Wander, Explore, Hike, Renew

Did you know that Bug Day is just around corner? Bug Day is September 13 from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

Join us for a buggy bonanza as we celebrate the tiny creatures that help keep our planet buzzing. Whether you love ladybugs, dig dung beetles, or are just a curious critter-lover, there’s something for everyone! You can learn more about the event here: www.wehrnaturecenter.com/event/bug-day/Today's creature feature is the Dogbane Beetle. The dogbane beetle is one of Wisconsin's most beautiful insects although we may be biased. Like many other types of leaf beetles, it is shiny and iridescent. As the name indicates, this beautiful beetle feeds on dogbanes, including milkweeds. The scientific name Chrysochus auratus comes from the Greek and refers to “goldsmith” and “gold.” One look at the fantastic metallic hues of blue, green, gold, and red on the surface of the beetle tells it all. Dogbane, like milkweed, is packed with poisonous compounds called cardenolides that can be dangerous—even deadly—to animals that eat it. These chemicals likely evolved to protect the plant from hungry herbivores.But the dogbane beetle, Chrysochus, has a clever trick: it can munch on dogbane leaves without harm. Even better, it stores those toxic compounds in special glands and releases them when threatened by predators.That bright, flashy color? It may be the beetle's way of saying, “Yep, I'm toxic. Don't even think about eating me!”The image features a close-up view of a vibrant, iridescent blue-green beetle perched on the edge of a green leaf. The beetle is highlighted prominently in the foreground, showcasing its shiny exoskeleton, intricate body structure, and delicate antennae. Its legs are visible, poised on the leaf's surface, while the leaf itself has a smooth texture with a subtle sheen. The background is softly blurred, emphasizing the beetle and leaf, creating a contrast with the lush greenery around them. … See MoreSee Less

🌿 Meet Craft & Culture Creations at Brews and Botany! 🍹

Fresh, handcrafted, and naturally fermented, Craft & Culture Creations brings together food, culture, storytelling, and community—one jar and bottle at a time!Founder MishaMichelle believes fermentation is more than a way to preserve food. It’s a practice of transformation, connecting us to traditions, ingredients, and one another. At Brews and Botany, you’ll have a chance to learn more about their small-batch fermented foods and beverages and taste the creativity behind them.From thick-cut fermented krauts and smoked seasoning salts to probiotic fermented beverages, Craft & Culture Creations invites us to experience food in a whole new way. To learn more: please check out their website: www.craftandculturecreations.com/🌱 Come discover the plants, flavors, and stories behind some of the beverages and foods we enjoy—and celebrate the connections between plants, people, culture, and community.📅 Join us for Brews and Botany at Wehr Nature Center! Please see this link to learn more and to register for the event: www.wehrnaturecenter.com/event/brews-and-botany/The image shows a vibrant scene at a market stall. In the foreground, a man with an athletic build and shoulder-length hair stands behind a wooden table covered with a floral-patterned tablecloth. He is wearing a sleeveless top and a colorful scarf, actively engaging with potential customers.On the table, there are several jars filled with various fermented products, as well as a clear jar filled with a liquid, possibly for sampling. To the left, a wooden box holds some items out of sight. Beside it, a paper with printed text details the offerings. The background features a few parked vehicles, and sunlight filters through a roof structure, creating a warm atmosphere. … See MoreSee Less