May 31 - Mammals/Bees and Beetles

Location - Mary Gates, UW Greenhouse, Medicinal Herb Garden, Near Allen Library
Time - 1:30-3:10

First, we had a video on squirrels for the mammal group that we watched in the classroom, then split up into groups to go to different stations. The first station had several stuffed squirrels and chipmunks, and the natural history and characteristics of these were discussed. We were then sent outside to look at squirrel trapping techniques and observe some robot squirrels that are used for studies by graduate students at UW. We talked about mark recapture, and saw the receivers that would be used to track tagged creatures. Then, we headed towards Allen to feed squirrels in the grassy fenced off area, learning about scent marking, foraging and storing habits, and the invasion of the larger invasive Eastern Grey Squirrel.

Next we split up into different groups and went to the medicinal herb garden to learn about beetles. We were handed several specimens collected by the group and discussed how different beetles are important for our local ecosystem, as well as the overall diversity and abundance of beetles. There is a beetle for pretty much every important ecological aspect, decomposing, etc. Next, we went into the Botany Greenhouse and were taught about local butterflies and moths, and the processes of pollination. Finally, we ended up outside by the hives to learn about bees. There was a student tending to the bees while we were there, which was interesting and a good example of how humans utilize their amazing adaptations and have learned to interact safely with them.

Posted on June 5, 2012 11:54 AM by ashersh