Last week, Global Wildlife Center had the pleasure of hosting a bright and
inquisitive group of 6th-8th grade students and their teachers from the Phoenix School in
Massachusetts for a four-day immersive conservation workshop. From identifying native
Louisiana flora to getting “paws-on” with capybara art, these students stepped out of the
classroom and directly into the roles of field researchers and conservationists.
Diving into Diversity
The week kicked off with a deep dive into the unique ecosystems of Louisiana and Global
Wildlife Center. Equipped with custom-designed intro packets featuring deer and giraffe
guides, the students hit the ground running.
The first day was packed with expert-led sessions:
- Giraffe Conservation: Students learned about global Giraffe Conservation
Foundation tracking efforts and how to identify individual giraffes in our tower. - Veterinary Science: Dr. Kanyon, Global Wildlife Center’s Director of Animal
Programs, led a fascinating look at young giraffe Obi’s groundbreaking eye
procedure and a lab presentation where students received a walkthrough of the
tools of exotic veterinary medicine.
Hands-on Habitat
Tuesday was all about the Longleaf Pine Savannas. After learning about this critical
biome, the students rolled up their sleeves for a “Conservation in Action” project: building
and mounting nest boxes across the property to support local avian species.
The day concluded with a native plant session led by Cali, Global Wildlife Center’s
horticulturalist, where students learned how to identify the iconic longleaf pine and native
milkweed plants. The Phoenix School also prepared and transplanted several milkweed
plants in danger of being mowed to new homes in the Butterfly Garden, which hosts many
other native plant species!
Enrichment and Art
Following a mid-week excursion at Bogue Chitto State Park, the students returned on
Thursday to focus on animal welfare and behavior.
- Wagon Tour Observations: Students sharpened their tracking skills, tracking and
discussing animal behavior in-depth while traversing the Center - Enrichment Chat: The group visited the barn with Erika, our Animal Care Manager,
to learn how we keep the ever-inquisitive giraffes mentally stimulated and engaged,
even helping to fill jollyballs for them! - Capybara Canvas: In one of the most fun sessions of the week, students engaged
in an “Art with the Capybaras” activity, creating canvas panels alongside these
gentle giants while learning about their specific anatomy with McKale, our
Encounters Expert and co-counselor, and Dr. Kanyon.
Field Notes and Final Farewells
On their final day, the Phoenix School students became true field observers. Using detailed
worksheets, they conducted morning behavior notes, even attempting to track individual
tag numbers.
Before departing, they enjoyed:
- The Kangaroo Classroom: Immersive observations and sketching in the walkabout
area. - Tortoise Encounters: A shell-rubbing activity and a lesson on tortoise care—
complete with a prickly pear snack for the tortoises. - Safari Souvenirs: Every student left with a piece of artwork created by an
endangered species to include in their journals.
We are so inspired by the passion these students showed for the natural world. By the time
they departed on Friday afternoon, they weren’t just students—they were ambassadors for
conservation. Safe travels back, Phoenix School!