Excitement and education are alive at the new nature center recently unveiled at Hueston Woods State Park.
Nature center grand opening (courtesy of ODNR)
The new and improved Hueston Woods nature center was officially opened in June. It will take you on a journey through “Big Woods” themed exhibits. A walk along the wall will take you through all four seasons based on the nature preserve on the park’s property. At the tulip tree, you can uncover a tree’s past while learning how to count the rings and see what different shapes and colors mean behind the bark. Bats hidden in the wild black cherry tree demonstrate their vital role in our ecosystem. A “wall of live animals” houses some of Ohio’s native wildlife including reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Kids can also learn about the insects that buzz around them by studying the living beehive.
Outside, the ADA-accessible path allows visitors to explore the recently rebuilt raptor enclosure behind the current nature center. The enclosure is also the permanent home for a rough-legged hawk, several red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, turkey vultures, and two bald eagles.
Learn more about the nature center here.