By Dr. Ferrell Miller
Dr. Pat Silovsky, Director at the Milford Nature Center, was the guest speaker at the Celebration of Optimism on August 9. Dr. Silovsky began her studies in biology and then became interested in studying the habitat in bodies of water and the birds and animals that live in the eco system. She has worked at the Milford Nature Center since 1989 and told the Optimists that the people at the Center not only provide a place to visit and learn about animals and birds in our area, but also will give programs for schools, clubs, and other organizations. Programs for 15,000 people were give last year.
Some of those included the sharing of information about turkey vultures, the Great Horned Owl, Bald Eagle, a Golden Eagle, a skunk, reptiles, prairie dogs, bobcats, amphibians, creepy/crawly things and many more. Some of the birds and animals are included in a live presentation.
“The Nature Center is one of 30 sites in the United States that has a Black Footed Ferret. This species of ferret has been on the endangered list and is unique for its fluorescent green eyes”, she said.
The fish hatchery, which is adjacent to the Milford Nature Center, welcomes visitors to walk around the outside raceways. Weekend hatchery tours are offered at 1:30 PM (no appointment needed) during April and May.
There are live exhibits with hands-on displays, a playground shelter and nature trail at the Nature Center. The address is 3415 Hatchery Drive. Hours are 9:00AM-4:30 PM Monday through Friday year round. Weekends the Center is open from 1:00 PM to 5:00 P.M. April through September only. For more information call 785-238-5323 and the website is kansasoutdoors.com.