CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Birds, reptiles and marsupials will be among educators during the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s NatureFest event. Postponed for two years by the pandemic, the fall tradition makes a comeback on Sunday, October 9.

Among visiting presenters will be Gabe Kerschner, who runs an animal sanctuary in Placer County. His rescued animals are stars of hundreds of school programs. They include an alligator, a lemur, a kangaroo and a kinkajou. NatureFest supporters will also view a more regional menagerie: this could include a skunk, a raccoon and an opossum. Kerschner’s commentary outlines heartbreaking animal rescues, like that of bald eagle Spirit, who lost a wing after being shot by an angler.

Save the Snakes, a nonprofit that champions one of nature’s most misunderstood species, will offer a program to dispel myths. Gopher and king snakes will slither into the spotlight as ambassadors. Volunteers from Sacramento Splash will detail microscopic species found in wetlands. Palomacy – a pigeon and dove rescue agency – will offer advice on adopting unreleasable Columbiformes.

Resident Nature Center raptors – including a great-horned owl, a falcon, a Swainson’s hawk and a kestrel – will also interact with visitors. Deer and wild turkey sightings are likely on hosted walks through the center’s 100-acre wildlife preserve.

The Nature Center is a hub for Native American studies. Demonstrations will include basketry and tule doll-making.

Kids’ games will be offered, and snacks can be purchased from food trucks.  Youth groups are welcome at the open day.

NatureFest runs from 10 a.m. to 3 pm in the Effie Yeaw Nature Center (Ancil Hoffman Park). General admission is $7; $3 for children 3 to 11. Parking is free. Pre-sale tickets are available online. Information www.sacnaturecenter.netevents aturefest