Muddy Trekkers Camp, 07.26 - 07.30
Campers this week took a deep dive (some literally!) into the muddy waters of the nature center pond. We learned about this unique ecosystem and many of the animals that call this habitat home.
Monday: 07/26
Theme: Water and habitat
We began the week with a scavenger hunt as well as discussed WATER! Campers played the Incredible Water Journey and designed water filtration systems.
Tuesday: 07/27
Theme: Invertebrates
Worms always keep the attention of campers! We discussed red wrigglers and how they are not native to Michigan. Campers had to think through the needs of these worms as they constructed habitats for our wiggly friends. We played the “Great Diving Beetle” game. Campers had a balloon clipped to their shirt and had to move through an obstacle course before their “air” (aka balloon) deflated. This represented the air bubble that these types of beetles hold onto as they dive down in the pond.
In the afternoon, campers also made a yummy treat - dirt pudding cups. While not the most nutritious of snacks, constructing the pudding cups helps campers to learn about layers of earth that compose the soil. We finished the day pond dipping with our dip nets. Campers pulled up many invertebrates and had the opportunity to try to idenfity them. It was an exciting day of camp!
Wednesday: 07/28
Theme: Fish
Campers used watercolors to create pond inspired book marks. But the highlight of the day was fishing! The pond has many fish including bass and blue gill that are quick to take a bite of the bait.
Thursday: 07/29
Theme: Amphibians and Reptiles
Campers learned about life cycles and the many variables that a young tadpole in a pond faces as they try to develop into a frog, through a fun, high energy game. In the afternoon, campers made a “mini beast mansion” using pallets and other found items to encourage creepy, crawly, visitors.
We had a visit from a Certified Master Herpatologist, Joey, who brought some friends including a corn snake, San Luis Potosi king snake, northern pine snake, Brazilian rainbow boa, and a rose-haired tarantula.
Friday: 07/30
Theme: FUN!
We finished the week with a high energy day! In the morning, campers went hiking and canoeing. We finished the week off with a field day. Campers visited the mud kitchen and completed a series of age-old games including a potato sack race, wheel barrow race, and other exciting relays. The last game of the day was a camp wide crud-war. Where else can you have a food fight?
We appreciate your participation this week! Looking forward to seeing you next summer :)
Please follow this link to access additional photos from the week.