Education and understanding of our local ecosystem leads to a peaceful coexistence.

Compassion for the animals we share our community with comes from knowledge and understanding.

While our mission is in helping sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife, that mission has a foundation in education. With the help of our knowledgeable community, we can limit wildlife conflicts and injuries, train future wildlife rehabilitators, and create a community dedicated to peaceful coexistence with our native species.


School Programs

From pre-k to college level, we have education programs to fit all age groups because learning about wildlife is important for all. Each program is catered to the development level of the group.

Outreach Events

Engaging with the community in fun interactive ways can help folks gain hands-on knowledge that will stick with them when they encounter wildlife in their communities.

We have interactive displays and educational materials for all ages that are engaging at booth-style events.

Community Programs

We can visit your club, group, or organization and present on one of our set topics to a requested topic.


Want us to come visit you?

Details:

  • Grade levels provided are a suggestion, based upon CO State Science Standards.

  • All programs include an overview of wildlife rehabilitation and our organization.

  • Live ambassador animals may be available for some programs, but cannot be guaranteed. If a visit from an ambassador animal is highly desired, please let us know. Note that ambassador animals are often non-native, domesticated species.

  • Programs range from 60-90 minutes.

  • Programs are presented by our trained education volunteers.

  • Depending on the program, the presenters may need access to a TV/projector.

  • A donation fee is requested for programs. In-kind donations are also accepted. Fee is dependent on specifics of programs

Learn more about the programs we offer:

  • Explore the specialized field of Wildlife Rehabilitation in this engaging and hands-on program. Discover the crucial role wildlife rehabilitators play in caring for injured, sick, and orphaned animals, with the ultimate goal of returning them to their natural habitats.

    Participants will delve into the fundamentals of wildlife rehabilitation, gaining insights into the ethical and practical considerations involved in caring for wildlife. Learn about the various species commonly rehabilitated in Northern Colorado, their natural histories, and the specific challenges they face in urban and wild environments.

    Through interactive sessions, participants will acquire essential skills in animal restraint and rescue techniques. Our experienced rehabilitators will guide you through proper handling methods, emphasizing safety protocols and minimizing stress to the animals.

    Good for all ages

  • Snakes are often misunderstood and feared in our community, but they are fascinating and essential creatures. Join us for an engaging and educational program where we explore the various snake species that call Northern Colorado their home. You'll learn about the unique characteristics and behaviors of these remarkable reptiles and how they have evolved over millions of years.

    Discover how snakes contribute to the health and balance of our ecosystems by controlling pest populations and serving as both predator and prey in the food web. Our knowledgeable guides will dispel common myths and provide insights into the important ecological roles these ancient critters play. Whether you're a snake enthusiast or simply curious, this program will deepen your appreciation for these vital members of our natural world.

    Good for all ages

    Paired with one of our snake ambassador animals

  • We delve into the unique characteristics and adaptations of these mammals, from the mighty mountain lion to the elusive bobcat, and everything in between. Learn how to identify different species by their physical features, behaviors, and habitats. Our knowledgeable guides will share intriguing facts about each mammal's role in the ecosystem, including their hunting strategies, dietary habits, and survival techniques.

    You'll have the chance to examine animal skulls and pelts, gaining hands-on experience that brings the lessons to life. Understand how these mammals have adapted to their environments and the important roles they play in maintaining the balance of our natural world.

    Good for all ages

    Paired with a mammal ambassador animal

  • We will explore the unique traits and behaviors of birds! Discover how to identify various bird species by their plumage, calls, and flight patterns. Our expert volunteers will share fascinating insights into each bird's life cycle, from the construction of intricate nests to the nurturing of their young.

    Examine a variety of feathers up close to understand how their structures aid in flight, camouflage, and temperature regulation. Learn about the different shapes, sizes, and colors of eggs, and what they reveal about the birds that lay them. Our collection of nests will showcase the architectural marvels created by these avian engineers, each one tailored to meet specific environmental needs and survival strategies.

    Understand the crucial roles birds play in our ecosystems, from pollination to pest control, and their importance as indicators of environmental health. Whether you're an avid bird watcher, a nature lover, or simply curious, this program will deepen your appreciation for the avian diversity that surrounds us

    Join us as we take you on a journey through the skies, delving into the unique traits and behaviors of these remarkable creatures. Discover how to identify various bird species by their plumage, calls, and flight patterns. Our expert guides will share fascinating insights into each bird's life cycle, from the construction of intricate nests to the nurturing of their young.

    Examine a variety of feathers up close to understand how their structures aid in flight, camouflage, and temperature regulation. Learn about the different shapes, sizes, and colors of eggs, and what they reveal about the birds that lay them. Our collection of nests will showcase the architectural marvels created by these avian engineers, each one tailored to meet specific environmental needs and survival strategies.

    Understand the crucial roles birds play in our ecosystems, from pollination to pest control, and their importance as indicators of environmental health. Whether you're an avid bird watcher, a nature lover, or simply curious, this program will deepen your appreciation for the avian diversity that surrounds us.

    Good for all ages

  • Living alongside wild animals presents unique challenges as we share our habitats with a variety of creatures. Often, species we view as 'pests' find their way into our homes, creating conflicts that require thoughtful solutions. This informative program will explore humane methods to evict these critters from your living spaces.

    This program will provide you with practical strategies to make the inside of your house an unappealing habitat for wild animals, while simultaneously promoting a healthy and inviting environment for wildlife outside. Our experts will guide you through effective techniques for preventing entry, such as sealing entry points, managing food sources, and understanding animal behavior.

    Learn about the most common household intruders, including rodents, insects, and larger mammals, and discover ways to coexist peacefully without harm. We will discuss the importance of creating a balanced ecosystem in your yard that supports native wildlife while keeping your home critter-free.

    Adult only program

  • Discover the incredible ways creatures have evolved to thrive in their environments. This program delves into the fascinating adaptations that allow animals to survive and flourish in the diverse landscapes of Northern Colorado and beyond.

    Explore the remarkable physical and behavioral traits that animals develop in response to their habitats, from the arctic tundra to the dense forests. Learn how camouflage, mimicry, and specialized feeding habits enable animals to find food, avoid predators, and reproduce successfully. Our expert guides will provide captivating examples of these adaptations, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of wildlife.

    Through interactive displays and engaging presentations, you'll examine a variety of adaptation types

    Good for all ages


Scheduling Notes

  • We ask that requests be made at least 3 weeks in advance due to the need to schedule volunteers. More than 3 weeks’ notice is preferred.

  • Jurisdiction: Larimer County. If we have an ambassador animal, the program must be within 45 minutes of the animal’s home location (and the program cannot be longer than 1-2 hours)

  • We book up very quickly, especially from April through October! Please be sure to contact us for programs at least 2 months out during our busy season. Please understand that we might not be available if the day is already booked up.

  • Please allow for a 5-7 business day response to your request.

Why do we charge for our programming?

We are a non-profit organization reliant solely on donations and grants for funding. Implementing our programs necessitates resources such as gas money, time, and materials, which could otherwise be directed toward the well-being of our animals. The fees associated with these programs are dedicated to covering the costs involved in their execution and contribute to the rehabilitation efforts for Colorado's wildlife. Our commitment to education stems from the belief in fostering positive coexistence between humans and wildlife. It is our priority to ensure that fees never serve as a barrier to learning about this coexistence.

Request a Program

We are not currently accepting more program requests. Thank you!

Questions about our education programs? Email us at educate@nocowildlife.org