The Exploratory Zone

A small laboratory containing microscopes and magnifiers is available for exploration of the world of nature. Various nature artifacts are available to encourage further inspection. Visitors use their imagination to expand their “nature knowledge.” 

Inviting Your Neighbors In

We can learn so much about nature and its delicate balance when we invite nature into our own backyard. Learn how to create food, shelter, and watering areas to keep many interesting and beneficial creatures close enough to watch.  

The Nutrient Cycle

All living things in nature are somehow linked to one another. In this exhibit, drawings of animals that are found at the Manasquan Reservoir demonstrate some of these connections. They are represented as Food Pyramids, Food Chains, and Food Webs.  

Wildlife Along the Reservoir

In this display, a “Day to Night” diorama depicts a scene along the Reservoir. Not all of the animals that reside at the Manasquan Reservoir can be seen during daylight hours. The animals most commonly seen are diurnal, active only during the day. Many animals are nocturnal, active only at night, or crepuscular, active only at dusk or dawn. Visitors can observe how the reservoir looks at twilight.

Piebald Deer

This preserved whitetail deer does not look like its parents or the rest of the herd. Its unusual color combination is called “piebald,” meaning it lacks color or pigmentation on parts of its body. A true albino would be completely white with pink eyes because albinos contain no color or pigmentation at all. Albino animals usually don’t survive long in the wild. Their lack of natural camouflage means they cannot hide well from their predators. As a result, they are often killed early in life.