Learning Comes Alive with a Chewonki Natural History Presentation
We provide live, interactive experiences for your students, patrons, or private group as we explore intriguing animals and natural phenomena. Our team of science educators will join your group with one of 17 different captivating presentations full of live animals, rare specimens, and engaging activities that will spark curiosity and wonder in participants of all ages.
Upcoming Public Events:
July 29: Owls of Maine
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Millbridge Public Library.
July 30: Fur, Feathers & Feet
A great program for children from pre-school through 2nd grade. Discover the differences and similarities between birds and mammals as we encourage active learning by dressing two students in our bear and bird costumes. Hosted by 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
August 1: Owls of Maine
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft, ME.
August 3: Predators
Explore attitudes toward predators and reasons for their decline throughout history because of habitat loss and human interference. Discussion of current events emphasizes the importance of predators in maintaining the world’s ecological balance. Participants have the opportunity to study mounted animals and see three live, non-releasable predators. Hosted by the Spaulding Memorial Library.
August 6: Skeletons
Vertebrates — including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals—are some of the most advanced creatures on the planet. We all have one main thing in common: an internal skeleton. Students will gain a better understanding of the skeletal system by looking closely at the bones of many different vertebrates while comparing them to their own skeletons. The assembly of our 16-foot Pilot Whale skeleton will give participants the opportunity to investigate the physiological adaptations these animals require to survive in the depths of the ocean. Please note there are no live animals for this presentation.
Hosted by 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
August 7: The Bugmobile
Is a bug an insect? Is a spider a bug? Drop in and visit our display to find out the answer to these questions and many more. We look at the forms and functions of different groups of arthropods and explore many fascinating adaptations essential for survival such as mimicry, camouflage, armor and venom. We will have live specimens, displays, models and activities to visually examine and understand the unique characteristics of these amazing creatures. Hosted by Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, ME.
August 8: Tide Pools
The tide pool is home to a variety of species whose unique adaptations allow them to maintain stability in a world that is in a constant state of change. Hosted by Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, ME.
August 8: Tide Pools
The tide pool is home to a variety of species whose unique adaptations allow them to maintain stability in a world that is in a constant state of change. Hosted by Curtis Memorial Library in Brunswick, ME.
August 9: Owls of Maine
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Topsham Public Library.
August 9: Predators
Explore attitudes toward predators and reasons for their decline throughout history because of habitat loss and human interference. Discussion of current events emphasizes the importance of predators in maintaining the world’s ecological balance. Participants have the opportunity to study mounted animals and see three live, non-releasable predators. Hosted by the New Vineyard Public Library.
August 12: Biomimicry
Nature has already invented everything we need. If there is a problem we cannot solve, we can find the answer in nature, we just need to look closely and pay attention. Hosted by Readfield Public Library.
August 13: Mammals of Maine
This exciting and interactive program introduces students to our native warm-blooded vertebrates: Maine mammals.
Participant examine mounted animal specimens and observe their characteristics, such as teeth, feet, and fur. We use these observations as clues to understanding each mammal’s adaptations, niche, and habitat.
A collection of skulls, study skins, and other specimens complements a discussion of adaptations and the role each animal plays in the food web.
Hosted by 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
August 14: Biomimicry
Nature has already invented everything we need. If there is a problem we cannot solve, we can find the answer in nature, we just need to look closely and pay attention. Hosted by New Gloucester Public Library.
August 16: Skeletons
Vertebrates — including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals—are some of the most advanced creatures on the planet. We all have one main thing in common: an internal skeleton. Students will gain a better understanding of the skeletal system by looking closely at the bones of many different vertebrates while comparing them to their own skeletons. The assembly of our 16-foot Pilot Whale skeleton will give participants the opportunity to investigate the physiological adaptations these animals require to survive in the depths of the ocean. Please note there are no live animals for this presentation.
Hosted by Shaw Public Library in Greenville, ME.
August 17: The Bugmobile
Is a bug an insect? Is a spider a bug? These questions and many more are answered in The BugMobile, bringing the world of arthropods – insects and their relatives, into your classroom. We look at the forms and functions of different groups of arthropods and explore many fascinating adaptations essential for survival such as mimicry, camouflage, armor and venom. The program includes live specimens, displays, models and activities to visually examine and understand the unique characteristics of these amazing creatures. Hosted by the Lewsiton Public Library.
August 19: Mammals of Maine
This exciting and interactive program introduces students to our native warm-blooded vertebrates: Maine mammals.
Participant examine mounted animal specimens and observe their characteristics, such as teeth, feet, and fur. We use these observations as clues to understanding each mammal’s adaptations, niche, and habitat.
A collection of skulls, study skins, and other specimens complements a discussion of adaptations and the role each animal plays in the food web.
Hosted by Cary Memorial Library in Wayne, ME.
August 20: Animal Adaptations
In this fun-filled hour, students will learn about adaptations, try on fun costumes, and see firsthand how three of our live, non-releasable animals have adaptations that help them thrive in their specific habitats, including our local marine habitat. Hosted by the 7 Lakes Alliance in Belgrade, ME.
August 21: Scales & Tails
Many people conjure up images of slimy skin and bloodthirsty monsters when they hear the word “reptile.” Drop by our display and examine snakeskins, turtle shells, skeletons, and other unique reptilian artifacts. Hosted by Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, ME.
August 23: Owls of Maine
Two live owls are the highlights of this program, which introduces participants to the owls native to Maine and New England. Using pictures and sounds, participants will learn the identifying characteristics and calls of each owl. Then, using talons, wings, and skulls, we explore the adaptations of these silent nocturnal hunters. This program ends with an intimate and detailed look at live owls, bringing these creatures of the night into the light!
Hosted by Vassalboro Public Library.
August 24: The Bugmobile
Is a bug an insect? Is a spider a bug? These questions and many more are answered in The BugMobile, bringing the world of arthropods – insects and their relatives, into your classroom. We look at the forms and functions of different groups of arthropods and explore many fascinating adaptations essential for survival such as mimicry, camouflage, armor and venom. The program includes live specimens, displays, models and activities to visually examine and understand the unique characteristics of these amazing creatures. Hosted by the Waterville Public Library.
Learn More:
Since 1985, Chewonki has been home to a collection of ambassadors. Birds, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians arrive at our campus with injuries or conditions that prevent their return to the wild. Our teachers are extensively trained and take deep pleasure in making connections with students, and in passing on a lifelong appreciation for the value of wildlife and nature.
Our programs will help you enhance the environmental literacy of your children, students, or community members. They will spark interest and appreciation for sciences, wildlife, and conservation.
With support from business partners, we’re working to keep our Traveling Natural History Programs accessible and affordable for schools and companies like yours. Let us know how we can provide these high-quality programs for your school, library, organization, business, or seasonal program.
