Monarch chrysalis
To whom does this stunning, sea-green chrysalis belong? Why, to the lovely “Danaus plexippus” of course! Before the monarch caterpillar inside initiated it’s metamorphic transformation, it would have fattened up on milkweed leaves in preparation for the process. Once it emerges, the adult butterfly has a long journey to Mexico ahead. Quite a remarkable life cycle; It’s no wonder that a young Roger Tory Peterson was fascinated with our local Lepidopterans!
Read MoreEastern Milk Snake
Here we have an Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum). These snakes are harmless, beneficial constrictors that help control rodent populations in your backyard. In spite of their considerable size (reaching almost 3 ft) and beautiful coloration, they are rarely seen. When cornered, a milk snake may hiss, vibrate its tail tip (imitating a rattlesnake), and even strike at you. However, its bite is harmless. Give them some space and any snake will slither away – likely never to be seen again. The common name ‘Milk Snake’ comes from an old, mistaken belief that the snakes drink milk from...
Read MoreThe Buzz
The pollinators are certainly enjoying the blooming flower gardens at RTPI! Pay us a visit soon to see what the buzz is all about! You can enjoy a walk on our nature trails, admire the Birds in Art exhibition, and naturally experience original work by Roger Tory Peterson while you’re here!
Read MoreVolunteers Beautify RTPI
In late July, a large group of volunteers from the Cummins Inc., Jamestown Engine Plant came to RTPI to make improvements to our building and grounds. This enthusiastic and hardworking group tended our flowerbeds, cleaned up our porch and patio, trimmed back the vegetation along our hiking trails, and weeded our walkways and parking areas. We’d like to express our gratitude for the efforts of this dedicated crew – they certainly left the place looking lovely just in time for our big summer events!
Read MoreProject Wild America Youth Ambassadors Program 2017
Roger Tory Peterson – inspired by Jamestown’s wild side during his youth – went on to become a world renowned naturalist. For the third consecutive summer, RTPI employed a cohort of local high school and college students as “Project Wild America (PWA) Youth Ambassadors” to follow in Peterson’s footsteps by working alongside our conservation staff monitoring and raising public awareness about Jamestown’s unique and vital natural resources. Check out the highlights from this year’s PWA program on their website and Facebook page, and stay tuned for more detailed reporting of what...
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