Trinity Morgan, a 5th grader from Seadrift Elementary, leads the flock of Whopping Cranes in a mock migration. Trinity and here classmates were participating in Monarch Madness, an annual event hosted by Fennessey Ranch and many partners.
REFUGIO, Texas – This Friday, October 21, 2016, over 200 4-6th grade children swarmed Fennessey Ranch for the 9th annual Monarch Madness. The event occurs every fall during the migration season of the monarch butterfly. The purpose of the event is to get children outside and introduce them to nature and the wonders of science. Several local organizations were on site with engaging hands-on education activities for the students. Students were able to capture butterflies and dragonflies, learn about local wildlife, and understand the how and why many animals migrate through fun but educational games. Many schools from across the Coastal Bend participated including, Olsen Elementary, Seadrift Elementary, Austwell/Tivoli Elementary, Woodsboro Elementary, Port O'Connor Elementary, and Seashore Middle Academy.
This event is hosted by Fennessey Ranch, the Mission-Aransas Reserve at The University of Texas Marine Science Institute, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Tremendous help and presentations were provided by the hosts as well as the Texas Zoo, Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Texas State Aquarium, Port Aransas Nature Preserve, International Crane Foundation, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Thank you!
