Would You Hug A Slug?

What about snuggling a damselfly nymph or a water flea? Let’s be honest - some creatures just aren’t that huggable. Many of the aquatic insects we discovered today are just too tiny. We’re talking less than 5 mm long and only 1 mm wide! So what purpose do they serve? Well, you’ll probably be as surprised as we were to find out!

Nymphs and larvae are like young children who are waiting to become adults. While they are waiting, they help keep our water clean, break down leaves that fall into the water, and even feed our fish, frogs, and birds! Look at the tiny heroes we were able to find today. Where were some of the places we discovered them? Which aquatic insects impressed you the most and why?

How are snails and slugs the same? How are they different? Although there was no slug-hugging going on , we showed them some love in another way. We made miniature slug snugs and found damper and darker places to put them near the Outpost. What special treat did we leave for them? Do you think they will be like the Harrington slugs and eat everything up? If you enjoyed this activity and look forward to checking the snugs each week, maybe you should consider setting up your own snail/ snug/spider shelter in your own yard.

Please take a look at some of the other discoveries we made and the fun we had today! Use the pictures to talk about your day at Nature school with your family.

Today, you used thoughtful footsteps in the creek. You demonstrated respect by catching and releasing slugs and aquatic creatures with gentle hands. You also showed appreciation for aquatic insects by studying them closely when they allowed you to catch them so that you could learn more about them.

They say that actions speak louder than words and today you showed that you are the kind of caretakers that would make Mother Nature smile and nod!

We are also happy to announce that we have discovered another person in our group who has an eye for photography. After a few pointers from Raccoon, Chickadee was able to snap these amazing photos! We are very proud to have you as a Junior Nature mentor!