Dune Ecology Adventure! w/ Muskegon Lakeshore Museum Center

Join us at Dune Harbor Park for a Dune Ecology Adventure inspired by Nature Cat! This special program is presented in partnership with the Lakeshore Museum Center as part of a summer-long series of Nature Cat-themed outdoor adventures designed to help families explore, discover, and connect with the natural world.

Together, we’ll explore one of Michigan’s most fascinating habitats while discovering the plants, animals, and insects that depend on sand dunes for survival.

Sand dunes may look like giant piles of sand, but they are actually living ecosystems that provide important homes for many species. During this hands-on program, we’ll learn how dunes are formed, why they are constantly changing, and how they help protect our shoreline from wind and waves. Most importantly, we’ll investigate the amazing creatures that rely on dune habitats to nest, hide, hunt, and raise their young.

As we explore Dune Harbor Park, participants will search for signs of dune wildlife and learn about the insects, birds, and other animals that make their homes among the grasses and sandy slopes. We’ll discover how even our footsteps can impact these sensitive habitats and discuss simple ways everyone can help protect them.

Kids will have the chance to become official “Dune Patrol” members by creating their own take-home Dune Patrol button. This fun craft activity will celebrate everything they’ve learned and encourage them to continue looking out for dunes whenever they visit beaches and parks in the future.

Whether you’re a budding naturalist, a Nature Cat fan, or simply curious about the world around you, this Dune Ecology Adventure offers a fun and engaging way to connect with nature. Be sure to check out the Lakeshore Museum Center‘s additional Nature Cat programs happening throughout the summer for even more opportunities to explore local ecosystems, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

Bring your curiosity, comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of adventure as we discover the incredible wildlife that calls Michigan’s dunes home!