Common creatures
Little Buffalo educator to present ‘Reptiles and Amphibians in Our Midst’ for Towpath Naturalists
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LEWISTOWN -- A frog that can freeze solid and survive the winter. A turtle that can breathe through its skin. Snake venom that has helped inspire medications used by millions.
Those are just a few of the surprises awaiting attendees of “Reptiles and Amphibians in Our Midst,” a presentation by Little Buffalo State Park Environmental Education Specialist Mindy Wilt, who will explore the remarkable adaptations of some of Pennsylvania’s most misunderstood animals.
The nature program will take place during the Towpath Naturalist Society of Mifflin and Juniata County's final meeting of the year at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. It will be held in the Fellowship Hall of St. John’s Lutheran Church, 120 N. Main St., Lewistown.
"Commonly lumped into one big cold-blooded group of animals, these creatures are very different from one another and have some of the most fascinating adaptations in the animal kingdom," Wilt explained.
The presentation will cover everything from frogs that can survive being frozen to venoms that have contributed to medications used for conditions ranging from blood clotting disorders to weight management.
For Wilt, reptiles have long been more than just a professional interest.
"Reptiles have always been a special interest of mine, and they tend to be a popular topic for visitors here at the park," she said.
Little Buffalo State Park in Newport is home to an impressive variety of herpetofauna. Wilt has documented more than 30 species within the park, including copperheads, queen snakes, map turtles and pickerel frogs.
Throughout the summer and early fall, she regularly leads reptile and amphibian programs for visitors of all ages, helping participants understand the differences between the two groups and the reasons behind their population declines.
"I generally have parents and grandparents just as enthralled as the kids," Wilt said.
Beyond wildlife education, Wilt said Pennsylvania’s state parks continue working to balance growing public use with ongoing infrastructure needs. While some parks near more populated areas experience overcrowding, the state has continued investing in park improvements and expanding recreational opportunities.
She noted that Friends Groups play an important role in helping parks fund projects that might otherwise go unfunded.
"Many people don’t realize just how many large projects are in the works for a single park, and we have 125 of them now in the system," Wilt said.
Pennsylvania remains one of only a handful of states offering free access to state parks, a tradition park officials hope to maintain.
Wilt said Friends Groups help support historic resources, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) projects and special events while giving community members a meaningful way to become involved with their local parks.
"It’s a wonderful way to get involved in the community, and it’s especially a nice way for folks to get involved that might not be able to do more physical projects like tree plantings or trail work," she said.
As visitation continues to grow, park staff remain focused on maintaining safe and welcoming environments while developing new programs and festivals designed to introduce more people to Pennsylvania’s state parks.
"Educators like myself are always trying to find new ways to get new faces into our parks with unique programming and bigger festivals," Wilt said.
Attendees should use the rear entrance to St. John's Lutheran Church. Visitors and prospective new members are welcome.