This is a two-part event:

Part 1: Families with upper elementary age children and adults should arrive by 7:50 am to register for an 8 am Entomology Talk covering types of insects, morphology, and the critical role of insects as pollinators. Then join families with younger children on the savanna for an hour of insect catch, ID, and release. We will provide loaner nets.

Part 2: Families with younger children should arrive and sign-in by 8:55 to join the earlier group as it moves from the classroom to the savanna by 9:10.

Our objective is to learn about insects, identify some of the more common species found in our local area, and learn the role of insects in the environment.

The event will be led by Nicolas Phillips an expert student of Entomology planning to specialize in entomophagy, an award-winning insect collector, and an Integrated Pest Control professional. Nicolas has been an enthusiast and lover of insects since early childhood and brings his passion and knowledge to our park.

The morning begins in the small classroom with an hour overview of all you ever wanted to know about these arthropods. We will then move to the nearby savanna where families with younger children will join us to catch, ID, and release insects. Nicolas will identify and elaborate upon our captured specimens to explain general concepts. The netted insects are then released back into nature. The park is a great place to find a variety of interesting insects.

Be sure to wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt and use a heavy amount of repellent. We will be walking grassy areas prone to chiggers! Also, bring water, a hat, and sunscreen.

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This talk is part of our monthly 4th Saturday Nature Walk series provided by our Alamo Area Master Naturalists and the Alamo Group of the Sierra Club, with the Native Plant Society of Texas, San Antonio.