A vibrant, family-friendly guide to the unexpected nature found in and around Philadelphia. Philadelphia may seem like a concrete jungle, but in reality, it's full of amazing wildlife. You just need to know where to find it! Equal parts natural history, field guide, and trip planner, Wild Philly has something for everyone. This handy yet extensive guide looks at the factors that shape local nature and profiles over 100 local species, from beautiful flowers and towering trees to majestic birds and surprising city-dwellers like coyotes and red foxes. Also included are descriptions of day trips that help you explore natural wonders on hiking trails, in public parks, and in your own backyard.
Mike Weilbacher is the executive director of the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education in Philadelphia, the region's largest and oldest nature centre. An environmental educator with 40 years of experience teaching through nature walks, lectures, newspaper essays, theatrical performances, and radio. Since 1988, he has appeared as "Mike the All-Natural Science Guy" on an award-winning live children's radio show, talking to children about nature and the environment. Mike has been a keynote speaker at state and national education conferences, speaking before groups like the National Science Teachers Association, the Pennsylvania Association for Environmental Educators, the National Association of Interpretation, and the Association of Nature Center Administrators.
"This guidebook by Mike Weilbacher includes the region's natural history, 101 species to know, and 19 field trips in the city, surrounding suburbs, and South Jersey."
– Philadelphia Inquirer
"Wild Philly will help you to discover new things about the animal and plant life throughout the region."
– Broad Street Books