Hannibal Parks and Recreation to offer two guided programs Friday, Saturday

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Explore the natural world through guided programs thanks to the combination of perfect weather, abundant wildlife and rich natural resources.

Upcoming programs offered by Hannibal Parks and Recreation are:

“Night Magic,” a night hike through Sodalis Nature Preserve, will take place from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, May 23. Those attending should meet at the shelter at Sodalis. The nighttime walk will offer the opportunity to make seasonal observations and enjoy the magic of the night. The full program is approximately two hours and covers a two-mile paved loop with a steep incline. Participants have the option to return sooner as desired.

A family nature program, Amazing Amphibians, will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday May 24, at Sodalis Nature Preserve. To begin life in water breathing through gills to transforming into air-breathing creatures with lungs is one of nature’s miracles. Attendees will walk to the pond at Sodalis to look for any amphibian eggs, tadpoles or adult frogs or toads near the water and should wear water shoes or boots. Nets and buckets will be provided. Those wishing to attend must sign up as access to the pond is limited. The program will be rescheduled if bad weather is imminent.

These programs are led by Hannibal Parks and Recreation’s Nature Interpreter Gale Rublee and members of the Mississippi Hills Missouri Master Naturalist chapter.

A donation of Hannibal BASF keeps nature programs are free of charge. Register at http://www.hannibalparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program.