Here you can zoom in on everything from a rattlesnake fang to a butterfly wing. Pick up a magnifying glass and explore another world when you gaze into the Biosphere. Another hands on experience for the fearless type might be to get up close asnd personal with a native reptile by handling one of our harmless snakes or Box Turtles , with assistance from a Nature Center Naturalist. Plan to spend some time when you come into the Main Exhibit Building because you don't want to miss any of the over 75 fascinating living specimens on display. On display year round are some of the most beautiful and intriguing birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects that make this area world renown for its rich natural heritage.
Many exhibits here change with the seasons.
You might witness the metamorphosis of a monarch butterfly or a wood frog. You might even get to see a baby rat snake taking its first peak out of the egg or the yellow and black argiope spider spinning its elaborate orb web. Don't forget to get a good close look at some of the unpopular mountain area residents, especially if you plan to hike or camp. After getting a feel for the Nature Lab, you can experience the world of night in Nocturnal Hall . Big Brown Bats cling to cave ceilings and Flying Squirrels glide from tree limb to tree limb.