After learning about aquatic invertebrates and their use as bioindicators, Cove Campers explored the thriving freshwater mussel population in PCNP’s Tidal Cove (Left). Campers searched for and identified a large population of Eastern Pondmussels, a Threatened Species in New Jersey (Right)

Continuing on the theme water quality and bio-indicators, Campers investigate a water sample from a local freshwater stream. Using a dichotomous key, they identified aquatic organisms and were able to draw conclusions about the sample’s quality based on what organisms were found!

Back in the outdoor laboratory, the Cove Campers identified and recorded the number of unique fish species caught in our seine net. The robust fish population is more evidence of a healthy aquatic ecosystem here at Palmyra Cove!

After a lesson on the importance of native pollinators and their host plants, campers formed their own pollinator seed balls out of a claysoil mixture and identified places to spread them throughout Palmyra Cove Nature Preserve!

To learn about decomposition and the organisms involved in it, the campers built their own terrariums using moss and invertebrates collected in Palmyra Cove’s forest.

While on the beach learning about the local geology of Palmyra Cove, one of our campers found a fossil!

As young environmental scientists, recording observations about the natural world is very important! Campers learned how to organize their observations, thoughts, and experiences in their very own nature journal and were taught simple techniques they can use to help sketch what they see in the field!

After a learning about birding basics, the Cove Campers built and painted their own bluebird houses to take home and hang in their backyard/neighborhood!

Both sessions of camp this year were filled with lots of happiness, learning and discovery! We were lucky enough to see and sometimes even hold some of the amazing wildlife here at Palmyra Cove Nature Preserve