Two family walks offer lessons on wildlife

Take the family on two easy nature walks at area parks to learn something about native plants, trees, wetland birds and other wildlife.

Naturalist Brian Raven will lead the walks sponsored by Washington State University Snohomish County Extension’s 4-H Natural Resources youth and adults.

Billed as a progressive nature walk from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 15, activities begin in an urban forest setting at McCollum Park, 600 128th St. SE, Everett. The group will learn to identify (and maybe eat) some native plants and spot wildlife in the woods and wetland areas.

Then it’s on to North Creek County Park, a short drive away at 1011 183rd St. SE, Mill Creek, for a stroll (on a boardwalk) through a wetland area for views of waterfowl, reptiles and the distinctive flora of the watery setting.

Participants will learn something about natural resource stewardship as well.

The event is intended to inspire awareness and interest in local natural resources and what can be done to protect them. It’s intended as a family activity, and youths should be accompanied by an adult. A $3 per person fee is suggested, and participants should bring their own lunch.

For registration information, please contact Gabrielle Roesch at 425-357-6011 or gabrielle90@wsu.edu. Early registration is required.