2. The Enchanted Forest: Wild Bear Mountain Ecology Center Nederland, Colorado USA www.wildbear.org

3. Background Information and Summary The Enchanted Forest is a volunteer run event in Nederland, Colorado (USA) that draws hundreds of families from all over the region to Wild Bears property at Mud Lake. Families meet wildlife and learn about their unique habits and how we can peacefully coexist. They can take a tour of the Linneas Loop trail and meet animals including Black Bear, Coyote, Mountain Lion, Raccoon, Owl, and Bobcat; costumed characters who tell about their lives in the forest and what they need from us to survive.

4. A school bus brought families from the nature center to the Enchanted Forest trail. Families were greeted by a bat!

5. Throughout the day there were nature-themed magic shows, live music, hot food, crafts, games, and socializing. The guided tour through the Enchanted Forest left every 15 minutes.

6. Families were guided along a trail where they met and learned about several forest creatures! The kids sat on these leaf mats made from strings of fake leaves that had been sewn onto a strip of fabric.

7. Straw bales set the stage!

8. The children had biodegradable goodie bags and got a healthy treat or forest related item if they listened to the creatures presentation!

10. Questions are encouraged! Humor and interesting costumes help hold the attention of the audience.

11. All day there were indoor activities available at the nature center including puppet shows, owl pellet dissection, music, and stories.

12. Prairie dog puppet show! Nature fairy magic show!

13. At the trail site there were many simultaneous outdoor activities.

14. Crafts made from recycled and natural materials.

15. Live, local music.

16. Games…

19. Kids and adults dressed in costumes for their enchanted adventure!

20. We hope this presentation has provided you with great educational ideas for your event! Wild Bear Mountain Ecology Centers Enchanted Forest was presented to you by Environment for the Americas. Find more great ideas and order materials for your International Migratory Bird Day and other informal science events at: www.birdday.org Share your event and ideas on our Bird Educators Forum: www.birdday.org/bbpress and find us on Facebook! Music © Eric J. OConnell playing Whiskey Before Breakfast (Traditional Irish)