How long is the program?

The program runs approximately 45 minutes, including a live tortoise presentation and hands-on elements.

Is there an age minimum?

There is no stated minimum age; the session is designed to be family-friendly and accessible to children with supervision.

Can participants touch the tortoise?

Staff control all animal interactions; minimal handling may be allowed under supervision to protect animal welfare and biosecurity.

Where does the program meet?

Meeting point details are provided at booking; check your booking confirmation or the referral link for on-site arrival instructions.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 48 hours prior receive a full refund; cancellations under 48 hours are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Is the program accessible?

Specific accessibility details were not provided; contact the operator directly if you require accommodations.

Meet Utah's Threatened Desert Tortoise: Interactive Conservation Program in Ogden

Threatened and Endangered in Utah is a focused 45-minute wildlife education program in Ogden, Utah. It brings specialist-led conversation and hands-on activities to small groups, offering a rare chance to meet a live desert tortoise - a species listed as threatened in this state - and to explore how global conservation issues play out at a local scale. The program opens with a short, guided primer on what "threatened" and "endangered" legally mean and why those labels matter for land use, wildlife corridors, and everyday outdoor recreation. From there, a facilitator walks participants through specific case studies: the desert tortoise's life history, habitat needs, and the human pressures that shape its future. Situated where high desert meets the city, the presentation ties big-picture policy and biology to the landscapes many Utah visitors come to see. What distinguishes this offering is its blend of sensory learning and low-key intimacy. Groups are kept under 45 people so attendees can handle specimens, inspect identification tools, and ask detailed questions. The live tortoise demonstration is the centerpiece - slow, tactile, and surprisingly personable - and it's accompanied by maps, conservation signage, and hands-on activities designed for a range of ages. That practical focus makes the program a natural fit for families, school groups, and travelers who want context before heading into the field. Expect to come away with concrete conservation actions: how to reduce habitat fragmentation, best practices for responsible recreation in desert environments, and straightforward ways to support recovery efforts. Staff emphasize minimal handling, biosecurity, and respect for wildlife, so interaction is educational without compromising animal welfare. Although short, the session packs in regional relevance. Presenters often compare local trends to global patterns, showing how species listings are both a scientific process and a political one. For visitors planning a broader outdoor itinerary, this program doubles as a primer: after the session you'll spot habitat indicators more readily on nearby trails and understand why roadways, water development, and invasive plants matter to the animals you might see. Participants frequently report leaving with concrete skills: how to identify tortoise sign, simple steps for habitat-friendly landscaping, and phrases to use when reporting injured wildlife to local authorities. The session is intentionally accessible - no prior knowledge required - but it can spark deeper engagement for naturalists interested in volunteer opportunities, habitat restoration projects, and resources. Because group sizes are limited, these sessions tend to sell out for school field trips and weekend visitor slots; plan ahead and check availability before you go.