Hickory Knolls Discovery Center is a welcoming place for visitors of all ages—just ask the scaled, furry, and hard-shelled friends who live there.
The center’s animal ambassadors, which number more than a dozen, give children and families the opportunity to learn about creatures native to the Kane County region as well as some from far beyond its borders.
Animals on display include several varieties of snakes, such as Paul the Ball Python, Billy the Bullsnake and Oscar the Pueblan Milksnake, as well as turtles like Daisy and Sally Jane the three-toed box turtles. Hickory Knolls is also home to Ruby the Red-Knee Tarantula, a species that is seeing dwindling populations in the wild due to deforestation and agriculture.
Every animal is cared for by devoted staff, who provide fresh food and water every day. Additionally, staff monitor each animal’s health and help to maintain habitats so creatures can enjoy a clean, safe and enriching space in which to live.
“We work hard to create environments that mimic the animals’ natural habitats as closely as possible while also offering enrichment activities that encourage natural behaviors,” said Rachel Krotz, a member of the animal care team. “Staff members observe each animal daily for signs of good health and document feedings, behaviors, medical observations, and habitat care in our animal management system.”
Some of the most demanding animal ambassadors are the center’s aquatic turtles, Krotz added. This includes Picta, a midland painted turtle.
“While they are incredibly popular with visitors, they require extensive habitat maintenance, including weekly deep cleanings, filter scrubbing, and careful monitoring of water quality and water levels,” Krotz said. “Additionally, many of our ambassadors are elderly or have special needs, which often requires staff to develop creative solutions to ensure they remain comfortable, healthy, and engaged.”
Those interested in learning more about these individual animals are encouraged to check out Hanging with Hickory Friends. Staff share fun facts and answer questions during these free drop-in animal-meet-and-greet opportunities, which take place at 11 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays. One thing that tends to stick with visitors is how animals can be unexpectedly finicky when it comes to their diets.
“Just like people, they have favorite foods and preferences that can change with the seasons or as they age,” Krotz said. “Even our snakes may prefer rats over mice or vice versa.”
For a more in-depth experience, community members can sign up for the Feed the Critters program.
During this one-hour behind-the-scenes experience, participants help prepare diets, learn about animal care and even have opportunities to assist with feeding select animal ambassadors.
Those wishing to book this experience can reach out to Emily Shanahan, nature programs manager, at 630-513-4393.
To learn more about the animal ambassadors, visit stcnature.org/animal-ambassadors.