Wetlands for Kids

In cooperation with Ducks Unlimited, the Missouri Department of Conservation hosted Wetlands for Kids at Busch Conservation Area. It was an awesome day! At the registration table, the boys got a goodie bag with a patch, a button, an activity book, a copy of Puddler magazine, and a Ducks Unlimited camoflauge hat. Inside the Nature Center, men were demonstrating fly tying. The boys each chose a "bug" to attach to their hats.

Will and Quinn also got to try their hand at casting a fishing line and shooting a bow and arrow.



Down at the lake, the boys used large skimmer nets to find wetland creatures.

Someone found this adorable baby Painted Turtle,

while someone else found this tadpole.

All we found was mud.

Also in the lake, retriever dogs were being demonstrated. The boys were excited to have a chance to throw the dog bumper in the water.

Near the lake there was a tent set up with common Missouri fishes, reptiles, and amphibians. We met Peanut the Turtle, a Red Eared Slider who knows firsthand the dangers of litter. The boys touched a Red Milk Snake.

We also sampled catfish, hung out in a "beaver lodge," and viewed raptors. We are looking forward to this event again next year!