Raptors, marsupials, mammals, and reptiles paraded for visitors at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s recent Nature Fest.

The event temporarily boosted American River Parkway animals with 1,100 wannabe naturalists. Up-close, wildlife encounters were the main attraction. “It’s fantastic to see raptors up close,” enthused a bird watcher.” You see a golden eagle’s talons and realize how she can catch a wolf.”

A coyote pup called Cody was another crowd pleaser. Resident of Wild Things Inc., an animal refuge near Newcastle, the rescued baby provoked much oohing and aahing but proved a feisty handful for handler Gabe Kerschner.

All animal educators are deemed unreleasable because of injuries or imprintation on humans. “I love showing you this coyote but I’d rather see him running free in the wild,” Kerschner told the pup’s admirers. California Raptor Center (UC Davis) and the Nature Center provided other ambassadors.

“This event is central to our mission.” said American River Natural History Association President Liz Williamson, “bringing nature to people and people to nature.”

Learn about the Effie Yeaw Nature Center at www.sacnaturecenter.com.