Why does a blue jay make the sound of a hawk? Why should you never relocate a box turtle? Why would a cardinal be pink instead of red? Wildlife is incredible and there is so much to learn behind the doors of the Nature’s Nursery Davey Moore Education Center. After a long process of preparation, guests can now come in and meet the education ambassadors and learn more about the work that Nature’s Nursery does.
Nature’s Nursery has been rescuing and rehabilitating native wildlife for more than 36 years. In 2023, they moved into their new facility in Waterville, and have been planning ever since for the day they could begin to welcome the public through the doors.
“We have hosted a few open houses and monthly story times and other events, but until now we just didn’t feel we were completely ready to have full days of being open to the public,” said Allison Aey, Nature’s Nursery executive director. “We wanted to make sure our staffing was prepared and that the animal displays were complete and, more importantly, that the animals would be okay with an influx of visitors into their home.”
Nature’s Nursery has more than 20 education ambassadors inside of the center for guests to meet. Animals range from turtles and snakes, to an opossum and skunk, cardinal and blue jay, and the oldest living nighthawk on record. “We are small but informative with an intimate space to really get to see the animals up close,” said Aey.
The center is now open on Monday and Wednesday, from 1 to 6 p.m. (closed on holidays). There is no charge to visit the education center, but donations are greatly appreciated. Guests can plan their visit at natures -nursery.org/visitus. The education center is located at 7541 Dutch Road, Waterville.
