If you’re a fan of Wildlife but can’t always make it outdoors, don’t worry—Wildlife Wednesday has got you covered! Sacramento Splash brings nature directly to your screen with a weekly dose of local wildlife wonders.
Every Wednesday, Splash’s naturalist David Rosen introduces a new critter from the Sacramento region, complete with fascinating facts, stunning photos, and even a dash of humor. From wolves to waterfowl, each post is designed to engage, educate, and entertain. So whether you’re curious about familiar backyard visitors or rare regional species, Wildlife Wednesday offers something for everyone to enjoy!
Wildlife Wednesdays Highlights:
David Rosen, Splash’s naturalist and the creative mind behind Wildlife Wednesday, has shared countless wildlife stories since the series began in January 2020. “Some of our best-performing posts featured critters like the Common Poorwill, Shrew, and River Otters,” Rosen recalls. Among these, a fun Easter post about the Marshmallow Peep—a fictional species, *Sucroseatum gelatinensis*—was a playful hit that captured readers’ imaginations.
When asked why specific posts resonate so strongly, David explains, “I write Wildlife Wednesday like I’m having a casual conversation with someone, throwing in jokes and puns along the way. People enjoy the light-hearted approach, and everyone loves animals!“
Social Media and Audience Engagement:
Wildlife Wednesday doesn’t just captivate readers—it sparks engagement across social media platforms. “One of our top posts was about domestic cats and their impact on Wildlife when left outdoors. It generated a lot of discussion and engagement,” David shares. Interestingly, smaller creatures can also steal the show. “Our Slime Mold post took off—who knew people loved Slime Mold so much?“
Wildlife Wednesday is more than entertainment; it serves Splash’s mission of connecting the community with nature. As David puts it, “The more people understand and value nature, the better advocates they become for its protection.“
Biodiversity Insights:
Splash’s work at the 1,400-acre vernal pool preserve at Mather Field gives David a front-row seat to one of California’s most biodiverse habitats. “Vernal pools are teeming with life, and it’s amazing to see how connected everything is,” he says. But David’s fascination with nature extends far beyond the preserve. “California is the most biodiverse state in the country, from tidepools to deserts to mountains, and it’s incredible to explore each ecosystem.“
Practical Connection Tips:
Are you looking to deepen your connection with Wildlife? David’s advice is simple: get outdoors. “Find a natural area to visit regularly, and over time, you’ll start to recognize the critters that live there,” he suggests. He also recommends simply sitting quietly in nature. “Animals tend to go about their business when they don’t see you as a threat. That’s when the magic happens.“
Reflecting on 2024 and Beyond:
As fall approaches, Rosen encourages readers to keep an eye (and ear) out for migratory birds. “Soon, we’ll be hearing the bugling of Sandhill Cranes and the honks of waterfowl returning to the Sacramento Valley,” he says, adding that Wildlife Wednesday will continue to highlight these seasonal changes.
Join the Fun:
Want to join the Wildlife Wednesday community? Follow Sacramento Splash on |Facebook| and |Instagram| to discover a new wildlife wonder every week. And if there’s a critter you’d love to see featured, don’t hesitate to contact David Rosen at david@sacsplash.org.
Be sure to follow us so you can tune in next Wednesday for another dose of wildlife wonder!