Fur Bearers of WI a Merrick State Park rogram in the Nature Center

Merrick State Park Summer programs will continue for just a few more weeks. On August 15 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the Nature Center Jason Erichsen DNR 1 will speak on Fur Bearers of Wisconsin. The term “furbearer” is exactly as it sounds – a wild animal that bears fur. The terminology has been derived from traditional verbiage to identify mammalian species that are trapped or hunted for their fur hides. A badger, such as “Bucky Bear” the University of Wisconsin’s mascot, belongs to the same family as weasels, otters, ferrets, marmots and wolverines. They have a black and brown stocky body, short legs, as well as a triangular and flattened head with tiny ears on top. Trapping in Wisconsin is highly regulated and is a useful tool in ensuring that healthy and diverse furbearer populations are sustained into the future. Jason will bring samples of fur from various animals for you to touch and a visual presentation for you to view.

This program is sponsored by the Merrick State Park Turtle volunteers. Donations are always appreciated and Shirts, Cap, and Tees are for sale at each park program which enable us to help sponsor future programs. For all Saturday night program updates follow us on Merrick State Park’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/merrickturtles. ALL programs are FREE however a 2026 VEHICLE annual sticker or day pass is required. For your vehicle admission, it may be purchased 1) online or 2) at the first brown building as you enter.