Live Animals

What kinds of fascinating creatures live in or visit the ponds? Come and visit with the Park Interpreter to see if any creatures are stirring, and if any plants are flowering. Best for ages pre-K and up. This is a great family activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Come explore what nature has in store at some of our most amazing wild places on the North Shore. Joppa Flats' engaging and experienced staff will introduce families to local beaches, forests, and wetlands to make observations in nature, identify wildlife, and enjoy hands on science activities outdoors. Sign up for one, some, or all!

Come to a Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team presentation of  'Snakes of New England' at Halibut Point State Park! Afraid of snakes? You won’t be after learning about and seeing up-close a variety of local snakes and a few exotic ones! Snake fans will enjoy safe handling. Rick Roth, herpetologist and Executive Director of the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team, will bring some of his favorite snakes to Halibut Point State Park.

Want to learn more about our local birds and how to identify them? Joppa Flats education interns will take you on an easy walk and introduce you to a variety of birds, from egrets and herons in the salt marsh, to ducks and shorebirds along the river, to songbirds and hummingbirds at our feeders. We'll provide binoculars and field guides along with tips on how to use them. Get started on the hottest new hobby around - birding!