Educational Programs

Wildlife Identification & Rehabilitation

Explore our animal rehabilitation sanctuary, Georgia's largest mountain lion breeding facility and "Home of America's Most Endangered Mammal." Students will see first hand what it takes to rehabilitate orphaned and injured animals and how these animals are prepared for release. Students observe and study a myriad of wildlife, both common and uncommon: squirrel, deer, raccoon, red wolf, the great American Bald Eagle, black bear, the Eastern & Western Cougar and many others. Students will also learn how to save wildlife habitats.

Aquatic Plant Animal Studies

Delve into the wonders and mysteries of the aquatic world the swamps, streams and lake here at Ellijay Wildlife Rehab Sanctuary. Learn about the plants and animals of the water, their life cycles, survival techniques and how they differ from terrestrial species. Students will also examine the importance of water to us, animals and the entire cycle of life.

Native American Lifestyle and Authentic Village

Through a visit to an authentic Indian Village based on their "old way" and by oral presentations, students will grasp an understanding and appreciation of our Native Americans' heritage. Students will learn about native medicine, crafts and specialized skills which were necessary for survival as well as enabling them to thrive. These classes are inspired by and can be taught by our on-staff Native American brothers. See H.O.M.E.

Forest Life

This class offers an in-depth study of trees by following a forest from secondary succession to its climax. Students will learn how trees are an important key in earth's air, water and nutritional recycling plan. Using Project Learning Tree Activities, students will also learn the importance of trees in our local, state and national economies.

Edible Plant Recognition

This class will examine indigenous plants and discover nutritional values, medicinal uses, plant morphology and natural history of recognition and local species. An emphasis is placed on recognition and identification of roots, flowers, berries and leaves by sight, smell and location. Special importance will also be placed on conservation and ecology.

Gold Panning/Geology

Panning for gold can be as profitable a hobby as it is fun and relaxing. Students will learn how to pan for gold in our gold sluice, then could try their luck in nearby Mountaintown Creek. This class also studies coal deposits at camp, and learns about hard and soft coals and effects on our atmosphere when burned.

Pioneer Living

Come live a day as an early American pioneer. See how much work was involved in just surviving from day to day. Students will learn how to cook their own meals over an open fire, dip candles, make soap, weave baskets and learn more intricate aspects of Pioneer life.

Orienteering

There is a certain amount of romance surrounding the pioneer scout and the explorer of the days of old. This class opens the door to the past by teaching students basic skills involving map and compass readings. Students will also learn to draw topographical maps for others to follow.

Ornithology/Bird Watching

This class is so much more than just bird watching. Students will learn proper identification, morphology, behavior, natural history of our birds, and identification of birds by sound and flight patterns.

Stargazing/Astronomy

Students will explore the night sky and learn about meteorites, meteors, satellites and a host of common and not-so-common constellations. Students will also become familiar with the use of star charts, astronomy field guides and draw their own celestial maps. Registration Form Consent Form

Top of Page

"Wonders of Wildlife" Mobile Environmental Education Program

Courtesy of federal funding through the 2002 Education Bill, the Wildlife Rehabilitation Sanctuary is thrilled to be able to expand its "Wonders of Wildlife" mobile environmental education program to the greater Atlanta area at a significantly reduced cost. Typically this 25-45 minute assembly-style program costs $3.00 per student. Thanks to the government's support, we can now offer this program to schools at the minimal cost of 50 cents per student!

"Wonders of Wildlife" targets Q.C.C. objectives in Science for grades K - 8. Students will encounter a variety of common and endangered species indigenous to the southeast. They will learn to identify these species along with their respective characteristics, behaviors, habitat and vital role within that habitat. Students will also acquire realistic strategies to help conserve natural resources and deal responsibly with wildlife. This program addresses Character Education by emphasizing how our actions impact the world around us. The character traits of responsibility and accountability are presented as essential to ensure the future quality of life for both humans and animals.

To book a program at your school call the sanctuary office at (706) 276-2980.

Top of Page

Pre-Activity Questions

1. What is America’s most endangered mammal?
a) Eastern Panther b) Florida Panther c) Georgia Puma d) All the above

2. How many species of bears are there in the world?

a) 35 b) 8 c) 16 d) 120

3. What do Brown , Grizzly & Kodiak bears all have in common?

4. All Birds Of Prey have a gland in back of their neck that does two things? What are they?

5. What six species in North America are rabies carriers?

6. How is the Rattlesnake different from a Rat Snake?
a) One has rattle/ other does not
b) Rattle Snakes give birth, Rat Snakes lay eggs
c) Rattle Snakes are poisonous, Rat Snakes are not
d) All of the above

Top of Page