Lakeside Nature Center in Kansas City, Mo is the best place to visit if you're interested in learning more about the many kinds of local native wildlife. Lakeside in located in Swope Park, which is an 1,800 acre wooded park in Kansas City, Missouri. It is also the home of Starlight Theatre, the Kansas City Zoo, Swope Memorial Golf Course, Blue River Golf Course, Swope Park Pool and much more. You'll also find a fishing pond, picnic areas and ball fields for fun for the entire family. The Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department are the owners and managers of the Lakeside Nature Center.
Some of the many types of wildlife you will learn about at Lakeside are turtles, amphibians, birds of prey, fish, snakes and invertebrates. When you're visiting, you can be part of a wildlife program or venture out on your own. Either way, you'll have a great time seeing all the exhibits and displays. Pictures of wildlife are always great, but seeing owls, hawks and other wildlife up close is awesome. You'll learn all about the Missouri wildlife and their habitat.
Birds of prey such as the owls, hawks, falcons, vultures and Bald eagle are all available to view. Some of them will actually sit on your hand to be fed. They are in captivity, but are still considered wild.
The major support group for Lakeside Nature Center is the Friends of Lakeside Nature Center, which was started in 1983 for that very purpose. They are made up of over 100 volunteers that help with the education, hands-on exhibits and support as well as the many activities they offer.
This is a great place for children's groups and school groups to come and learn about the wildlife here as well as get some hands-on experience.
