Natchez — Can your children identify a raccoon track in the mud?

Have they ever held a live snake?

Do they know the difference between a beetle and a bug?

If your answer is “no” — or even if it’s “yes” — then Historic Jefferson College has program your child might be interested in. This summer, from July 21-24, Historic Jefferson College will host its first Nature Camp for kids ages 9-12.

Utilizing the 80-acre site, nature campers will explore the nature trail, pond and creek bottoms and learn to identify common trees, insects, birds, mammals and other critters. Some of the fun, hands-on projects will include dissecting owl pellets, making a nature journal, using magnifying glasses and binoculars, making plaster track casts and playing food web, tracking and nature bingo games.

Naturalist Camp will meet Tuesday-Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Participants should wear tennis shoes or boots, and bring long pants with them. Snacks and water will be provided. The cost is $20.00 per child, and payment must be received in order to hold a spot for your child.

A limited number of financial scholarships are available.

For more information or to obtain a camp application, please call 601-442-2901 or email hjc@mdah.state.ms.us. Historic Jefferson College is located in Washington, off Hwy. 61, 4 miles northeast of Natchez.

It is administered by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History.