Tribute to Aragog

The Ogden Nature Center is sad to report the passing of our Rose Hair Tarantula, Aragog. Aragog played an important role at the Ogden Nature Center, acting as the sole spider ambassador used in our educational programs. She helped teach students about tarantulas, and mitigated fears of arachnids by increasing  understanding of these gentle giants. 

Sarah Lambson, the Nature Center’s deputy education director, took Aragog to Spiderfest in 2022, and recounted this memory:

“At the end of my presentation with Aragog, a youth came up to me after everyone else had left. They informed me that they had been working hard to get over their fear of spiders over the past year. They said Aragog was beautiful and cool and they wished they could hold her. I allowed this youth to hold Aragog with their hands on top of a table to make sure Aragog was safe. This was a magical moment for this individual who loved every minute of it. The experience helped them appreciate spiders better and be less afraid.” 

Aragog will be deeply missed by the Ogden Nature Center staff, volunteers, and students.

Wild Wednesdays: Winter Solstice
December 20, 2023 at 3:45pm

Join us in the depths of winter in a celebration of light and birth. The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year. Learn why generations past celebrated the winter solstice and how some of those traditions snuck into the modern Christmas celebrations.

Learn about the plants, animals, and ecology of our region. This 20-minute lesson is led by a teacher/naturalist, with time to explore afterwards.

Reservations are not required. Please check in at the Visitor Center desk. Please note that the Ogden Nature Center closes at 5 pm and the gates close. Please dress for the weather — the class will be held outdoors.

For All Ages...

Cost: FREE for members! or $5 adults / $3 children.

Perfect for Preschoolers: Plants & Animals Prepare for Winter
December 20th at 10 am

For ages 3-5 (w/accompanying adult)

Migrate through nature and find out how our feathered friends generate energy during the cold winter months.  Visit the bear den and get a feel for hibernation. Please call 801-621-7595 to pre-register.  Registration is required.

Per child/adult pair: $10 ONC members / $12 non-members  / $8 per participant for groups of 5 or more

Great Gifts & Stocking Stuffers at the Nest Gift Shop

Come shop local! Members enjoy 10% off and everyone enjoys no tax!

- Mr. Bird seed gifts

- Woodland and peace-themed ornaments

- Stocking stuffers, toys, & puzzles for all ages

- Nature jewelry

- Soaps, lotions, candles

- Nature books, field guides, notecards, napkins

- Free gift wrapping

A Short Winter’s Nap

Please note, the Ogden Nature Center will be closed December 24th 2023 through January 1st, 2024 for a short winter’s nap, and a much-needed break for our staff. The Center will re-open on January 2nd, 2024 and resume regular operating hours: Monday-Friday 9-5 and Saturday 9-4. Happy Holidays to you, our wonderful flock of friends!