AXL 7th Graders Get Hands-On with Skulls, Skins, and Pond Critters at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Written by CI Field Instructor Shawn Heyland.
The plan for Ms. E’s 7th-grade AXL trip was to head out into nearby nature to learn about wildlife in a fun, engaging way. We visited Golden Gate Canyon State Park for a presentation on animal Skins and Skulls led by park staff. During the educational outdoor presentation, students learned about local wildlife, including moose, beaver, bears, and many other mammals. Each mammal’s unique adaptations (its natural superpowers) to the environment were discussed, along with intriguing questions. Did you know a male moose’s antlers can grow up to one inch per day? Everyone had the opportunity to handle real fur and skulls of these very animals to solidify their understanding of the species discussed.
The next big chunk of our day was spent looking for macroinvertebrates to catch and release at Kriley Pond. Even though the clouds rolled in and the wind picked up, the students didn’t hesitate to start their search for pond critters. Rather quickly, crayfish were located under rocks lining the shore and scooped up with nets and containers. Time flew by as everybody searched the water’s edge for signs of pond life. A few students even caught baby crayfish the size of a fingernail. The excitement was high for our pond scavenger hunt. Leaving Kriley Pond, there were some wet shoes and socks amongst the group. Catching cool critters was more important than dry Nikes to some students. Good thing we packed extras!
The day spent at Golden Gate Canyon State Park was rich in learning about the local wildlife that resides on both land and in the water. The immersive experiences of both the Skins and Skulls presentation and the hands-on macroinvertebrate searching left the students feeling more connected to nature. Everyone had a fun day having school outside of school and catching some fresh air, too.
A big thanks to the funders and supporters that make the CAP class possible, including: Enterprise Holdings Foundation, Great Outdoors Colorado, Patagonia, PeyBack Foundation, Strear Family Foundation, Thorne Nature Experience, Tony Grampsas Youth Services Program, Walton Family Foundation, and the Xcel Energy Foundation.
If you’re also passionate about getting students outdoors for hands-on learning experiences, please consider making a donation or becoming a monthly donor! You’ll help invest in our students, programs, and long-term sustainability and success!
