Inter-species Exchange Program
A group of NOAA Teacher at Sea Alumni at the NOAA booth during the National Science Teachers Association Conference in San Antonio
While working with a group of fabulous NOAA Teacher at Sea Alumni at the National Science Teachers Association Conference in San Antonio last week, a brilliant idea was born: an inter-species exchange program.
Since Oklahoma is sending a human (me) to experience the Arctic, wouldn’t it be great if the Arctic sent a squirrel to experience Oklahoma? Since Arctic ground squirrels are a bit reluctant to brave the 100-plus degree temperatures of an Oklahoma summer while wearing a fur coat, my new Teacher at Sea Alumni friend Cathrine Prenot Fox created a fabulous cartoon Arctic ground squirrel for the job.
Host Family for the Squirrel
Arctic ground squirrel mascot, drawn by Cathrine Prenot Fox
This cute little guy needs host families for his adventures in the lower 48 (or anywhere else he happens to travel). You can join the fun! Download the Arctic squirrel cartoon here and take him on your own adventure to the grocery store, the swimming pool, boy scout camp…the sky is the limit! Snap a picture of yourself with the squirrel and e-mail it to me (agillean [at] polartrec.com). I plan to post many of the pictures I receive on this blog to tell the story of the Arctic ground squirrel’s adventures in Oklahoma and beyond.
What’s His Name?
You may have noticed that our furry friend does not yet have a name. I’d love to hear your suggestions in the “Ask the Team” section of this blog! Don’t be shy; be the first to post your name suggestion! Post more than one if you feel inspired. My students at Jenks West Intermediate will make the final decision.
Can I Share This with my Friend/Co-worker/Mailman, etc.?
Please do! Spread the word about my upcoming adventures in Toolik, encourage your friends to host a squirrel for a photo, and share the URL of my blog far and wide!