The Secret Life of Insects [] El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden

Biologist and botanic garden volunteer, Jim Talbot, will explore the secret lives of insects and the roles they play in the Charco ecosystem through a walking tour of the various habitats at the garden on Wednesday, March 1, and Saturday, March 4.   Starting at the Environmental Interpretation Center continuing along the trails, he will explain to visitors fun facts about insect pollinators, predators, and plant-eaters, and share anecdotes about insect Zombies, insects that get drunk, and insect farmers.  During the walk through the various habitats we will conduct a visual survey of insect activity during the morning hours, and offer comparisons of our observations between these same habitats. Finally, we will discuss the role of insects in pre hispanic and modern day Mexico, weaving the past and the present into a more informed perspective of these fascinating creatures.

Wednesday, March 1st / 10am / Free Entrance

Much of San Miguel’s splendor can be discovered in its abundance of man made beauty, but at El Charco del Ingenio, nature is the aesthetic draw. At this more than 170-acre botanical garden set in an ecological preserve, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife, walk along greenery-lined trails and learn about various species of local cacti. Meanwhile, the San Miguel community often gathers in the garden to watch performances, partake in ceremonies and attend environmental education programs. Recent travelers recommend enjoying a hike through the park, picnicking alongside the waterfalls or spending an evening at a concert in the outdoor amphitheater. Located just a mile northeast of central San Miguel, El Charco del Ingenio can be reached on foot (it’s about a 30-minute walk from the municipal market) or by taxi. The reserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Led by English-speaking guides, two-hour tours of the conservation area operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. NATURAL HISTORY TOURS AT THE BOTANICAL GARDEN (in English) Recorrido de la Historia Natural por El Jardin Botanico (en inglés) Tuesdays/Thursdays 10am-noon general public: 150pesos; members 100pesos Martes/Jueves de 10am a mediodia; public general: 150pesos; miembros 100pesos Bird Watching Tours every first and third Wednesday of the month. 9:00-11:30am; general public: 150pesos; members 100pesos Excursiones de observación de aves cada primer y tercer miércoles del mes. 9: 00-11: 30 am; public general: 150pesos; miembros 100pesos For more information, visit the garden’s website.

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