Our Trail Mommas crew traded hiking boots for a little hands-on wildlife education during our visit to Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center — and it turned out to be the kind of experience that leaves kids wide-eyed and grown-ups just as fascinated.

The highlight of the day was the Animal Ambassador program, where we got up close with some of the forest’s most interesting residents. First up: snakes! We learned how these often-misunderstood reptiles help keep ecosystems in balance, and even had the chance to gently touch their smooth scales.

From there, it was on to turtles — both land and aquatic species — and a peek into their slow-but-steady lives. Then we headed outside to meet some truly impressive neighbors: the raptors that call Howell Woods home. These birds are part of the center’s ambassador program because they’ve been rescued and can no longer survive in the wild. Seeing them up close was unforgettable — a Bald Eagle with its commanding presence, a curious Black Vulture, a fierce and watchful Red-tailed Hawk, and several species of owls whose piercing eyes seemed to see right through us.

We also explored the Nature Nook, where animal pelts, skulls, and educational displays made it easy for the kids to connect the dots between what they see on the trail and the creatures that live here. To top it all off, the staff led us in making snake and owl crafts — a fun way for the little ones to bring a piece of the day home.

Then it was time to get crafty. The staff rolled out a fun hands-on project for everyone — making owl and snake crafts to take home. The owl craft had the kids layering paper feathers and adding giant eyes, while the snake craft let them decorate their own winding, colorful serpent. It was the perfect way to wrap up the day, giving the kids a tangible memory of the animals they’d just met. And let’s be honest — a few moms got very into decorating their owls too.

Of course, the bravest among us couldn’t resist meeting Lyle, the corn snake, face-to-face. With staff guidance, even the adults got in on the action, holding him and feeling the slow, gentle strength of a snake in motion.

The Animal Ambassador program reminded us that connecting with nature doesn’t always mean spotting wildlife in the wild — sometimes it’s about learning their stories, understanding their role in the ecosystem, and meeting them in a safe, respectful setting.

We left Howell Woods with a deeper appreciation for the creatures that share our forests, and a renewed sense of curiosity for our next hike. Because now, when we see a rustle in the leaves or hear an owl in the distance, we know a little more about the wild neighbor behind the sound.