THPRD's annual homage to the newt returns Nov. 7
Native rough-skinned newts thrive in cool, wet weather. Will they get their wish on Newt Day?
Rain or shine, THPRD’s 14th annual celebration of the newt will return on Saturday, Nov. 7, to the Tualatin Hills Nature Center (15655 SW Millikan Way, Beaverton).
From noon to 4 pm, visitors can go on the lookout for newts at the district’s 222-acre natural area, or learn about newts and other creatures from THPRD’s Natural Resources experts, who will host indoor exhibits and interactive activities throughout the afternoon.
“This is a particularly interesting year, considering how little rain we have had,” said Elisa Joy Payne, environmental education program coordinator. “Newts, like many Oregonians, live here because of the rain. We invite people to come learn why newts and other native creatures and plants thrive in the fall and winter.”
Newt Day was conceived to inspire exploration of nature during the season when it is tempting to stay inside. Visitors will learn about the life cycles and adaptations of newts, and a variety of other forest dwellers such as trees, mushrooms and woolly bear caterpillars at this family-friendly event. A self-guided adventure will lead you through the park to explore up to five miles of trail; that will explore the babitats of newts and other inhabitants. How many newts will you see?
Guests will leave with a better understanding of newts, their environment, and their predators. How do newts evade predators? Why can they survive both in and out of water?
Admission is just $2 per person; children 2 and under are free.
The Tualatin Hills Nature Park features evergreen and deciduous forests, creeks, wetlands, ponds, and meadows. The park is home to a variety of birds, mammals, and smaller creatures. Its trails network includes 1.5 miles of paved pathways plus 3.5 miles of well maintained, soft-surface trails.
For more Newt Day information, call the Tualatin Hills Nature Center at 503-629-6350.
About THPRD
Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2015, THPRD is the largest special park district in Oregon, spanning about 50 square miles and serving 230,000 residents in the greater Beaverton area. The district provides year-round recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Offerings include thousands of widely diverse classes, more than 90 park sites with active recreational amenities, 60 miles of trails, eight swim centers, six recreation centers, and 1,400 acres of natural areas. For more information, visit www.thprd.org or call 503-645-6433.
Contact: Bob Wayt Director – Communications 503/614-1218 (direct) 503/686-5134 (cell) |
Date: October 23, 2015 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Click here for official release (PDF). |