Springfield Nature Center to hold Halloween event

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Groundhogs, squirrels, and other rodents often fall into the "pest" category for many people, but these creatures have their unique niches in the natural world. People can learn more about rodents during an evening of education and entertainment at the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Springfield Conservation Nature Center's "Halloween Happening: Mystery of the Missing Martin" event on Oct. 29 and Oct. 30. Night-time outdoor fun, a few hiking surprises and conservation education will all be part of this family-oriented event, which will be from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each day.

This free event is themed after the popular PBS nature show "Wild Kratts." On both evenings, attendees at the Nature Center event will be invited to go on a night-time hike on the facility's trails to take part in "Wild Rats – An Adaptation Adventure." On these hikes, they will meet costume-clad characters that will provide rodent knowledge in a fun fashion.

The last hike is scheduled to leave the Nature Center building at 9 p.m. Children are welcome to wear Halloween costumes suitable for walking trails at night.

While hikes are taking place on the trails, rodent-oriented activities will be going on inside the Nature Center building. Free soda and popcorn will be provided. Overflow parking will be available at nearby Living Memorial Park (4405 S. Nature Center Way) and a free shuttle will be provided by Springfield-Greene County Park Board.

There is no registration for this event. Call the Springfield Conservation Nature Center at 417-888-4237 for details. Information is also at mdc.mo.gov/node/287.

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is located at 4601 S. Nature Center Way in Springfield.