By Janis Brinn and Priscilla Martin 

The first monthly 4-H “Animal Science Blast”- part of the I Know MI Numbers science-literacy initiative - was held January 24, 2012 at the Otsego District Public Library. At this hands-on, after-school, educational opportunity, provided by MSU Extension and Allegan County 4-H volunteers, participating youth learned about the hedgehog as:

• New 4-H member, Ashley Hare, brought her hedgehog to share and made her first presentation
• Becky Dubbink, Overisel Champs 4-H Club leader, had the young people touch the 3 provided hedgehogs
• Brenda Morris, Otsego librarian, read and introduced books about the hedgehog

Participating youth asked great questions such as, “why is he so prickly” and “what do they eat?" They were also surprised to learn that the hedgehog is more closely related to an elephant than a porcupine. The youth are already excited to learn what animals they will meet and learn about at future 4-H Animal Science Blasts to be held at the Otsego Library as part of the weekly After School Club (to which all elementary-school aged children are invited to attend). Next up, on February 28, 2012, participating youth will learn about rabbits as they view the Rabbit Learning Laboratory Kit. They will also receive the MSU Extension 4-H Rabbit Project fact sheet. Learn more about this exciting new program by contacting MSU Extension Educator Jan Brinn who will continue to partner with the Otsego Library to provide the 4-H Animal Science Blasts throughout the school year.