PLEASE note: Rehousing pet turtles PSA

The Wildlife Education Campus does not accept unwanted pet turtles. It is harmful and improper to release an exotic species into the wild in New York State. Please call your local animal shelters, pet shops, or zoos to see if they are willing to rehouse the turtle for you, or refer to rehousing forums online to find a suitable owner to take in the pet. You can call the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for advice moving forward.

If you own a turtle that is native to New York State and are looking to rehome it, please call the Wildlife Education Campus. We may not have space/resources to take it in, but can help you move forward in finding an appropriate home.

If you are considering a pet turtle for yourself or your family, our animal care staff would be happy to provide advice regarding their care to ensure that animal is a good fit for your lifestyle. 

LOCATION

DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION

  • Saturdays & Sundays year-round *(unless otherwise noted)
    *Closed on March 30 & 31

  • 12pm-4pm

  • Enjoy “Meet the Animal” presentations at 1pm and 2:30 pm (included in admission)

ADMISSION

  • Nature Center Members: Free 

  • Not-yet-Members: $5 ages 3 and up. Children under 3 are free

The animals of the Wildlife Education Center
could use your help!

Their newly built enclosures are in need of items to make them ideal for the residents. Below you will find an Amazon.com Wish List for the items needed. You can then come and see your much appreciated help on display

**PLEASE NOTE if you find an injured wild animal**

We are unable to accept, treat, or transport injured or abandoned wildlife.
CLICK HERE to find a rehabilitator and/or other helpful resources.

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our newest avian Animal Ambassador- a Red-tailed Hawk named Ronan! He came to the Wildlife Campus after spending some months in rehabilitation for injuries sustained in the wild. He was found on the ground as a fledgling (just left the nest) with both wings fractured. As he healed, one fracture fused together in a way that allows for partial flight, but not enough to hunt and protect himself from predators. He is presumed male because of his size and mass and is still in his juvenile plumage, but will gain his namesake red tail after molting this Summer.  Ronan has settled in well to his enclosure and is VERY enthusiastic about his daily rat. Please stop by anytime to meet Ronan and be sure to chat with him, as he may chat back !

About the WEC

We are proud to name the renovated Hall of Animals in honor and memory of Joseph F. Maloney III. As a child, Joseph attempted to sign up for the nature program that would become HHNM in its first year. He was turned away for being too young, but encouraged to return the following summer when he met the age requirement. He did, and so began his lifelong involvement with the organization where he grew from student to committed board member, generous donor, and trusted friend. We are happy to welcome you to the Joseph F. Maloney III Hall of Animals!

The Joseph F Maloney III Hall of Animals at the The Wildlife Education Center (WEC) is the home of many animals that can be found in our local woods, fields, ponds and rivers including, rabbits, turtles, frogs, toads, salamanders, snakes and fish . As well as a screech owl, a great horned owl, and of course the crowd favorite, Edgar, our resident crow that says "hello!"

The "Stomping Grounds: Habitats of the Hudson Valley" exhibit in the Ogden Gallery: This exhibit made possible in part by The Dorr Foundation
What’s so special about a beaver pond? What makes areas along the Hudson River unique? What’s the one place in the Hudson Valley that’s protected for migrating, meadow-loving birds? How can we keep these areas wild, but still use them for recreation and learning? Find out more about the vast array of habitat types that are right in your backyard as you explore new interactive elements, toys, books, and games. This indoor space is a great area to spend the afternoon with children.

Click here to enjoy a brief video in order to learn more about the Wildlife Education Center, the Nature Museum, its mission, and some of the many wonderful programs offered!

For more information call 845-534-7781

  • The Nature Museum follows a carry in, carry out policy that applies indoors and out.

  • Open rain or shine unless otherwise noted

  • Click here to learn about Birthday Parties at the WEC

Thank you the talented and dedicated team of volunteers, staff, business and organizations for all their help and hard work renovating the Wildlife Education Center:

The Dorr Foundation, Matt Wilhelm with Anthony Sciarra and EKB Kitchens, Michael Paruolo & his crew from Paruolo Electric, John Tremblay & his crew from Sigma-Tremblay, LLC, Lakes Road Glass, Dave Work, Gita Nandan, Tom Doran, Erik Denega, Tom Bregman, Rob Lipkin, Taylor Ouellette, Adam Rettuss-Sisler, Susan Maloney, The Bywater Family, Gary Watson Sheryl Sturges, Kyle LaColla. Michael Witte, Kathleen Ha , Rosemary DiCesare, Deb Dulaney, The Maffiei Family Molly Finn, Lotus Do, Liam Bregman, Volunteers from Regeneron, Volunteers from Ralph Lauren.