Woldumar Nature Center

We've flown on back to bring the answer to this question. The elytra is a modified hardened forewing found on many adult beetles. They serve as the protective layer for the soft, membranous wings that are used for flight.

While the six-spotted tiger beetle's name would suggest they only have 6 spots, there is actually a lot of variation. They may have no spots, or up to 8 spots like the one in our photo! The larvae are ambush predators, digging holes up to 2 feet deep, and use hooks on their abdomen to help hold them in place and prevent prey from dragging them out of their burrow.

This beautiful 6-spotted tiger beetle was recently spotted on the trails. Insects have some pretty amazing anatomy! This we are curious what part of an insect's body does the elytra cover? 🐞

First Saturday creek cleanup was a success!

We’ve set aside three days this summer to clean out the Hunter’s Drain creek that runs through the property and out into the Grand River.

Thanks to some amazing volunteers, we pulled a lot of trash that won’t make its way to the Grand and cleared invasive species that were making creek access more difficult.

We’ve got two more creek cleanup days this summer! You can sign up here: bit.ly/woldumarcreek

Help Protect Our Local Waterways from European Frog-bit!

This invasive aquatic plant forms dense mats that quickly tangle boat props, choke out kayak paths, and snag fishing lines. By blanketing the surface, it blocks sunlight from reaching native underwater plants. When these massive mats die and rot in the fall, they pull oxygen out of the water, which can kill fish.

We need our residents to act as extra eyes on the water. You can protect our community by taking three simple steps:

1) Clean, Drain, Dry: Always remove mud, plants, and water from your boats, trailers, and fishing gear before leaving a boat launch.

2) Never Dump: Never empty aquarium water or backyard pond plants into local storm drains, ditches, or rivers.

3) Report Sightings: If you think you see European frog-bit, take a clear photo. Note your exact location and report it using the free Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) mobile app, or misin.msu.edu

We've got the answer to this and we'll make it snappy! The average bite force of a common snapping turtle is 209 newtons.

The common snapping turtle is an omnivore, but are known for being great ambush predators. They eat invertebrates, frogs, fish, snakes, smaller turtles, small mammals and even birds.

Our campers spotted a snapping turtle this week and it peaked our curiosity! For this we ask what is the average bite force of a common snapping turtle?

5.16.2026

Many happy wishes to Gracie and Victor as they start on this next stage of life together🤍🥂🕊

📸Isabella Christine Photography