Join us for a family-friendly outdoor adventure as we explore the hidden world of salamanders! Hosted by the University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists in partnership with the Prairie Lands Foundation, this event is perfect for nature lovers of all ages. Led by naturalist Scott Saffer, we'll cross the bridge into James Family Woods and journey approximately half a mile to search for our salamander friends. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Smallmouth Salamanders (Ambystoma texanum) and the striking Tiger Salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum).
 

Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or just curious about the critters in your local ecosystem, this is a perfect opportunity to learn, explore, and connect with nature.

What to Bring:

 

About Scott Saffer: Scott Saffer is a science teacher at Tri-Point Junior High School and has 2 field seasons of experience assisting with amphibian and reptile research with the Illinois Natural History Survey. His students from Tri-Point and Prairie Central have found many county record amphibians and reptiles—the first ones recorded for Ford and Livingston Counties. They published their findings in Herpetological Review, and another paper is being prepared for submission. His current students are working on a prairie cicada reintroduction project at Don Gardner's Prairie in Kempton and will present a talk at the Wild Things Conference in Chicago in March. Scott has 26 years of teaching experience and has done field research for many years on zoonotic diseases, birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. He spends his summers helping Don Gardner with his prairie re-creation in Kempton. 

 

This event is open to all ages.  We can’t wait to see you there!