Want to volunteer at Allen County Parks?

We would love to have you!!!!

We need volunteers for all kinds of activities, be it
program help, maintenance help, removal of invasive
species, filling bird feeders, small construction projects, hosts/hostess, anything you’d like to do!!

All potential volunteers for the Allen County Parks
Department must complete a volunteer application
before volunteering. A link to this application can be
found at our website on the Volunteer in the Allen
County Parks page.

What's Happening at Metea County Park?

To view a complete and up-to-date list of activities occurring at Metea Park, please see the Wild Grapevine, available at the Allen County Parks website.

Cross Country Ski Clinic at Fox Island

January 10, Saturday 10:00 -12:00 AM, Fox Island Nature Center


Cross country skiing is for everyone. Clinic participants will learn the basics: how skis, poles and bindings work, waxing vs. no-wax, purchasing, ski prep and maintenance, dressing appropriately and receive basic instruction and practice on technique.

Class fee is $7.00, and includes an hour of ski rental (weather permitting) or a voucher for future ski rental (weather not permitting). If you bring your own skis, class fee is $3.00.

A minimum of 5 pre-registrants is required by January 5, 2009. Call 449-3186 for pre-registration or more information. Please leave shoe size, height and weight in order to reserve equipment.

Frogcicles

By Bob Dispenza, Park and Education Manager, Allen County Parks, Fort Wayne, IN


During this winter’s cold weather, you’ll often hear people say they’re “freezing.” It’s the time of year when my wife’s “freezing” feet seem to find their way onto my back to warm up. But we don’t know what real freezing is – not like some of our native frogs do. They will actually freeze solid, which would kill most animals. Our little “frogcicles” can thaw out and live again in the spring.


Gray tree frog photo by Natalie Haley

Stars of “It Came From Beneath the Ice” (freezable frogs in our area):

  • Eastern gray tree frog (Hyla versicolor)
  • Cope’s gray tree frog (Hyla chrysoscelis)
  • Spring peeper (Hyla crucifer)
  • Chorus frog (Pseudacris triseriata)
  • Wood frog (Rana sylvatica)

Theses frogs are unable to dig down below the frost line, can’t migrate, and live on land or in shallow water that disappears or freezes completely in winter. They can’t fight (by keeping warm), and they can’t run away (by migrating). But they can adapt. Without the ability to survive freezing, they would not make it through the cold weather.

Several adaptations make all this possible. The goal is to get the water out of the cells, and then get it to freeze in a controlled fashion at the highest possible temperature. Water freezing inside the cells will kill them, but frogs can survive water freezing in areas outside the cells (called extracellular spaces). Condensation nuclei (chemicals, proteins and bacteria that ice will form around) are found throughout the extracellular spaces, such as the digestive, circulatory and lymphatic systems and skin tissues.



Wood frog photo from River Bend Nature Center

Frog skin, being so moist, begins to freeze as soon as the frog’s surroundings do. As the frogs start to freeze, the heart keeps beating, distributing glycerol and glucose around the body, and these chemicals move into the cells. This allows most water to leave the cells and freeze in the extracellular spaces, while the remaining water inside the cells remains unfrozen. Glycerol (sugar alcohol) and glucose (sugar) keep some water in the cells, but the solution freezes at a much lower temperature than before, like salt makes water freeze at a lower temp on the road. These chemicals, called cryoprotectors, also provide ready energy that doesn’t require oxygen, since the blood freezes also. Glycerol is chemically related to ethylene glycol, which we use as antifreeze in our cars. While ethylene glycol is poisonous, glycerol is not.

As freezing continues, the heart stops, breathing stops, and brain activity most likely stops. The frogs are technically dead, though clinical death is an irreversible state, and frog freezing is quite reversible.

Frogs can freeze down to -15ºC (5ºF), and even lower in northern parts of their range. Up to 80% of the water in their bodies can turn to ice. They don’t always survive – it can get too cold. Some can only survive freezing for short periods of time (hours), while others can tolerate weeks as frogcicles.


Spring peeper photo from Ohio Frog & Toad Calling survey

As temperatures warm in the spring, the frogs begin to thaw, and heartbeat, breathing and muscle movement start again spontaneously. About 12 hours after thawing, the frogs have mostly recovered and resume normal frog behavior (croaking, eating, mating, singing songs about being green, and searching for princesses). They can take first advantage of freshly-thawed vernal pools, and begin mating activities even before all the ice melts.

In the spring and summer, frogs croak to attract a mate. In the winter, some frogs “croak” to survive.

For more information:
Laboratory for Ecophysiological Cryobiology: Wood Frog Freezing Survival
Nature North: Frozen Alive
Nova Ask the Expert: Frozen Frogs
National Geographic Anti-freeze-Like Blood

Winter Solstice

December 21, Sunday, 5:00-9:00 PM


The longest night of the year is upon us! Will the sun ever return?

Come out to Metea County Park for a night of education and celebration on Winter Solstice evening to learn about different cultures’ view of the solstice, celestial origins of Christmas traditions, light a fire and bang a drum!

We’ll start off with a hike, so dress for the weather! Then we’ll come inside the Nature Center to warm up, listen to a live version of the popular NIPR radio show “Folk Tales” with Julia Meek and Jill Mozena. The Sophia’s Portico Drummers will wrap up the evening with word and song.

Admission is $5 per person, kids 6 and under are free. For more info, call 449-3777.

Take a Hike! Tracks in the Snow

December 13, Saturday, 11 AM


Winter is the perfect time to look for animal tracks. Without the overabundance of greenery, tracks really stick out. And if there’s snow, that’s even better!

Join naturalist Rachel Rossiter Smith for a hike to look for these animal clues and more. Dress for the weather.

Minimum 5 registered 5 days in advance – call 449-3777. $2.00 per person.

Wilderness Women (formerly Girls in Boots) - Give Me Shelter!

December 13, Saturday, 3:00-5:00 PM


Wilderness Women is a program designed for women and young ladies from about 12 years and up to become more self sufficient in the outdoors and develop an environmental consciousness all while gaining skills and knowledge. Each meeting includes a hike, an activity and a snack.

In this cold month, it is important to know how to keep warm. We’ll explore different types of shelter and then we’ll take a hike and make one.

Pre-registration required by December 8, call 449-3777.

Preschool Morning Adventure – Snow

December 11, Thursday, 10:00 AM


Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Bring your preschooler to Metea County Park and learn about that cold stuff. Can we make snow inside the nature center? How is ice cream made? Come and have fun! We will read a book, sing songs, make a craft, eat homemade ice cream, and learn all about snow!

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Please pre-register by December 8 by calling 449-3777 or emailing kharding@allencountyparks.org. Minimum of 5 participants for the program to run.

Energy and Water Conservation

Friday, December 5, 7:30 PM


The cost of energy and just about everything else is going up rapidly. There are things anyone can do to save our resources, reduce pollution and lower you energy bills.

Join an Allen County Parks naturalist and find out how to apply those money and environment saving tips and technologies. Get a chance to see the all-electric car in operation, along with a 50 MPG car.

Class fee is $2.00 per person – call 449-3777 or email metea@allencountyparks.org. Minimum 5 registered 5 days in advance.

Fourth Friday Night Hike

November 28, Friday, 7:30 PM


We’ll be heading out into the darkness for a hike and to look at the winter sky. We’ll talk about constellations, planets, and celestial happenings as we wait out winter for the weather to warm back up! Dress for the weather!

Program fee of $2 per person, kids 6 and under are free. Pre-registration is required by November 24th; call 449-3777.

Wilderness Women (formerly Girls in Boots) - Campfire Cooking

November 22, Saturday, 3:00-5:00 PM


Wilderness Women is a program designed for women and young ladies from about 12 years and up to become more self sufficient in the outdoors and develop an environmental consciousness all while gaining skills and knowledge.

We will use the skills we learned from the last meeting to build a fire and then we’ll explore different methods of cooking on it! No worries if you weren’t here last time, we’ll catch you up.

Please bring your own place setting and drinks. We will supply the food, but you’ll do the cooking!

$5 per person. Pre-registration by November17th required, at 449-3777.

Preschool Morning Adventure – Popcorn

November 13, Thursday, 10:00 AM


What’s poppin’? Bring your preschooler to Metea County Park for a popcorn taste test.

We will learn about popcorn, read a book, sing a ‘corny’ song, and make a craft.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Please pre-register by November 10 by calling 449-3777 or emailing kharding@allencountyparks.org. Minimum 5 registered by Nov. 10.

Take a Hike! Native Animals

November 8, Saturday, 11 AM


Take a hike with park naturalist Rachel Rossiter Smith to look for native animals.

Cedar Creek valley is the perfect place to look since it is in such a natural state. We’ll discuss non-natives, extirpated species and more. Dress for the weather, we’ll go out rain or shine!

Program fee of $2 per person, kids 6 and under are free. Pre-registration is required by November 3; call 449-3777.

Caving Adventure

Pre-caving class Thursday, October 30, 7:30 PM, and cave trip on Saturday, November 8, all day


Go underground with Allen County Parks. Caving instructor and naturalist Bob Dispenza will be leading a trip to the Garrison Chapel Karst area near Bloomington on Saturday, November 8.

We’ll be exploring a wild cave in the area and going off the beaten path, looking for cave wildlife and unusual formations.

Mandatory pre-caving class is Thursday, October 30, 7:30 PM at Metea County Park.

Class fee of $20.00 per person, due on October 30, covers maps and caving instruction. Learn about geology, cave life, needed equipment and cave formation.

This activity is somewhat strenuous, but suitable for beginners. Call 449-3777 or email metea@allencountyparks.org to make reservations.

Fourth Friday Night Hike - Metea NORTH

October 24, 7:30 PM


North Metea on Hursh Road between Puff and Halter Roads

This is a family friendly night hike about some of the creepy creatures in nature and why they may not be so creepy after all.

Explore one of our wildest parks at a wild time of year. Flashlights optional, and will not be used on the hike.

Cost is $2. To register call 449-3777.

Viruses – Our Smallest Wildlife

By Bob Dispenza, Director of Education, Allen County Parks



Computer viruses periodically make the news. The only relation these have to biological, “living” viruses is that they are small, insidious, work from the inside and cause damage. Natural viruses do all these things, but they more than this. Little is know about most viruses, though they are around us everywhere. Most of the research into viruses has centered around those which cause human illness, but there are many others that infect bacteria, plants, and both wild and domestic animals.

The term “virus” comes from the Latin for slimy liquid or poison. The term “living” must be used with caution around viruses. There is still argument about whether they are extremely simple life forms or extremely complex chemicals that can produce copies of themselves. Most living things are “on” all the time – that is, enzymes are reacting in their cells constantly. Viruses are only “on” when they are inside a susceptible cell. Outside a cell they are as inert as any other lifeless chemical, and can even assume crystalline form like a mineral. Some can survive for long periods of time outside a living cell, but all are “obligate intracellular parasites”. They can only reproduce by commandeering the metabolic machinery of a living cell, a cell that is killed or drastically altered in the process.

Most viruses consist of two or three parts: a “core” made up of viral DNA or RNA with associated proteins; a “capsid” made of protein which protects the core; and sometimes an “envelope” made of modified material from the host cell. West Nile virus is one of those enveloped viruses, which means it is less hardy and doesn’t usually survive long outside of a host. Capsids often look remarkably like mineral crystals. Many (including West Nile) are icosahedrons, with 20 triangular sides and 12 corners.

Viral RNA or DNA tends to be very simple, sometimes having as few as three genes. A few viruses are so simple that they cannot reproduce without the presence of another, larger virus in the same cell. While the larger virus is parasitizing the cell, the smaller virus parasitizes the larger virus, stealing enzymes and proteins for its own use.

Hosts are often hard-pressed to fight off viruses, since virus genes evolve up to a million times faster than host genes. Viruses are responsible for sicknesses as common as warts and colds. They are also implicated in more deadly diseases – West Nile, dengue fever, AIDS, polio, hepatitis, rabies, and encephalitis. Viruses cause flu, and though it is not now thought of as deadly, it killed over 20 million people in the pandemic of 1918-1919. It’s not all bad news – smallpox may have been eliminated.

Control of viruses can be difficult. Chemical agents are of limited use – viruses are so simple and use so much of the host’s resources that damaging the virus would often involve damaging the host cell. Interferon, a protein secreted by virus-infected cells, can cause resistance to infection in surrounding cells. Immunity is a complex host response that works well, but it requires exposure to the virus itself or specific parts of the virus. Immunity to one virus does not mean immunity to all – there are over 100 different viruses that can cause cold symptoms.

Viruses can sometimes evade host defenses by inserting themselves into the host’s DNA and “disappearing”. Stress, chemicals and other factors may reactivate these viruses, producing disease. These “disappearing” viruses may cause some tumors.
Not usually thought of as wildlife, viruses still play an important part in any ecosystem. By moving DNA around and eliciting immune reactions they play a role in shaping the plants and animals we know today. Next time you get a cold you can take pride in the fact that you are providing habitat for our smallest wildlife.

Hibernation

By Bob Dispenza, Park and Education Manager, Allen County Parks


With cold weather approaching, those of us who don’t like skiing, sledding or skating may wish we could hibernate through the winter. While leading hikes, I usually discover that hibernation is widely misunderstood. But just what is hibernation, and who does it here in Indiana?

True hibernation is not like sleeping. It’s much closer to being dead. If you are sleeping and I shake you or make a loud noise, you may awaken. If I were to take a hibernating woodchuck out of his burrow, I could bounce him on the floor like a basketball and still not wake him. Hibernation involves a change in metabolism – how fast an animal burns energy. The point is to conserve energy for a long period of fasting in winter. An animal’s waking temperature may be 100°F, heart rate may be 100 beats per minute and breathing 70 times per minute. While hibernating, the same animal’s temperature may drop to 40°F, heart rate to 10 beats per minute, and breathing to 3 times per minute or less. Animals whose temperature does not drop (bears) are not true hibernators.

Cold-blooded animals (snakes, frogs, lizards, fish, insects, etc.) have no choice but to become inactive or die when temperatures drop below about 45°F, though gray tree frogs can freeze solid and still revive in the spring.

Though colder temperatures and the amount of fat an animal has put on help determine when to hibernate, the main cue is photoperiod. Shortening days in fall cause changes in behavior that lead to hibernation. Rising temperatures in spring appear to be the main reawakener.

Torpor is the temporary lowering of metabolism. A few warm-blooded animals use this as a short-term measure to overcome short-term adversity. Hummingbirds, who could starve to death overnight, may become torpid at night. Some carnivores and small mammals will do this also, especially during severe winter weather.

There are only a few warm-blooded species native to Indiana that actually hibernate. They can survive on stored fat without eating or drinking for several months. Probably the most famous is the woodchuck (Marmota monax), who uses up 30% of his fall body weight during hibernation. You could watch for him on February 2 (we’ll be having a special program that day at Metea County Park), but don’t expect to see him. All our native bats hibernate, though some fly south to do it. Bats also use daily torpor to conserve energy during adverse weather that keeps their insect prey from flying. Thirteen-lined ground squirrels (Spermophilus tridecimlineatus) are not common in Allen County, but are true hibernators. Their 200 beat-per-minute heart rate drops to below 20 beats per minute. Two species of jumping mouse – woodland (Neozapus insignis) and meadow (Zapus hudsonius) – look a little like miniature kangaroos. Up to 75% of hibernating meadow jumping mice never reawaken in the spring, having used up their fat reserves before warmer weather arrives. This completes our list of hibernators. All the other warm-blooded animals must struggle through winter, eating stored food or foraging as best they can. Even if they don’t make it, they will provide winter food for some other animal.

So if you’re considering hibernating this winter, don’t be like the jumping mice – put on plenty of extra weight. Pile on the gravy and stuffing, and go ahead, have that extra dessert.

Wildflowers in Spring

by Sarah (former Allen County Parks Outdoor Educator & Volunteer Coordination)


Maybe the songs of frogs don’t define the arrival of spring for you. There is no denying, however, that wildflowers herald the end of winter. It is so exciting to see green pushing its way up through leaves and dirt, and slowly spreading along twigs on trees and shrubs. While yellow daffodils may be appearing in your yard, it is white that’s blooming in the forest.

Christian Schult, our assistant director of education, brought in the first wildflower of the year a couple of weeks ago. It was a tiny mostly white blossom nearly lost at the tip of a short green plant. It has been identified as both pepper-and-salt and harbinger-of-spring, but common names make everything confusing (as opposed to scientific names in Latin). It is a dainty little flower, and a joy to see after such a cold and snowy winter.

Not too far behind is my mother’s favorite wildflower, Dutchman’s breeches. Probably the most distinctive flowers in the woods, they look like a string of puffy white pantaloons, trimmed with yellow, hung one-by-one down a slender green stalk, “waistband” down. These oddly shaped flowers are actually in the poppy family. The flowers look nothing like poppies (almost more like orchids), but the feathery leaves are almost reminiscent of ornamental poppy leaves (ok, you’ll have to stretch your imagination a bit).

Bloodroot flowers have finally arrived. This is a plant you should look up in a field guide if you are not familiar with it. The leaves are very distinctive; almost kidney shaped, but with a couple of deep, rounded cuts from the outside edge, creating large lobes. The flower itself is a decent-sized white flower, with eight to ten petals and a yellow center. This flower looks nothing like Dutchman’s breeches, but is also in the poppy family. If you’d really like to understand the plants in Papaveraceae, the poppy family, check The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers (ISBN 394-50432-1). Bloodroot may sound a little gory, but it describes a fascinating identifying characteristic of this plant. The root is almost tuber-like, and when you break it, the plant juices that drip out are an orangy-red color. When smeared on the skin, it looks like blood (be warned- it stains!). This plant is an exciting and somewhat rare find, so be sure to simply enjoy it only be looking at it.

Yet another white flower that pops up early in the spring is the appropriately named spring beauty. A five petaled flower with accents of pink, this little gem has long, entire (smooth-edged), grass-like leaves. I might also add that it is rather tasty. The leaves would be delicious in a salad, for they taste like fresh, strong spinach. I’m told the flowers are also quite nice, and can even be a little on the sweet side if you can find a nectar filled blossom. It is not in the poppy family (it’s a purslane).

Be careful not to confuse spring beauties with cut-leaved toothwort. Another strange name, probably with folk medicine roots (anything ending with “wort” is rumored to heal the body part it is paired with. For example, “toothwort” might help with toothaches, “liverwort” might help your liver, etc. Will these really work, and are they even edible? Better double check with your doctor). The leaves are indeed deeply cut, or lobed, and have strongly toothed, or pointed, edges. The leaves are located a good ways up the stem, while the leaves of spring beauties grow up from the base. The flowers themselves are similar, except that cut-leaved toothwort has only four petals. In case you’re wondering, toothwort is a mustard.

So many flowers, so little time! Within a couple of weeks there will be an entirely new crop of flowers blooming. The best way to learn to identify wildflowers is to have someone point directly to the flower under your nose, and share a bit of its natural history with you. If you can gather together a group of at least five people, the education department would be happy to give you a personal tour of this spring show. Give us a call at 449-3180, and we’ll take you out in the county park of your choice, for $2 per person. Come out and enjoy the show!

Spicebush - Forsythia of the Woods

by Sarah (former Allen County Parks Outdoor Educator & Volunteer Coordinator)


Two weeks ago, I went out for a hike to check out the spring wildflowers. It wasn’t the little white flowers on the ground that demanded my attention, but the spicebush blossoms. Tiny explosions of highlighter-yellow line the branches of this incredible shrub. Among the bare branches of the other forest shrubs and saplings, it seems to flash raw sunshine through the woods.

It reminds me of the forsythias of my childhood, an ornamental that bloomed early with great profusions of bright yellow flowers. Mom made sure each of our houses had at least one or two forsythias. (Upon further research, I discovered that “forsythia of the woods” is actually a nickname for this plant. Guess I’m not as original as I’d like to think I am.) The bare twig always reminds me of a dirty green crayon, missing its paper wrapper. The leaves are simply a generic leafy green, once they’ve unfurled from their buds. The best, or most fun, way to identify this plant is by scent. If you scratch the surface of a twig, and sniff the bare wood underneath, the spicy aroma is almost overwhelming.

Spicebush is a wonderful native plant, with many uses. I’m told that you can take a twig of spicebush, and use it stir your ice tea, adding great flavor. You can even make a straight tea from the twigs. If you’ve neglected to bring enough water on your hike, supposedly you can chew on a spicebush twig to freshen your mouth. It has been used in a variety of medicinal concoctions, for everything from tonics to regulating menstrual cycles.

Personally, I think tea is the best use for this plant. I’ve even read stories that colonial Americans used spicebush tea during the boycott of British tea. My recommendation is to start with the swizzle stick in the iced tea option, and work your way up to pure spicebush tea. As always, you may want to consult your doctor first, to avoid allergic reactions and any other interactions, as spicebush is known to have medicinal qualities.

However, there is nothing wrong with simply enjoying spicebush for its aesthetic qualities. This not-so-tall woody plant is great for landscaping, especially since it is native to our Indiana landscape. It may be tricky to find in your local nursery, but you can certainly call around, or go online to order your own.

Using native plants for landscaping has so many benefits. First, you demonstrate Indiana pride by showcasing native flora around your home. Also, there are many plants invading our natural areas because of the spread of ornamental species. Up until a few years ago, I had a friend who sold purple loosestrife in her nursery, a plant that is now taking over many of our wetlands. This is one example of many. Using native plants also promotes your yard as wildlife habitat for some of Indiana’s most beautiful creatures. Our butterflies, moths, birds, and more need these plants in order to survive. Many butterflies require specific plants for their larval/caterpillar stage. The spicebush swallowtail, for example, will only eat spicebush, sassafras, and possibly magnolia and prickly ash foliage.

Though not as full-petaled as forsythia blossoms, spicebush flowers are still showy enough to be absolutely beautiful. Look for this shrub the next time you are out for a hike, or consider adding one to your yard. It will feed our butterflies, give shelter to the songbirds, and is sure to bring you sunshine, even on a drizzly day.

Venomous Spiders: Fangs of Death?

Bob Dispenza, Director of Education, Allen County Parks, Fort Wayne, IN


They lie patiently in wait, their many eyes glittering. At the first opportunity, they pounce upon unsuspecting people, delivering death through fangs dripping with poison. All you have to do is see Shelob in “The Return of the King” to realize how many people view spiders. Just their names conjure up fear: Black Widow, Brown Recluse, Daddy-Long-Legs.

What? Daddy-Long-Legs? Yes, thanks to the Internet and urban legends, the humble daddy-long-legs has been promoted to the most “poisonous spider” in the world. Before we explore this further, let’s get our terms straight. Spiders can be venomous, but rarely poisonous. Venom is injected, poison is ingested. If you want to know if a spider is poisonous, you have to eat it. Daddy-long-legs are in the order Opiliones and are also called harvestmen. They live many places outside, and are recognized by their long, thin legs, undivided body with segments on the rear half, and lack of silk. There is also a true spider called daddy-long-legs, family Pholcidae, which frequents basements (and therefore is sometimes called the cellar spider). The way the story goes, daddy-long-legs are the most venomous “spiders”, but their short fangs don’t penetrate human skin, so they can’t hurt us. Stop and think about that for a minute – how would scientists find that out? They would have to extract venom and inject it into people to see if they die. Who’s going to pay for or support that research? As it is, harvestmen are mostly scavengers and not venomous at all, and no Pholcid spiders have been shown to be harmful.

For both of the following spiders, severity of a bite depends on immune reaction to the venom, quantity injected and bite location, along with the age and condition of the victim. As with any spider bite, collect the spider and seek medical attention. Both spiders are shy and will only bite as a last resort or in the process of being crushed, and both may be found in association with human dwellings.

Black widows (Latrodectus mactans) are quite rare over most of our region, and entirely absent from much of it, especially northward. Only mature females are venomous, and they are somewhat variable in appearance. In spite of their name, females only rarely eat males after mating. Usually black with a red hourglass shape on the underside, they can also be brown and have indefinite markings. I once shared a park entrance booth with some in North Dakota – they lived under the floorboards and kept to themselves. Their webs appear unorganized, without a definite form. Venom is neurotoxic, and is fatal less than 1% of the time. Symptoms include pain (especially in the back and abdomen), nausea, fever, tremors, breathing difficulties and elevated blood pressure.

Brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa) spiders are also called violin or fiddleback spiders, referring to the violin-shaped marking on the cephalothorax. They have six eyes in 3 pairs, as opposed to the 8 eyes that many spiders have. At home in the lower Mississippi valley and southern Great Plains, the range of the brown recluse extends into the southern half of Indiana and southwest corner of Ohio, but they are rare even there. Occurrences outside this range are likely the result spiders of being moved accidentally by human activity. Brown recluse venom is hemotoxic, causing destruction of tissue and blood at the bite site, though there may be some systemic symptoms also. Fatalities are extremely rare. These spiders eat mostly dead insects found while roaming – the unorganized web is a daytime retreat. In areas where they are native, brown recluses may be quite common, almost communal in their habits. They may be found under beds or running through houses in Kansas, Missouri and Arkansas, where schoolchildern frequently collect them while looking for insects. People in these areas live in close association with brown recluses without dire consequences. Most necrotic lesions diagnosed as brown recluse bites are something else entirely, especially in our region, but many medical professionals are unaware of the spider’s range. I have never seen a live brown recluse, and the only dead one I’ve seen was caught in far southern Indiana. Wolf and nursery web spiders are often mistaken for brown recluses, and while they are large and dramatic, they are not dangerous.

Most spiders are venomous, but most are also harmless to people. They’re not the Gary Larson Far Side spiders, weaving a web at the bottom of a playground sliding board and telling each other “If we pull this off, we’ll eat like kings!” Their benefits in insect control far outweigh their negative aspects. Learn to love them – remember, you’re never more than three feet away from a spider.

Web resources:

Black widow (at Ohio State – Go Buckeyes!)

Brown recluse (Ohio State strikes again!)

Spiders - Great site dedicated to correcting spider misinformation (take the Brown Recluse Spider Challenge, and look for the Monty Python quotes!)

Arachnology web

Bats

by Karie Divelbiss-Harding


Bats are flying mammals. Mammals are warm-blooded vertebrates that nourish their young with milk and are covered in hair or fur. These mammals are somewhat different than most because they can fly. Scientists have placed them in the order called Chiroptera which literally means hand-wing.

Bats are found everywhere in the world except in areas with extreme cold or extreme heat and dry conditions. The United States and Canada can claim 47 different species. The most common species in this part of Indiana are the big brown bat, little brown bat and the eastern red bat. We will occasionally get different species too.

An interesting fact about bats is that they have delayed fertilization. This means that they mate in the fall, but fertilization occurs in the spring after the bats finish hibernating. The length of their gestation period is about 45 days. When bats are born the mother, who usually hangs upside-down, will hang upright with their claws.*

Another fact about bats is their night flight. Bats use echolocation as a means to navigate through the night sky as well as their good eyesight. Echolocation is defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as "a physiological process for locating distant or invisible objects (as prey) by sound waves reflected back to the emitter (as a bat) from the objects.** Studies have been done to test the vision of bats. Some bats were blindfolded and their nightly flights seemed inconsistent with their course compared to night flights with use of their eyesight.

Although bats have had a bad reputation, they are actually very helpful creatures. The number one threat to bats are humans, who have most likely received misleading information about them. Bats feed on night flying insects. In a study by scientists at Indiana State University, they "estimated the number of insects eaten by one colony of about 300 bats in Clay County, Indiana, at about 6.3 million insects per year!"***

Even though bats are very helpful many people have killed bats based on folk tales, the stink of their guano, and their unwanted presence in living spaces. Is is not normal for bats to fly into your hair or suck your blood, they are not flying mice or blind. Bats are not known to carry lice, and it is a misconception that rabies is a serious problem.

So, what should be done if bats are a nuisance? Firstly, one would never kill bats. Also, please do not touch bats. If they are scared they will bite. Please try to find solutions to any problems bats are creating before misplacing the bats. There are many people who work to help these creatures. If you need to contact someone in Allen County please call the park at 449-3777 and we can give you information for the bat rehabilitator in the area.

Footnotes:
*Bat Conservation
**Merriam Webster
***Whitaker, John O. Jr., Bats of Indiana, Indiana State University

Wilderness Women (formerly Girls in Boots) - Fire starters!

October 18, Saturday, 3:00-5:00 PM


Wilderness Women is a program designed for women and young ladies from about 12 years and up to become more self sufficient in the outdoors and develop an environmental consciousness all while gaining skills and knowledge.

This meeting will focus on the art of fire making. We’ll be taking a hike to find fire making materials, making fire starters and cooking a snack on the fire we build! Dress for the weather.

Program fee is $5 per person. Minimum 5 registered 5 days in advance – call 449-3777.

Home School Series

October 16 & November 20, Thursdays, 2-4 PM


Metea County Park is offering a home school science enrichment program for all school age students in three age groups. Participants in this project MUST pre-register by October 10 at 449-3777 or by emailing kharding@allencountyparks.org (preferred method). NO WALK-INS.

The fee for this program is $10.00 per student and $4.00 per parent, and includes both month’s sessions, all handouts and equipment. One parent/guardian per family is required to attend. Classes fill up quickly, so reserve your space soon! Each session begins promptly at 2:00 pm! Please bring proper footwear and outerwear for hiking. Topics subject to change without notice.

Session 1: October 16
Beginner (grade 1-3)
Bats! How many mosquitoes can they eat per night? Why are they important to the ecosystem? How did bat myths come to be? Why do they hang upside-down? Come to Metea to learn these facts and more!
Intermediate (grade 4-6)
Raptors! This group will be learning all about raptors! Soarin’ Hawk will be joining us as we learn about birds of prey, their importance in our ecosystem and what we can do to help protect these majestic creatures! Live raptors will be present.
Advanced (grade 7-12)
Native Mammals! We will learn about what makes an animal a mammal. We will explore mammal anatomy, take a hike in search of habitat, and introduce some ecological concepts and much more.

Session 2: November 20
Beginner (grade 1-3)
Owls! We will discover what they eat by dissecting owl pellets, learn about their importance in the environment and learn their calls. We will also be visited from a local screech owl and/or short-eared owl.
Intermediate (grade 4-6)
Bats! This group will be learning all about bats! How many mosquitoes can they eat per night? Why are they important to the ecosystem? How did bat myths come to be? Why do they hang upside-down? Come to Metea to learn these facts and more!
Advanced (grade 7-12)
Raptors! This group will be learning all about raptors! Soarin’ Hawk will be joining us as we learn about birds of prey, their importance in our ecosystem and what we can do to help protect these majestic creatures! Live raptors will be present.

Fall Foliage Hikes

October 11 and 18, Saturdays, 10:00 AM


Meet park naturalist Rachel Rossiter Smith at the Metea Park Nature Center for an enjoyable morning hike to savor the sounds, sights and smells of autumn.

Along the way we’ll talk about trees and how they can turn such beautiful colors. Dress for the weather.

Cost is $2 per person, kids 6 and under are free. Minimum 5 registered 5 days in advance – call 449-3777.

Preschool Morning Adventure – Shades of Fall

October 9, Thursday, 10:00 AM


Come to Metea County Park with your preschooler to learn about fall colors.

We will read a book, make a craft, have a snack and take a short hike.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Please pre-register by October 6 by calling 449-3777 or emailing kharding@allencountyparks.org. Minimum of 5 pre-registered.

The Belted Kingfisher

By Karie Harding, Naturalist, Metea County Park


There are many trails that lead to Cedar Creek at Metea County Park. If you have the opportunity (and bug spray) to sit at one of the overlooks found near the creek, keep your eyes open for our resident belted kingfishers. These magnificent birds can be found perched on branches overlooking the creek. The branches provide a perfect perch for these birds to dive into the relatively clear water for small fish, crayfish or sometimes frogs. Kingfishers may also be seen pounding their prey on their perch to kill it before it is eaten.

The belted kingfisher is a medium-sized bird, 11-14 inches, has a large head with a shaggy crest, and a large beak. It is a bluish color with a white ring around its neck. The male kingfisher has a white belly, while the female has a red chest band and flanks. Unlike most birds, the female kingfisher is more brightly colored than the male. It has a distinctive call, sounding much like a harsh rattle.

The kingfisher digs a hole into the steep bank of a creek or river to form its nest chamber, usually in the same vicinity as hunting territory. The male and female both dig the nest until the tunnel is about six inches in diameter and six feet long. A chamber is dug at the end where the eggs are laid. This process usually takes about 3 to 7 days. The female will then lay 5-8 eggs in this chamber. These eggs take around 22 days to incubate and the young will hatch the same day within hours of one another.

These interesting birds are often seen flying or perching near Andrew Britton Overlook at Metea’s south (main) site. Sometimes they show up at the pond near the nature center. They can also be seen at Metea North near the gnarly, old, lopsided oak and Aldo Leopold benches. See if you can find or hear this bird!

Trail Guide Training Workshop

Sept. 28, Sunday, 1:00pm-4:00pm+, Fox Island County Park Nature Center


We are training trail guides for three choice “box” programs for school groups.

The idea is to train our trail guides on what we would like you to cover during a field trip in regard to the three most popular program choices for the fall season.

Following this training we would like you to stay for an early campfire supper where we can show each other unique gimmicks and gadgets (props) that you have used in order to make outdoor learning fun and interesting. Example: “scat tube made from 2-Liter bottles”-Scott Beam.

Hope to see you there! Pre-register (Call 449-3180) and bring a friend to this free workshop!

Campfire Cooking - Foil Dinner

September 26, Friday, 6:00 pm – Metea County Park fire ring


Come to Metea County Park with your own place-setting and beverage as we make a foil dinner.

We will supply the fire, food, foil and instructions, but you must do the cooking.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED for this program (You will be turned away if you have not registered). Register by calling 449-3777. Space is limited. $5.00 per person.

Girls in Boots! First Aid in the Outdoors

September 20, Saturday, 3-5pm, Metea County Park Nature Center


Girls in Boots is a monthly program designed to help women become more self sufficient in the outdoors. The program is recommended for women and young ladies from about 12 years old on up.

On this adventure, the Girls will learn what to do when your well thought out hike takes a turn for the worse. On the hike, we will cover cuts and scrapes; bites from insects, animals and reptiles; broken bones; and burns. All Girls participating will receive a free mini first aid kit.

This program is intended for information only and does not substitute for other training or certification programs.

A snack will be provided, but it is important to register so that we get the right amount of supplies.

Cost for this program is $5. Pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot, please call 260-449-3777.

NEAT – North East Allen Tour for bicycles

September 20, Saturday, ride starts 9 AM, Metea County Park


Enjoy an early fall ride through scenic northern Allen County while helping out Allen County Parks.

A 20-mile route tours Allen County, while 40-mile and 62-mile routes wind through Allen and DeKalb Counties. Visit three of the four Allen County Parks on all routes. Many other quality natural areas are also along the route, which is mostly on lightly traveled rural roads.

Snacks, drinks, a light lunch and emergency transportation service will be provided.

Registration opens at 8:30 on Saturday, September 20 at Metea County Park, located near the corner of Union Chapel and Leo Roads just west of Cedarville.

Registration required, ride fee is $15.00 before September 15, $18.00 after.

To obtain more information or a registration form, call 449-3180 or e-mail allencountyparks@yahoo.com. Many local bike shops also have registration forms.

Helmets required!

Sponsored by Allen County Parks, Summit City Bicycles and Fitness and Friends of Metea.

2008 Annual FoM Picnic - BYOHD

Wednesday, September 17, 2008


It is time for the Friends of Metea's Annual Picnic.

It will be held on September 17 at 5:30PM at the outside pavilion at Metea Park.

Please bring your own hot dogs to roast, buns, a dish to share, your own drinks, and your own table service. Condiments will be furnished.

This is a good time to visit and know what is happening at the park. You do not need to be a member to attend.

We hope to see you there!

Preschool Morning Adventure – Butterflies

September 11, Thursday, 10:00 am, Metea County Park Nature Center


Come to Metea County Park with your preschooler to learn about butterflies.



We will read a book, make a craft, have a snack, sing some butterfly songs, and take a short hike and (hopefully) tag a butterfly or two.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Please register by calling 449-3777.

Night Hike at Metea NORTH

August 29, Friday, 9:00 pm – Metea North parking lot


Meet at the Hursh Road parking lot and wear some bug repellent as we embark on a night hike filled with nocturnal animals, night senses and fun.

$2.00 per person. Call 449-3777 to register.

Campfire Cooking – Everything but the Kitchen Sink Soup

August 29, Friday, 6:00 pm – Metea County Park fire ring


Come to Metea County Park with your own place-setting, beverage and a can of your favorite vegetable as we make “Everything but the Kitchen Sink Soup”.

There’s no telling what type of soup we will end up with, but it will be good!!! Then naturalist, Karie Harding, will have a yummy dessert to make over the fire!

Be sure to stay for the night hike after the program.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED for this program. (You will be turned away if you have not registered). Call 449-3777. Space is limited. $5.00 per person.

Girls in Boots! Learn to Fish

August 23, Saturday, 3-5pm, Metea County Park Nature Center


Girls in Boots is a monthly program designed to help women become more self sufficient in the outdoors. The program is recommended for women and young ladies from about 12 years old on up.

Want to go fishing, but don’t know how? Then this is the program for you!

We’ll learn everything from how to put a pole together and put a hook on to how to cast and take a fish off the hook.

All supplies will be provided, as will a snack.

Cost for this program is $5. Pre-registration is required. Please call 260-449-3777 to reserve your spot.

Home School Series

August 21 & September 18, Thursdays, 2:00 – 4:00 pm, Metea Nature Center


Metea County Park is offering a home school science enrichment program for all school age students in three age groups.

Participants in this project MUST pre-register at 449-3777 or by emailing kharding@allencountyparks.org (preferred method).

The fee for this program is $10.00 per student and $4.00 per parent, and includes both month’s sessions, all handouts and equipment. One parent/guardian per family is required to attend.

Classes fill up quickly, so reserve your space soon! Each session begins promptly at 2:00 pm!

Please bring proper footwear and insect repellent.

Beginner - Grades 1-3
During the first session we will be investigating the pond during this program. The children will be using our dip nets and various equipment to discover what critters live in the pond during the fall months. If we are lucky we may even find some crayfish with eggs or some monarch butterfly larva on the milkweed next to the pond.

The next session will consist of a “bird-brained” activity and a hike that centers on birds. If you have binoculars please bring them. We have a few pairs that we can use too.

Intermediate - Grades 4-6
The first session will consist of a “bird-brained” activity and a hike that centers on birds. If you have binoculars please bring them. We have a few pairs that we can use too.

During the next session we will be learning about the monarch butterfly – metamorphosis, caterpillar and butterfly anatomy, tagging, habitat, predators, how to tell the sex of the butterfly and chrysalis, and migration of the butterflies. Wear appropriate shoes as we will be hiking through the prairie to catch and tag some butterflies.

Advanced - Grades 7-12
We will be learning about the monarch butterfly – metamorphosis, caterpillar and butterfly anatomy, tagging, habitat, predators, how to tell the sex of the butterfly and chrysalis, and migration of the butterflies during the first session. Wear appropriate shoes as we will be hiking through the prairie to catch and tag some butterflies.

During the next session we will learn about the social behaviors in crickets. We will be catching crickets and learning about how they interact with other crickets. It’s more than chirping!!! Be prepared to complete a scientific investigation!!!

Preschool Morning Adventure - Bats

August 14, Thursday, 10:00 am – Metea County Park Nature Center


Come to Metea County Park with your preschooler to learn about bats.

We will play some ‘bat games,’ complete a bat craft, sing some songs, read a bat book and have a snack.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Please register by calling 449-3777.

Meteors and Music at Metea County Park

August 12, Tuesday, 8pm until midnight, Metea County Park Nature Center


The Perseid Meteor Shower is upon us once again!

Perhaps the most famous of meteor showers, the Perseids are the tail remnants of the comet Swift-Tuttle, softly soaring through our solar system.

We’ll have music from some of the best acoustic musicians in Fort Wayne as well as food and drink. The Fort Wayne Astronomical Society will be there with telescopes!

Don’t forget to bring lawn chairs or a blanket, bug spray and a friend to share the evening with!

Cost for this concert is $5 per person. Call 260-449-3777 for more info.

Girls in Boots! Bathing Beauties

July 26, Saturday, 3-5pm, Metea County Park Nature Center


Girls in Boots is a monthly program designed to help women become more self sufficient in the outdoors. The program is recommended for women and young ladies from about 12 years old on up.

Bring your bathing suits or something you don’t mind getting completely wet, shoes included, for this latest adventure. We’ll be hiking out to Cedar Creek to take a leisurely float in our inner tubes to see first hand the beauty of the Creek and learn about its ecology. We’ll also learn about how to get water in an emergency situation.

It would be a good idea to bring sun block and bug spray. All participants will be required to sign a waiver; all young ladies from 12 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

A snack will be provided, but it is important to register so that we get the right amount of supplies. Cost for this program is $5. Pre-registration by July 24th is required. To reserve your spot, please call 260-449-3777.

Fourth Friday Night Hike

July 25, Friday, 8:30 PM, Payton County Park


Bring your insect repellent and listening ears as we checkout the sounds and stories of night creatures.

Love is in the air as frogs and insects sing their hearts out.

$2.00 per person. Call 449-3777 for registration.

Monarch Observation Hike

July 19, Saturday, 10:00 am


Join Metea naturalist, Karie Harding as she leads an investigation hike about monarch butterflies.



Participants will help with the butterfly/ egg counts, and will learn about the different types of milkweed, nectar plants, predators, and other butterfly species.

Meet at the Metea County Park Nature Center.

All ages welcome to attend. $2.00 per person. Please register by calling 449-3777.

Take a Hike! Creek Investigation

July 19, Saturday, 1pm


Park naturalist Rachel Rossiter Smith will lead a hike down to Cedar Creek to talk about stream ecology.

We’ll learn about how to keep our rivers healthy and clean. We’ll also talk about what kind of plants and animals call Cedar Creek home.

Bring some bug spray and a pair of shoes that can get wet or some rubber boots. We’ll go out rain or shine!

Cost for this program is $2 per person. Please pre-register at 260-449-3777.

Summer Day Camp Registration Reminder

Don't forget to register for summer day camp at Metea Park.

For more information, click here.

Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac

By Bob Dispenza, Park & Education Manager, Allen County Parks


Leaves of three, let it be.
Berries white, poisonous sight (or danger in sight).
Hairy vine, do not climb (or no friend of mine).


On nearly every hike I lead I get ample evidence that poison ivy is one of our most misunderstood plants. There’s lots of folklore concerning our favorite rash-causer, but not all of it is true. Let’s take a closer look at poison ivy and it’s “partners in crime,” poison oak and poison sumac.



Recent immigrants and early settlers in America frequently suffered from itching and blistering, but did not know the cause. Poison ivy has been causing itches since Europeans moved to America, and possibly even before. Native Americans are no more immune than any other Americans.

Allergic contact dermatitis is the name medical professionals use for a poison ivy reaction. Rashes due to poison ivy depend entirely on the immune system of the affected person. Some people always get poison ivy, some never get it. Some don’t get it when they are young, but do when they get older (like me). Some could eventually grow out of it. Around 80 to 90% of adult Americans are sensitive to poison ivy oil. It all depends on whether your immune system recognizes the plant’s sap oil and reacts to it like it would to an invading virus or bacteria. The oil soaks into the skin and attaches to cell membranes, which signals the body’s immune system to attack. All the blistering and cell destruction are from the body’s own defense system overreacting to this harmless oil (called urushiol). Since the same chemical causes the reaction, any differences in rashes comes from individual immune systems - you can’t tell a poison ivy rash from one caused by poison oak or poison sumac. Very allergic people may get a reaction from handling Japanese lacquerware, since the glaze is made from a local relative of our poison sumac.

Urushiol (from “urushi,” the Japanese name for lacquer made from sap resins of the Japanese lacquer tree) is found in the resin canals of the plant. It can only come to the surface when the plant is cut or bruised. The oil is very durable, and even long-dead plants can cause a rash.

Urushiol chemical composition:



You can’t get poison ivy just by standing near it. The oils that cause the rash are non-volatile, and don’t evaporate into the air. But if poison ivy is burned, the oil clings to soot and smoke particles and can cause serious illness if inhaled. If you are sensitive to poison ivy and you get it on your clothes or your pet runs through it, you can get the oil on you without directly contacting the plant.

There are many home and folk remedies, most of which have not been proven to work. Some modern “cures” include Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, Boletus and Polyporus mushrooms (apply freshly-cut surfaces to exposed area) and Ivy Block (which contains absorptive clay). Other less-effective possibilities include jewelweed (wild impatiens, touch-me-not), washing with a strong soap, and applying rubbing alcohol. As usual, the Internet is full of information (and misinformation). Serious cases will need a doctor’s care and stronger medicines. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – learn what it looks like and stay away.




While the “leaves of three” rhyme is useful, many other plants also have three leaves – young box elder maples, raspberries, and bean and pea relatives. The five-leaved harmless Virginia creeper, which grows in the same places and the same way as poison ivy, is often mistakenly called poison oak.

There is some difference of opinion on what poison oak is. It is definitely found in west coast states, where it grows as a shrub. Some sources also include the southeast US, though many other sources classify the southeastern variety as poison ivy. Either way, poison oak does not occur in Indiana. Yes, I know your doctor or relative told you that you got into poison oak. But it’s just not here.

Poison sumac is a small tree that grows only in bog situations, usually in standing water, and has white berries. You can see it at Pokagon State Park near Angola, IN. Our other native sumacs (staghorn and smooth) are not poisonous and have red berries.

Unfortunately for us, people are the only ones to get the rash. None of our native animals do, and may of them eat the leaves or berries. We don’t actively remove poison ivy in our parks (unless it falls across the trail), since it is an important part of our natural ecosystem.

So, enjoy your visits to Allen County Parks, but take some time to know what poison ivy looks like. Staying on the trails will minimize contact. Like I tell our visiting school children, it’s only a plant, and doesn’t reach out and grab you.

Campfire Cooking – Pudgie Pie Makers

Friday, June 27, 6:00 PM


Meet at the fire ring at Metea County Park for another night filled with friendship and food.

We will start by making a bonfire and then will make food. Each recipe will be using pudgie pie makers (aka pie irons). We will supply the food, equipment and instructions, but you will be doing the cooking. Bring your appetite! If you feel like bringing your pie iron recipes that would be wonderful too!

REGISTRATION REQUIRED for this program – call 449-3777. Space is limited. $5.00 per person. Dress for the weather.

Girls in Boots: Fire starters!

Saturday, June 21, 3-5pm


Girls in Boots is a club designed for women to become more self sufficient in the outdoors and develop an environmental consciousness. Each meeting will include an activity, a hike and snacks.

The Girls will take on the campfire this meeting, but first we’ll go out and gather ingredients for the fire. We’ll also be making fire starters.

Snacks will be provided. Admission is $5. Please register at 449-3777.

Summer Solstice Night Light Spectacular!

Friday, June 20, 9:30 PM


Share the last evening of spring with natural fireworks.

Take a quiet night hike with a park naturalist at Metea County Park. Lightning beetles will provide the entertainment! Why do they insist on lighting up the night? How do they do that? Wonder how they have the power to shine? We will answer these questions and more.

Please pre-register at 449-3777. Program fee is $2.00 per person.

Monarch Volunteer Training

Saturday, June 14, 2:00 PM


We will be starting an educational study about monarch butterflies this summer. This study will include habitat care, counts, rearing caterpillars, tagging butterflies (both reared and wild), giving educational programs, seed collecting and much, much more.

We are in need of volunteers who are interested in working with this program to come to this training session at the Metea County Park Nature Center, to see what this program is all about and how they can help to promote this species. FREE to any person who would like to help with the program (as long as they are a certified volunteer or turn in a volunteer application at this meeting).

For more information contact Karie Harding at 449-3778 or by emailing her at kharding@allencountyparks.org.

Preschool Morning Adventure – Backyard Science

Thursday, June 12, 10:00 AM


Come to Metea County Park with your preschooler to learn about Science in the backyard.

We will go outside and look for different interesting things that can be found in the backyard. Naturalist Karie Harding will then help the children make a bug box and tell each child what they have found, and proper ways to keep their discoveries. We will also read a story and eat a snack.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Dress for the weather.

Metea Park Summer Day Camps!

July 28 through August 8, Monday – Friday, 9:00-5:00


Day camp is for children ages 6-12.

By incorporating fun into learning about the outdoors, we can create positive experiences for children in a natural environment.

The two Metea County Park day camps are during the weeks of July 28 and August 4. The Day Camp Director for Metea is Karie Harding.

Day camp cost is $100.00 per week per child. Sack lunches are required daily from home.

Golden Parks Pass holder’s registration fee is $90.00 per week per child ($10.00 discount!).

Paid pre-registration is required. No walk-in registrations the week of camp will be taken.

Pick up your registration form at Metea County Park, 8401 Union Chapel Rd., Fort Wayne, IN. 46845. Call 449-3246 for more information.

National Trails Day Hike

Saturday, June 7, 3 PM, Payton County Park


Hit the trail for National Trails Day.

Come out and hike at a County Park you may have never visited before. Get some exercise, learn some new things, and enjoy a fine late spring day.

$2.00 per person.

Father’s Day: Go Fly a Kite!

Saturday, June 7, 12 noon


Come out to Metea County Park for a day of kite flying!

Bring a picnic lunch, a kite and your favorite father figure to spend the day with. Stay around for playing on the playground, walking the trails in the woods, or bird watching.

Cost is $2. Please register at 449-3777.

Nature’s Dyes

Saturday, June 7, 10:00 AM


Naturalist Karie Harding will be leading a hike through Metea Park in search of natural items that can dye wool.

When we get back to the Nature Center, we will be observing a llama shearing and trying our hand at dying some wool.

Come and learn how people used to use nature to color their lives! $2.00 per person. REGISTRATION REQUIRED, 5 people must sign up for this program to run. Call 449-3777 to sign up and for more information.

Night Hike – Nocturnal Animals

Friday, May 30, 8:00 PM


Come to Metea County Park and learn about the night creatures of the park.

We will be leaving the parking lot in front of the nature center at 8:00 pm and will be listening for the animals that like the dark.

You may bring a flashlight, but they will not be used on the hike. Dress for the weather.

This hike will follow the campfire cooking program (see previous listing). Call 449-3777 for pre-registration. $2.00 per person.

Campfire Cooking – Foil Cooking

Friday, May 30, 6:00 PM


Come join naturalist Karie Harding at the fire ring at Metea County Park for a fun night.

We will start the night by making a bonfire, and then will make some foil packets filled with food to be prepared by you and cooked over the fire.

We will supply the food and equipment. Bring your appetite! If you feel like bringing recipes to share, that would be wonderful too!

Menu and more information will be available on the Allen County Parks website prior to the event.

Don’t forget to stay for the night hike following this program.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED for this program– call 449-3777. Space is limited. $5.00 per person. Dress for the weather.

Girls in Boots: Wildflowers and Plant ID

Saturday, May 17, 3-5pm


Girls in Boots is a club designed for women to become more self sufficient in the outdoors and develop an environmental consciousness. Each meeting will include an activity, a hike and snacks.

Our inaugural meeting at the Metea County Park Nature Center, will focus on the beauty of nature and the beauty within as we get acquainted with the park during a hike. Snacks will be provided.

Admission is $5 per person. Please register at 449-3777.

National Astronomy Day Celebration

Saturday, May 10, 8:30 PM


Join us at Metea County Park Nature Center as we explore the far-out world of astronomy, from solar power to telescopes to observing in your yard.

This beginners class is suitable for all school age children and all adults. We will observe outside with telescopes afterward (weather permitting).

Expand you horizons out into the universe! $2.00 per person, call 449-3777 to let us know your coming.

Mother’s Day: Wildflower Hike

Saturday, May 10, 11 am


Bring mom, grandma or your favorite female for a nice hike in the woods at Metea County Park. We’ll see wildflowers, birds and lots of emerging vegetation.

Winter is over! Let’s go outside!

Admission is $2 per person. Please register at 449-3777.

Preschool Morning Adventure – May Flowers

Thursday, May 8, 10:00 AM


Come to Metea County Park Nature Center with your preschooler to learn about May flowers.

We will go on short hike looking for spring wildflowers, plant some flower seeds for you to take home, read a book and have a snack.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (adult partner required). Dress for the weather.

Wildflower Walk

Sunday, April 27, 2:00 PM


Come to Metea County Park and walk in the preserve in search of the wildflowers that can be found there. We will look at the different flowers found in Metea County Park in the spring.

Naturalist Karie Harding will have a couple wildflower guides to show visitors and explain how they are used. These guides are available for purchase at the Allen County Parks gift shop.

$2.00 per person. Please call 449-3777 for more information and to sign up. Space is limited. Dress for the weather.

Frog Songs

Saturday, April 26, 10:00 AM


Come out to Metea Park to listen for the call of some familiar amphibians!

We’ll take a hike and learn about frogs. Dress for the weather!

Admission is $2 per person. Please register at 449-3777.

Arbor Day Night Hike - Payton County Park

Friday, April 25, 8:30 PM


Find out more about our local trees and the night animals that depend on them as we visit the varied habitats at Payton County Park. Expect frog serenades and a chorus of night noises.

$2.00 per person. Please call 449-3777 to register. Dress for the weather!

Wildflower Walk - Metea North

Sunday, April 20, 2:00 PM


In conjunction with Earth Day, come to Metea North (Hursh road) for a wildflower walk. We will look at the different flowers found at Metea in the spring.

Naturalist Karie Harding will also have a couple wildflower guides to show visitors and explain how they are used. These guides are available for purchase at the Allen County Parks gift shop.

$2.00 per person. Please call 449-3777 for more information and to sign up. Space is limited. Dress for the weather.

Salamanders!

Saturday, April 19, 10:00 am


We will have been conducting salamander research at the park for about a month; come along with the researchers to see what they do and how they do it.

You’ll learn lots about our favorite amphibian on the hike as well! Dress for the weather; we’re going out rain or shine!

Admission is $2 per person. Please register at 449-3777.

Home School Series -- Earth Day and Stewardship

Thursdays, April 17 & May 22, 2:00-4:00 PM


Metea County Park is offering a home school science enrichment program for all school age students in three age groups and will be working on several different topics throughout the school year.

Participants in this project MUST pre-register at 449-3777 or by emailing kharding@allencountyparks.org (preferred method). At least 5 people must register for the program to run.

The fee for this program is $10.00 PER STUDENT AND $4.00 PER PARENT, and includes both month’s sessions, all handouts and equipment. One parent/guardian per family is required to attend. Dress for the weather.

CLASSES FILL UP QUICKLY, SO RESERVE YOUR SPACE SOON!

In honor of Earth Day and National Environmental Education Week we will be learning about Environmental Stewardship.

Environmental stewardship is the responsibility to take care of our natural resources to ensure that they are sustainably managed for current and future generations. Stewardship of the environment can include recycling, conservation, regeneration, and restoration.

The students who participate in this program will learn about being citizen stewards. Topics will include control of invasive species, water quality (Hoosier Riverwatch), recycling, and conservation.

We will be getting dirty and possibly wet during these classes, please dress accordingly.

Beginner Division grades 1-3, Intermediate grades 4-6, and Advanced grades 7-12

EACH SESSION BEGINS PROMPTLY AT 2:00 PM!
PLEASE PLAN TO COME EARLY FOR REGISTRATION!

Preschool Morning Adventure - Earth Day

Thursday, April 10, 10:00 AM


Come to Metea County Park Nature Center with your preschooler to learn about Earth Day.

Come learn about the Earth and what we can do to help. We will do an activity on recycling, and your child will get a tree to take home to plant. We will read a story, do a craft, and eat a snack.

Come for fun a time! $3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (adult partner required).

Meet Your Local Salamanders

By Rachel Rossiter Smith, Metea County Park Naturalist


The Salamander has been around since the Mesozoic Era, when it broke off from other amphibians. Salamanders are the only amphibians that have long tails as adults. Many salamanders can shed their tails if a predator threatens them. Once shed, the tail reflexively flails about on the ground and distracts the would-be predator while the salamander slips away and later regenerates a new tail.

Like all amphibians, salamanders have delicate, permeable skin through which water and gases (such as oxygen and carbon dioxide) can enter and leave the body. Most adult salamanders have saclike lungs for breathing air and use their permeable skin only as a source of supplemental oxygen. Some species never develop lungs and instead obtain oxygen through gills or through their skin and the mucous membranes of their mouths and throats. This makes them very susceptible to environmental pollutants.

Many salamanders are nocturnal — that is, they do most of their hunting in the cool, dark hours of night and remain inactive during the day. Those that are active during daylight retreat to the cool depths of bushes and other ground cover during the hottest period of the day. Some groups are active only during certain seasons. When conditions are too cold or too dry for them to muster the energy necessary to find food, these salamanders enter a resting state similar to hibernation. For example, the siren spends much of its time burrowed in the muddy bottom of seasonal ponds and ditches that dry up in the heat of the summer; when the mud and sand starts to dry, the mucous coating on its skin hardens to form a protective cocoon, which enables the siren to survive out of water for many weeks.

The life cycle of salamanders varies greatly among species. Among most, fertilization occurs internally, meaning the egg and sperm unite inside the female’s body. During mating, salamanders use the cloaca, a chamber that opens into the animal’s digestive and urinary tracts as well as their reproductive tracts. All salamanders have a larval stage in which they have external, feathery gills for breathing in water. Among salamanders that lay their eggs on land, the larval stage occurs inside the egg. In salamanders that give birth to live young, the larval stage takes place within the body of the mother. Only some salamander larvae actually live in a body of water such as a pond or stream.

Many salamander larvae undergo a transformation called metamorphosis, in which their bodies change in ways that make them better suited to life on land than life in the water. During metamorphosis, the larvae of most species lose their gills and acquire a pair of saclike lungs. The heart transforms from the two-chambered heart needed to support gills to a three-chambered heart capable of supporting lungs. The larvae also grow limbs, eyelids, and well-developed tongues.

Unfortunately, people are the salamander’s worst enemy. Humans continue to pollute and destroy wetland habitats. Remember, these amphibians need water to survive. Filling in their ponds, using pesticides, and rerouting water for our own water needs has caused declines in many salamander populations. We need to help conserve remaining habitats and provide new gardens and parks for these unique creatures.

Night Hike: March of the Salamanders

Saturday, March 29, 7:30 PM


Love is in the air, even this early in the year!

Salamanders and other amphibians take advantage of the rainy time of year to converge in vernal ponds to find mates and lay eggs.

We'll start off the night at the Metea County Park Nature Center, with a short presentation on the salamander population at Metea, and then we'll go for a night hike to one of the vernal ponds to see them take their yearly journey.

Dress for the weather!

Cost is $2. Call 449-3777 to reserve your spot on the hike.

Vernal Ponds

Saturday, March 29, 10:00 AM


Bring the family out to Metea County Park (the north side - Hursh Road entrance) and learn about the critters that live in vernal ponds.

Vernal ponds are ones that appear during the spring and they are full of singing amphibians and macro-invertebrates.

Bring the whole family, as this is geared for all ages. Come and discover the many facets of beauty at the park!

$2.00 per person. Call 449-3777 for more information and pre-registration.

Take a Hike! Salamander Study

Saturday, March 15, 10 AM


This is a perfect opportunity to learn what it is like to do scientific research.

Meet at the Metea County Park Nature Center and go out with Naturalist Rachel Rossiter Smith to see how she researches the salamander population at Metea County Park. Maybe we'll find out something that no one has ever discovered before!

Dress for the weather!

Cost is $2. Call 449-3777 to reserve your spot on the hike.

Preschool Morning Adventure - Rainbows

Thursday, March 13, 10:00 AM


Attention all preschoolers! Come to the Metea County Park Nature Center and discover Metea's pot of gold!

We will be learning all about rainbows. We will read a book, make a craft and look for Metea's pot of gold! Story and snack included too!

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Call 449-3777 for more information and pre-registration.

Annual Membership Dues

Don't forget to renew your membership to the Friends of Metea. Annual dues are payable at the first of the year.

Additionally, consider purchasing a park pass. A park pass allows the passholder to enter Metea Park without paying the $2 entrance fee. This pass is available only from the Friends of Metea and is available to members only. If you are ordering park passes, each person in your membership who is age 7 and up will need a pass to enter the park without paying the admission fee. For an economic alternative, families and those who frequent Fox Island County Park may wish to purchase a "Basic" or "Gold" pass from the Allen County Parks Department.

Rate Schedule:

  • Individual = $15
  • Family = $20
  • Corporate = $30
  • Senior = $10
  • Student = $10
  • Park pass = $5/per person


List your name and address, plus the names of each person for whom you are purchasing a pass; optionally, include your telephone number and/or email address. Make your check payable to the Friends of Metea and mail to:

Friends of Metea, Inc.
16015 Bayview Blvd.
Grabill, IN 46741

Cave Exploration Adventure 2008

Pre-caving Class on Friday, February 29, 7:30 PM


Trip on Saturday, March 8, all day


Go underground with Allen County Parks!

Caving instructor and naturalist Bob Dispenza will be leading a trip to the Garrison Chapel Karst area near Bloomington on Saturday, March 8. We'll be exploring a wild cave in the area and going off the beaten path, looking for cave wildlife and unusual formations.

Mandatory pre-caving class is Friday, February 29, 7:30 PM at Metea County Park. Class fee of $20.00 per person covers maps and caving instruction. Learn about geology, cave life, needed equipment and cave formation.

This activity is somewhat strenuous, but suitable for beginners.

Call 449-3777 to make reservations.

Home School Series

Thursdays, February 21 & March 20, 2:00 - 4:00 PM


Metea County Park is now offering a home school science enrichment program for all ages.

We will be separating the students into three age groups and will be working on several different topics throughout the school year.

Participants in this project MUST pre-register at 449-3777. At least 5 people per age group must pre-register for the program to run.

The fee for this program includes both month's sessions, all handouts and equipment. One parent/guardian per family is required to attend. Cost for parents is $4.00.

EACH SESSION BEGINS PROMPTLY AT 2:00 PM AT THE METEA COUNTY PARK NATURE CENTER

PLEASE PLAN TO COME EARLY FOR REGISTRATION.

Beginner group - grades 1-3
TOPIC: Owl Pellets and Microscopes
Price: $10.00 per student

The beginner group will be learning about owls and will have the opportunity to dissect an owl pellet to discover what they ate.

During the second session they will be using the dissecting microscopes to discover the world around them. They will be viewing different organisms under the microscopes.

Intermediate group - grades 4-6
TOPIC: Dissection
Price: $20.00 per student

The intermediate group will be dissecting a crayfish during the first session and earthworms during the second session. They will learn both the external and internal anatomy and will learn habitat and mannerisms of the creatures.

We provide most supplies. If you would like to have protective gloves please bring them yourselves.

Advanced group - grades 7-12
TOPIC: Dissection
Price: $20.00 per student

The advanced group will have the opportunity to dissect a frog during the first session and a perch during the second session. They will learn both the external and internal anatomy and learn habitat and mannerisms of these creatures.

We provide most supplies. If you would like to have protective gloves please bring them yourselves.

Volunteer Training for Salamander Research

Saturday, February 16, 2:00 - 3:30 PM, Metea County Park Nature Center


We need your help!

We are collaborating with Little River Wetland Project to find out more about these important indicator species. This project will run from the time the ground is workable, late February, until the first of April, depending on weather and we need individuals to check the traps, do some measurements, record info, and take pictures. We will be monitoring Eagle Marsh and Metea County Park.

To volunteer for this project, you MUST have a volunteer application submitted and cleared and you MUST have taken this training course! Cost is free!

Please call 449-3777 to reserve your spot.

Preschool Morning Adventure - Love Bugs

Thursday, February 14, 10:00 AM


February is the month of Love Bugs!

Bring your 'love bug' to the Nature Center at Metea County Park for a fun morning. We will read a book, complete a craft, and have a snack.

$3.00 per child, $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Call 449-3777 for more information and pre-registration.

Groundhog Day

Saturday, February 2, 10 AM


As the weather continues cold, we all wonder when spring warmth will be arriving.

One of our native animals has a reputation for being able to tell when - the groundhog. We are going to encourage him with a little celebration held in his honor.

Come to the Metea County Park Nature Center to learn about hibernation and the history of woodchuck weathermen, sing some Groundhog Day songs, and go out looking for our own Metea Park Marvin.

Will he see his shadow, or will he be out cross-country skiing?

Call 449-3777 to reserve your space. $2.00 per person.

Winter Trail Guide Training (2008)

Sunday, January 27, 1:00-4:00 PM, Metea County Park Nature Center


We will be hosting a trail guide training session, which is open to any person interested in becoming a trail guide at any Allen County Park - Metea, Fox Island, Payton and Cook's Landing.

We will start with a hike through the Metea nature preserve to learn about what can be seen in the winter. We will talk about different ways to identify trees without leaves, and other interesting facts.

Afterward, we will come into the nature center, warm up by the fire, and participate in a lab session in our basement classroom to show another part of our programming.

Call 449-3777 for more information and registration. Make sure to reserve your space... class size is limited!

Take a Hike! Tracks and Scat

January 19, Saturday, 1:00 PM


What kinds of animals live at Metea County Park? That's a tough question.

It can be really hard to catch a glimpse of a wild animal. However, if you know what to look for, you can tell exactly who has been in the forest.

We'll be hiking in search of animal calling cards with Naturalist Rachel Rossiter Smith. Dress for the weather!

Cost is $2. Call 449-3777 to reserve your spot.

Preschool Morning Adventure - Snowflakes

January 10, Thursday, 10:00 AM


Come to the Metea County Park Nature Center with your preschool children and learn about snowflakes.

Do you know that every snowflake is different? Come and find out about them.

We will read a story, complete a craft, and eat a snack.

$3.00 per child. $2.00 per adult partner (partner required). Call 449-3777 for information and to register.