Educational Programs
Scales Nature Park provides outstanding programming about Canadian reptiles, amphibians, fish, and their habitats. Our goal is to facilitate the conservation of these creatures through increasing awareness, changing attitudes, and engaging people to take action. Programs are conducted on-site, off-site, and virtually. Continue reading about our popular programs and book your event today by clicking the button below.
On-Site Programs
Birthday Parties
A reptile birthday party with Scales Nature Park is a unique and fun way to celebrate! Explore our nature centre that houses 200+ reptiles and amphibians, meet & learn about reptiles, ask curious questions to our education staff, and gain hands on experience handling reptiles! Length: ~45 minute presentation and 15 minute Q&A session with a hands-on opportunity Number of participants: Up to 15 children FAQs: Q. Do you have space for cake and presents? A. Yes we do! Our party room can be book for one hour at an additional cost. Q. Do you provide loot bags? A. Yes we do! We can create loot bags that cost $5 - $10 each. Let us know your price point in advance and we’ll have them ready for you.
Advanced or Custom Workshops
Workshops provide advanced training regarding a specific topic. They are more in depth programs, usually half or full day, with a slideshow, for more advanced audiences. Topics may be generic (e.g. Ontario Reptiles) or specifically focused (e.g. Herps of the Georgian Bay region, Massasauga Rattlesnake Training, etc.). The topics we readily offer include: - Ontario Reptiles - Ontario Amphibians - Massasauga Rattlesnake (including hook and transport training) - Exotic Reptiles - Municipal By-Law Enforcement Training Our popular workshops include: Teacher Workshop: Includes resource guides and lesson plans to bring back to school Advanced Reptile Workshop: Includes ID skills and detailed information on our native species, and the Rattlesnake Workshop, training employees, landowners etc. on proper identification, movement, and management of rattlesnakes. We have done these workshops for a number of groups and can tailor the content to meet your needs - just ask! Included: Staff to teach the workshop, any animals needed for workshop, workshop materials Length: Half day (3 - 4 hours) or full day (6 - 8 hours) Number of participants: __ for half day, __ for full day FAQs: Q. I have a specific topic in mind - are you able to create a custom workshops? A. Yes we can! Connect with us to discuss your topic of choice. Please note that an additional charge is applicable for program development.
Field Trips
Bring your schools, camps, and other organized groups to Scales Nature Park for a fun and engaging day! Up to 150 people can participate. We will separate the group into sub-groups of ~25, which will then rotate through our programs throughout the day. Time for lunch will also be designated. We have a variety of programs to choose from! Presentation: Learn about amazing animals then meet them in our most popular program! First, our staff will deliver a talk on amphibians and/or reptiles which can be chosen by you or left up to us. Next, several animals from the presentation will be available for hands-on interactions, during which everyone will have the chance to touch or hold animals. Finally, have a Q&A session with our knowledgeable education staff. Topics include: Reptiles at Risk: Many of Ontario’s reptiles are at risk! Explore Ontario’s amazing snakes, turtles, and its only lizard, and learn about how you can help them as part of your daily lives. Turtle Troubles: Turtles are in trouble all around the world! Meet some of Canada’s extraordinary turtle species and learn how to get them off the roads and support their habitats. Note that this presentation includes less hands-on than Reptiles at Risk. Wetland Wildlife: Wetlands are a home for many animals - but human development has led to a wide-scale loss of these unique ecosystems! Experience the stunning biodiversity of wetlands, from bugs to amphibians to reptiles, and learn why we must work to save them. Various aquatic specimens in containers and two snakes (may vary based on venue and audience) will be available for hands-on experiences. Note that this presentation is not available during winter. Other Program Options: Pond Study: The pond study is a great way to get outdoors! Using dip nets, participants will try to find wildlife in our onsite pond. After collecting specimens, our staff will identify the different creatures, talk about their life cycles, and explain the importance of wetlands. Note that this is not available during the winter. Guided Trail Walk: Want to learn more about local flora and fauna? Expand your classroom by getting up close and personal with nature. Our guide will take your group for a hike around our nature trails to learn all about the different plants, animals, and ecological communities you see, and their integral roles in the circle of life! Time of year and weather dictate what you may find. Active Games: Explore the great outdoors through active play! This activity is a fun way to take a break and let loose. Games take place outside and may vary based on weather and your group’s preferences. Our education staff can tailor our programming to your curriculum needs and interests. Included: Exploration of Exhibit Hall; one or more on-site programs; access to trails Length: 60 - 90 minutes per program, plus time for rotations, breaks, and a 30 minute lunch if necessary. Lunch can be done as a large group or separately per sub-group. Number of Participants: 25 to 150 people FAQs: Q. Do you provide snacks and lunches? A. No, we do not provide any snacks or lunches. All food must be brought by you. Q. What should we wear? A. Dress appropriately for the weather outside but make sure you layer so that you’re comfortable indoors as well. We have hiking trails for you to explore!
Private Tour
In addition to our regular opening hours, we are also available for private tour bookings for groups greater than 8 people! To book a private tour, please contact us directly via phone or email.
Off-Site Programs
Birthday Parties
A reptile birthday party with Scales Nature Park is a unique and fun way to celebrate! We’ll bring a number of reptile guests to celebrate. Meet & learn about reptiles, ask curious questions to our education staff, and gain hands on experience handling reptiles from the comfort of your own home or venue or choice! Length: ~45 minute presentation and 15 minute Q&A session with a hands-on opportunity Number of participants: Up to 15 children FAQs: Q. Is there is an additional travel cost? A. Yes there is. Please connect with us for a quote. Q. We’re hosting the party outside, is that okay? A. Outdoor events may be limited by temperature / weather. Shade is required (under tents, trees, etc.). As long as the weather is appropriate (not too hot or cold for our reptiles, no precipitation) and there is shade, we can host outdoors! Q. Will you come to a third-party venue I’m renting? A. Yes we can! Please connect with the site supervisor to confirm that reptiles are permitted inside the building.
Advanced or Custom Workshops
Let us bring our workshops to you! Workshops provide advanced training regarding a specific topic. They are more in depth programs, usually half or full day, with a slideshow, for more advanced audiences. Topics may be generic (e.g. Ontario Reptiles) or specifically focused (e.g. Herps of the Georgian Bay region, Massasauga Rattlesnake Training, etc.). The topics we readily offer include: - Ontario Reptiles - Ontario Amphibians - Massasauga Rattlesnake (including hook and transport training) - Exotic Reptiles - Municipal By-Law Enforcement Training Our popular workshops include: Teacher Workshop: Includes resource guides and lesson plans to bring back to school Advanced Reptile Workshop: Includes ID skills and detailed information on our native species, and the Rattlesnake Workshop, training employees, landowners etc. on proper identification, movement, and management of rattlesnakes. Workshops can take place virtually or in-person, either at Scales Nature Park or at a location provided by you, depending on the nature of the chosen workshop. We have done these workshops for a number of groups and can tailor the content to meet your needs - just ask! Included: Staff to teach the workshop, any animals needed for workshop, workshop materials Length: Half day (3 - 4 hours) or full day (6 - 8 hours) Number of participants: __ for half day, __ for full day FAQs: Q. I have a specific topic in mind - are you able to create a custom workshops? A. Yes we can! Connect with us to discuss your topic of choice. Please note that an additional charge is applicable for program development.
Presentations
Presentations are a great way to host one of our in-person reptile experiences at the location of your choice! Learn about amazing animals and meet them in our most popular program. First, our staff will deliver a talk on amphibians and/or reptiles. The topic can be chosen by you or left up to us. Next, have a Q&A session with our education staff. Finally, meet several animals for hands-on interactions. Our most popular topics are: Reptiles at Risk: Explore Ontario’s amazing snakes, turtles, and its only lizard, and learn how you can help them as part of your daily lives in our most popular presentation. Turtle Troubles: Meet some of Canada’s extraordinary turtle species and learn how to get them off the roads and support their habitats. Note this presentation includes less hands-on than Reptiles at Risk. Amazing Amphibians: There's over 20 species of amphibians in Ontario, including frogs, toads, and salamanders! Learn about their life cycles and see these cryptic creatures up close. These animals will come in containers and does not include any hands-on opportunities. Wetland Wildlife: Wetlands are a home for many animals - but human development has led to a wide-scale loss of these unique ecosystems. Various aquatic specimens in containers and two snakes (may vary based on venue and audience) will be available for hands-on experiences. Note this presentation is not available during winter. Number of Presentations: Single Presentation: Our 60 minute presentation is an exciting introduction to the reptiles of your choice and is usually followed by an opportunity for touching or holding some animals Half Day of Presentations: Half day presentations run for 3 - 4 hours, starting with a 60 minute presentation to any sized group followed by an opportunity for touching or holding some animals in smaller groups (less than 30 people) Full Day of Presentations: Full day presentations run for 6 - 8 hours, starting with a 60 minute presentation to any sized group followed by an opportunity for touching or holding some animals in smaller groups (less than 30 people) Example of Half and Full Day of Presentations: In a school, all students gather for an assembly to watch a 60 minute presentation where they see all the reptiles. Then, they break into their classrooms where staff visit each class for 30 - 40 minutes, giving students the opportunity to see and interact with the animals up close. Included: Educational reptile and/or amphibian presentation with live animal guests; Q&A session with knowledgeable education staff; hands-on interaction Length: 50 - 60 minute presentation including Q&A session, 30 - 40 minute hands-on meet & greet Number of Participants: 30 to 500 people Base cost: Starts at $300 for a small group (up to 30 people), up to $750 for an extra large group (300-500 people). We have flexible pricing so connect with us and let's start a conversation! FAQs: Q. I have a specific topic in mind - are you able to create a custom presentation? A. Yes we can! Connect with us to discuss your topic of choice. Please note that an additional charge is applicable.
Displays
Displays include a booth setup with reptiles in tanks, signage and other educational materials, and hands-on opportunities! This format is perfect for festivals and community events with a transient crowd. Our knowledgeable staff will answer questions, engage the crowd, and facilitate animal handling. Displays come in sizes based on the number of tables, and with half or full day options. We can also do timed presentations for a discounted price! Included: 1 - 4 tables worth of reptiles and/or amphibians on display along with information guides under tents (if outdoors) and interpretive staff. Optional: Timed presentations. Length: 1 - 10 hours, multiple days possible Number of participants: Unlimited Provided by You: Access to water, space with appropriate temperature (our animals cannot stand colder temperatures in fall and winter months!) FAQs: Q. Can I make requests for specific animals? A. You can certainly make requests which we will do our best to honour, but we cannot guarantee the availability. Let us know and we’ll do our best!
Meet & Greet
The Meet & Greet format is an easy way to provide a reptile experience at less formal events for a reduced cost. Staff will introduce guests to a variety of animals and will facilitate safe hands-on interactions. Staff will also answer questions guests may have. Included: Variety of reptile/amphibian guests, handled by our friendly and knowledgeable staff Length: 1 - 10 hours, multiple days possible Number of participants: Unlimited Provided by you: Space with appropriate temperature (our animals cannot tolerate cold or extreme heat) for staff and guests to interact FAQ: Q. Can I make requests for specific animals? A. You can certainly make requests which we will do our best to honour, but we cannot guarantee the availability. Let us know and we’ll do our best!
Virtual Programs
Virtual Event
Want to host a virtual event? Have a virtual group you'd like us to visit? A virtual event includes a 30-45 minute presentation followed by a 15 minute Q&A session and is convenient for groups that meet online or are looking for a low cost option. Choose one of our program topics below, or contact us to discuss a personalized presentation theme. Reptiles at Risk: Many of Ontario’s reptiles are at risk! Explore Ontario’s amazing snakes, turtles, and its only lizard, and learn how you can help them as part of your daily lives in our most popular presentation. Turtle Troubles: Turtles are in trouble all around the world! Meet some of Canada’s extraordinary turtle species and learn how to get them off the roads and support their habitats. Note that this presentation includes less hands-on than Reptiles at Risk. Amazing Amphibians: There's over 20 species of amphibians in Ontario, including frogs, toads, and salamanders! Learn about their life cycles and see these cryptic creatures up close. These animals will come in containers and does not include any hands-on opportunities. Wetland Wildlife: Wetlands are a home for many animals - but human development has led to a wide-scale loss of these unique ecosystems! Experience the stunning biodiversity of wetlands, from bugs to amphibians to reptiles, and learn why we must work to save them. Various aquatic specimens in containers and two snakes (may vary based on venue and audience) will be available for hands-on experiences. Note that this presentation is not available during winter. Workshop: Workshops provide advanced training regarding a specific topic. They are more in depth programs, usually half or full day, with a slideshow, for more advanced audiences. Topics may be generic (e.g. Ontario Reptiles) or specifically focused (e.g. Herps of the Georgian Bay region, Massasauga Rattlesnake Training, etc.). The topics we readily offer include: - Ontario Reptiles - Ontario Amphibians - Massasauga Rattlesnake (including hook and transport training) - Exotic Reptiles - Municipal By-Law Enforcement Training Included: Live virtual reptile and/or amphibian presentation with animal guests and Q&A session with our knowledgeable education staff Length: 1 hour Number of participants: Unlimited Base Cost: Presentation: $250 / $300?? Workshop: $750 Each additional program: $150 (maximum of four programs in total) FAQ: Q. Who hosts the event link? A. We’re flexible! If you’d like to host the link, we’ll request you email it to us. If you’d like us to host the link, we’ll send a Zoom link to you. Q. I have a specific workshop topic in mind - are you able to create a custom presentation? A. Yes we can! Connect with us to discuss your topic of choice. Please note that an additional charge is applicable.
Advanced or Custom Workshops
Attend a workshop from the comfort of your own home! Workshops provide advanced training regarding a specific topic. They are more in depth programs, usually half or full day, with a slideshow, for more advanced audiences. Topics may be generic (e.g. Ontario Reptiles) or specifically focused (e.g. Herps of the Georgian Bay region, Massasauga Rattlesnake Training, etc.). The topics we readily offer include: - Ontario Reptiles - Ontario Amphibians - Massasauga Rattlesnake (including hook and transport training) - Exotic Reptiles - Municipal By-Law Enforcement Training Our popular workshops include: Teacher Workshop: Includes resource guides and lesson plans to bring back to school Advanced Reptile Workshop: Includes ID skills and detailed information on our native species, and the Rattlesnake Workshop, training employees, landowners etc. on proper identification, movement, and management of rattlesnakes. Workshops can take place virtually or in-person, either at Scales Nature Park or at a location provided by you, depending on the nature of the chosen workshop. We have done these workshops for a number of groups and can tailor the content to meet your needs - just ask! Included: Staff to teach the workshop, any animals needed for workshop, workshop materials Length: Half day (3 - 4 hours) or full day (6 - 8 hours) Number of participants: Unlimited FAQs: Q. I have a specific topic in mind - are you able to create a custom workshops? A. Yes we can! Connect with us to discuss your topic of choice. Please note that an additional charge is applicable for program development.