Discover the exciting world of bugs at Lake Metroparks’ 24th annual Bug Day! this Sunday.

B.S.I. – Buggy Social Interactions

Discover the exciting world of bugs at Lake Metroparks’ 24th annual Bug Day!  The event runs noon to 4 pm on Sunday, September 9 at the Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland.   Themed activities include games, crafts, live animal exhibits, demonstrations, storytelling and family fun that will feature buggy activities of many kinds.  Ribbon cutting for the new Penitentiary Glen Outdoor Classroom will be at 1 pm, followed by a live animal program entitled “Raptor Encounters”.

Join us as we celebrate the amazing diversity of the insect world.  Guests will learn how and why bugs communicate through demonstrations, activities and games!  Bug Day! Is free for all ages and is sponsored by Coca-Cola of Willoughby and The News-Herald.

The Nature Center is turned into a showcase of bug displays, providing opportunities to experience the thrill of seeing and learning about live arthropods, including large tarantulas, walking sticks, praying mantis, scorpions, and more.  Cases of beautiful mounted butterflies and other displays of insects are available for viewing.

Kids may earn a ‘Bugology’ degree certificate by participating in at least five of the many ‘buggy’ activities.  Activities include games, crafts and activities like Bug Bingo.  Find out what animals eat bugs – including people!  Enjoy the songs and buggy tales of a storyteller.  Remember to bring a camera to capture all the creepy-crawly fun. 

Here’s a look at all the Buggy activities planned for Lake Metroparks’ Bug Day!:

• Celebrate arthropods!  These “jointed foot” animals are commonly called bugs and include insects, spiders, and even crayfish and lobsters!  They number in the millions and their bizarre, unique and gross qualities are awe inspiring!
• Participate in the “Bug Bingo” activity.
• Live bugs, exhibits and buggy adventures!
• Celebrate classic Bug Stories and Songs.   
• Sample some real tasty buglicious treats – if you’re daring enough!
• Visit the Wildlife Center and discover which animals depend on bugs for food.
• Create a buggy souvenir at the Buggy Craft tables to remember the day.

While at the Nature Center visit the “Drawn from Nature” Art Show – Perspectives in Colored Pencil exhibit. 
Re-discover the magic of colored pencils as you join local artists on their journey of capturing the natural world through this special medium.  Artwork is available for purchase. 

Miniature steam train rides will be offered, courtesy of the Lake Shore Live Steamers, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. – weather permitting.  Food will be available for purchase on-site.   

Also, explore the many interactive exhibits and displays, including the award-winning "Window on Wildlife.”  Discover native Ohio wildlife in the Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center yard. Hike the scenic trails, enjoy a picnic, or take home a gift of natural distinction from The Nature Store – your headquarters for buggy t-shirts, field guides, toys, and children’s books. 

Penitentiary Glen Reservation is located at 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road in Kirtland. 
Directions:  Take I-90 to the Rt. 306 exit; head south one mile to Rt. 615.  Turn left and follow 1/8 mile to the next light.  Turn right onto Kirtland-Chardon Road and follow two miles to Penitentiary Glen Reservation on the right.  For more information about Bug Day, call 440-256-3808 or visit lakemetroparks.com.    For more information about Penitentiary Glen Reservation, call 440-256-1404.