This program takes a comprehensive look at the topic of protective coloration in nature. Under this general heading we examine color, pattern, texture, shape, and even behavior as mechanisms for escaping notice. We even look at the other side of the coin--creatures like salamanders and butterflies whose bright coloration is advertising their disagreeable taste.
Our collection of slides and hands -on exhibits like feathers and animal skins gets kids involved right away, and then it's time for field activities where they take turns at being the hunters and the hunted. Other activities have them designing a camouflaged moth, and hunting for camo-colored toothpicks on the ground in a race against the clock and each other.
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Two who depend on color and pattern for protection-
the brook trout and flicker.
Always in "bad taste"- the bright colors of
the spotted salamander (below) and
swallowtail butterfly (above)
The gray squirrel is one of countless examples of countershading; perhaps the most universal camouflage mechanism of all.
