IBSP ON THE GO!

IBSP’s NEW FREE outreach program -Beginning January 1, 2027!

IBSP on the Go! brings the wonders of Island Beach State Park and an interactive wildlife experience directly to your school, library, senior center, community organization, or other group.

Through an engaging, interactive presentation, participants will meet one or both of our live animal ambassadors-Bobbi the Eastern Box Turtle and Cornelius the Corn Snake-while discovering the fascinating wildlife and unique habitats found throughout Island Beach State Park.

Participants will learn about the dynamic barrier-island ecosystem, including the dunes, maritime forests, tidal wetlands, and other habitats that make this coastal landscape so unique. They will explore the remarkable physical and behavioral adaptations that help animals find food, avoid predators, survive changing seasons, and thrive within their natural habitats.

The program also highlights the important roles native wildlife play in New Jersey’s ecosystems and explores the connections between wildlife, habitats, barrier islands, and people.

Whether you're bringing nature into the classroom, engaging a community group, or looking for an unforgettable educational experience, IBSP on the Go brings the wildlife and natural wonders of Island Beach State Park to you-wherever you are.

Bobbi

What to Expect!

🐒 Meet Bobbi, our Eastern Box Turtle
🐍 Meet Cornelius, our Corn Snake
🏝️ Explore IBSP's barrier-island ecosystem
🌿 Discover NJ's native wildlife
πŸ”Ž Investigate animal adaptations
🌊 Learn how coastal ecosystems connect wildlife and people
πŸ’‘ Discover ways to help protect NJ natural resources

Cornelius

DETAILS

1. Program length - 45–60 minutes. Times can be adjusted for different audiences

2. Recommended audience / age groups - K-8 students, seniors, homeschool. Programs can be adjusted for all ages.

3. Group size - Maximum participants is 30. Multiple sessions can be scheduled for larger groups.

4. What participants will learn

  • IBSP & Barrier-island ecology

  • Native vs. non-native wildlife & their unique adaptations

  • Human impacts on coastal habitats

  • How people can help protect New Jersey’s natural resources

5. Live-animal expectations: Programs may feature Bobbi the Eastern Box Turtle, Cornelius the Corn Snake, or both. Animal participation is dependent on their health, comfort, and environmental conditions.

NOTE: Participants DO NOT HANDLE ANIMALS

6. Program format - Program combines an interactive presentation, discussion, live animal ambassadors, photographs/scpeimens, shells, skulls, pelts, etc.