Tracking the Animals with Rick Koval

Tracking the Animals

Andy Check, Executive Director, introduces Rick Koval, Naturalist.

Rick uses one of the farm's chickens to make a point

In spite of the icy conditions, the group found it easy to hike through The Lands.

Dead hawk provides material for lesson.

A tree cavity houses animals.

Rick answers lots of questions.

Rick checks a trap that had tasty treats plus some cotton bedding for a comfy rest.

Mouse is removed from trap.


Rick holds mouse for everyone to see.

Girl volunteers to have mouse put on her hat and delights everyone.

Young girl points to mouse in the air after jumping off Rick's collar and onto Andy Check. The very jumpy mouse then traveled down to the ground and escaped, unharmed.

Rick shows fish caught in minnow trap.

Rick explains how a fish gets caught in trap.

Other finds in the woods interested the group and Rick explained nature's processes.

Rick reveals what is inside another trap that was hidden under a big fallen tree.

Rick displays a bug that lives in the winter.

Group hikes through field and up hill to see fox tracks and more. The group did not want stop exploring.

Thanks to RIck Koval for an educational and fun filled trip.

February 2, 2008 Tracking the Animals Come out to the Farm between 10:00 AM and Noon and observe how PA animals survive during the winter. Facilitated by local naturalist, Rick Koval of the North Branch Land Trust, we will learn about tracks, feeding routines, and survival instincts of small animals that inhabit the environment of The Lands at Hillside Farms. Cost: Members $10; children $2.50; Non-members $15; children $5.00. Be sure to register in advance at Dairy Store.