Join us for a special selection of star shows and animal encounters in honor of Presidents’ Day!

10:30 a.m. - Wonders of Wildlife
11:00 a.m. - Sky Safari
11:30 a.m. - Twinkle Tots
12:00 p.m. - Stellar Stars
1:00 p.m. - Mini Missions
2:00 p.m. - Sky Tonight

Each program is $5/person. Children 6 months and under are free. Link in bio for tickets

Show your love this Valentine’s Day by gifting a Wild Pal

Your symbolic adoption will support the food, medical care, and maintenance of the Lake Erie Nature & Science Center animal ambassador of your choice. Learn more by clicking the link in our bio.

This Valentine’s Day, spend time with your loved ones gazing at the most beautiful planet in the solar system
 
Venus is visible in the southwestern sky right after sunset. Named after the Greek goddess of love and beauty, #Venus is the third brightest object in the sky after the Sun and the full Moon.
 
Join us for Stellar Stars to learn more about the different destinations in our solar system. Recommended for ages 3 – 7. View schedule and purchase tickets through the link in our bio.
 
: NASA/JPL-Caltech

It’s #SuperbOwlSunday!

Visit the superb owls of Lake Erie Nature & Science Center during free general admission or register for our upcoming Owl Prowl on Friday, February 21 at 6 p.m. Tickets available in our bio.

: Iris, our resident Eastern Screech Owl

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s nature-based preschool serves children ages one to six with age-appropriate activities to support social, physical, and academic development. Children explore the wonders of science and nature with hands-on activities, crafts, music, live animal encounters, and planetarium shows.

Registration is open and ongoing for 2025-2026 preschool sessions. View offerings and register using the link in our bio.

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offers college students the opportunity to gain unique career experience in the areas of wildlife and education. Applications for Summer 2025 wildlife internships will be accepted through March 5.

Learn more and apply by visiting the link in our bio.

Registration is open and ongoing for 2025 Summer Camps at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center

Explore and connect with the outdoors, meet new friends, encounter local wildlife, and discover the wonders of the sky in Schuele Planetarium. View offerings and register through the link in our bio. To be added to a waitlist, please email info@lensc.org.

Did you know? American Kestrels are the smallest falcon in North America. They can be found year round in northern Ohio.

: Darwin, our resident American Kestrel

Join us for a special selection of planetarium shows and animal encounters in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day!

10:30 a.m. - Wonders of Wildlife
11:00 a.m. - Sky Safari
11:30 a.m. - Twinkle Tots
12:00 p.m. - Stellar Stars
1:00 p.m. - Sky Tonight
2:00 p.m. - Unique Universe

Each program is $5/person. Children 6 months and under are free. Reserve tickets at www.lensc.org/program-calendar.

Join us this evening at 6:30 p.m. for Astronomy Club

Explore the world of astronomy in a fun, social environment. Planetarium Specialist and NASA Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed will share what’s new in space, the latest gadgets, astro-tainment, and mind-blowing facts.

Annual Fee: $60/household. Those interested in Astronomy Club are welcome to enjoy their first meeting at no cost. $5/person drop-in fee for returning visitors who do not purchase a membership.

Link in bio to register

Join us for Introduction to Beekeeping on Saturday, January 18 at 10 a.m.

The Center will be abuzz with excitement as beekeepers Scott and Kelly Danniger share their knowledge about beekeeping and local bee populations. Learn all about honeybees, what they do to support our environment and how to maintain a hive in your own backyard.

For adults and children ages 10 and up. Fee: $15/person. Visit the link in our bio to purchase tickets.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist Tim Jasinski was featured on the most recent episode of The American Birding Podcast by @americanbirdingassociation! He discusses the wildlife rehabilitation process at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center and shares ways individuals can help keep birds safe.

Click the link in our bio to listen

Winter break programming continues this week! Join us for a special selection of planetarium shows and animal encounters that are fun for all ages

10:30 a.m. – Wonders of Wildlife
11:00 a.m. – Sky Safari
11:30 a.m. – Twinkle Tots
12:00 p.m. – Stellar Stars
1:00 p.m. – Sky Tonight
2:00 p.m. – Mini Missions

Reserve your tickets by clicking the Program Calendar link in our bio. Please Note: The Center will be closed on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Looking for a unique activity over winter break?

Work alongside our wildlife staff and experience first-hand how we care for our resident animals in Junior Keeper. Behind the scenes, you will learn about native and domestic animals while providing food, clean housing and training. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos and up-close encounters with our animals!

January 2 or 3
9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

For ages 8 and up with one adult. If 16 or older, no adult chaperone necessary. Visit the link in our bio to register.

Today marks the first official day of winter

The winter solstice occurs when half of the Earth’s axis is tilted the farthest away from the Sun, resulting in the shortest day of the year (in the Northern Hemisphere). We will gradually gain more daylight between now and the summer solstice in June.

Take advantage of the longest night of the year by stargazing and listening for nocturnal wildlife!

Join us on Friday, December 20 at 6 p.m. for Winter Solstice Celebration

Take a lantern-lit night hike through the winter woods, meet native animals and learn how they adapt to the season, and make a simple craft near the cozy crackling fire. Spend time in Schuele Planetarium to learn the meaning of the solstice and tour the current night sky. Telescope viewing will be available, weather permitting!

Visit the link in our bio to purchase tickets

Winter Wonders
For ages 4 - 6

Come dressed for the weather and join us as we explore the wonders of winter. Enjoy live animal encounters, stories, games, crafts and hands-on nature and science experiences. Each class will have a different theme, so register for one or more dates!

December 16, 17, 18, 19, or 27
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Fee: $45/child per class. Note: 3-year-olds currently enrolled in Nature Nuts may register for Winter Wonders. Learn more and register using the link in our bio.

Join us for Hawk Walk on Sunday, December 8 at 1 p.m.

Meet our resident Red-tailed hawk, Sequoia, and learn about these awesome raptors. Hike with our Wildlife Specialist through Huntington Reservation to search for hawks in the wild.

Fee: $10/person. For all ages. Link in bio for tickets

Get ready for the longest night of the year

Take a lantern-lit night hike through the winter woods, meet native animals and learn how they adapt to the season, and make a simple craft near the cozy crackling fire. Spend time in Schuele Planetarium to learn the meaning of the solstice and tour the current night sky. Telescope viewing will be available, weather permitting!

Winter Solstice Celebration
Friday, December 20, 2024
6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Visit the link in our bio for tickets

Join us for our annual Black Hole Friday

Each year after the Thanksgiving holiday, Lake Erie Nature & Science Center dedicates its programs to one of the most mysterious objects in our universe: black holes!

Tickets for planetarium shows and animal encounters are available through the Program Calendar link in our bio

In honor of our new Artemis I Moon Tree, join Lake Erie Nature & Science Center for Moon Tree Celebration on Wednesday, November 27

Our program schedule will feature themes about the Moon and the Artemis exploration program. Additional space science activities will be available throughout the Center as part of free general admission.

Tickets for planetarium shows and animal encounters are available through the Program Calendar link in our bio.

The Center received more than 3,000 ill, injured or orphaned animals in our wildlife rehabilitation facility last year. Hear about our patients from licensed and certified wildlife rehabilitators, meet a resident animal with its own success story, and find out how we give animals a second chance at life in the wild.

Reasons for Rehabilitation
Saturday, November 30, 2024
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Fee: $15/person. For adults and children ages 10 and up. Link in bio for tickets

Join us Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. for Astronomy Club

Explore the world of astronomy in a fun, social environment. Planetarium Specialist and NASA Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed will share what’s new in space, the latest gadgets, astro-tainment, and mind-blowing facts.

Annual Fee: $60/household. Those interested in Astronomy Club are welcome to enjoy their first meeting at no cost. $5/person drop-in fee for returning visitors who do not purchase a membership.

Link in bio to register

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s internship program helps to develop academic and career pursuits of college students, and forwards the professional field by widening the number of students pursuing careers in astronomy, education, and wildlife.

Applications are currently being accepted for the Astronomy Internship and Wildlife Internship. Learn more and apply using the link in our bio.

: Wildlife interns tube feeding a green heron

Join us for Hawk Walk on Saturday, November 9 at 10 a.m.

Meet our resident Red-tailed hawk, Sequoia, and learn about these awesome raptors. Then hike with our Wildlife Specialist through Huntington Reservation to search for hawks in the wild.

Fee: $10/person. For all ages. Tickets available in our bio

The temperature is dropping and leaves are beginning to fall, but the outdoor fun doesn’t have to come to an end! There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in late autumn

From nature hikes to stargazing, click the link in our bio for Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s recommended nature activities for the season.

Looking for some afterschool nature fun? Dress for the weather and join us for an hour of active nature and science exploration, hikes, games, animal encounters and activities while we investigate the natural world around us!

Afterschool Adventures (Grades K – 1)
Thursdays, November 7 – December 12
(No class on November 28)
3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Fee: $115/session. Click the link in our bio to register

Join us this month for astronomy programs in Schuele Planetarium

Monday, Wednesday, & Friday
11:30 a.m. - Twinkle Tots
12:00 p.m. - Stellar Stars

Tuesday & Thursday
12:00 p.m. - Sky Safari

Saturday 
10:00 a.m. - Sky Safari
10:30 a.m. - Twinkle Tots
11:00 a.m. - Stellar Stars
12:30 p.m. - Mini Missions
1:00 p.m. - Sky Tonight

Astronomy Club
Wednesday, November 20 at 6:30 p.m.

Thanksgiving Break Programming
Wednesday, November 27 and Friday, November 29

Use the link in our bio to purchase tickets

Crayfish, crawfish or crawdad? They’re all correct!

This freshwater crustacean goes by different names depending on where you live. Up north, we usually call them crayfish. But they are not actually fish! They belong to the same family as lobsters

You can find crayfish in the Center’s stream habitat as a part of free general admission. Hours Daily: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tonight! Join us for Halloween Night Hike at 6 p.m.

This family-friendly, “spooky” evening will feature stories and stars in the planetarium, resident animal encounters, a simple craft and a staff-led hike around the Center and into the woods. Don’t forget to wear your costume!

For all ages. Fee: $15/person. Children 6 months and under are free. Tickets are available in our bio.

Join in on the nature-based fun! Registration for the following preschool programs is available at www.lensc.org/preschool-programs for Spring 2025:

Forest Friends
For children ages 1 – 2 with one adult

Frogs & Polliwogs
For children ages 2 – 3 with one adult

To register for an ongoing 30-week preschool session and receive a prorated fee, please call 440-871-2900 or email info@lensc.org.

Join us for our last Telescope Night of the year on Saturday, October 19 at 7 p.m.
 
We will begin in the planetarium for an overview of the constellations and planets, then review the current events happening in our night sky. Weather permitting, we will head outdoors for telescope viewing through our 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.
 
For adults and children ages 12 and up. Fee: $10/person. Purchase tickets using the link in our bio.
 
: @nasa

Join us tomorrow evening at 6:30 p.m. for Astronomy Club

Explore the world of astronomy in a fun, social environment. Planetarium Specialist and NASA Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed will share what’s new in space, the latest gadgets, astro-tainment, and mind-blowing facts.

Annual Fee: $60/household. Those interested in Astronomy Club are welcome to enjoy their first meeting at no cost. Learn more at www.lensc.org/planetarium.

Explore the wild things of your backyard and beyond with your little one! Each class you will meet an animal, make a craft and get wild with nature.

Wild Things
Saturday, October 12
9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

For children ages 1 - 6 with one adult. Fee: $30/child per class. Registration link in our bio.

Drivers, be alert! Deer breeding season occurs from mid-October through December. Remember these tips during breeding season:

- Slow down and be attentive while driving through zones marked with deer signs
- If you see one deer, assume others are nearby
- Prepare for sudden stops and always wear a seatbelt
- Do not swerve to avoid hitting a deer
- If you hit a deer, pull your car to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and report the incident to local police

Questions about local wildlife? Contact our wildlife specialists at 440-871-2900 or wildlife@lensc.org.

Join us for Halloween Night Hike on Friday, October 25 at 6 p.m.

This family-friendly, “spooky” evening will feature stories and stars in the planetarium, resident animal encounters, a simple craft and a staff-led hike around the Center and into the woods. Don’t forget to wear your costume!

For all ages. Fee: $15/person. Children 6 months and under are free. Tickets are available in our bio.

As Lake Erie Nature & Science Center looks to our future, we are undertaking a strategic planning effort to set a clear vision for the future of the organization. The first step in this process is to engage our community through an environmental scan to gather input and feedback.

We would appreciate your participation in a survey which will assist the Center in planning for the next 3-5 years. Click the link in our bio to participate.

New Program: Afterschool Adventures
For grades K - 1

Looking for some afterschool nature fun? Dress for the weather and join us for an hour of active outdoor exploration, hikes, games and activities while we investigate the natural world around us!

Thursdays,
October 3 – 31
3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Fee: $115/session. Learn more and register by clicking the link in our bio.

Why did the Center receive more than 3,000 ill, injured or orphaned animals into our wildlife rehabilitation facility last year? For many different reasons including cat attacks, window strikes, fishing line entanglement and more.

Learn about our patients from licensed and certified wildlife rehabilitators, meet a resident animal with its own success story, and find out how we give animals a second chance at life in the wild.

Reasons for Rehabilitation
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
 
For adults and children ages 10 and up. Fee: $15/person. Link in bio for tickets.
 
: Common Muskrat

Did you know that up to 1 billion songbirds die in the United States each year due to window strikes? Birds do not understand the concept of glass and often see it as an extension of their habitat.
 
A common misconception is that birds are fine if they survive a window strike. However, injuries such as fractures and cranial swelling may not be immediately obvious and can cause death later on. Injured birds should be placed in a closed box with air holes (no food or water) and taken to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for treatment as soon as possible.
 
The nonprofit Lake Erie Nature & Science Center provides wildlife education and rehabilitation services 7 days a week at no charge to the public. Currently, there are 68 songbirds in our care. We will receive a growing number of injured songbirds each day due to the fall migration season.
 
: White-throated Sparrow

Tonight! Join us at 7 p.m. for Telescope Night

Our planetarium specialist will begin in the planetarium with an overview of the constellations and planets, then review the current events happening in our night sky. Weather permitting, we will head outdoors for telescope viewing through our 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.

For adults and children ages 12 and up. Fee: $10/person. Tickets: www.lensc.org/planetarium.

State Representative Bride Rose Sweeney visited Lake Erie Nature & Science Center this week to tour our exhibits, learn about our nature-based programs and planetarium, and see the progress of our Wildlife Gardens Education and Rehabilitation Project. The Center is enjoyed by more than 100,000 visitors annually, and offers free general admission and free wildlife rehabilitation services 7 days a week.

Thank you, @repbridesweeney!

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center brings scouting programs to life in a way that engages students and exploration given our resident wildlife, certified merit badge counselors, expansive natural campus, public access planetarium and walking distance to Lake Erie.

Programs for Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Scouts BSA are available at www.lensc.org/scout-programs for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Pardon our space dust

We are pleased to announce that Schuele Planetarium at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is undergoing exciting upgrades to improve and expand our space science education programs. Due to routine maintenance and the installation of our new digital projector, there will be no planetarium programming from September 7 - September 12, 2024. Thank you for your understanding!

To learn more and support the Digital Planetarium Projector Replacement Project, please visit www.lensc.org/planetarium-projector (link in bio).

We are ready for 2024-2025 preschool classes which begin the week of September 9!
 
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s preschool programs serve children ages 1 to 6 with hands-on, age-appropriate activities to support social, physical and academic development. Your child will experience live animal encounters, nature-based play, planetarium shows, outdoor adventures, and more.
 
Registration is open and ongoing at www.lensc.org/preschool-programs.

Happy Labor Day!

The Center is closed to the public and will reopen on Tuesday, September 3 at 9 a.m. If you find an ill or injured animal in need, please call 440-871-2900 x204 or email wildlife@lensc.org to be connected with a wildlife specialist.

This summer, the Center welcomed two astronomy interns to Schuele Planetarium to learn about planetarium operations and software, and assist with presenting space science programs.

Astronomy Intern Highlight: Kat Henderson

Why did you choose to intern at the Center?

“I wanted to find a planetarium that specializes in working with kids. Kids ask difficult questions that require you to come up with quick and accurate answers!”

Highlight of your internship experience?

“Gaining the confidence to teach some of my own shows and beginning the process of creating a new show.”

During the Wildlife Gardens Education and Renovation Project, you can still enjoy up-close encounters with our resident birds in the new outdoor North Habitats

These exhibits are included in free general admission and may feature hawks, falcons, crows, and owls. Please note: Occasionally, this area will not be accessible due to construction. For more information, please call 440-871-2900 or email info@lensc.org.

Learn more about the Wildlife Gardens transformation at www.lensc.org/wildlife-gardens-project.
 
: Cooper, Great Horned Owl

This summer, the Center welcomed two astronomy interns to Schuele Planetarium to learn about planetarium operations and software, and assist with presenting space science programs.

Astronomy Intern Highlight: Hugo Stickney

Why you chose to intern at the Center?

“I have fond memories of being a Nature Nut in the Center’s preschool classes. I love the work the Center is doing and wanted to be a part of it!”

Highlight of your internship experience?

“Presenting planetarium shows for the kids and hearing their excitement about astronomy.”

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s preschool programs serve children ages 1 to 6 with hands-on, age-appropriate activities to support social, physical and academic development. Your child will experience live animal encounters, nature-based play, planetarium shows, outdoor adventures, and more

Registration is open and ongoing for 2024-2025 session classes which begin the week of September 9. Explore offerings and register at www.lensc.org/preschool-programs.

Join us for Hawk Walk on Saturday, August 17 at 10 a.m.

Meet our resident Red-tailed hawk, Sequoia, and learn about these awesome raptors. Then hike with our Wildlife Specialist through Huntington Reservation to search for hawks in the wild.

Fee: $10/person. For all ages. Learn more and purchase tickets at www.lensc.org/animal-programs.

Earlier this summer, the Center welcomed five interns to our Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Program to gain valuable experience and assist in the areas of wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, and public education.

Each intern brings a unique set of skills and interests to the Center, and we are grateful to have them as a part of our team!

Wildlife Intern Highlight: Teagan Jones

Why you chose to intern at the Center?

“I wanted hands-on experience with native species, and I thought rehabilitation would be incredibly rewarding. I was right!”

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center will remain closed on Friday, August 9 due to the ongoing power outage. All programming scheduled for August 9 is canceled.

We will provide updates day-by-day as crews work to restore power throughout the region. Thank you for your understanding.

Earlier this summer, the Center welcomed five interns to our Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Program to gain valuable experience and assist in the areas of wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, and public education.

Each intern brings a unique set of skills and interests to the Center, and we are grateful to have them as a part of our team!

Wildlife Intern Highlight: Kylie Bryant

Why you chose to intern at the Center?

“I wanted to get experience with a wide variety of animals and see what I might like to do for a career.”

The summer sky is full of exciting objects to see with the naked eye. Read our latest blog post by Planetarium and Program Coordinator Katy Downing to learn about the planets, constellations, and asterisms that you can look for in the late summer sky

: Summer Triangle

Did you know? On average, Gopher Tortoises can live 40 to 60 years in the wild. They are native to the southeastern United States

Gophy, our resident Gopher Tortoise, arrived at the Center in 1994. We often bring him outdoors for sunshine and lawn enrichment!

Earlier this summer, the Center welcomed five interns to our Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Program to gain valuable experience and assist in the areas of wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, and public education.

Each intern brings a unique set of skills and interests to the Center, and we are grateful to have them as a part of our team!

Wildlife Intern Highlight: Dante Weiksner

Highlight of your internship experience?

“Getting to handle some of my favorite animals and receiving valuable experience.”

Earlier this summer, the Center welcomed five interns to our Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Program to gain valuable experience and assist in the areas of wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, and public education.

Each intern brings a unique set of skills and interests to the Center, and we are grateful to have them as a part of our team!

Wildlife Intern Highlight: Amelia Bohac

Why you chose to intern at the Center?

“I want to learn about wildlife!”

Join us for Family Rocket Day next month

Work together as a family or group to build and launch a model rocket. Learn about recent mission launches and where to stream upcoming launches!

Saturday, August 10
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Recommended for families with children ages 6 and up. Learn more and register at www.lensc.org/family-programs.

The face of a chinchilla who is ready for a banana chip

Chinchillas have incredibly soft and dense fur, with 50 to 75 hairs springing from a single hair follicle. In contrast, humans have only 2 to 3 hairs growing out of a single follicle.

Our resident chinchilla, Sterling, helps Lake Erie Nature & Science Center teach about mammal species in our nature-based programs.

Earlier this summer, the Center welcomed five interns to our Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Program to gain valuable experience and assist in the areas of wildlife rehabilitation, animal care, and public education.

Each intern brings a unique set of skills and interests to the Center, and we are grateful to have them as a part of our team!

Wildlife Intern Highlight: Alice Anastos

Highlight of your internship experience?

“Getting to release an animal back into the wild. It is such a rewarding experience every single time!”

Thank you @hylandgram for volunteering at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center yesterday afternoon! Volunteers helped add native plants to the front of our Nature Center to support local pollinator species. We look forward to seeing the plants grow and welcoming more pollinators as a result of their efforts!

Special shout out to @bvuvolunteers for their coordination in bringing this wonderful group to the Center.

Learn more about group volunteer opportunities by visiting www.lensc.org/corporate-investments.

Join us on Saturday, July 20 at 8 p.m. for Telescope Night

We will begin our evening in the planetarium with an overview of the constellations and planets, then review the current events happening in our night sky. Weather permitting, we will head outdoors for telescope viewing through our 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope!

For adults and children ages 12 and up. Fee: $10/person. Tickets: www.lensc.org/planetarium.

Join us this summer for Wild Encounters

Get up close with the animals! In a small group setting, meet our resident animals, engage in unique activities, and make connections to remember. Learn from our wildlife specialists on what it takes to care for our animals, then help a little yourself in this 1-hour program. Choose from our scheduled offerings of Owls, Snakes, Turtles, or Variety.

For ages 8 and up with one adult. Learn more and register at www.lensc.org/animal-programs.

: Eastern Screech Owl

UPDATE: Phone system and internet are back up!

Phone system and internet are down. Please stay tuned for updates. Thank you!

Join us for our next Astronomy Club meeting on Wednesday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m.

Explore the world of astronomy in a fun, social environment. Planetarium Specialist and NASA Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed will share what’s new in space, the latest gadgets, astro-tainment, and mind-blowing facts.

Annual Fee: $60/household. Those interested in Astronomy Club are welcome to enjoy their first meeting at no cost. Learn more at www.lensc.org/planetarium.

: Summer Triangle

Happy World Snake Day

Today, we celebrate all of our native species of snakes, including our resident Eastern Ratsnake, Sssam!

The Eastern Ratsnake is the largest snake in Ohio. They are typically 4 to 6 feet long, but some can reach lengths of more than 8 feet! Ratsnakes are excellent tree climbers, and they can be found in forested areas throughout the United States. They are nonvenomous carnivores that mainly feed on mice, rats, and other small rodents. Ratsnakes are true constrictors, meaning they subdue their prey by tightly coiling around it. When they sense danger, they freeze and attempt to blend into their surroundings. When picked up by humans or other animals, they release a foul-smelling musk in defense!

: Sssam, our resident Eastern Ratsnake

Is your preschooler enjoying summer camp? Continue the outdoor fun by registering for a nature-based preschool program this fall at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center

Registration for 2024-2025 preschool sessions for ages 1 – 6 is open and ongoing at www.lensc.org/preschool-programs.

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center welcomes visitors to enjoy live animal exhibits, participate in nature-based programs, and receive professional assistance for local wildlife in need.

Our employees are grateful to the anonymous donor who sent breakfast yesterday in recognition of their hard work. Thank you!

Volunteers are vital in helping Lake Erie Nature & Science Center fulfill its nonprofit mission and provide wildlife services.

Current volunteer opportunities include Animal Care Volunteer, Preschool Volunteer, Welcome Desk Volunteer, and Wildlife Rehabilitation Volunteer.

Learn more and apply at www.lensc.org/volunteer-opportunities.

Wishing you a safe and happy Fourth of July!

The Center will be closed on Thursday, July 4 and will reopen on Friday, July 5. For wildlife assistance, please call 440-871-2900 x204 or email wildlife@lensc.org.

Skunks are known for their ability to spray musk when threatened. They can spray with great accuracy up to 15 feet!

You can meet our resident skunks, Ellie and Berta, and other native wildlife in our Wonders of Wildlife animal encounter. Don’t worry, their scent glands have been removed

Fee: $5/person. For all ages. View offerings and register at www.lensc.org/animal-programs

Join us on Saturday, June 22 at 8 p.m. for Telescope Night

Planetarium Specialist Bill Reed will begin in the planetarium with an overview of the constellations and planets, then review the current events happening in our night sky. Weather permitting, we will head outdoors for telescope viewing through our 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope.

For adults and children ages 12 and up. Fee: $10/person. Tickets: www.lensc.org/planetarium.

We are excited to announce that renovations to the outdoor Wildlife Gardens will begin June 24, and that Lake Erie Nature & Science Center will continue to be open for free general admission, nature-based programs, and wildlife assistance 7 days a week.

The Wildlife Gardens Education and Renovation Project will create more engaging learning experiences about native animals, provide ample space for students to learn alongside wildlife specialists, and raise visibility of our wildlife rehabilitation program.

The Project will be the Nature Center’s largest capital investment in our free offerings for the public, at a cost of $1,900,000 made possible with donations and grants from the community. This transformation demonstrates Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s continued commitment to free admission and connecting people with the natural world.

For more information, please visit www.lensc.org/wildlife-gardens-project.

Need a break from the summer heat this week?

The Center offers free general admission to indoor and outdoor exhibits 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Complete your visit with a Wonders of Wildlife animal encounter or planetarium show. View schedule at www.lensc.org/planetarium.

: @kristinincleveland

Join us for Hawk Walk on Saturday, June 15 at 10 a.m.

Meet our resident Red-tailed hawk, Sequoia, and learn about these awesome raptors. Then hike with our Wildlife Specialist through the trails of Huntington Reservation to search for hawks in the wild.

Fee: $10/person. For all ages. Learn more and purchase tickets at www.lensc.org/animal-programs.

Join us for our next Astronomy Club meeting on Wednesday, June 19 at 6:30 p.m.
 
Explore the world of astronomy in a fun, social environment. Planetarium Specialist and NASA Solar System Ambassador Bill Reed will share what’s new in space, the latest gadgets, astro-tainment, and mind-blowing facts.
 
Annual Fee: $60/household. Those interested in Astronomy Club are welcome to enjoy their first meeting at no cost. Learn more by visiting the link in our bio.

On a clear day, you can often see Turkey Vultures soaring through the open sky. They are scavenger species that fly low to the ground to pick up the scent of carrion (dead animals). In fact, their extraordinary sense of smell can detect odors from more than a mile away!
 
You can learn more about Turkey Vultures and other native wildlife by visiting Lake Erie Nature & Science Center for free general admission. Hours Daily: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
 
: Buzz, our resident Turkey Vulture

Thank you @keybank for volunteering at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center in honor of Neighbors Make The Difference Day!

Volunteers prepared preschool crafts and weeded our Wildlife Gardens, which are enjoyed by visitors 7 days a week through free general admission. Their hard work is greatly appreciated by the Center’s staff and visitors.

Learn more about corporate opportunities by visiting www.lensc.org/corporate-investments.