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Join our team in Berlin, CT. Job openings are available often and we also accept volunteers for animal care or school animal programs at Hungerford Nature Center. Come support local science education year-round. Get Involved Job openings We sometimes have jobs that are looking to be filled. Check back here for updates or visit our instagram and facebook for new job postings! Volunteer Form By volunteering, you share your love of education and nature with others, gain new skills, share your abilities, and meet others with similar interests. Fill out the form below and if you fit our criteria we will contact you with openings available! Volunteers like you are critical to our mission at the Hungerford Nature Center. We have indoor and outdoor volunteering roles for all ability levels. Work with a group or on your own. What interests you? Helping out a guest at our visitor services desk? Clearing out a barn and feeding our goats? Organizing and preparing for events? Leading and supporting fundraising activities? Working with our animals during a children’s program? Spending some quality time in our gardens? Building a new exhibit with a team? We have so many opportunities! Fill out an application today. If you are an individual seeking a volunteering experience CLICK HERE If you are seeking a volunteer experience for a group or organization CLICK HERE Please note: Volunteers must be 14 years of age or older. Parents/caregivers or groups/organizations interested in volunteering with a child(ren) under the age of 14 should fill out an application and make a note in the special skill/interests section. For more information on internships email: info@nbymhnc.org Thank You to Our Volunteers

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Meet the partners supporting Hungerford Nature Center in Berlin, CT. Their support helps fund school field trips, animal programs and hands on student learning. Community Sponsors. Supporting Science Education in Berlin, CT Thank You to Our Sponsors and Supporters The Hungerford Nature Center extends its sincere gratitude to its generous sponsors. Their support plays a vital role in advancing the Center’s mission to spark curiosity, foster learning, and promote a deeper connection to the natural world. Thanks to their contributions, the Center is able to provide enriching programs, care for its animal ambassadors, and offer hands-on experiences that inspire families and visitors of all ages. Their partnership helps ensure that the Hungerford Nature Center continues to grow as a place of discovery, community, and stewardship. Robert Mittica

Since our founding, we focus on science education and wildlife care in Berlin, CT. Discover the history, mission, and community impact of Hungerford today. Mission and History. Hungerford Nature Center in Berlin, CT We engage our community by sparking curiosity, nurturing understanding, and encouraging stewardship of our natural world. History Established in 1984, Hungerford Nature Center has been a staple in the community for families and individuals, offering educational programming, exhibits and special events that relate to environmental education, biological and animal sciences, and STEM for over 40 years. The Hungerford Nature Center maintains 22 acres of guided woodland and interpretive gardens that support a variety of native and cultivated plant species is home to many domestic animals and native wild birds. There is a farm-yard, indoor exhibits, walking trails, and a picnic and play area. Memories of Summer Fun Children's Museum, High Street, New Britain, Connecticut, 1957. Photo courtesy of New Britain Herald and Susan Spring Gelb. Youthful Imagination Always On Display at New Britain Museum Joseph Lazzaro, pg. AE11 Aug 14, 1986; Hartford Courant Berlin Gets New Nature Center Leonard Felson, Courant Correspondent May 24, 1984; Hartford Courant pg. E1B The Junior League of New Britain presented to the New Britain Institute the idea for creating a Children’s museum using these collections and agreed to operate the museum for a 5-year period. 1955 The success of the museum led the Institute to form a Children’s Museum Committee to manage the Children’s Museum in 1961. 1961 The new children’s building was opened in 1975 and was renamed the New Britain Youth Museum. 1975 In 1984, the Youth Museum opened its operations at Hungerford Park as a nature center. The Youth Museum continues to operate from both facilities, the original downtown location and Hungerford Park. 1984 The New Britain Youth Museum and The Hungerford Nature Center continue to grow and thrive, offering families and individuals programs and facilities and supporting STEM and sustainable education. We are becoming one entity with a vision that is unfolding. Stay tuned! 2025-Present Larisa Roderick, Children's Museum, High Street, New Britain, Connecticut, 1950s. Photo courtesy of Larisa Roderick. Hungerford Center Given Herb Garden Maryellen Wazorko, Sep 19, 1985; Hartford Courant pg. BE3 Stable in Kensington shelters nature center KENNETH DiMAGGIO Courant Correspondent Jan 21, 1988; Hartford Courant pg. E11A Center puts children in touch with nature Michael L. Miller, Courant Correspondent May 21, 1987; Hartford Courant pg. E9B

Discover local amphibians in Berlin, CT. Our pond and exhibit areas are highlights for school field trips, hands-on learning, and local wildlife education. Amphibians White Tree Frog Eugene

Get answers to FAQs about visiting Hungerford Nature Center in Berlin, CT. Find info on field trips, animal welfare, hours, admission, and accessibility tips. FAQs. Hours, Admission, and Programs in Berlin, CT Have questions? We’ve got answers! Whether you're planning your first visit, wondering about memberships, or just curious about what we offer, this page is here to help. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our guests. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help! Address Hours 191 Farmington Ave., Berlin CT 06037 Tues - Fri: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Sat-Sun: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Last admission at 4:30 pm Contact Admission Adults $10.00 Seniors $8.00 Children $6.00 Children 3 and Under FREE Members: FREE 860-827-9064 info@nbymhnc.org Mon: CLOSED Is there parking? Yes! We offer a free parking lot for all visitors. Our onsite lot is conveniently located just steps from the entrance, making it easy to access the Nature Center and our exhibits. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is typically ample space during regular business hours. During special events or busy weekends, the lot may fill quickly, so we recommend arriving early or checking our website or social media for event-specific parking guidance. Can I feed the animals? No, feeding the animals is not currently allowed for the public. While we know it can be a fun and memorable experience, our animals are on carefully managed diets created by our animal care team to ensure their health and well-being. Feeding them outside of these guidelines—even with the best intentions—can cause harm or disrupt their routines. We do offer other engaging ways to learn about and interact with our animals during scheduled programs, keeper talks, and special events. Be sure to check our calendar or ask staff about upcoming opportunities! Is there a fee to come in? Yes, there is an admission fee to visit. Your admission helps support the care of our animals, maintenance of our exhibits and trails, and the educational programs we provide to the community. We strive to keep our rates affordable for families and individuals of all ages. Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and members—and admission is often included or reduced for special events or reciprocal program participants. For the most up-to-date pricing, please visit our website or contact our front desk. Are you open during the winter? Yes, we are open year-round! No matter the season, there's always something to explore and enjoy. From snowy winter walks and cozy indoor exhibits to lively summer events and fall festivals, we offer engaging activities and programs throughout the year. Please note that our hours and certain offerings may vary by season, holiday, or weather conditions—so it’s always a good idea to check our website or call ahead before your visit. Can we play on the playscape when the Nature Center is closed? No, the playscape is only open during our regular business hours. For the safety of all visitors and the proper care of our facilities, the playscape is accessible only while our grounds are open to the public. This ensures that staff are present to monitor the area, perform maintenance as needed, and provide assistance if necessary. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to visit during our posted hours to enjoy the playscape and everything else we have to offer! I found an injured/abandoned animal, can I bring it to you? No, we are not legally able to accept injured or orphaned wildlife. Our organization does not have a licensed wildlife rehabilitator on staff, which is required by state and federal regulations in order to care for wild animals. Taking in wildlife without the proper permits can endanger both the animals and the people involved. If you have found a wild animal in need of help, we recommend contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your local animal control office for guidance. Can I park in the lot after business hours? No, parking in our lot is not permitted outside of regular business hours. For the safety of our property, animals, and visitors, our parking lot is closed to the public when the facility is not open. Unauthorized vehicles may be subject to towing or ticketing. We kindly ask that all guests plan their visit within our posted hours. If you have questions about special event parking or after-hours access, feel free to contact our staff in advance. Still Have Questions Membership Summer Camp Special Events

Explore reptile exhibits in Berlin, CT at Hungerford. Enjoy close-up animal discovery and science education programs for families, schools, groups, and camps. Reptile Exhibits Ball Python Romeo Painted Turtle Picasso Asparagus Crested Gecko Bowser Yoshi Toad Corn Snake Cob Dora Leopard Gecko Ducky Red Eared Slider Leonardo Raphael Donatello Michelangelo Bearded Dragon Lucky Eastern Box Turtle Red Yertle Russian Tortoise Rushy

Come visit Hungerford Nature Center! We have dozens of amazing exhibits for children and families to learn, interact, explore, and enjoy. Interactive Exhibits Discover interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and connect visitors of all ages with the natural world. At Hungerford Nature Center, w e feature dozens of indoor and outdoor family activities blending wildlife, science, and environmental education into engaging experiences that encourage exploration, learning, and play. we feature Over 50 Live Animals Indoor & Outdoor Exhibits Farm Exploration Kids' Play Zones Arts & Crafts Outdoor Playspace 22 Acres Nature Walks Children's Garden Picnic Areas Plan Your Visit This place is amazing for kids! Indoor and outdoor things to do. They take great care of the facility and animals. We had a birthday party there and it was exactly what we wanted. ~Dan Diaz Explore. Discover. Connect. Purchase a Hungerford Nature Center membership for year-round access to all these exhibits, plus more engaging nature experiences, educational opportunities, and family-friendly events in the heart of Connecticut. Become a Member

Looking for a summer camp near Berlin, CT. Register for 2026 Nature Summer Camps with science education, outdoor activities, and wildlife adventures for kids. Summer Camp Summer 2026 Dates & Rates Week Dates Theme Week 1 June 22 - 26 Farm Fun Week 2 June 29 - July 3 Forest Frenzy Week 3 July 6 - 10 Eco Engineers Week 4 July 13 - 17 Amazing Adaptations Week 5 July 20 - 24 Invert Investigations Week 6 July 27 - 31 Earth Explorers Week 7 August 3 - 7 Around the World Week 8 August 10 - 14 Wild About Water Pricing per week: Members Half-Day: $160 Full-Day: $275 Non-Members Half-Day: $180 Full-Day: $300 REGISTER HERE Save on Camp: Become a Member Questions? Contact Us The Summer Discovery program at Hungerford Nature Center provides children ages 5-12 with a unique, nature-based day camp experience. Each week, campers engage in a wide range of outdoor activities that promote environmental education, exploration, and hands-on learning. Every week is structured around a theme that inspires the activities and lessons, such as animal behavior, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship. Through guided nature hikes, citizen science projects, and outdoor games, campers develop a deeper connection to the natural world and a sense of responsibility for protecting the environment. Program Overview At Hungerford Nature Center, our mission is to inspire a lifelong connection to the natural world through hands-on learning experiences. We provide children with the opportunity to explore, discover, and appreciate nature, fostering environmental stewardship and responsibility. We believe that fostering a meaningful connection to nature is not only essential for childhood development, but also for the future of our planet. Our philosophy emphasizes creating an environment where campers feel inspired, curious, and empowered to engage with the natural world. Mission & Philosophy Health Assessment Form Frequently Asked Questions What are the camp hours? Our full day sessions operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with a half-day option from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. How is attendance managed? Attendance is taken daily at drop-off, and parents will be contacted by 9:45 am if their child does not arrive without prior notice. Authorized pick-up individuals must sign out their camper at the end of each day. Campers may not self sign out. What should my child bring to camp? Campers should bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, appropriate clothing for outdoor activities, and any personal items they may need (such as a hat or sunglasses). Campers do not need to bring lunch or snacks, as the camp provides food service for both. Can my child bring their own lunch and snacks? Yes, campers may choose to bring their own lunch and snacks due to being a picky eater or having unique dietary restrictions. If you have specific questions about whether your child’s allergen or dietary restriction warrants bringing their own lunch, please contact the Camp Director. Please note that no discounts to the camp program will be provided for campers who do not participate in the meal service program. What is camp’s policy for allergies? Parents should inform camp of any allergies or special medical needs their child may have. Camp staff are trained to prioritize the safety of all campers under their care, including allergen exposure prevention and response. How are health and safety concerns addressed? The camp maintains strict health and safety policies. This includes health records for each camper, medication administration procedures, and immediate communication with parents in case of illness or injury. What should I do if my child is sick? If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them at home. The camp has an illness policy that requires parents to pick up children who exhibit symptoms such as fever or vomiting. Who will be supervising my child? As a youth camp licensed by the State of Connecticut Office of Early Childhood, all staff members in direct contact with campers must complete a criminal background check, as well as a be checked in the National Sex Offender Registry. All staff undergo a rigorous pre-camp training, covering topics including child abuse prevention, supervision, and emergency preparedness. We are proud to have a high staff retention rate, with several of our counselors also supporting our school-year education programs. While we may utilize some counselors as young as 16 years old, campers will be supervised at all times by at least one staff member who is over the age of 18. What is camp's refund/cancellation policy? Non-Refundable Deposits: Registration deposits are non-refundable. This deposit secures your child’s spot in the program and is retained regardless of cancellation. Withdrawal Notice: To withdraw a child from the program, parents must provide written notice at least two weeks prior to the start date of the registered session. This can be done via email to the Camp Director. Full Refunds: If a written withdrawal notice is received at least two weeks before the start of the camp session, families will receive a refund of any fees paid, minus the non-refundable deposit. No Refunds After Deadline: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than two weeks before the start of a registered camp session. Session Tuition: Tuition for the session is not prorated for days missed due to absence or withdrawal. Behavioral Dismissal: Campers who are dismissed from the program due to behavior concerns or disciplinary reasons will not be eligible for a refund. Unforeseen Circumstances: In the event of an unforeseen medical event or family emergency causing a child to miss camp, we will work with the family to reach a reasonable solution, which may or may not include a partial or full session refund or balance transfer to another program. Program Changes: In the unlikely event that the camp must cancel a session or make significant changes to the program, families will be notified immediately and offered a full refund or the option to transfer to another session. My daughter has attended a summer camp as well as an animal caretakers program. The instructors and activities are not only fun but educational. We highly recommend them! Nicole D. Join us for an unforgettable experience at Summer Discovery Summer Camp! Our camp offers a range of exciting designed to inspire and engage campers of all ages. For more information, please contact the Camp Office at SummerCamp@nbymhnc.org We look forward to making this summer one to remember!

Navigate the trails at Hungerford in Berlin, CT. Discover local wildlife and habitats. View our trail map, guidelines, and property details before your visit. Nature Trails and Map. Explore Hungerford in Berlin, CT With 22 acres of land, Hungerford Nature Center's trails offer all to come daily and enjoy time in nature. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset. Our trails our open for everyone to come, enjoy nature, find peace, and have access to the benefits of being outside. Whether your walking alone, with family or friends, with your pets, come experience our trails at Hungerford Nature Center. Rules of the Park Please be considerate of the following guidelines while enjoying our facilities. No littering. All pets must be leashed. Fires are strictly prohibited. All plants and animals are protected. No picking. No vehicles of any kind are allowed on the trail, no bicycles or motorized vehicles. No alcohol allowed. No drugs allowed.

Meet our long-tailed chinchilla in Berlin, CT. Visit Hungerford Animal Center to learn about this unique mammal through interactive programs and exhibits today. Long-Tailed Chinchilla Scientific Name: Chinchilla Lanigera Range: Andes Mountains of South America Habitat: Arid mountains Average Size: Body length including tail - 15 inches Lifespan in the wild: 8-10 years Lifespan in human care: 15-20 years Diet: Folivore, granivore Activity: Nocturnal, crepuscular Conservation Status: Endangered

Support Hungerford Animal Center in Berlin, CT. Your donation funds science education, wildlife care, and school field trips for local families and schools. Support Us Support Wildlife Care and Education in Berlin, CT Proceeds from your donation will help us continue to to strengthen our community by inspiring children and young adults to excel in school and to inspire creativity, innovation and life-long learning in the arts, humanities, and sciences by offering quality educational programs, interactive exhibitions and through our unique museum collections. Make a Donation WHAT YOUR DONATION SUPPORTS LIVE EXHIBITS ANIMAL CARE PROGRAMS & EVENTS OUR EDUCATORS Your generosity goes a long way $25 feeds our guinea pigs for a month $50 provides an educator to lead a guided trail walk for families $100 brings nature programs to children in high-need schools $200 helps us refresh and maintain our exhibits for young children $500 provides veterinary care for our goats, alpacas, and other animals Make a Donation We also accept donations for: Amazon Wish List This Amazon list helps us cover items for animal care. Amazon Donation Chewy Wish List This Chewy list helps us cover items for animal care. Chewy Donation Volunteer Your Time We value our volunteers and are always looking for help! Donate Your Time Donating your unwanted car, truck, motorcycle, RV, or boat is as easy as can bee! Donate today by calling 855-500-7433 or visit us online at careasy.org/nonprofit/new-britain-institute Here’s How It Works: 1. Call 855-500-7433 or Submit the Online Vehicle Donation Form at careasy.org/nonprofit/new-britain-institute . Our Vehicle Donation Support Team will contact you to complete the donation and confirm your pick-up information. 2. We even provide free pick-up and send you the donation tax receipt for your tax-deductible gift. Schedule Your Free Pick-up. In most cases, your vehicle pick-up can be scheduled within three business days once the donation record has been completed.  Our vehicle donation program has also requested that drivers practice safe and secure interactions with donors, including minimizing contact. 3. Receive a Donation Receipt: Vehicle donations are tax-deductible! An initial donation receipt is provided at the time of the pick-up. If the vehicle sells for $500 or less, donors are also mailed a thank-you letter within 30 days of the sale of the vehicle, which serves as a tax receipt. If the vehicle sells for more than $500 and the donor has provided their tax identification number, an IRS Form 1098-C will be mailed to the donor within 30 days of the sale stating the amount of gross proceeds (the maximum amount of your tax deduction) received from your donation. For specific tax-related questions, please consult a tax advisor.