How long is each class?

Most sessions run about 90 minutes, combining a talk, demonstration, and audience Q&A.

Classes are intended for ages 16 and up; participants should be comfortable in a small, indoor group setting.

Are live animals always present?

Live specimens are used when possible, but some sessions rely on preserved samples or high‑resolution images depending on availability and welfare considerations.

How do I book a ticket?

Use the provided referral link to view availability and reserve a spot for a specific date and topic.

Is the venue accessible?

The classroom is generally accessible, but contact the organizers in advance for specific accommodation requests.

Can I handle specimens?

Some sessions include supervised handling; instructors will outline safety and hygiene protocols at the start of class.

What The Fauna? at reimangardens — Hands-On Creature Classes in Ames, Iowa

At reimangardens in Ames, Iowa, What The Fauna? (Individual Classes) invites adults into the curious, hands‑on side of animal biology. This rotating weekly series explores one extraordinary creature per session—from the problem‑solving octopus and its flexible intelligence to deep‑sea “zombie” worms, regenerating axolotls, and the communal oddities of naked mole rats. Each class blends an illustrated talk with specimen observation, guided activities, and Q&A, so participants leave with clear, memorable explanations of how evolution engineers surprising solutions.

The location in Ames makes this a practical evening option for visitors based in town or stopping through for Iowa State University events. Sessions are aimed at ages 16 and up and typically run about 90 minutes; class size is intentionally limited to keep the experience interactive and tactile. Instructors rotate topics across the season, which makes single visits rewarding but also encourages repeat attendance to compare adaptations across environments—marine, subterranean, and freshwater ecosystems are all on the roster at different times.

Key features include live demonstrations, the opportunity to examine preserved or live specimens when available, hands‑on activities modeling feeding mechanics or respiration, and grounded explanations linking each animal’s traits to its habitat. Unique natural elements discussed vary by topic: cephalopod neural architecture and chromatophores for octopi, salamander limb regeneration and stem cell basics for axolotls, and the physiological tolerance for low oxygen characteristic of naked mole rats. Even when animals are not present, high‑resolution images and preserved samples provide tactile learning moments.

This program stands out because it transforms complex scientific ideas into immediate experiences without dumbing them down. For travelers who split time between outdoor pursuits and cultural stops, these classes offer a compact, intellectually active evening that complements hikes and museum visits. Educators emphasize accessibility, making the content suitable for newcomers and repeat learners alike.

Practical tips: reserve your spot through the referral link before arriving; expect close seating and bring a small notebook if you like sketching observations. Wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket—the classroom can be cool. If specimen handling is part of the session, instructors will describe safety and hygiene protocols on arrival.

What The Fauna? is ideal for curious travelers, science enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys getting closer to the mechanics of life. It’s an indoor adventure that sharpens observation skills and reframes familiar ecosystems by comparison to extraordinary organisms from across the globe. Plan to arrive early to explore adjacent gardens or use the visit to pair with local dining options in Ames. While sessions are classroom focused, they often include references to regional conservation work and university research; instructors sometimes share reading lists and local volunteer opportunities for participants wanting to keep learning after the class concludes, and bring curiosity home today.

About Reiman Gardens

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa offers year-round horticultural displays, seasonal events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities that engage families, students, and garden enthusiasts. The facility hosts a variety of public experiences including speaker series, guided and self-guided tours, hands-on youth day camps, and specialized workshops such as dried floral wreath making and floral design. Signature experiences include the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing — open daily and featuring up to 800 live butterflies from around 80 species — plus seasonal highlights like Butterfly Blizzard and Nature at NIGHT.

Reiman Gardens programs combine accessible outdoor activities with instructional series and community-focused nights. Regular offerings include Nature with Nathan, a six-part entomology speaker series; Rovers at Reiman dog-friendly evenings; Garden Flow six-week gentle stretching sessions; Nature Journaling workshops; and members-only Wednesday walking club access. Community events range from Autumn Equinox Gothic Soiree (ages 18+) to Trivia Nights, Maker Nights, and seasonal forest bathing walks. Volunteer roles support Spirits in the Gardens (October 10–12), Pumpkin Prep, Butterfly Wing docent training, seasonal gardening and displays, and group volunteer opportunities. Reiman Gardens also offers admissions options, guided tours for youth and adults, and special previews like RG Express and Bonsai Show Member Preview. All program descriptions, schedules, and registration details are published by Reiman Gardens; visitors should consult official listings for dates, age requirements, and availability.

Members' Wednesday Walking Club meets Wednesday mornings and provides access to the Butterfly Wing and Conservatory beginning at 9:00 AM, offering a quieter visit and the chance to see horticulturalists at work.