud

The Center for Wildlife offers several popular school programs to educate children about wildlife rehabilitation and the animals around us.

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Karen and barred owl Bianca visit the York Public Library

Even though we prepare our kids for Karen’s visit, when she takes an owl like Bianca out of her cage to show the children, the gasp is audible, followed by an astonished...

"It IS real!"

Nancy Hotchkiss and Connie Parsons, Co-Directors of The Children’s Garden preschool in Portsmouth, NH

"We all knew that it was the animals who could tell their story better than anyone."
Karen McElmurry, Executive Director, The Center for Wildlife

4H members examine a painted turtle shell and some raptor talons in a hands-on lab learning about raptor and reptile adaptations.

Seventeen years ago the CFW made a decision to keep a non-releasable Barred owl that had injured her wing after being hit by a car. It was a learning experience for all of those involved but one that inspired everyone at the Center to look at the importance of education in the community and the local schools. "Bridget" was our first ambassador to our education programs and the experience of seeing her up close and personal left an invaluable impression on everyone who met her.

"Giving children the experience of learning about birds, raptors and reptiles first hand helps them develop a sense of wonder, curiosity and respect for the natural world."

Nancy Hotchkiss and Connie Parsons, Co-Directors of The Children’s Garden preschool in Portsmouth, NH

"The animals were stupendous! I liked the two turtles and the bird Freyja."

Sydney, 3-year-old attending program at the York Public Library

corn snake

Slider the corn snake

"I liked Bianca. Her eyes are so pretty I think because the eyes are so big and bold."

Riley, Mast Way School  

For more information or to inquire about how a program can be customized for your organization, please contact us

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Download our Educational Program Brochure


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